Shalom stories

The beginning of a new month provides another opportunity for us to re-establish unity and love with our family, friends, and loved ones. If you've missed some divine appointments, or if you simply want to live more fully for God, this new month is an opportunity to renew your heart. According to Jeremiah 29:11 of the Bible, God's plans are not to harm us, but to prosper us. May God bless you as you begin the new month of February, and may God's blessings not pass you by.

Jeremiah 1:19 is the scripture referenced. God called Jeremiah when he was very young, but Jeremiah was doubtful at first because he thought God called his prophets based on their age and appearance. God made Jeremiah realize in the last verse of chapter 1 that since he had been called, people would oppose and persecute him, but they would fail. I have never witnessed God abandoning his children. The Bible also says that the Lord's eyes are on the righteous in 1 Peter 3:12. It's reassuring to know that God has promised to protect his people in a world that seems to be spinning out of control. God will triumph even when disaster strikes, storms rage, and prayers go unanswered.

It is important for us to be united, because when we are united, we begin to have one spirit, one mind, and one heart.  Unity allows things to run more quickly and without interruptions or delays. Unity attracts God's attention and blessings to manifest in our lives. There must be a difference between Christians and sinners, and can be accomplished when Christians work together. In other words, the more we unite, the more the world will realize that we are members of the family of love, also known as the family of Jesus.  And it becomes much easier for us to overcome a particular challenge.

God puts us to the test because he cares about us and wants us to grow in faith and knowledge of him. Being put to the test by God is simply a part of the process of growing closer to him.  He tests us to see if our faith in him is genuine (real). If God knows you are still preoccupied or unprepared, he will not advance you. He needs to know if you have what it takes to pass that specific request. According to Jeremiah 11:20, God puts his children's minds and hearts to the test. If we fail, he teaches us so that we can prevail next time. God will reward us if our faith is genuine.

It's easy to become frustrated, or rushed in the morning, but praying to God first thing in the morning gives us peace and allows us to better approach each day.  When we start each day seeking God's kindness, we are much more resistant to the temptation to sin! Early in the morning, before you start your day, is a great time to spend some time with God. He cares about us more than we notice, and the time we spend with him is more significant and useful than most people realize.

Today I'd like to talk about Jesus' name because I've seen miracles and wonders through it! Jesus' name is more than a name; it is a name that carries God's power and his character. His name has the power to move mountains and silence fear. When demons hear this name, they tremble. It allows us to be saved, delivered, and sanctified. According to Paul, Jesus was given this name because he left heaven, came to earth, and died on a cross (Philippians 2:5-11).

Many years ago, when I was doing grade 7, God compelled me to pen something that has remained in my mind until this day. I was a child, but I had a very clear revelation that came to my spirit. I didn’t know that God was literally preparing me to write this story (chapter) today.  It took me years and years, and that is why I always tell people who are close to me that God’s designed time is the best. I remember using my 3310 Nokia phone to write down everything that popped into my mind.