Archives 2024

How to Grow Closer to God

Have you ever felt distant from God? Like you’re going through the motions of faith, but struggling to connect with Him on a deeper level? You’re not alone. Many of us struggle to maintain a strong relationship with God, especially in today’s busy and chaotic world. But growing closer to God is possible, and it’s worth the effort.

We’ll explore 10 practical tips to help you deepen your connection with God and experience a more meaningful relationship with Him.

1. Set aside dedicated time for prayer

One of the most effective ways to grow closer to God is to set aside dedicated time for prayer. Whether it’s first thing in the morning, during your lunch break, or before bed, make sure to carve out time each day to talk to God. Start by setting aside 5-10 minutes a day and gradually increase as you become more comfortable with the practice.

2. Practice mindfulness and meditation

Mindfulness and meditation are powerful tools for cultivating a deeper connection with God. By quieting your mind and focusing on your breath, you can create space for God to speak to you and guide you. Start by taking a few minutes each day to sit quietly, close your eyes, and focus on your breath.

3. Read the Bible regularly

Reading the Bible is essential for growing closer to God. The Word of God is a powerful tool for spiritual growth, and reading it regularly can help you deepen your understanding of God’s character and will. Start by setting aside 10-15 minutes each day to read the Bible, and gradually increase as you become more comfortable with the practice.

4. Engage in acts of service

One of the best ways to grow closer to God is to engage in acts of service. Serving others helps us develop a sense of compassion and empathy, which can lead to a deeper connection with God. Look for opportunities to serve others, whether it’s volunteering at a local soup kitchen or simply helping out a neighbor in need.

5. Practice gratitude

Practicing gratitude is a powerful way to cultivate a deeper connection with God. By focusing on the things you’re thankful for each day, you can shift your focus from what’s lacking in your life to what’s already present. Start by writing down three things you’re thankful for each day, and see how it changes your perspective.

6. Seek accountability and community

Growing closer to God often requires accountability and community. Surround yourself with people who share your faith and values, and seek their support and encouragement as you deepen your relationship with God.

7. Learn to listen

Learning to listen is essential for growing closer to God. By listening carefully to His voice, you can gain wisdom and guidance that will help you navigate life’s challenges. Start by setting aside time each day to listen quietly, and see how it changes your perspective.

8. Practice forgiveness

Practicing forgiveness is crucial for growing closer to God. When we hold onto grudges and resentment, we can create distance between ourselves and God. Start by asking for forgiveness when you’ve wronged someone, and work towards letting go of resentment and bitterness.

9. Seek guidance from spiritual leaders

Seeking guidance from spiritual leaders is another powerful way to grow closer to God. These leaders can offer wisdom, guidance, and support as you navigate life’s challenges.

10. Be patient and persistent

Finally, growing closer to God requires patience and persistence. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results – keep showing up, keep praying, and keep seeking guidance from God.

Growing closer to God requires effort, dedication, and perseverance. But the rewards are well worth it – a deeper connection with God can bring joy, peace, and fulfillment that can’t be found elsewhere.

By incorporating these 10 practical tips into your daily life, you can deepen your relationship with God and experience a more meaningful connection with Him.

Take one step today towards growing closer to God. Whether it’s setting aside dedicated time for prayer or practicing gratitude each day, take one step towards deepening your relationship with Him. And remember – every step counts, no matter how small it may seem.

 

Apostle Shelia

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

SBI Ministries

**Follow Us**

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.

 

10 Ways to Experience God’s Presence in Your Daily Life

God is always present with us, but sometimes it can be challenging to feel His presence in our daily lives. We may go through seasons of uncertainty, doubt, or busyness, making it hard to connect with Him. But the good news is that God desires a personal relationship with each of us, and He has given us many ways to experience His presence.

Here are 10 ways to experience God’s presence in your daily life:

1. Prayer and Meditation

Take time to pray and meditate on God’s Word. This can be as simple as sitting quietly, focusing on your breath, and asking God to speak to you. You can also use a prayer journal or a devotional app to guide your prayers.

2. Worship Music

Listen to worship music that lifts your heart and soul to God. Sing along, play an instrument, or simply let the music wash over you. You can find worship music online or on your favorite streaming platform.

3. Nature

Spend time in nature, whether it’s walking in a park, hiking, or simply sitting in your backyard. Nature is a powerful reminder of God’s creation and majesty.

4. Bible Study

Read the Bible regularly, and take time to study specific passages or books. This will help you deepen your understanding of God’s Word and experience His presence.

5. Fellowship with Others

Surround yourself with like-minded believers who encourage and support you. This can be through a church community, small group, or online forums.

6. Gratitude Practice

Take time each day to reflect on the blessings in your life and express gratitude to God. This can be as simple as writing in a gratitude journal or sharing your thanks with a friend or family member.

7. Fasting and Hunger

Fasting from food or other pleasures can help you focus on God and seek His presence. You can also fast from distractions like social media or TV to create space for spiritual growth.

8. Journaling

Write down your thoughts, feelings, and prayers in a journal. This can help you process your emotions, gain clarity, and experience God’s presence.

9. Acts of Service

Serve others in love and humility, just as Jesus did. This can be through volunteering at a local charity, helping a neighbor, or simply serving your family.

10. Silence and Stillness

Take time to sit in silence and stillness, waiting for God to speak to you. This can be as simple as sitting quietly in a chair or lying down in bed.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you’ll be better equipped to experience God’s presence in your life. Remember that God is always present with you, even when you don’t feel it. Take time to seek Him out, and He will meet you where you are.

Experiencing God’s presence is not just a one-time event; it’s a daily choice we can make by incorporating these 10 practices into our lives. By doing so, we’ll deepen our relationship with Him and become more aware of His presence in our daily lives.

So take the next step today and start experiencing God’s presence in your daily life.

 

Apostle Shelia

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

 

**Follow Us**

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.

 

The Role of God in Our Lives

 

As humans, we often find ourselves searching for answers to life’s biggest questions.

Who are we? What is our purpose? How do we find meaning and fulfillment?

For many of us, the answer to these questions lies in our relationship with God. 

God is not just a distant figure, but a personal and loving presence who desires to be intimately involved in our lives. He is the creator of the universe, the one who gave us life, and the one who has a plan for our future. Without God, life can be confusing, chaotic, and lacking in purpose. With God, however, we can find peace, guidance, and direction.

When we have a deeper relationship with God, we can experience numerous benefits that can transform our lives. Here are a few:

Peace and Contentment: A deeper relationship with God brings peace and contentment, even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty. When we know that God is with us, we can trust that He will see us through any situation.


Guidance and Direction: A deeper relationship with God provides guidance and direction for our lives. When we seek His wisdom, He will give us the wisdom to make decisions that align with His will.


Purpose and Meaning: A deeper relationship with God gives us a sense of purpose and meaning. When we know that God has a plan for our lives, we can find fulfillment in serving Him and others.


Healing and Restoration: A deeper relationship with God brings healing and restoration. When we confess our sins and ask for forgiveness, God is faithful to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.


Strength and Courage: A deeper relationship with God gives us strength and courage to face challenges and overcome obstacles. When we know that God is with us, we can trust that He will give us the strength to overcome any hurdle.

Cultivating a deeper relationship with God requires effort and intentionality. Here are a few ways to do so:

Spend Time in Prayer: Spend time in prayer each day, pouring out your heart to God and seeking His guidance and wisdom.


Read Your Bible: Read your Bible regularly, seeking to understand His word and apply it to your life.


Worship: Worship God regularly, whether it’s through singing praises or simply giving thanks for His blessings.


Fellowship with Other Believers: Fellowship with other believers who share your passion for God. This can be through attending church, joining a small group, or participating in outreach activities.


Seek Guidance from Spirit-Filled Leaders: Seek guidance from spirit-filled leaders who have a deep understanding of God’s word and are willing to help you navigate life’s challenges.

A deeper relationship with God is not just a means to an end; it is an end in itself. It is a journey that transforms us from the inside out, bringing peace, guidance, purpose, healing, strength, and courage into our lives. As we cultivate a deeper relationship with God, we can trust that He will guide us every step of the way, using us for His glory and purposes

Remember, a deeper relationship with God is within your reach. Trust that He will meet you where you are and transform you into the person He created you to be.

 

**Follow Us**

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.

The Power of Faith

As we navigate the complexities of life, it’s natural to question the existence and nature of God. Is He a distant, uninvolved deity, or a loving, guiding presence in our lives?

But what if God is more than just a concept or a set of beliefs? What if He is a tangible, felt presence that can be experienced in our daily lives? Many people claim to have had profound spiritual experiences that have transformed their understanding of God and their relationship with Him. These experiences often involve feelings of peace, love, and connection to something greater than themselves.

Faith is a crucial aspect of any spiritual journey. It requires trust, surrender, and an openness to the unknown. When we exercise faith, we acknowledge that there may be things beyond our comprehension or control. We choose to believe in something greater than ourselves, even when we can’t see or prove it.

Faith is not just about intellectual assent; it’s an emotional and practical response to life’s challenges. It’s about trusting that God is working for our good, even when circumstances seem uncertain or difficult. When we have faith, we can face uncertainty with courage and confidence, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.

One of the most pressing questions about God is how He can allow suffering to exist in the world. If He is all-powerful and all-knowing, why does He permit evil and pain to occur? 

One possible answer lies in the concept of free will. If humans were created with free will, then they have the ability to choose between good and evil. This freedom allows us to grow and develop as individuals, but it also means that we can choose to harm ourselves and others.

Another perspective is that suffering is an opportunity for growth and transformation. While it’s difficult to see in the moment, suffering can lead to deeper empathy, compassion, and understanding. It can also reveal our own strengths and resilience, as we learn to navigate adversity.

Ultimately, our understanding of God is shaped by our personal experiences. Whether we’ve had a profound spiritual experience or simply sense His presence in our lives, our relationship with God is unique and intimate.

For some, God may be a comfort in times of crisis or a source of guidance in times of uncertainty. For others, He may be a source of joy and inspiration in everyday life. Whatever our experience may be, it’s essential to remember that God is always present and available to us.

The mystery of God is complex and multifaceted. While we may not have all the answers, we can continue to explore the mysteries of faith through personal experience, scripture, and community. As we navigate life’s challenges and uncertainties, let us remember that God is always with us, guiding us toward hope, peace, and transformation.

Apostle Shelia

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

SBI Ministries

**Follow Us**

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.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ: An Introduction to Salvation

The Gospel is the good news that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, died on the cross for the sins of humanity, and that through faith in Him, people can be forgiven and receive eternal life.

The Bible teaches that humans are born with a sinful nature, which separates us from God. The Bible says, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). This means that every human being has broken God’s laws and has earned God’s wrath. The consequences of sin are spiritual death, physical death, and eternal separation from God.

Jesus Christ is the only one who can bridge the gap between God and humanity. He is the Son of God, fully human and fully divine. Jesus lived a sinless life, which means that He was perfect in every way. He died on the cross as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity, taking the punishment that we deserved. This act of love and sacrifice is the ultimate expression of God’s love for humanity.

The message of salvation is simple: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). This means that anyone who puts their faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior can be forgiven and receive eternal life.

The process of salvation is straightforward:

1. **Recognize your sin**: Acknowledge that you are a sinner and that you have broken God’s laws.

2. **Repent**: Turn away from your sin and turn to Jesus Christ.

3. **Believe**: Trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.

4. **Confess**: Confess your faith in Jesus Christ to others.

When you receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you can expect the following results:

1. **Forgiveness**: You will be forgiven of your sins and have eternal life.
2. **New Life**: You will receive a new heart and a new spirit, allowing you to live a life pleasing to God.
3. **Peace**: You will experience peace with God and a sense of purpose and direction.
4. **Hope**: You will have hope for eternal life and a future with God.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is not just a message or a set of teachings; it is a personal relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ. It is the means by which humans can be forgiven and receive eternal life. The Gospel is not just about going to heaven when we die; it is about living a life pleasing to God now, and having a personal relationship with Him.

If you have not received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, I encourage you to do so today. If you have already received Him, I encourage you to continue to deepen your relationship with Him through prayer, study, and service.

Apostle Shelia

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

SBI Ministries

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.

God’s Faithfulness: A Promise to Humanity

When we think about God, we often think about His power, wisdom, and justice. But one of the most comforting aspects of God’s character is His faithfulness. God is a faithful God who has made promises to humanity, and He has been faithful to keep them time and time again.

One of the most famous examples of God’s faithfulness is found in the story of Abraham. In Genesis 12:1-3, God promises Abraham that He will make him a great nation, bless him, and make him a blessing to others. And then, in Genesis 22:16-18, God reiterates this promise to Abraham after he has passed the test of faith by offering his son Isaac as a sacrifice.

This promise is significant because it shows that God is a faithful God who keeps His promises. He does not change His mind or go back on His word. He is committed to fulfilling His promises to Abraham and his descendants.

Another example of God’s faithfulness is found in the story of King David. In 2 Samuel 7:8-16, God makes a promise to David that He will establish his kingdom and make him a great king. And then, in 1 Chronicles 17:11-15, God reiterates this promise to David after he has built an altar to God.

This promise is significant because it shows that God is a faithful God who keeps His promises. He does not abandon His people or go back on His word. He is committed to fulfilling His promises to David and his descendants.

So what does it mean for us to know that God is a faithful God who keeps His promises?

Firstly, it means that we can have confidence in our relationship with Him. When we struggle with doubts and fears, we can remind ourselves of God’s faithfulness and know that He is always working for our good (Romans 8:28).

Secondly, it means that we can trust Him with our lives. When we face challenges and uncertainties, we can trust that God is sovereign and in control, working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).

Thirdly, it means that we can respond to His faithfulness with gratitude and obedience. As we learn more about God’s character and His desire to connect with us, we can respond by living out our faith in practical ways.

As we explore the Bible’s teachings on God’s faithfulness, we are reminded of the incredible gift that we have been given through faith in Jesus Christ. We can trust Him with our lives, respond to His faithfulness with gratitude and obedience, and know that He is always working for our good.

Apostle Shelia

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

SBI Ministries

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.

The Mystery of Jesus’ Return

In the midst of life’s uncertainties, we often find ourselves wondering when Jesus will return to claim his people. In the book of Matthew, Jesus himself spoke about the mystery of his return, saying, “No one knows the day or hour of my return” (Matthew 24:36).

This statement is both comforting and challenging. On one hand, it’s reassuring to know that God is sovereign and knows exactly when the perfect time will be for his return. On the other hand, it’s humbling to realize that we are not given a specific date or time to prepare for his coming.

So why is Jesus’ return shrouded in mystery? The Bible teaches that God is a God of time, and his ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8). He works in ways that are beyond human comprehension, and his timing is not bound by human constraints.

In Matthew 24:36, Jesus is speaking about the importance of being prepared for his return. He warns us that we must be vigilant and faithful, just as a servant waits for their master to return from a wedding feast (Matthew 24:45-51). But despite this emphasis on preparation, Jesus deliberately leaves the timing of his return unknown.

So what does this mean for our daily lives? How can we live with uncertainty about Jesus’ return?

Firstly, we can take comfort in knowing that God is always in control. His sovereignty is not diminished by our lack of knowledge about the timing of his return. We can trust that he knows exactly when to come back and will do so at the perfect moment.

Secondly, we can focus on living faithfully and preparing for his return. We can do this by living according to God’s Word, serving others, and growing in our relationship with him.

Thirdly, we can cultivate a sense of urgency and anticipation. We don’t know when Jesus will return, but we can be ready at any moment. We can live each day as if it could be our last and make the most of every opportunity to serve God.

Jesus’ statement about not knowing the day or hour of his return may seem mysterious, but it’s actually a reminder of God’s sovereignty and our need to be prepared for his coming. By living faithfully and focusing on our relationship with him, we can trust that he will come back at the perfect time.

May we live with anticipation and excitement for Jesus’ return, knowing that he is always in control and will do so when the time is right.

 

Apostle Shelia

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

SBI Ministries

 

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.

The Miracles and Healings by Jesus Christ

Throughout history, Jesus Christ has been a central figure in Christianity, and his teachings have inspired countless individuals. One of the key aspects of Jesus’ life that has captivated people’s attention is his ability to perform miracles and healings. In this blog post, we will delve into the various miracles and healings attributed to Jesus and explore their significance in the context of his life and teachings.

1. Healing the Sick:
One of the most prominent aspects of Jesus’ ministry was his healing power. He is said to have healed countless people suffering from various ailments, such as leprosy, blindness, deafness, and paralysis. These healings not only brought physical relief to the afflicted but also demonstrated Jesus’ compassion and love for humanity.

2. Raising the Dead:
Jesus is also believed to have raised several individuals from the dead, including his friend Lazarus, the daughter of Jairus, and the son of the widow of Nain. These miraculous events not only showed his divine power but also served as a testament to his ability to bring hope and comfort to those who had lost their loved ones.

3. Calming the Storm:
Another significant miracle attributed to Jesus was his ability to calm a violent storm on the Sea of Galilee. This event demonstrated his control over nature and his authority as the Son of God. It also served as a reminder of his power to bring peace and tranquility even in the midst of chaos.

4. Feeding the Multitudes:
Jesus is said to have performed two miracles of feeding large crowds with a limited amount of food. In the first instance, he fed 5,000 people with five loaves of bread and two fish. In the second, he miraculously provided enough food to feed 4,000 people with seven loaves and a few small fish. These miracles not only provided nourishment for the hungry but also symbolized the spiritual nourishment that Jesus offered through his teachings.

5. Walking on Water:
One of the most iconic miracles of Jesus is his ability to walk on water. This event is often interpreted as a demonstration of his divinity and his power over the natural world. It also serves as a powerful symbol of faith, as Jesus invited Peter to join him, and Peter momentarily walked on water before doubting.

The miracles and healings performed by Jesus Christ are an essential aspect of his life and teachings. They not only serve as a testament to his divine nature but also highlight his compassion, love, and ability to bring hope and comfort to those in need. 

 

Apostle Shelia

SBI Minisstries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

Jesus’ Teachings on Forgiveness

In the realm of spiritual teachings, Jesus Christ’s message of love, compassion, and forgiveness continues to resonate with millions around the world.

I. The Importance of Forgiveness in Jesus’ Teachings:

A. Jesus’ example of forgiveness: The parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:21-35)
B. The Lord’s Prayer and its emphasis on forgiveness (Matthew 6:9-13)
C. Jesus’ call to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:43-48)

II. Understanding the Power of Forgiveness:

A. Forgiveness as a path to inner peace and healing
B. The impact of forgiveness on relationships and communities
C. Forgiveness as a reflection of God’s love and grace

III. Practicing Forgiveness in Our Lives:

A. Recognizing the need for forgiveness and letting go of grudges
B. Developing empathy and understanding to foster forgiveness
C. Actively seeking reconciliation and restoring broken relationships

IV. Challenges and Limitations of Forgiveness:

A. Forgiving does not always mean reconciling
B. Navigating the line between forgiveness and self-preservation
C. Seeking professional help when needed

V. Embracing Grace and Redemption:

A. Jesus’ teachings on forgiveness as a means to experience divine grace and redemption
B. The transformative power of forgiveness in our lives and the world around us
C. Becoming instruments of God’s love and compassion by embracing forgiveness

As we delve into Jesus’ teachings on forgiveness, we are reminded of the transformative power of grace and redemption. By embracing forgiveness, we can not only improve our relationships and inner well-being but also reflect the love and compassion of God. As we strive to live by these teachings, we contribute to creating a more loving, forgiving, and compassionate world for all.

Apostle Shelia

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

 

The Beauty of God’s Love

At the heart of all religious and spiritual traditions lies the fundamental truth: God is love. This profound concept encapsulates the essence of our connection with the divine, inviting us to explore the boundless depths of God’s love and its transformative power in our lives. 

1. God’s Love: The Ultimate Expression of Divinity

God’s love is the very essence of divinity, the purest form of compassion, and the most powerful force in the universe. By embracing this love, we can experience the transcendent nature of God and deepen our spiritual connection with the divine.

2. The Power of God’s Love in Our Lives

God’s love has the power to transform our lives, guiding us towards a path of love, compassion, and understanding. When we open ourselves to this divine love, we can find the strength to overcome challenges, the wisdom to make better choices, and the courage to embrace our true purpose.

3. The Healing Embrace of God’s Love

In times of pain and sorrow, God’s love serves as a healing balm, comforting us and lifting us up from the depths of despair. By allowing the warmth of this divine love to envelop us, we can find solace in the knowledge that we are never truly alone.

4. God’s Love: A Beacon of Hope and Guidance

In the face of uncertainty, God’s love provides a beacon of hope and guidance, illuminating our path and revealing the opportunities for growth and learning. By following the promptings of this divine love, we can navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and purpose.

5. Embracing God’s Love for a More Compassionate World

As we deepen our understanding of God’s love, we can cultivate a more compassionate and empathetic outlook on life. By extending this divine love to others, we contribute to a world filled with kindness, understanding, and unity, fostering a more harmonious existence for all.

6. Practicing God’s Love in Our Daily Lives

To truly experience the transformative power of God’s love, we must actively practice it in our daily lives. This can be achieved through acts of kindness, forgiveness, and compassion, as well as by nurturing our spiritual connection with the divine.

To truly experience the transformative power of God’s love, we must actively practice it in our daily lives. This can be achieved through acts of kindness, forgiveness, and compassion, as well as by nurturing our spiritual connection with the divine.

 

Apostle Shelia

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands

FREE
VIEW