Minis✞eringChrist | Faith/Love/ Family/Finance

Spiritual gifts are a profound expression of God’s grace, given to edify the Church and minister to the hearts and spirits of people. Yet, in today’s world, there’s a tension between how these gifts are perceived and treated. On one hand, spiritual gifts should never be monetized or reduced to a commodity. On the other hand, they should not be marginalized or neglected. Those who carry these gifts need to be supported and cared for by the Church. This balance is crucial for the health and growth of the body of Christ.   SPIRITUAL GIFTS VS. NATURAL GIFTS It’s important to distinguish between spiritual gifts and natural gifts. Natural gifts are talents or abilities we’re born with or develop over time—like singing, teaching, or public speaking. These are valuable, but they operate in the realm of human capability.   Spiritual gifts, however, are divinely bestowed. They operate in the supernatural realm and are meant to minister to the spirits of people. For example, yo...

Love is the most potent force in the universe. It transcends borders, heals wounds, and connects us in ways that defy logic. It’s not just an emotion—it’s a *superpower*. In a world that often feels divided, love has the unique ability to bring us together, heal us, and inspire us to be better. Let’s explore why love is the ultimate game-changer.   Love Heals Science backs what poets have always known: love has the power to heal. Studies show that love and connection can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even boost our immune systems. When we feel loved, our bodies and minds thrive. Love isn’t just a warm, fuzzy feeling—it’s a biological necessity. It reminds us that we’re not alone, and that connection is essential to our well-being.   Love Drives Courage  Love makes us brave. It pushes us to stand up for others, to fight for what’s right, and to take risks we’d never consider alone. Think about the countless movements throughout history that were fueled...

  The Story of Ruth Imagine a young widow, Ruth, who chose to stay with her mother-in-law instead of seeking an easy way out. She was beautiful, hardworking, humble, and full of wisdom. Despite being a foreigner, her character and diligence caught the attention of Boaz, a wealthy and influential man (Ruth 2:5-12). What made Ruth truly attractive was not just her outward beauty but the virtues she possessed. Men are naturally drawn to women with certain qualities that go beyond physical appearance. Let’s explore these timeless traits that make a woman truly attractive. 1. Beauty: More Than Just Looks Beauty is often the first thing that catches a man's attention, but true beauty goes beyond physical appearance. A woman who takes care of herself, dresses modestly yet elegantly, and carries herself with confidence is always attractive. However, the Bible reminds us that inner beauty is even more important: "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lor...

  During the Last Supper, Jesus did something that left His disciples in awe. The King of kings and Lord of lords stooped down, took a towel, and began washing their feet (John 13:3–5). In that culture, washing feet was the task of the lowliest servant, yet Jesus embraced it willingly. When Peter protested, Jesus said, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me” (John 13:8). This act wasn’t just a lesson in humility; it was an example of Christ’s mission—to serve and not to be served (Mark 10:45). The Heart of Servanthood Jesus came into the world not as a conquering king demanding allegiance, but as a servant committed to the well-being of others. Philippians 2:5–7 describes this perfectly: “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.” Christ’s servanthood was characterized ...

  Imagine a young boy standing in a vast field with a handful of seeds. To an outsider, it may seem insignificant, but the boy knows something others might not—those small seeds have the potential to grow into a bountiful harvest. The boy starts planting, one seed at a time, trusting in the process. Over time, those tiny seeds transform into something much greater. This is how God works in our lives. He often starts with the little things we have, multiplying them to accomplish great things. Stop Waiting for Big Resources God’s plan for us isn’t about waiting for wealth, status, or abundant resources to begin pursuing big dreams or fulfilling His purpose. Instead, God calls us to act in faith with what we already have. Zechariah 4:6 reminds us: “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,” says the Lord of hosts. This verse speaks to how God’s Spirit can take the smallest beginnings and turn them into something extraordinary. Biblical Examples of Doing Big Things with Little The ...

Money is a significant part of our lives, and how we handle it often reflects our personalities. In a family, understanding your financial personality and that of your spouse is essential to maintaining unity and peace. Scripture provides wisdom on managing money and relationships, helping us honor God and preserve harmony. An Everyday Illustration Imagine two people tasked with building a house. One meticulously plans every brick placement, double-checking costs before making decisions. The other dives into construction with enthusiasm, prioritizing creativity over budget. Without mutual understanding, their efforts might clash. However, if they work together, combining planning with passion, the house can stand strong. Similarly, differing financial personalities in a marriage can either lead to conflict or create a balanced, God-honoring approach when handled with grace and understanding. The Four Main Financial Personalities The Saver Characteristics : Highly cautious with money, p...

A man burdened by a mountain of debt spends sleepless nights trying to figure out how to pay what he owes. Every knock on the door sends shivers down his spine, fearing it’s a creditor demanding repayment. Then one day, someone steps in, pays off his debt completely, and gives him resources to start afresh. For the first time, he experiences peace, freedom, and rest. This is the story of humanity. We were burdened with the debt of sin and the weight of death, but Christ came to set us free and give us rest. Christ: The Fulfillment of Rest Rest is at the heart of God’s law of the Sabbath. In Exodus 20:8-10, God commanded the Israelites to observe the Sabbath, a day of rest, as a reminder of His provision and care. However, the Sabbath was more than a physical rest—it pointed to the spiritual rest found in Christ. Jesus declared in Matthew 11:28-29: "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle ...

A young man named Joseph works as a steward in the house of a wealthy Egyptian official named Potiphar. Though Joseph owns nothing, he manages all of Potiphar’s possessions with wisdom, integrity, and faithfulness. Later, Joseph becomes a ruler in Egypt, overseeing vast wealth and resources during a time of famine. Yet, through it all, Joseph understands something profound: wealth is not for personal glory but for fulfilling God’s purpose. Joseph’s story (Genesis 39-41) illustrates the divine principle that wealth is not just about possession but about stewardship. It serves a greater purpose beyond our comfort or status. Wealth: A Gift from God Wealth, whether in small or large measure, comes from God. Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds us: "And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day." The possession of wealth is not a result of our intelligence, strength...

  A widow in ancient Israel stands before the prophet Elisha, desperate and overwhelmed. Her husband has died, leaving her in debt, and now the creditors are coming to take her two sons as slaves. She’s at the end of her rope, with no resources and no hope. Elisha listens and then asks, “What do you have in your house?” She replies, “Nothing, except a small jar of oil.” (2 Kings 4:1-7). The prophet instructs her to gather empty vessels from her neighbors and pour oil into them. Miraculously, the oil flows until every vessel is full, providing enough to pay her debts and sustain her family. This story illustrates how God’s peace and provision can transform even the most dire situations. The widow found peace not because her circumstances magically changed but because she trusted God and obeyed His Word. Peace is the Anchor for Life’s Storms Without peace, even the simplest challenges become overwhelming. No matter how much wealth, fame, or success you achieve, a troubled mind robs...

A commander stands on a battlefield surrounded by enemy forces. His soldiers, terrified by the sheer size of the opposition, are ready to surrender. But the commander, with unwavering confidence, declares, "Victory is ours!" How could he speak with such certainty? He had a vantage point others lacked. From his perspective, reinforcements were already on the way, even though no one else could see them yet. This is a picture of faith—not blind positivity, but the ability to see spiritual realities through the Spirit of God and declare them boldly. True faith involves seeing what God reveals, and only then speaking it into existence. Seeing Comes Before Saying In 2 Kings 6:15-17, the prophet Elisha’s servant panicked when he saw enemy forces surrounding them. But Elisha, calm and confident, responded: "Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them." Then Elisha prayed: "Lord, I pray, open his eyes that he may see." Immediately, ...

  Managing family finances can be challenging, especially in uncertain times. However, as believers, our faith is central to how we approach our finances. It reminds us that it is not by our strength, skills, or resources alone, but by the power of God’s Spirit that we succeed and prosper. Faith: The Foundation of Financial Freedom The Bible emphasizes the role of faith in all areas of life, including finances. Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds us: “And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth.” This power isn’t limited to material wealth but extends to wisdom, creativity, and the ability to make wise decisions. Faith enables us to trust God as our ultimate provider, knowing He is able to meet all our needs. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Family Finances When the Holy Spirit empowers us, we receive the ability to thrive in all areas of life, including our finances: Power to Excel: “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon y...

Love is the foundation of every healthy and thriving family. Without love, a family is just a group of individuals cohabiting, but with love, it becomes a sanctuary—a safe space where life is nurtured, and relationships flourish. Scripture tells us that love is not just an emotion but a choice and commitment that reflects God's character. Whether you are starting a family or striving to maintain its bond, love is the essential ingredient. Building the Foundation Starting a family requires more than just financial stability or a grand wedding. It requires a commitment to love unconditionally and sacrificially. “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it” (Psalm 127:1). Building a family is a divine partnership. Love is the cornerstone, and God, the ultimate source of love, must be at the center of it all. Money can provide comfort, but love provides security, joy, and purpose. Sustaining the Bond Keeping a family united requires ongoing effort, patience, and,...

Holy Communion is one of the most profound spiritual practices in the Christian faith, yet its significance is often misunderstood or reduced to mere ritual. This sacred act connects believers to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, symbolizing our oneness with Him and one another. Let’s explore what Holy Communion truly is, its origin, and its deeper meaning. What Is Communion? The word "communion" comes from the Greek term koinonia , which means fellowship, partnership, or sharing. Holy Communion, therefore, is the sharing in the body and blood of Christ. “The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?” (1 Corinthians 10:16). Holy Communion is not just a physical act but a spiritual fellowship. It represents the believer's unity with Christ and the entire body of believers. The Origin of the Term "Holy Communion" The term “Holy Communion...

The Lord’s Supper, Passover, and Holy Communion are significant practices in Scripture. While they share connections in God’s redemptive plan, they differ in meaning, purpose, and application. Understanding these distinctions helps us properly honor God and discern the Lord’s body. The Passover: A Foreshadowing of Christ The Passover, instituted in Exodus 12 , commemorated the Israelites’ deliverance from Egypt. On the night of the first Passover, the blood of a lamb applied to their doorposts caused the angel of death to “pass over” their homes, sparing them from judgment. God commanded: “This day shall be to you a memorial, and you shall keep it as a feast to the Lord throughout your generations” (Exodus 12:14). The Passover was a prophetic symbol of the ultimate Lamb of God, Jesus Christ, who would take away the sin of the world (John 1:29). It pointed to Christ’s sacrifice as the fulfillment of God’s plan for humanity’s salvation. The Lord’s Supper: A New Covenant At the Last Supp...

The Word of God and the Spirit of God are inseparable forces in the life of a believer. However, understanding their relationship and which one takes precedence can unlock a deeper walk with God. The Word of God brings knowledge, but it is the Spirit of God that gives life to that knowledge. The Source of the Word The Word of God originates from the Spirit of God. In 2 Peter 1:21, we read: “For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” Without the Spirit, the Word remains mere letters and information. But when the Spirit moves upon the Word, it becomes a life-giving force, able to transform hearts, renew minds, and set captives free. An Illustration: A Kite and the Wind Picture a child flying a kite. The kite, beautifully crafted, is useless without the wind to lift it. The Spirit of God is like the wind—it carries the Word, giving it power and direction. Without the Spirit, the Word is li...

  God’s goodness is like the warmth of the sun—constant, life-giving, and available to all, regardless of whether they acknowledge it or not. His goodness transcends human understanding and is evident in His actions, His promises, and ultimately, in the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. God’s Goodness to All God’s goodness is not selective; it extends to all His creation. The psalmist declares: “The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on all He has made” (Psalm 145:9). This divine goodness is seen in the rain that falls on both the righteous and the unrighteous (Matthew 5:45). Whether we love Him or reject Him, His provision and care are consistent. Christ: The Ultimate Expression of God’s Goodness The greatest demonstration of God’s goodness is in His plan for salvation. Romans 5:8 says: “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Even when humanity turned away, God’s love remained steadfast. Jesus’ sacrifice wasn’t for the...

Financial freedom is not achieved overnight. It’s a process that requires patience, wisdom, and alignment with God’s principles. The Bible provides timeless guidance on managing our resources wisely, living within our means, and trusting God as our ultimate provider. Financial Freedom Is Like Planting a Seed Imagine a farmer preparing his land for planting. He tills the soil, sows the seed, and waters it diligently. Yet, he doesn’t see immediate results. Days, weeks, or even months pass before the first sprout appears. Over time, with sunlight, air, and consistent care, the seed becomes a tree, bears fruit, and produces a harvest. This process mirrors our journey toward financial freedom. It begins with sowing seeds of discipline, budgeting, and faithful giving. It involves consistent watering through hard work and wise investments, and it requires patience as we wait for the fruits of our labor to grow and mature. Biblical Principles for Financial Freedom Acknowledge God as Your Provi...