Tag: Prayer

When God Feels Silent: Finding His Voice

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If you feel like the Lord isn’t speaking to you, I want you to know that you’re not alone. Many people experience this at different points in their spiritual journey, and it doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong or that God is far from you. In fact, the Bible is filled with examples of people who wrestled with God’s silence. David cried out in the Psalms, “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?” (Psalm 13:1). Even in these moments of silence, God is present and working in ways we may not yet see.

One key thing to remember is that God speaks to us in many ways, and it might not always be in the way we expect. His Word, the Bible, is His living and active voice. Spending time reading Scripture with an open heart is one of the most powerful ways to hear from Him. God also speaks through prayer—not just when we pour out our hearts to Him, but when we take time to sit in silence and listen. Sometimes, His voice comes as a quiet nudge, a sense of peace, or even through the wisdom of someone He places in our lives. It’s important to remember that His voice isn’t always loud or dramatic; often, it’s as subtle as a whisper in your heart.

If you’re struggling to hear Him, consider starting small. Spend a few minutes each day reading a passage from the Bible, such as Psalms or the Gospels, and ask yourself, “What does this say about God? What might He be saying to me through this?” Then, take a moment to be still and invite Him to speak. At first, it might feel awkward or quiet, but don’t give up. God promises in Jeremiah 29:13, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” It may take time, but God’s timing is perfect. He knows exactly when and how to reveal Himself to you.

Finally, know that God’s silence does not mean His absence. Sometimes, He uses these seasons of quiet to grow your faith and draw you closer to Him. Trust that He is working in your life, even if you can’t feel it right now. Keep seeking Him with a sincere heart, and don’t hesitate to reach out to others for support and prayer. You are not alone on this journey, and the Lord deeply desires to speak to you and draw near to you. His love and presence are constant, even in the silence.

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** Photo by Pexels

The Search For Meaning: How Modern Idolatry Reflects Our God Shaped Longing

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From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the quiet corners of a rural village, one thing remains constant: the human tendency to idolize something. This phenomenon is not new; throughout history, people have worshiped various deities, objects, and ideals. However, the essence of modern idolatry reflects a deeper spiritual longing—a God-shaped hole in our hearts meant exclusively for Him. This inherent desire for connection with the divine often leads individuals to fill that void with worldly pursuits, resulting in a cycle of dissatisfaction and spiritual emptiness.

The God-Shaped Hole: A Divine Design

The concept of a God-shaped hole in the human heart can be traced back to the idea that God created us with a longing for relationship with Him. In Ecclesiastes 3:11, it is written, “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart.” This verse suggests that God intentionally designed us with an innate desire for eternity, a yearning for something beyond ourselves.

When we do not know God as our Lord and Savior, this longing can manifest in various ways. People often seek to fill this void with things of this world: relationships, success, wealth, or material possessions. Each attempt to fill this gap with transient things ultimately leads to disappointment, as none can satisfy the deep-rooted desire for a relationship with our Creator.

The Allure of Worldly Idols

Modern idolatry often disguises itself in the form of societal values and personal ambitions. Many individuals idolize career success, celebrity culture, and the pursuit of pleasure. Social media platforms can amplify this phenomenon, presenting curated images of seemingly perfect lives, encouraging a culture of comparison and envy.

In the quest for fulfillment, people may unknowingly prioritize these worldly pursuits over their relationship with God. This displacement of affection can lead to feelings of inadequacy and emptiness. As humans chase after fleeting pleasures and possessions, they often find themselves in a cycle of unfulfilled desires, driven by the constant need for more.

The Consequences of Idolatry

When we prioritize idols over God, we risk drifting away from the very source of true fulfillment. The Bible warns against idolatry in various forms. In Exodus 20:3-5, God commands, “You shall have no other gods before Me. You shall not make for yourself a carved image…” This admonition emphasizes that anything we elevate above God is an idol, whether it be wealth, success, or even relationships.

The consequences of such idolatry are profound. It not only leads to spiritual stagnation but also to a profound sense of isolation. Without the foundation of a relationship with God, individuals often feel lost, disconnected, and devoid of purpose.

The Universal Search for Meaning

Across cultures and eras, the quest for meaning and fulfillment is universal. No matter where you go, you will find people idolizing something, reflecting the innate human longing for connection and purpose. From ancient rituals to modern practices, the forms may change, but the underlying desire remains: a yearning for something greater than oneself.

This universal search often leads to the creation of idols—be they material possessions, celebrity figures, or ideologies. However, these pursuits are mere substitutes for the real thing. They offer temporary satisfaction but fail to provide lasting peace and joy.

Finding Fulfillment in Christ

The only true solution to the God-shaped hole in our hearts is a relationship with Jesus Christ. John 10:10 reminds us, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” When we accept Christ as our Savior, we begin to experience the fulfillment that comes from knowing our Creator.

A relationship with God provides the ultimate source of identity, purpose, and belonging. Through Him, we find the strength to resist the allure of worldly idols, focusing instead on His eternal promises.

Conclusion: A Call to Authentic Worship

In a world filled with distractions and temptations, it is crucial to recognize the dangers of modern idolatry. The God-shaped hole in our hearts can only be filled by the love and grace of our Creator. As believers, we are called to identify and dismantle any idols that may have taken root in our lives, turning our hearts back to God.

Let us strive to seek Him above all else, understanding that true fulfillment is found not in the transient things of this world, but in a vibrant, life-giving relationship with Jesus Christ. In doing so, we can experience the abundant life He promises, a life where our hearts are fully satisfied in Him alone.

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**Photo by Wild Little Things at Pexels

Jesus Continuously Sought Power in Prayer

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The Bible compares the man who lives in dependence on God to a tree that draws its sustenance from an underground river (Jeremiah 17:5-8). That is how Jesus lived – perpetually drawing His spiritual resources, as a man, from the Holy Spirit (the river of God).

Jesus’ victory over temptation, was not through human determination, but because He drew strength from the Father, moment-by-moment. The way of self-denial as exemplified and taught by Jesus is not one where the soul attempts to master itself. No. That is Buddhism and yoga and is as different from the teaching of Scripture as earth is from heaven.

“Jesus continuously sought for the power of God in prayer, and was never disappointed.”
Jesus taught that as human beings we do not have the power to live and serve God as we should. He said that we were like helpless branches entirely dependent on the sap supplied by the tree for fruitfulness. “Apart from Me,” He said, “you can do nothing” (John 15:5). And so, what we do manage to do, without the help of the Holy Spirit can be considered to be NOTHING. Herein lies the vital necessity to be “filled with the Spirit continuously” (Ephesians 5:18).

Jesus Himself was filled and anointed with the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:1, 18), and He lived and laboured for His Father in the Spirit’s power. But this was possible, only because as a man, He was poor in spirit.

Jesus was conscious of the weakness of the human frame that He had taken on. Therefore, He was perpetually looking for opportunities to get alone and pray. Someone has said that, as tourists look for good hotels and for important sights to be seen, when they enter a city, so Jesus looked for solitary places where He could pray.

He sought for power to overcome temptation and put His soul-power to death. No man was as conscious as Jesus was, of the utter weakness of the flesh, and so He sought the Father’s face in prayer for help, as no man ever did. He prayed with “loud crying and tears” in the days of His flesh. The result was that He was mightily strengthened by the Father, much more than any other man. Thus, Jesus never once sinned and never lived out from His soul (Hebrews 4:15; 5:7-9).

Is it not significant that 25 times in the gospels, the words “pray” or “prayer” are used in connection with Jesus? Therein lay the secret of His life and His labours.

Jesus not only prayed before the great events of His life, but also after some of His great achievements. After feeding the five thousand miraculously, He withdrew into the mountains to pray (Matthew 14:23). This was no doubt to guard against temptations to pride or complacency over the work accomplished, and to renew His strength by waiting on His Father (Isaiah 40:31). We usually pray only before we have some important task to do for the Lord. But if we would develop the habit that Jesus had, of waiting before the Father after we have finished our task, we would preserve ourselves from pride and thus be equipped to do greater things for the Lord.

The busier Jesus’ life became, the more He prayed. There were times when He did not have time to eat or even to rest (Mark 3:20; 6:31, 33, 46), but He always took time to pray. He knew when to sleep and when to pray, for He obeyed the promptings of the Spirit.

Poverty of spirit is a prerequisite for effective prayer. Prayer is the expression of human helplessness, and if it is to be meaningful and not a mere ritual, there must be a constant recognition of the inadequacy of human resources either to live the Christian life or to serve God.

Jesus continuously sought for the power of God in prayer and was never disappointed. Thus, He accomplished things through prayer, that even He could not have accomplished in any other way.

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**By Zac Poonen © Copyright – Zac Poonen. No changes whatsoever are to be made to the content of the article without written permission from the author. https://www.cfcindia.com/ / Photo by Antonie de Kok at Pexels

The Believer’s Authority in Christ: Freedom from Fear of Witchcraft and Darkness

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Introduction

In an age where many are anxious about spiritual darkness, witchcraft, demonic influence, or the evil intentions of others, the Word of God calls every believer in Christ to stand boldly and fearlessly. If you are in Christ Jesus and abide in Him, you have been given spiritual authority over Satan, demons, and even those people who act as vessels for evil. The finished work of Jesus Christ has secured your victory—and fear has no place in the life of a believer who walks in that truth.

1. What Is the Believer’s Authority?

The believer’s authority is the spiritual dominion given by Christ to every person who is born again and abides in Him. This authority is not based on your merit or strength, but on Christ’s triumph over sin, death, and all the powers of the enemy.

“Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.”

— Luke 10:19 (NKJV)

Jesus didn’t just save you from sin—He empowered you to walk in victory over Satan and every spiritual force of wickedness.

2. Seated with Christ in Heavenly Places

Your authority comes from your position in Christ. According to the book of Ephesians:

“And raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.”

— Ephesians 2:6 (NKJV)

This means that spiritually, you are seated above every demonic force, above witchcraft, curses, and all agents of darkness. You’re not beneath the enemy—you’re above him, because you are in Christ, who is exalted far above all rule and power (Ephesians 1:20–21).

3. Authority Over Satan and His Human Instruments

Satan doesn’t only use demons—he also influences people whose hearts are hardened and bent on evil. Whether through sorcery, manipulation, curses, or wicked intentions, some individuals willingly yield themselves to the enemy’s control.

“You are full of all deceit and fraud, you son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness…”

— Acts 13:10 (NASB)

Yet even these people—used as agents of darkness—have no power over you when you are submitted to God and walking in His authority. The schemes and attacks of wicked people cannot override the blood, Word, and Spirit of Christ that covers you.

“There is no enchantment against Jacob, no divination against Israel.”

— Numbers 23:23 (ESV)

No curse, spell, or human evil can prosper against a child of God who abides in Christ. You are untouchable by hell’s schemes when you live in righteousness, faith, and obedience.

4. Freedom From Fear

Many believers struggle with fear—fear of witchcraft, curses, or demonic retaliation. But Scripture teaches that fear is a tactic of the enemy, not a tool of God.

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

— 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)

As long as we remain in Christ, walking in His Word and Spirit, we have nothing to fear. Not witchcraft, not spiritual attacks, not evil men or their plots.

“No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn.”

— Isaiah 54:17 (NKJV)

God’s protection is not partial or fragile. It is perfect, complete, and rooted in His covenant with you.

5. Exercising Authority Through Submission and Faith

Spiritual authority is exercised—not just acknowledged. Like a soldier must stand his ground and enforce the command of a superior, believers must use their authority actively, not passively.

“Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”

— James 4:7 (NKJV)

The first step is always submission to God—yielding to His Lordship in every area of your life. Then, when you speak, pray, or stand against the enemy, you do so with heaven’s backing. Demons recognize the voice of one who walks in true authority.

6. Abiding in Christ: The Source of Boldness

Jesus said:

“Abide in Me, and I in you… for without Me you can do nothing.”

— John 15:4–5 (NKJV)

Abiding is not an occasional prayer—it’s a lifestyle of dependence, obedience, and intimacy with Jesus. When you abide:

You are filled with spiritual discernment

You are shielded by His presence

You walk in power, not fear

You bear fruit that exposes and destroys the works of darkness

7. Scriptural Examples of Authority in Action

Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4): He resisted Satan with the Word.

Paul rebukes a demonic spirit in a slave girl (Acts 16): He cast it out in Jesus’ name.

Believers confronting evil men (Acts 13): Paul called out Elymas, a sorcerer, and struck him blind.

In every case, God’s authority through a yielded vessel overpowered demonic forces and those who served them.

Conclusion: Stand Boldly, Walk Fearlessly

You are not just saved—you are seated in heavenly places, filled with the Spirit of God, and clothed in the righteousness of Christ. The enemy, his demons, and those who do his bidding have no authority over you. You don’t need to fear witchcraft, wicked men, curses, or demonic plans.

“You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.”

— 1 John 4:4 (NKJV)

But remember this: spiritual warfare is not just about resisting—it’s about advancing. And two of your greatest weapons are prayer and praise.

When Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises in the prison, God shook the foundations (Acts 16:25–26). When Jehoshaphat sent worshippers ahead of the army, God set ambushes against their enemies (2 Chronicles 20:21–22). When Elijah prayed, fire came down and exposed the powerlessness of the enemy (1 Kings 18:36–39).

Prayer breaks chains.

Praise shifts the atmosphere.

Both silence the voice of the enemy and bring the presence of God into the battle.

“Let God arise, let His enemies be scattered…”

— Psalm 68:1 (NKJV)

“Out of the mouths of babes and infants, You have ordained strength… to silence the enemy and the avenger.”

— Psalm 8:2 (NKJV)

So pray fervently. Praise boldly. Worship in truth. The enemy cannot stand in an atmosphere saturated with God’s presence. Prayer pierces the darkness, and praise declares that the battle is the Lord’s—and the victory is yours in Christ.

Final Word:

Walk in obedience. Stand on the Word. Abide in Christ. Use the name of Jesus boldly. Pray and praise without ceasing. And never again live in fear. The victory has already been won—your job is to enforce it with faith, joy, and spiritual power.

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**Photo by Tony Rogers at Pexels

10 Ways God Provides Protection in Ways We May Not Recognise

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God’s Unseen Protection

As Christians, we journey through life not just as God’s creation but as His redeemed children. Yet, even as His own, we may feel vulnerable to both visible and invisible challenges. However, whether we realise it or not, our Heavenly Father’s hand is always at work—shielding, guiding, and providing for us in countless ways. His protection may not always be obvious, but it is intricately woven into the fabric of our daily lives.

As those who have been born again into His family, we walk under a divine covering that the world does not have. Here are some powerful ways in which the Lord protects us, even when we fail to recognise it:

1. Divine Delays

There are times when life doesn’t go according to our plans. We miss a train, encounter unexpected delays, or find ourselves rerouted in ways that feel frustrating. These disruptions can actually be God’s way of protecting us. By allowing a delay, He might be keeping us from danger or setting us up to encounter someone or something He intends for us to experience. While we may see delays as setbacks, they can be God’s unseen hand of protection.

2. Unseen Angels and Spiritual Protection

The Bible reminds us that angels are often at work on our behalf, defending us in ways that we cannot see. Hebrews 1:14 refers to angels as “ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation.” Whether it’s protection from physical harm or spiritual safeguarding, God sends His angels to guard and guide us. Though we may not see them, these divine beings are continually surrounding us, keeping us safe from dangers we may never be aware of.

3. Inner Promptings or “Gut Feelings”

Have you ever had an unexplained feeling that you should take a different route, speak to a particular person, or avoid a certain place? These inner promptings, often felt as “gut feelings,” can be the Holy Spirit’s gentle way of guiding us. Through these subtle nudges, God may be steering us toward opportunities or away from harm. Recognizing and following these promptings can lead us along paths of safety and blessing.

4. Emotional Resilience in Hard Times

In seasons of suffering or difficulty, we may feel an inner strength or peace that surpasses understanding. This resilience is often a gift from God, shielding our hearts and minds when life becomes overwhelming. When we encounter hard times, God’s protective love can fortify us, giving us the endurance and hope to persevere. This strength may not erase our struggles, but it equips us to bear them.

5. Unexpected Provision

God’s protection is also evident in how He provides for our needs, often just in time and in ways we don’t anticipate. Whether it’s a timely financial gift, a helping hand from a friend, or an unexpected opportunity, these blessings are not random. They are expressions of God’s faithfulness, shielding us from scarcity and reminding us that He is our provider.

6. Protection Through Loving Relationships

The Lord often places people in our lives who act as shields and support systems. Family, friends, mentors, and even acquaintances can serve as instruments of God’s protection. These people encourage us, guide us, or offer help during times of need. Their presence may prevent us from making unwise decisions, offering wisdom and love that protects us from harm.

7. Spiritual Growth Through Trials

While difficult times may seem anything but protective, God often allows trials to refine us. These challenges deepen our faith, strengthen our character, and increase our dependence on Him. Though it may not feel like protection at the time, enduring these trials equips us to handle future challenges with a stronger, more resilient spirit, ultimately protecting us in ways we can only see in hindsight.

8. Redirection and Closed Doors

Sometimes, when our hopes or plans don’t work out, it’s easy to feel frustrated or discouraged. But when certain doors close, it may be God’s way of redirecting us to paths that align more closely with His purpose. What we see as disappointment, God sees as divine redirection—a way of protecting us from choices that don’t serve His greater plan for our lives.

9. Scripture and Wisdom as a Guide

The Bible is a powerful tool for our protection. Through His Word, God provides guidance, discernment, and the wisdom to make choices that lead to peace, wholeness, and well-being. When we root ourselves in Scripture, we are less vulnerable to temptation, poor choices, and harm. God’s Word acts as a lamp to our feet, lighting our path and offering a shield of wisdom.

10. Forgiveness and Mercy

One of the greatest ways God protects us is through forgiveness and grace. Rather than allowing us to be consumed by the consequences of our mistakes, He provides mercy that renews us and offers us a fresh start, when we confess our sins to Him and turn from them. Through His forgiveness, God shields us from guilt and harm, encouraging our spiritual growth rather than allowing us to remain trapped in regret.

Conclusion: Trusting God’s Invisible Hand

God’s protection surrounds us daily, even when it goes unrecognized. By reflecting on these subtle yet profound ways He shields and guides us, we are reminded of His faithful love. Trusting in His invisible hand, we can walk forward with confidence, knowing that He is always at work—seen and unseen—guarding and protecting us.

Prayer of Gratitude

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your constant love and protection over my life. Even when I cannot see or understand the ways You shield me, I know that Your hand is always guiding and guarding me. Thank You for the unseen angels You send, for the gentle promptings of Your Spirit, and for every delay and closed door that steers me away from harm.

Lord, I am grateful for the strength and peace You give me during difficult times, and for the people You place in my life who offer support and encouragement. Thank You for Your provision, meeting my needs in ways I could never expect. I’m humbled by Your forgiveness and mercy, which shield me from guilt and give me hope each day.

Help me to trust in Your invisible hand, knowing that You are always working for my good. May I walk with faith, finding comfort in Your love and guidance.

In Jesus’ name, I pray,

Amen.

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*** Photo By Rahul Pandit