PATRICK

  "Do not marvel, my brethren, if the world hates you." – 1 John 3:13 (NKJV) Have you ever felt rejected or misunderstood because of your faith? Maybe friends have distanced themselves, or you've faced criticism for your beliefs. If so, don't be surprised—the Bible tells us that the world will hate those who follow Christ. The Bible makes it clear that believers will face opposition. The world, under the influence of sin, stands against God, and because you have chosen righteousness, you have automatically become its enemy. The system of this world is built on the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (1 John 2:15-17). But as a follower of Christ, you are not called to fit in—you are called to stand out. Jesus said: "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other." – Matthew 6:24 (NKJV) The world will always try to pull you away from God thro...

  "Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His face continually. Remember His wonders which He has done." – Psalm 105:4-5 (NKJV) Have you ever felt like your problems are too big to handle? When difficulties arise, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But what if the problem isn’t the size of your troubles, but where you’re focusing? Psalm 105:4-5 reminds us to turn our eyes to the Lord and His strength, rather than being consumed by our struggles. Your difficulties may seem enormous today, but that’s what happens when you focus on something—it appears to intensify and grow larger. The enemy wants to keep your attention fixed on your struggles, making them seem insurmountable. But the key to victory is shifting your focus to the greatness of God. When you magnify the Lord, your troubles shrink in comparison. This is why the psalmist urges us to seek God’s strength and remember His wonders. Instead of dwelling on your difficulties, remind yourself of who God is and what He has done. Th...

  "To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice." – Proverbs 21:3 (NKJV) Do you ever feel like you need to do more to earn God’s approval? Many people rely on religious rituals to feel close to God, but the Bible teaches that true righteousness comes from obedience, not outward sacrifice. Many people fall into the trap of thinking they can win God’s favor by making offerings, giving tithes, or performing religious acts while neglecting the true essence of righteousness—living a life of integrity, love, and justice. The Bible makes it clear that God is not pleased with mere external acts of worship if they are not accompanied by a righteous heart. Righteousness is not something you can buy or achieve through human effort but is a divine gift given through faith in Jesus Christ. You cannot buy God’s righteousness through charitable deeds, church attendance, or large financial contributions while continuing to live in disobedience. God is looking...

  Foolish people are always fighting, but avoiding quarrels will bring you honor. Proverbs 20:3 NCV Many conflicts start over small misunderstandings, but God calls us to a better way—the way of peace. You are called to be a peacemaker, not someone who stirs up strife. Quarreling and fighting do not bring any good; instead, they damage relationships, create divisions, and steal your peace. You may have encountered situations where people provoke you, speak harsh words, or try to engage you in conflicts. These are moments when your wisdom and self-control are tested. Anyone can start a quarrel—it requires no special skill or strength. But choosing to walk away from unnecessary arguments requires true wisdom and discipline. One of the biggest challenges to avoiding quarrels is controlling your anger. Anger, if not managed properly, leads to harsh words, bitterness, and broken relationships. "So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; ...

  "For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another." – 1 John 3:11 (NKJV) In both the Old and New Testaments, love is given great importance as the foundation of spiritual life. When Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment, He answered: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself." – Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV) Love Is Proof of True Salvation. The Bible teaches that those who truly love others show that they have received eternal life. "We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren." – 1 John 3:14 (NKJV) Christian love should go beyond friendships or family relationships. It should include even those who dislike us, because Jesus taught us: "Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for th...

  "Now the just shall live by faith; But if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him." – Hebrews 10:38 (NKJV) Have you ever felt like you needed to do more to earn God's favor? Many believers struggle with the idea that faith alone is enough. But the Bible tells us that the just shall live by faith—not by works or religious rituals. A just person is one whom God considers blameless. This righteousness is not obtained through the law or human effort but through faith—faith in Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross. "Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified." – Galatians 2:16 (NKJV) Unfortunately, some teachings today suggest that God's blessings must be earned through financial offerings or religious rituals. Some Christi...

"And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed." – Deuteronomy 31:8 (NKJV) Have you ever faced a battle so overwhelming that you felt alone? Maybe you're struggling with opposition, setbacks, or discouragement. But today, God wants to remind you—He is with you, and He will give you victory! Let us look in to the words Moses spoke to Joshua when entrusting him with the responsibility of leading Israel. To succeed in this world and fulfill God's purpose, you must overcome every form of opposition you encounter. The enemy is determined to hinder you from receiving the blessings God has prepared for you. Moses, having already witnessed God’s power in fighting for His people, had strong faith in overcoming all enemies. Now, he was encouraging Joshua with words that are also relevant for you today. Just as Joshua faced uncertainty and opposition, you too may be encountering challenges...