Shalom stories

Temptation is a challenge that every Christian may face. Sometimes, it comes through our desires, difficult circumstances, unhealthy relationships, or opportunities to do something we know is wrong. Even when we genuinely want to please God, we may experience moments when doing the right thing feels difficult. God's Word teaches us how to recognise temptation, resist sin, and seek His strength when we feel weak. Overcoming temptation begins with understanding that you do not have to surrender to every desire you experience. James 1:14–15 explains that people can be tempted when they are drawn away by their own desires. When desire gives birth to sin, it can eventually produce destructive consequences. Temptation may begin with a thought, an opportunity, or a desire that appears harmless. If we continually entertain it without considering the consequences, resisting it may become more difficult. Ask yourself: Is this choice consistent with God's Word? Could it harm me or someone...

The Bible teaches us about Elijah’s earnest prayer in James 5:17–18. Elijah was a human being just like us, yet he prayed earnestly, and God answered his prayers. This passage reveals something powerful: Elijah was an ordinary human being who trusted God, prayed earnestly, and witnessed extraordinary answers to prayer. Let us examine how Elijah prayed and what we can learn from his example. 1. Elijah Prayed According to God's Word Before Elijah prayed for the rain to stop, he declared that there would be no dew or rain in Israel except at his word. 1 Kings 17:1 (KJV) says:  “As the LORD God of Israel liveth, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word.” Elijah's ministry took place during a time when Israel had turned away from God under King Ahab's leadership. The drought was connected to God's judgment against the nation's disobedience and idolatry. Elijah was not simply praying according to his personal desires. His ...

You do not have to rush through the entire psalm. Choose a few verses each day and reflect on their meaning. You can: Read Psalm 91 slowly and thoughtfully. Thank God for His faithfulness. Pray honestly about your concerns. Identify practical steps you can take to improve your safety and wellbeing. End your prayer by asking God for wisdom, peace, and courage. Remember that prayer and practical responsibility belong together. Trusting God does not mean ignoring medical advice, safety precautions, or help from trustworthy people when you need it. Psalm 91 offers a powerful reminder that God is a refuge for those who trust in Him. Its words encourage Christians to seek His presence, remember His faithfulness, and turn to Him during difficult seasons. You may not know everything tomorrow will bring, but you can choose to approach it with prayer, wisdom, and faith. Let Psalm 91 remind you to seek God not only when you are afraid, but also when you are grateful, hopeful, and at peace. May yo...

Life can bring uncertainty, fear, and situations that leave us searching for peace. During such moments, some of us turn to the Bible for encouragement and guidance. One of the most loved passages about God's protection is Psalm 91. Psalm 91 reminds us that God is a refuge and a source of strength. It encourages us to trust Him, seek His presence, and find comfort in His faithfulness. When fear tries to overwhelm your heart, let prayer bring your attention back to the faithfulness of God. What Does Psalm 91 Teach About God's Protection? Psalm 91 begins by describing the person who dwells in the shelter of the Most High and rests in the shadow of the Almighty. Psalm 91:2 expresses a personal declaration of trust in God as refuge and fortress. A refuge is a place of safety. A fortress represents strength and security. These images remind believers that they can turn to God in times of uncertainty. The psalm also speaks about God's faithfulness, deliverance, and care. Its mess...

Have you ever prayed for something and felt as though nothing was changing? Have you followed God's instructions, yet the situation in front of you seemed to become even more difficult? The story of Moses confronting Pharaoh reminds us that perseverance is an important part of our walk with God. Moses was sent by God Almighty to demand the release of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. However, Pharaoh did not simply agree to let them go. Moses had to return repeatedly with God's message, even when Pharaoh resisted. This powerful account connects with the words of Jesus in Luke 18:1, which teaches that people should always pray and not give up. Sometimes, the greatest test of faith is continuing to trust God when the answer has not yet come. 1. Moses Obeyed God Despite Pharaoh's Resistance In Exodus 5, Moses and Aaron approached Pharaoh with God's command to let the Israelites go. Instead of releasing the people, Pharaoh made their labour more difficult. The Israelite...

Faith should bring people closer to God, not make them prisoners of fear, control, or human authority. Unfortunately, spiritual manipulation can occur when someone uses God's name, Bible verses, prophecies, or religious positions to influence others for personal gain. The Bible encourages Christians to develop spiritual discernment and examine what they are taught. Protecting your faith begins with knowing God's Word, understanding your identity in Christ, and refusing to let another person take the place of God in your life. Here are six biblical ways to protect your faith from spiritual manipulation. 1. Know the Word of God One of the strongest protections against spiritual deception is understanding Scripture. When you know what the Bible teaches, you are better prepared to recognise teachings that contradict God's truth. Acts 17:11 describes the Bereans as examining the Scriptures daily to determine whether what they heard was true. Do not accept every teaching simply b...

Prophecy is discussed throughout the Bible, and many Christians seek God's guidance through prayer, Scripture, and spiritual counsel. However, the Bible also warns us not to accept every message simply because someone claims it comes from God. In 1 John 4:1, Christians are instructed to test the spirits rather than believe every spiritual claim. This raises an important question:  How can Christians test a prophecy according to the Bible? Biblical discernment helps believers examine spiritual messages carefully, avoid deception, and remain grounded in God's Word. Let's explore six biblical principles for testing a prophecy. 1. Test the Prophecy Against Scripture The first step is to examine whether the message agrees with the teachings of the Bible. Second Timothy 3:16 teaches that all Scripture is inspired by God and useful for teaching, correction, and training in righteousness. A person may claim to have received a revelation, dream, or message from God. However, that cl...