Faith + Hope + Love

Anxiety is real. You know it and I know it, because I'm in the raging waters with you. I've listened to so many sermons on anxiety, and after a while, all the preachers sound the same. They all use the same verses, like  Philippians 4:6-7 , "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." And there is nothing wrong with this verse at all; it's just that every time I've heard it used by a pastor, they make it seem so easy. Like it's a kind of formula that will wipe away all my anxieties. Just tell God your problems, and everything will be fine! Riiiight. But it seems like they're all looking at it from the outside. At least that's what I thought until I came across a sermon series by Louie Giglio*. He got it. He got it because he's been there. And his ...

For the past few weeks I've been trying to write something on Empathy in the bible. I hope it helps you understand more about it in a biblical context. If ever you think I've made a mistake or wish to correct me on a certain points, do not hesitate to let me know. As you may know, the Bible is pro-empathy! The apostle Peter counseled Christians to have “compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous” ( 1 Peter 3:8, NKJV ). The apostle Paul also encouraged empathy when he exhorted fellow Christians to “rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn” ( Romans 12:15 ). There are several examples of empathy in action in the Bible. Jesus was always sensitive to the plight of others. Matthew tells us how Jesus, “when he saw the crowds, . . . had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” ( Matthew 9:36 ). On another occasion, Jesus observed a widow about to bury her only son. Sensing her pain (...

The true beauty of going back and reminiscing, is being able to see God’s handprints all over your life. How He supported you. How He brought the right people into your life at the right times. The no’s to prayers that turned into blessings. The yes to prayers that took your breath away. The way He held you in the dark moments, helped you to see those hard times were not without great purpose. He truly created beauty from ashes. More than once, He made a way when there was no way. You can see clearly the road He laid out before you. Beautifully weaving triumphs and heart breaks into a beautiful masterpiece. As much as you have strived, toiled, and stressed; you see now, how it was all Him and not you. His strength, His love, and His purpose for you shines so brightly in your memories. Your heart is grateful as you see His goodness, His mercy, and His grace all over your life. Pondering God’s presence throughout the years reminds your heart He is still working, He is still m...

I believe technology is powerful, especially the social media. But social media, without boundaries can become a slow killer of our marriages and our relationships. Recently, I have been noticing families in restaurants and coffee shops. It’s heartbreaking to see members of the family engrossed in their own world, scrolling aimlessly. Instead, these could be moments of intimate conversations, fun and laughter. I agree, the urge is strong, but consciously let’s make an effort to put our phone down and spend meaningful and quality time with our family, at least a few hours a day. God has blessed us with families to love, enjoy and cherish one another.  How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in harmony! Psalm 133:1