August, 2024 |

31Aug

The Purpose of Suffering

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

Suffering is a universal human experience that has puzzled and troubled people for centuries. Why does God allow suffering to exist in the world? What is the purpose of suffering? As we navigate the complexities of life, we often find ourselves asking these questions, seeking answers that bring comfort and understanding.

The Bible offers a unique perspective on the purpose of suffering. While it does not provide a simple or straightforward answer, it does provide a framework for understanding and grappling with suffering. In the book of Job, we find a powerful example of someone who suffers greatly and seeks answers from God. Ultimately, God’s response to Job is not a clear-cut explanation of why he suffered, but rather a reminder that God’s ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9).

In Romans 5:3-4, Paul writes, “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” This passage suggests that suffering can be a means of spiritual growth and development. Through suffering, we are able to develop perseverance, which is essential for living a life that is pleasing to God.

In Hebrews 12:10-11, we read, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” This passage suggests that suffering can be a means of purification, helping us to focus on things that are eternal rather than things that are temporary.

In 1 Peter 2:19-20, we read, “For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God. But how is it to your credit if you suffer in a beatific manner? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it patiently, that is commendable before God.” This passage suggests that suffering can be a means of witnessing to others about our faith. When we suffer for doing good and patiently endure it, we are commended by God.

The purpose of suffering is not always easy to understand or accept. However, the Bible offers a perspective that suggests that suffering can be a means of spiritual growth and development, purification, and witnessing. While these purposes do not necessarily make suffering easier to bear, they do offer a framework for understanding and coping with the challenges that we face.

As we navigate the complexities of life, may we remember that God is sovereign and that He is working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). May we fix our eyes on things that are eternal and may we find comfort in the knowledge that we are not alone in our suffering.

Apostle Shelia

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

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31Aug

The Reason for Faith

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

As humans, we are naturally curious and often find ourselves pondering the big questions of life. One of the most fundamental and enduring questions is: “Why do I believe?” Why do we believe in certain things, and how do we come to form our beliefs?

Faith is often defined as the confident trust in something or someone. It’s a belief that is not based on empirical evidence or proof, but rather on a deep conviction or intuition. For many people, faith is a fundamental aspect of their lives, guiding their decisions, actions, and relationships.

For many individuals, the reason for faith is a personal journey. It’s a journey that begins with a spark of curiosity, a question, or a challenge. As we explore the unknown, we may encounter various belief systems, philosophies, and ideologies. We may be drawn to certain beliefs because they resonate with our values, experiences, or desires.

Our experiences play a significant role in shaping our beliefs and faith. Whether it’s a personal triumph, a tragedy, or a moment of profound insight, our experiences can leave an indelible mark on our psyche. For some, these experiences may lead to a sense of awe, gratitude, or wonder, which can be the foundation of faith.

Community also plays a vital role in shaping our beliefs and faith. Surrounding ourselves with like-minded individuals who share our values and beliefs can be a powerful source of inspiration and support. This sense of belonging and connection can be a source of strength and motivation, helping us to navigate life’s challenges and uncertainties.

The reason for faith is complex and multifaceted. It’s a personal journey that involves exploration, experience, storytelling, and community. While there may be many different beliefs and faiths, the underlying desire for meaning and connection is universal. Whether you’re seeking answers to life’s big questions or simply trying to make sense of your place in the world, the journey of faith can be a transformative and empowering experience.

Apostle Shelia

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

Stay up-to-date with our latest articles and insights by following us on social media:

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This website is a treasure trove of valuable information, and we’re committed to keeping it free for everyone. If our content has made a positive impact on your life, consider supporting us with a donation to help us continue sharing knowledge freely.

29Aug

How Faith Can Help You Navigate Life’s Challenges

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

Life is full of ups and downs, twists and turns. We all face challenges and obstacles that can test our resolve, our strength, and our faith. But what happens when we feel overwhelmed by the uncertainties of life? How can we navigate these challenges with confidence and hope?

Faith is not just about believing in something; it’s about having a deep trust in a higher power. When we have faith, we acknowledge that there is more to life than what we can see and touch. We trust that God is always with us, guiding us, and protecting us. This trust gives us the courage to face life’s challenges with confidence and hope.

How Faith Can Help You Navigate Life’s Challenges

1. Provides Comfort and Consolation: When we’re faced with a difficult situation, faith can provide comfort and consolation. We can turn to our faith for peace and guidance, knowing that God is always with us.

2. Gives Us Perspective: When we’re faced with a challenge, it’s easy to lose perspective. Faith helps us see things from God’s perspective, reminding us that our struggles are temporary and that God has a plan for our lives.

3. Helps Us Find Strength: Faith gives us the strength we need to face life’s challenges. It reminds us that we are not alone and that God is always with us, empowering us to overcome any obstacle.

4. Reminds Us of God’s Love: When we’re facing a difficult situation, it’s easy to feel abandoned or unloved. Faith reminds us of God’s love for us, reassuring us that we are loved and valued regardless of the circumstances.

Life is full of challenges and uncertainties, but faith gives us the courage to face them with confidence and hope. When we have faith, we trust that God is always with us, guiding us and protecting us. We know that our struggles are temporary and that God has a plan for our lives.

Faith is not just about believing in something; it’s about having a deep trust in a higher power. It gives us comfort, perspective, strength, and reminds us of God’s love. Whether we’re facing big challenges or small ones, faith can help us navigate life’s journey with confidence and hope.

Apostle Shelia

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

Stay up-to-date with our latest articles and insights by following us on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/CBHelpingHands

This website is a treasure trove of valuable information, and we’re committed to keeping it free for everyone. If our content has made a positive impact on your life, consider supporting us with a donation to help us continue sharing knowledge freely.

29Aug

Deeper Walk with God

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

A deeper walk with God is not just about feeling His presence or experiencing spiritual highs. It’s about cultivating a deeper understanding of God’s character, His love for us, and His plans for our lives. It’s about developing a sense of intimacy and connection with Him, even in the midst of challenges and difficulties.

5 Ways to Deepen Your Relationship with God

1. Prayer: Prayer is the foundation of any meaningful relationship with God. It’s not just about saying words, but about listening to God’s voice and being still in His presence. Take time each day to pray, journaling your thoughts and feelings, and asking God to deepen your relationship with Him.

2. Scripture Study: Reading and studying Scripture is essential for deepening your relationship with God. It’s not just about reading words on a page, but about allowing the Word of God to transform your heart and mind. Take time to study specific passages or books, and ask God to reveal new truths to you.

3. Fasting: Fasting is a powerful way to focus your heart and mind on God. It’s not just about giving up something physical, but about creating space for spiritual growth and renewal. Consider fasting from social media, TV, or other distractions for a period of time, and use that time to focus on prayer and Scripture study.

4. Worship: Worship is not just about singing songs or attending church services. It’s about expressing gratitude and praise to God for who He is and what He has done in our lives. Take time each day to worship God, whether it’s through singing, playing an instrument, or simply thanking Him in prayer.

5. Accountability: Having accountability in your spiritual journey can be a powerful way to deepen your relationship with God. Find someone who will pray with you, study the Bible with you, and encourage you in your faith. This can be a friend, family member, or even a mentor.

As we seek a deeper walk with God, we may encounter obstacles along the way. We may feel like we’re not good enough, or that we’re not worthy of God’s love. We may struggle with doubts and fears, or feel like we’re not making progress in our spiritual journey.

But here’s the truth: God is not looking for perfection; He’s looking for authenticity. He desires a relationship with us, not because we’re good enough, but because He loves us unconditionally.

Deepening your relationship with God takes time, effort, and commitment. But it’s worth it. As we seek a deeper walk with Him, we’ll experience greater intimacy, joy, and fulfillment in our lives. We’ll learn to trust Him more deeply, and find comfort in His presence.

So if you’re seeking a deeper walk with God, I encourage you to start small. Begin by committing to prayer, Scripture study, fasting, worship, and accountability. And remember that it’s okay to take things one step at a time. With patience, persistence, and faithfulness, you can deepen your relationship with God and experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from knowing Him intimately.

Apostle Shelia

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

Stay up-to-date with our latest articles and insights by following us on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/CBHelpingHands

This website is a treasure trove of valuable information, and we’re committed to keeping it free for everyone. If our content has made a positive impact on your life, consider supporting us with a donation to help us continue sharing knowledge freely.

29Aug

Exploring the Life of David

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

David, the second king of Israel, is one of the most iconic figures in the Hebrew Bible. His life is a testament to God’s power and faithfulness, as well as his own courage, humility, and perseverance. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the life of David, exploring his early years, his rise to power, and his reign as king.

David was born in Bethlehem, Judah, around 1040 BC. He was the youngest of eight sons of Jesse, a humble farmer who tended his sheep. According to the biblical account, David was anointed by the prophet Samuel as the future king of Israel when he was just a teenager. Despite his humble beginnings, David’s destiny was set in motion.

One of David’s most famous exploits is his battle with Goliath, the giant Philistine warrior. According to 1 Samuel 17:1-58, Goliath had been taunting the Israelites for 40 days, and no one dared to challenge him. But David, still a young shepherd, saw an opportunity to prove himself and trust in God’s power. With just a sling and five stones, David defeated Goliath, striking him down with a single stone.

David’s victory over Goliath caught the attention of King Saul, who was struggling with his own insecurity and jealousy. Despite Saul’s attempts to eliminate him, David continued to serve as a trusted warrior and advisor to the king. When Saul’s behavior became increasingly erratic, David eventually fled to the wilderness, where he became a leader of a small band of rebels.

After Saul’s death, David returned to Jerusalem and became the new king of Israel. He established his capital in Jerusalem and consolidated his power by defeating his enemies and unifying the tribes. During his reign, David was known for his wisdom, justice, and military victories.

Despite his many successes, David was not without personal struggles. His relationship with Saul was marked by jealousy and paranoia, which ultimately led to Saul’s death. David also faced temptation and sin when he committed adultery with Bathsheba and had her husband Uriah killed in battle. However, it was during this period that he also experienced profound repentance and forgiveness from God.

David’s legacy extends far beyond his own lifetime. He is remembered as a great king who united Israel and established its capital in Jerusalem. He is also revered as a prophet and a musician who wrote many of the psalms that are still sung today.

David’s life is a testament to God’s sovereignty and faithfulness. From his humble beginnings as a shepherd’s son to his rise to power as king of Israel, David’s story is one of courage, humility, and perseverance. As we reflect on his life, we are reminded that God can use anyone to achieve great things, no matter their background or circumstances.

Apostle Shelia

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

Stay up-to-date with our latest articles and insights by following us on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/CBHelpingHands

This website is a treasure trove of valuable information, and we’re committed to keeping it free for everyone. If our content has made a positive impact on your life, consider supporting us with a donation to help us continue sharing knowledge freely.

29Aug

Understanding God’s Plan for Humanity

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

As humans, we often find ourselves wondering about the purpose of our existence, the meaning of life, and the plan of God for humanity. The Bible, being the inspired word of God, provides a comprehensive understanding of His plan for humanity. In this blog post, we will delve into the biblical perspective on God’s plan for humanity and explore the significance of understanding it.

The Bible begins with the creation story in Genesis 1-2, where God creates humanity in His own image and likeness (Genesis 1:26-27). This creation is not a random act, but a deliberate and intentional act of love by God. The creation story sets the stage for understanding God’s plan for humanity, which is rooted in love and relationship.

According to the Bible, humanity was created to have a relationship with God (Genesis 3:8-9). This relationship is based on mutual love and trust between God and humanity. Unfortunately, sin entered the world through humanity’s disobedience (Genesis 3:1-7), which distorted this relationship. However, God’s plan for humanity is not limited to this brokenness. Instead, He has a redemptive plan to restore this relationship and bring humanity back to Himself.

The Bible teaches that redemption is available through Jesus Christ, who came to save humanity from sin and its consequences (John 3:16). Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection demonstrate God’s love and willingness to reconcile humanity to Himself. Through faith in Jesus Christ, humanity can be reconciled to God and experience eternal life (Romans 5:8-11).

The Bible also teaches that believers are part of the Body of Christ, the Church (Ephesians 1:22-23). As members of the Body of Christ, we are called to participate in God’s plan for humanity by proclaiming the good news of salvation to others and living out our faith in community.

The Bible provides a glimpse into the end times, where God’s plan for humanity will come to fruition. The return of Jesus Christ will mark the culmination of history, where believers will be given eternal life and those who reject Him will face judgment (Matthew 24:36-25:46). The end times also reveal a period of tribulation, where those who remain faithful to God will be tested and refined like gold (Revelation 7:14).

Understanding God’s plan for humanity is essential for living a meaningful life. It provides a framework for understanding our purpose, our relationship with God, and our role in the grand scheme of eternity. The Bible offers a comprehensive understanding of God’s plan for humanity, which is rooted in love, redemption, and reconciliation. As believers, we are called to participate in this plan by living out our faith in community and proclaiming the good news of salvation to others.

By understanding God’s plan for humanity, we can live a life that honors Him and brings glory to His name.

Apostle Shelia

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

Stay up-to-date with our latest articles and insights by following us on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/CBHelpingHands

This website is a treasure trove of valuable information, and we’re committed to keeping it free for everyone. If our content has made a positive impact on your life, consider supporting us with a donation to help us continue sharing knowledge freely.

27Aug

God’s Love in a Chaotic World

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

In a world filled with chaos, uncertainty, and fear, it’s easy to feel like we’re drowning in the midst of turmoil. But amidst the chaos, there is a constant and unchanging truth that can bring us peace and comfort: God’s love. In this blog post, we’ll explore how God’s love shines through even in the darkest of times, and how it can guide us towards a path of hope and redemption.

We’ve all experienced the storms of life at some point or another. Whether it’s a personal struggle, a global crisis, or a seemingly insurmountable challenge, we’ve all felt like we’re being tossed around by the waves of uncertainty. But in the midst of these storms, it’s easy to lose sight of the truth that God is always with us. We can feel like we’re alone, abandoned, and forgotten by the very God who created us.

But here’s the thing: God’s love is not limited by our circumstances. It’s not affected by the chaos around us. It’s not bound by time or space. It’s a constant and unchanging force that guides us towards hope and redemption. And when we’re in the midst of a storm, it’s God’s love that shines through, reminding us that we’re not alone.

One of the most powerful assurances of God’s love is His presence in our lives. When we’re feeling overwhelmed and lost, God is always there to guide us, comfort us, and protect us. He is our rock, our refuge, and our shelter in the storm. And when we cry out to Him in our darkest moments, He is always there to listen and respond.

But what makes God’s love so unique is that it never fails. No matter what challenges we face, no matter how difficult our circumstances may seem, God’s love remains constant. It’s a love that is not based on our performance or our worthiness, but on His own character and nature. And because it’s based on His character, it’s a love that can never be taken away or failed.

When we’re feeling overwhelmed, one of the most comforting things we can do is seek out God’s presence. Whether it’s through prayer, reading His Word, or simply sitting in silence with Him, seeking comfort in His presence can bring us peace and calm.

In times of turmoil, it’s easy to lose sight of what’s truly important. But when we fix our eyes on Jesus, we’re reminded of His love and sacrifice for us. This can bring us hope and encouragement in even the darkest moments.

Finding peace in a chaotic world is not always easy. But when we focus on God’s love and seek His presence in our lives, we can find peace even in the midst of turmoil. And as we journey through life’s challenges with faith and hope, we can rest assured that God’s love will always be there to guide us towards redemption and peace.

Apostle Shelia

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

Stay up-to-date with our latest articles and insights by following us on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/CBHelpingHands

This website is a treasure trove of valuable information, and we’re committed to keeping it free for everyone. If our content has made a positive impact on your life, consider supporting us with a donation to help us continue sharing knowledge freely.

26Aug

The Resurrection of Jesus and the Victory Over Sin

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is one of the most pivotal events in human history, marking the triumph of good over evil, life over death, and hope over despair. It is a testament to the power of God’s love and redemption, demonstrating that sin and its consequences are no match for the divine.

Before we dive into the triumph of Jesus’ resurrection, let’s acknowledge the problem of sin. Sin is a universal reality that affects every human being. It is a rebellious act that separates us from God, causing us to live in darkness, fear, and shame. Sin brings about physical and spiritual death, leaving us hopeless and lost.

Jesus, fully human and fully divine, came to earth to address the problem of sin. He lived a sinless life, teaching us about God’s love and forgiveness. Through his death on the cross, Jesus paid the price for our sins, taking upon himself the punishment we deserved. This sacrificial act demonstrated God’s love and willingness to reconcile humanity to Himself.

But that was not the end. Jesus’ resurrection from the dead is the ultimate victory over sin. By rising from the grave, Jesus proved that he is the Son of God, and that he has conquered even death itself. This resurrection demonstrates that Jesus is not just a teacher or a moral leader, but the Savior of humanity.

The resurrection of Jesus is a powerful reminder of God’s love and redemption. It is a testament to the fact that sin and its consequences are no match for the divine. Through his resurrection, we are offered forgiveness, eternal life, and hope for a new beginning. May we embrace this Good News and share it with others, spreading joy and hope to all who need it.

Apostle Shelia

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

Stay up-to-date with our latest articles and insights by following us on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/CBHelpingHands

This website is a treasure trove of valuable information, and we’re committed to keeping it free for everyone. If our content has made a positive impact on your life, consider supporting us with a donation to help us continue sharing knowledge freely.

26Aug

What Does it Mean for Our Salvation?

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

When we think about salvation, we often think about it as a concept that only applies to our individual lives, a way to escape the consequences of our sins and find eternal life. But what does it mean for our salvation, and how does it impact our eternal destiny?

It is not just about escaping punishment, but about being reconciled to God and receiving eternal life. In the Bible, salvation is often described as a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8-9), which is available to all who believe in Jesus Christ.

So, what does salvation mean for our salvation? The purpose of salvation is to restore our relationship with God and to give us a new life in Christ. When we are saved, we are:

* Freed from the power of sin (Romans 6:14)
* Given a new heart and a new spirit (Ezekiel 36:26-27)
* Adopted as children of God (Galatians 4:5)
* Given eternal life (John 3:16)

In other words, salvation is not just about avoiding hell, but about experiencing the abundant life that God has promised us (John 10:10).

Salvation is not just about escaping punishment or avoiding hell. It is about being reconciled to God, receiving eternal life, and experiencing the abundant life that He has promised us. The implications of salvation are profound, offering us eternal life, a new heaven and earth, a new body, and a personal relationship with God. As believers, we can rest assured that our salvation is secure in Christ, and that we have an eternal destiny that is full of hope and promise.

Apostle Shelia

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

Stay up-to-date with our latest articles and insights by following us on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/CBHelpingHands

This website is a treasure trove of valuable information, and we’re committed to keeping it free for everyone. If our content has made a positive impact on your life, consider supporting us with a donation to help us continue sharing knowledge freely.

25Aug

Why Does God Allow Bad Things to Happen?

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

Why does God, who is often described as all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-loving, allow bad things to happen to good people? It’s a question that has sparked heated debates, tears of sorrow, and prayers of frustration.

The problem of evil is one of the most pressing concerns for many people. If God is all-powerful, then why can’t he prevent evil from happening? If God is all-knowing, then why doesn’t he know that evil is going to happen and stop it? And if God is all-loving, then why does he allow evil to happen in the first place?

One possible answer to this question is the concept of free will. According to this view, humans were given the gift of free will by God, which allows us to make choices that are not predetermined by God. This means that we are capable of choosing good or evil, and that our choices have consequences.

Some might argue that if God had created humans without free will, we would be nothing more than puppets or robots, and our actions would be meaningless. However, this raises the question of why God would create beings with free will if he knew that they would use it to do evil.

Another possible answer is the concept of the greater good. According to this view, God allows bad things to happen in order to achieve a greater good. This could be anything from helping people grow spiritually to bringing about a greater understanding of God’s nature.

For example, some people might argue that the Holocaust was a necessary evil in order to bring about a greater understanding of humanity’s capacity for evil. Others might argue that the suffering of Jesus Christ was necessary for the salvation of humanity.

But we are not powerless. We can find hope in the face of evil by trusting in God’s goodness and sovereignty. We can find comfort in the fact that God is always present with us, even in the midst of suffering.

Ultimately, we may never have all the answers to this question. But we can find hope in the face of evil by trusting in God’s goodness and sovereignty. And we can find comfort in knowing that God is always present with us, even in the midst of suffering.

Apostle Shelia

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

Stay up-to-date with our latest articles and insights by following us on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/CBHelpingHands

This website is a treasure trove of valuable information, and we’re committed to keeping it free for everyone. If our content has made a positive impact on your life, consider supporting us with a donation to help us continue sharing knowledge freely.

Archives August 2024