Category Archive

When I tell myself that I no longer want what I want, but instead desire what God wants, I am making a profound shift. I am choosing to live not by my own desires, but by seeking how God wants me to live. In that moment of surrender, faith is born within me. Though this faith may start small and seem one-dimensional, it is the beginning of a transformative journey. As faith takes root, everything begins to change. Regardless of what happens, I commit to never stopping my prayers, my learning, or my worship. When you reach this place of genuine faith, it moves beyond theoretical concepts and touches the real world. It empowers you to engage in meaningful, impactful work. So make the decision now to embrace real faith, and let it guide and transform every aspect of your life.

Today, as we continue our Summer Olympics series, let’s dive into the world of hurdles. Watching athletes leap over these obstacles, I’m struck by their incredible talent and the sheer exhaustion they must endure.  Just as these athletes face hurdles in their races, we encounter our own life challenges. Remember the story of the disciples in the storm? Despite their fear, Jesus calmed the sea, reminding us that God is present even when we feel overwhelmed. Like the hurdles, our obstacles may vary in size and difficulty, but faith and trust in God’s timing can guide us through!

We are not just following our path; we are aligning with His, intentionally stepping into His will, even if it means taking a leap of faith and falling into His grace. Reset the bar, get your running go, then jump with everything you got!

Whether you think about it or not, we are running a race. We are running a race to eternity with the sole purpose of seeing Jesus at that finish line!

By engaging in this spiritual wrestling, we are transformed and empowered, ultimately achieving victory through Him. Let us fully commit to this process, knowing it brings us closer to God and enriches our spiritual walk. Just as Jacob and Paul, experienced, our spiritual journey involves wrestling with God in prayer, seeking His intervention and blessings. Embracing this struggle with perseverance and focus will lead to profound growth and strength.

“I don’t just want a sip; I want to drink.” Not fleeting moments of peace or happiness, but to embody God’s presence continually. How? By obeying His words, partaking in communion, repenting, asking to be filled, and lingering in His presence. When you’ve done these, you’re ready to truly drink of the Spirit—responding to God’s presence in everything.

The greatest calling isn’t a platform we stand on. Preaching, pastoring, leading, or receiving admiration isn’t God’s highest purpose for me. Titles, ministries, charitable works, even parenting or leaving a legacy—while noble—are not our highest calling. No achievement, no accolade, no earthly role brings us closer to God than prayer. In prayer, we stand closest to God’s throne, in spirit and truth, experiencing His presence like nothing else

When the Light is lit, it stems from the same Spirit. This single candle in our Holy Place mirrors the priests’ work, revealing God’s knowledge within us. God desires to be known, fostering an environment for worship. When filled with the Holy Spirit’s oil, each lamp transforms prayer, parenting, work, and every aspect of life. Unlit lamps affect Christian demeanor and choices, needing daily attention to stay on fire. Pure oil from crushed olives fuels these lamps, aligning us with God’s will. Choosing love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, faithfulness refuels us spiritually. Even in darkness, the Spirit’s light trims and aligns us through Jesus’ discipline and conviction.

There’s a profound depth within each of us, a yearning for more than what the world offers. It’s the fire in your heart that rejects sin and embraces living for God, seeking fulfillment beyond mere existence. This fire not only drives you towards a life aligned with His will but also draws you closer to His presence, where intimacy and communion flourish. It’s in this sacred space that conviction ignites into transformative power, enabling you to shine brightly with His truth and love.

In this second part to our “Under the Cloud” series, Pastor Ben leads us into the importance of holiness and three keys to living in a way that pleases God. Listen and learn how the Old Testament Tabernacle of Moses is fulfilled in our lives as living temples of the Holy Spirit.