Are You Walking with God?

In our fast-paced world, it's easy to claim belief in God without truly cultivating a deep, meaningful relationship with Him. But what does it really mean to walk with God? Is it enough to simply acknowledge His existence from afar, or are we called to something more profound?

The concept of "walking with God" isn't just a metaphor—it's a call to intimate communion, consistent communication, and unwavering obedience. It's about more than just showing up to church on Sundays or having a surface-level understanding of who God is. True relationship with the Divine requires daily surrender and a willingness to align our lives with His will.

Let's pause for a moment and reflect: If someone were to examine your daily life—your conversations, choices, and priorities—would they see evidence of a deep and authentic relationship with God? This question challenges us to look beyond our public declarations of faith and into the private moments that truly define our spiritual journey.

To understand what it means to walk closely with God, we can look to one of the most intriguing figures in Scripture: Enoch. Genesis 5:24 tells us, "Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away." This brief yet powerful statement speaks volumes about the quality of Enoch's relationship with the Almighty.

Enoch's life was so pleasing to God that he didn't experience death in the typical sense—God simply took him into His presence. What set Enoch apart? His walk with God was characterized by consistency, distinctiveness, and a heart that truly pleased the Lord. In a time of increasing wickedness, Enoch chose to live differently, standing firm in righteousness and faith.

This ancient example challenges us to examine our own walk with God. Is our relationship with Him consistent, or do we only seek Him in times of crisis? Are we set apart from the world around us, or do we blend in with the crowd? Does our faith please God, or are we merely going through the motions?

To cultivate a strong relationship with God, we must focus on three key elements:

1. Communication (Prayer & The Word)
Psalm 145:18 reminds us, "The Lord is near to all who call on Him." Just as no human relationship can thrive without consistent communication, our relationship with God requires regular dialogue. Prayer is our way of talking to God, but it's not just about speaking—it's also about listening. We hear God primarily through His Word, the Bible.

To improve in this area, consider setting aside intentional prayer time daily, not just when you need something. Meditate on and memorize Scripture to keep His Word in your heart. Try journaling your prayers and writing down what God reveals to you through His Word. These practices can deepen your communication with the Divine and strengthen your spiritual walk.

2. Obedience to His Will
Jesus said in John 14:15, "If you love me, keep my commands." Walking with God requires submission to His will over our own. Too often, we treat God like a consultant rather than Lord—seeking His input but not necessarily following His instructions. Are there areas in your life where you resist God's direction?

To grow in obedience, start by examining your heart for areas where you hesitate to follow God's lead. Ask the Holy Spirit for strength to surrender fully. Remember, obedience isn't about perfection—it's about direction. Keep moving forward, even when you stumble.

3. Dependence & Trust
Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." Many of us struggle with trusting God because we want to maintain control. But walking with God means letting Him lead. Do you truly rely on God, or do you only turn to Him when things go wrong?

To cultivate greater trust, start by developing a habit of relying on God in small decisions. This practice will make it easier to trust Him with bigger issues. Learn to recognize when you're leaning on your own understanding, and surrender those areas to Him. Pray for a heart that's willing to trust even when circumstances don't make sense.

As we consider these elements of walking with God, we're faced with a challenging question: Are we truly walking with Him, or are we merely wandering in and out of faith when it's convenient?

Enoch's example shows us what it looks like to walk closely with God. His life was defined by faith and obedience, not occasional moments of devotion. He stood firm in his commitment to God, even when the world around him grew increasingly wicked. His faith and lifestyle so pleased God that he was taken directly into God's presence without experiencing death.

Today, we have the opportunity to follow in Enoch's footsteps. We can choose to walk closely with God, not just believe in Him from a distance. This walk requires intentionality and commitment. It means prioritizing our relationship with God above all else and allowing that relationship to shape every aspect of our lives.

So, how can we practically apply this to our lives? Here are some steps to consider:

1. Renew your commitment to daily prayer and Bible study. Make communication with God a non-negotiable part of your day.

2. Evaluate your obedience. Are there areas in your life where you're resisting God's direction? Surrender those areas to Him.

3. Strengthen your dependence on God. Practice letting go of control and trusting Him fully, even in situations that don't make sense to you.

4. Live set apart. Like Enoch, choose to live differently from the world around you. Let your faith be evident in your actions, words, and choices.

5. Seek to please God in all you do. Remember that your relationship with God isn't about religious rituals, but about a heart that genuinely desires to honor Him.

Walking with God is a lifelong journey. It's not about perfection, but about progression—continually drawing closer to Him, allowing Him to transform us from the inside out. As James 4:8 promises, "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you."

Today, you have a choice. Will you continue to acknowledge God from a distance, or will you take a step closer and truly walk with Him? The invitation is open, and the rewards are beyond measure. A life walked closely with God is a life filled with purpose, peace, and the profound joy of knowing and being known by the Creator of the universe.

Are you ready to walk with God?

                                  Walking in Wisdom: Choosing Faith Over Fear

In our daily lives, we're constantly faced with decisions - some big, some small. But have you ever stopped to consider the basis of your choices? Are they rooted in faith or driven by fear? Are we seeking God's wisdom, or are we relying solely on our own understanding?

The book of Proverbs offers us a powerful insight: "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting, get understanding" (Proverbs 4:7). This verse underscores a fundamental truth - if we want to walk in faith and overcome fear, we must equip ourselves with spiritual wisdom.

But what exactly is wisdom? It's crucial to understand that wisdom differs from mere knowledge. While knowledge is about possessing information, wisdom is about knowing how to apply that information correctly. True wisdom, as described in James 3:17, "comes from heaven" and is "first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere." This divine wisdom enables us to navigate life's challenges with faith rather than succumbing to fear.

To truly grasp the power of choosing faith and wisdom over fear, let's delve into a compelling story from the Bible - the account of King Jehoshaphat in 2 Chronicles 20.

Jehoshaphat found himself in a dire situation. Three powerful armies - the Moabites, Ammonites, and Meunites - had joined forces to attack Judah. The odds seemed insurmountable, and Jehoshaphat had every reason to be afraid. But in this moment of crisis, he made a choice that would change everything.

Instead of reacting in panic or making rash decisions, Jehoshaphat turned to God. The Bible tells us, "Jehoshaphat was afraid and set himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. So Judah gathered together to ask help from the Lord" (2 Chronicles 20:3-4). This decision to seek God's wisdom first, rather than rushing into battle unprepared, is a powerful lesson for us all.

Jehoshaphat's prayer in this moment is truly inspiring. Standing before his people, he declared, "O Lord, God of our ancestors, you rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. Power and might are in your hand, and no one can withstand you... We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you" (2 Chronicles 20:6,12). In his humility, Jehoshaphat acknowledged his own limitations and placed his trust entirely in God's wisdom.

God's response to this faith-filled prayer was nothing short of miraculous. Through the prophet Jahaziel, God delivered a message of hope: "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's" (2 Chronicles 20:15). Imagine the relief and renewed courage that must have swept through the people of Judah! They didn't even need to fight - God Himself would handle the battle.

What happened next defies human logic but perfectly illustrates the power of faith and divine wisdom. Instead of arming his soldiers for battle, Jehoshaphat followed God's unconventional strategy. He appointed singers to go ahead of the army, praising God and declaring, "Give thanks to the Lord, for His love endures forever" (2 Chronicles 20:21).

As soon as these worshippers began to sing, something extraordinary occurred. God set ambushes against the enemy armies, causing them to turn on each other and self-destruct. Without Judah even lifting a weapon, their foes were utterly defeated!

The outcome of this faith-driven decision was remarkable. Not only was Judah saved from certain destruction, but the Bible tells us, "The kingdom of Jehoshaphat was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side" (2 Chronicles 20:30). By choosing wisdom and faith over fear, Jehoshaphat secured victory, peace, and prosperity for his people.

This powerful story offers us several key lessons that we can apply to our own lives:

1. Seek God First, Not Fear: When faced with challenging decisions or seemingly impossible situations, our first response should be to turn to God in prayer and fasting. As James 1:5 reminds us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."

2. Trust God's Wisdom, Not Emotions: It's easy to be driven by fear and make hasty decisions based on our emotions. Instead, we should wait patiently for God's direction. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to "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."

3. Obey Even When It Doesn't Make Sense: God's wisdom often defies human logic. Sending worshippers ahead of an army seems counterintuitive, but it was God's perfect plan. Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us that God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours.

4. Let God Fight Your Battles: When we align ourselves with God's wisdom and walk in faith, we position ourselves for divine intervention. As Exodus 14:14 declares, "The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still."

5. Praise Before the Breakthrough: Worship is a powerful act of faith. It declares victory even before we see it manifest. As we're instructed in 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."

In conclusion, the story of Jehoshaphat vividly illustrates how faith and wisdom work hand in hand. When we face life's challenges, fear may tempt us to react emotionally or impulsively. But wisdom empowers us to stand firm, trust in God, and witness His victory unfold in our lives.

So, the next time you're confronted with a difficult decision or an overwhelming situation, remember these key principles:

- Don't panic—pray.
- Don't react in fear—respond in faith.
- Don't make impulsive choices—seek God's wisdom.
- Don't rely on your strength—let God fight for you.

By choosing to walk in faith rather than fear, and actively pursuing God's wisdom, you open the door to experiencing victory, peace, and divine favor in your life. Remember, true wisdom comes from above, and it's available to all who seek it with a sincere heart. May we all learn to make decisions rooted in faith and guided by heavenly wisdom, trusting that God's plans for us are always for our good and His glory.


Pastor Adrian 

Introduction:

From the ancient tales of Abraham and Moses to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, the Bible consistently emphasizes the significance of faith in fostering a deep connection with God. Faith is portrayed as the key ingredient for a robust friendship with the divine, guiding believers in their journey of trust, active belief, salvation, and the cultivation of a meaningful relationship with God.

Trust and Confidence:

In Hebrews 11:1-6, the Bible defines faith as confidence in what is hoped for and assurance about what is unseen. Faith involves not merely acknowledging God's existence but actively depending on Him and trusting in His promises. It is akin to relying on a steadfast friend, confident that God will always be there for you. Faith is not passive; it is an active belief that calls for obedience and trust in God's guidance.

Salvation:

In Christianity, faith serves as the key to salvation. Believing in Jesus is highlighted in verses such as John 3:16 and Ephesians 2:8-9 as the means by which individuals are reconciled with God. Trusting in the redemptive work of Jesus on the cross becomes the pathway to eternal life. Acts 16:31 and Romans 10:9 underscore the simplicity of salvation through faith in the Lord Jesus.

Relationship with God:

Faith forms the foundation of a meaningful relationship with God. Hebrews 11:6 emphasizes that without faith, it is impossible to please God, stressing the importance of believing in His existence and the rewards for earnest seekers. Faith brings believers closer to God, allowing them to experience His love and understand His purpose for their lives. Verses like James 4:8, Romans 5:1-2, and Galatians 3:26 further affirm the transformative power of faith in fostering a profound connection with the divine.

Confidence in the Unseen:

Hebrews 11:1 encapsulates the essence of faith as confidence in the unseen. Faith enables believers to trust in God's promises and have assurance in the reality of things beyond immediate perception. It is a source of unwavering confidence that empowers individuals to navigate life's challenges with the certainty that God is in control.

Perseverance and Endurance:

Faith becomes a source of strength during challenging times. James 1:2-4 encourages believers to find joy in trials, knowing that the testing of their faith produces perseverance. Romans 8:28 assures that God works for the good of those who love Him, while 1 Peter 1:6-7 acknowledges the refining nature of trials that ultimately enhances the genuineness of one's faith. Psalm 46:1 reinforces the idea that God is an ever-present help in times of trouble, providing refuge and strength.

Conclusion:

The fundamentals of faith, as outlined in the Bible, go beyond mere acknowledgment of God's existence. Faith involves trust, active belief, salvation through Jesus, and the cultivation of a deep and enduring relationship with the divine. It is the bedrock of a strong connection with God, providing believers with confidence in the unseen, perseverance in trials, and the assurance of God's unwavering presence in their lives.


Blessings,
Pastor Adrian

The Bible tells us to pray without ceasing. The reason in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 he tell us not to stop praying because Prayer releases power to do things man can’t do. There are things in our life that stops us from living the Jer. 29:11 life that God has for us. The place where God is sending our Blessing is the place we are supposed to be.  But we have allowed things like, Anxiety, Pride, lust, greed and people stop us from getting to the place God wants us. This coming year is the Year of Better. Everything the Devil stole and we have thrown away, God is returning. Why? Because PRAYER is going to move the things that are STOPPING us from reaching the FULLNESS OF GOD!!   Let us set a expectation of God to do what he said he would do in 2022!!! Let us start this Year in prayer and Don’t stop!!!

1 Thessalonians 5:17---pray without ceasing,
Jeremiah 29:11--For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Let’s not close the door on the very thing we have been praying for because we have no expectation of the prayer being answered.
Acts 12:5
But while Peter was in prison, the church prayed very earnestly for him……….
Acts 12:12-14
When he realized this, he went to the home of Mary, the mother of John Mark, where many were gathered for prayer. He knocked at the door in the gate, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to open it. When she recognized Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed that, instead of opening the door, she ran back inside and told everyone, “Peter is standing at the door!”
The very thing you are praying for is at the door. Just open it!!!!
Acts 12:15-16
“You’re out of your mind!” they said. When she insisted, they decided, “It must be his angel.”
Meanwhile, Peter continued knocking. When they finally opened the door and saw him, they were amazed.
Can I get a AMEN!!!

Pastor Adrian Lemons