Archives 2024

Growing in Intimacy with God

As we journey through life, many of us seek to deepen our connection with a higher power, whether that be God, the universe, or a higher self. Intimacy with God is a universal desire that transcends religious boundaries, and it’s essential to understand that spiritual growth is a lifelong process. 

Intimacy with God is not just about intellectual knowledge or dogmatic understanding. It’s about experiencing a profound sense of connection, closeness, and union with the divine. It’s about feeling seen, heard, and understood by a power greater than ourselves. 

Growing in intimacy with God requires commitment, patience, and an openness to the unknown. By incorporating these practical tips into your daily life, you can cultivate a deeper spiritual connection that brings joy, peace, and fulfillment.

Remember that intimacy with God is not a one-time achievement; it’s a lifelong journey of growth, exploration, and discovery. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate this path, and trust that the universe will guide you towards a deeper understanding of the divine.

May you find peace, love, and wisdom on your journey towards intimacy with God.

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.

Finding Strength in Weakness

In a world where strength and invincibility are often revered, it’s refreshing to be reminded that weakness can actually be a source of strength. This is precisely the message Paul conveys in II Corinthians 12:9-10, where he shares his own experience of finding strength in his weaknesses. In this passage, Paul writes:

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” (II Corinthians 12:9-10)

In this powerful testimony, Paul reveals that his greatest weaknesses were transformed into opportunities for God’s glory. But what does this mean for us? How can we find strength in our own weaknesses? Let’s dive deeper into this passage and explore how we can use our weaknesses for God’s glory.

Before we dive into the practical applications, let’s take a moment to understand the context of Paul’s testimony. Paul was writing to the Corinthian church, addressing their concerns about his authority and apostolic credentials. Some in the church were questioning his authenticity, wondering if he was worthy of their respect and obedience.

In response, Paul shares a personal experience of his own weakness. He was beset with a thorn in the flesh – a physical ailment that troubled him day and night (II Corinthians 12:7). We’re not told what this thorn was, but it was clearly a significant burden that left him feeling vulnerable and helpless.

In response to Paul’s struggles, Jesus appears to him in a vision and says, “My grace is sufficient for you” (II Corinthians 12:9). This phrase is rich in meaning. “Sufficient” means more than enough; it implies an abundance of provision that meets every need. In other words, God’s grace is not just enough to get by; it’s more than enough to overcome any obstacle.

Here’s the remarkable truth: God’s power is made perfect in weakness. When we’re weak, we’re forced to rely on God’s strength, which means that His power is magnified in our lives. This is not a message of resignation or defeat; rather, it’s an invitation to find our strength in His sufficiency.

Paul takes this message one step further by boasting about his weaknesses. “Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses” (II Corinthians 12:9). Boasting might seem counterintuitive, but here Paul is not boasting about his accomplishments or strengths. Rather, he’s boasting about his vulnerabilities, knowing that these are opportunities for God’s power to rest upon him.

Finding strength in weakness is not about pretending to be strong when we’re not; it’s about embracing our vulnerabilities as opportunities for God’s glory. By acknowledging our weaknesses, seeking God’s strength, and using our struggles as platforms for His power, we can experience the sufficiency of His grace in our lives.

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.

Seeking God’s Guidance

Life can be unpredictable and challenging at times. We face unexpected obstacles, make difficult decisions, and struggle to find our way forward. In these moments, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. But in the book of Proverbs, we find a timeless wisdom that can guide us through life’s challenges: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

The first part of this verse emphasizes the importance of trusting in God with all our heart. This means putting our faith and confidence in Him, rather than relying on our own understanding or abilities. When we trust in God, we acknowledge that He is sovereign and has a plan for our lives. We surrender our doubts and fears, and instead choose to believe that He is working everything out for our good (Romans 8:28).

The second part of the verse warns us against leaning on our own understanding. This doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t use our minds or think critically. Rather, it means that we shouldn’t rely solely on our own wisdom or experiences. Our understanding is limited and fallible, and it can lead us astray if we don’t seek God’s guidance.

The third part of the verse encourages us to submit to God in all our ways. This means acknowledging His sovereignty over every area of our lives, including the big decisions and the small ones. When we submit to God, we are choosing to yield to His will, even when we don’t understand what’s happening or what’s ahead.

 

In Proverbs 3:5-6, we find a powerful reminder that God is always with us, guiding us through life’s challenges. By trusting in Him with all our heart, submitting to His guidance, and seeking His wisdom, we can navigate even the toughest times with confidence and peace. May these words become a constant reminder of God’s presence and power in our lives.

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 Power of Forgiveness

Have you ever felt the weight of guilt and shame bearing down on you, refusing to let go? Like a heavy chain that’s shackling you, preventing you from living the life God intended for you? The good news is that forgiveness is available, and it’s not just a feeling or a decision, but a powerful reality that can set you free.

In Psalm 103:12, we find a profound promise of forgiveness: “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.” This verse is a declaration of God’s incredible mercy and forgiveness, reminding us that He has wiped our slate clean, erasing our sin and its consequences.

But what does this mean for us? How can we apply this promise to our lives?

Forgiveness is not just about forgetting our mistakes or ignoring them; it’s about acknowledging the hurt and pain caused by our actions and choosing to release it. When we forgive, we break free from the chains of guilt, shame, and regret that hold us back. Forgiveness doesn’t mean what happened was okay; it means we’re choosing to let go of the emotional burden.

When we choose to forgive, we experience a sense of freedom and peace that’s hard to describe. It’s like a weight lifting off our shoulders, allowing us to breathe deeply again. We’re no longer trapped in the past, reliving moments of regret or replaying conversations in our minds. Forgiveness frees us from the constant nagging sense of guilt and allows us to live in the present moment.

Forgiveness doesn’t mean our actions didn’t have consequences. It means we’re choosing to release those consequences from our hearts and minds. 

Psalm 103:12 reminds us that God has removed our transgressions from us as far as the east is from the west. This promise is a declaration of His mercy and forgiveness, available to us through faith in Jesus Christ. When we choose to forgive ourselves and others, we experience freedom from guilt, shame, and regret, allowing us to live in peace and joy.

Remember, forgiveness is a process that requires effort and intentionality. But with God’s help, it’s possible to break free from the chains that bind us and live in the freedom and peace that comes with forgiveness.

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.

Seeking Wisdom from Above

In the midst of life’s challenges and uncertainties, we often find ourselves faced with difficult decisions and uncertain outcomes. We know that God is all-knowing and all-powerful, and we long to tap into His wisdom and guidance in our lives.

James 1:5-8, reminds us that seeking wisdom from above is not only possible, but it is also essential for living a life that honors God.

The passage begins by saying, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God” (James 1:5). This verse is not addressing those who are seeking to gain wisdom for the first time, but rather those who are already believers who may be struggling to make sense of their circumstances. 

But what makes this promise so remarkable is the character of God described in the following verse. James tells us that “God gives generously to all without finding fault” (James 1:5). This phrase is a beautiful portrayal of God’s nature as a gracious and generous Father who delights in giving good gifts to His children (Matthew 7:11). When we seek wisdom from above, we can trust that God will respond with generosity and kindness.

The promise of wisdom is not just a theoretical concept; it is a real gift that can be experienced in our lives. James goes on to say that if we ask God for wisdom, “it will be given to you” (James 1:6). The word “given” is in the present tense, indicating that wisdom is not something we have to wait for or earn; it is available to us now.

Wisdom from above is not just about making smart decisions or having good judgment; it is about living according to God’s character and values. When we seek wisdom from above, we are seeking to align our thoughts, words, and actions with God’s will. This kind of wisdom enables us to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and peace, even in the midst of uncertainty.

By asking for wisdom in every situation, we can trust that God will provide the guidance and direction we need to make wise decisions and live according to His character. May this promise encourage you to seek wisdom from above today, knowing that it will be given generously without finding fault.

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 Gift of Faith

Have you ever wondered what faith is and how it can transform our lives? In Hebrews 11:6, the Bible sheds light on the concept of faith and its importance in our relationship with God. The verse reads, “And without faith it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”

Faith is often described as the foundation of our relationship with God. It’s the confidence that God exists and that He is active in our lives. Faith is not just believing in a concept or a set of beliefs; it’s a living, breathing, and active trust in God’s character and His promises.

In Hebrews 11:6, faith is described as a necessary condition for pleasing God. This means that without faith, we cannot have a meaningful relationship with Him. Faith is not just about knowing about God; it’s about trusting and believing in Him.

Hebrews 11:6 reminds us that without faith, it’s impossible to please God. Faith is the foundation of our relationship with Him, and it brings us closer to Him through trust, obedience, hope, and intimacy. By developing our faith through reading the Bible, prayer, fellowship with believers, and obedience, we can experience the transformative power of faith in our lives.

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.

Moses’ Encounter with God

In the Bible, Moses’ encounter with God on Mount Sinai is a pivotal moment in his life and in the history of the Israelites. This dramatic event takes place in Exodus 19-24, and it marks a turning point in Moses’ journey with God.

Before we dive into the details of the encounter, let’s set the stage. Moses has just led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt and is now leading them through the wilderness to the Promised Land. After a series of miraculous events, including the parting of the Red Sea and the provision of manna and quail in the desert, Moses is ready to receive instructions from God about how to worship Him.

In Exodus 19:1-25, Moses ascends Mount Sinai, accompanied by Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and 70 elders of Israel. As they reach the top, they see a thick cloud covering the mountain, and a voice booms from within: “Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob and tell the children of Israel: ‘You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself.'” (Exodus 19:4)

Suddenly, a mighty earthquake shakes the mountain, causing fear among the Israelites. But Moses leads them to a safe distance and prepares them for what is to come. In Exodus 20:18-21, God appears in a cloud that shines with glory, making His presence known to all. This is often referred to as a “theophany,” or a visible appearance of God.

In Exodus 20:1-17, God gives Moses the Ten Commandments, which become the foundation of Jewish law and ethics. These commandments are not just moral rules but are rooted in God’s character and His relationship with His people. As Moses writes them down on tablets of stone, God’s words are inscribed in bold characters, so that they can be read by all.

As Moses receives these instructions from God, he is deeply affected by the experience. In Exodus 34:28-35, he spends 40 days and 40 nights communing with God on the mountain without food or water. During this time, his face glows with an otherworldly light due to his exposure to God’s presence.

Moses’ encounter with God on Mount Sinai is a powerful reminder of God’s character and our relationship with Him. May we seek after His presence in our own lives, just as Moses did on that mountaintop so long ago.

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 Burning Bush

In the midst of the burning desert, a strange and wondrous sight appeared to Moses, a bush that was ablaze, yet remained unscathed by the flames. This enigmatic event, known as the Burning Bush, has captivated the imagination of people for centuries, inspiring countless works of art, literature, and spiritual reflection. But what is the significance of this symbolic event, and how can it inspire us today?

The Burning Bush is often seen as a symbol of hope and redemption. In a desolate and barren landscape, God’s presence is revealed in a seemingly impossible way – a bush that is both consumed by fire and preserved by it. This paradox speaks to the human experience of feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, yet finding a sense of hope and renewal in the midst of adversity.

The Burning Bush represents the possibility that even in the darkest moments, there is always the potential for transformation and redemption. It reminds us that God is present in every situation, working to bring about good even when all seems lost.

The Burning Bush also serves as a symbol of God’s presence in our lives. In Exodus 3:2-4, Moses encounters the burning bush while tending his father-in-law’s flocks. God speaks to him from within the flames, commissioning him to lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. This event marks the beginning of a profound relationship between Moses and God, one that would shape the course of history.

The Burning Bush reminds us that God is always present, even when we are unaware or uncertain about our circumstances. It is a reminder that we are never alone, and that God’s guidance and direction are always available to us.

Moses’ response to the burning bush also serves as a powerful example of obedience and trust. Despite being instructed to remove his sandals because he was standing on holy ground (Exodus 3:5), Moses hesitated initially. However, he eventually obeyed God’s command to return to Egypt and lead the Israelites out of slavery.

The Burning Bush reminds us that obedience to God requires trust and faith. It encourages us to surrender our own desires and fears, choosing instead to follow God’s leading even when it seems impossible or uncertain.

Finally, the Burning Bush is a symbol of transformation and spiritual growth. Just as the bush was transformed by fire without being consumed by it, so too can we experience transformation through our encounters with God.

The Burning Bush reminds us that spiritual growth often involves being refined and purified by fire – not destroyed by it. It encourages us to surrender our old selves, embracing new life and purpose as we respond to God’s calling.

The Burning Bush is more than just an ancient biblical event – it is a powerful symbol of hope, redemption, divine presence, obedience, and transformation. As we reflect on this enigmatic occurrence, may we be inspired to deepen our faith and trust in God’s goodness and guidance. May we find courage to obey His call, even when it seems impossible or uncertain.

May we too experience the transformative power of God’s presence in our lives, just as Moses did at the Burning Bush – and may we emerge from our own “fires” renewed, revitalized, and ready for whatever lies ahead.

 

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.

Finding Faith in the Everyday

Faith is not just about the big, flashy moments; it’s about finding God in the everyday, ordinary moments of life. It’s about trusting in His goodness and provision even when things seem dull and uneventful.

As we go about our daily routines, we often overlook the small, seemingly insignificant moments that are actually filled with potential for spiritual growth and connection with God. 

Finding faith in the everyday doesn’t require grand gestures or spectacular events. It’s about being present in the moment, trusting in God’s sovereignty, and seeking Him in every aspect of life. By doing so, we can turn ordinary moments into opportunities for spiritual growth, connection with God, and miracles.

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 Forgiveness in Building Stronger Faith

Forgiveness is essential for building stronger faith because it allows us to release the weight of hurt and anger that can weigh us down. When we hold onto grudges, it can lead to bitterness, resentment, and even hatred. This can damage our relationships with others and prevent us from experiencing the fullness of God’s love. Forgiveness, on the other hand, sets us free from the emotional burden of resentment and allows us to move forward with a clear conscience.

In the Bible, forgiveness is a central theme that is emphasized throughout the Old and New Testaments. In Matthew 6:14-15, Jesus teaches us to “forgive our debts as we forgive our debtors” (NIV). This passage highlights the importance of forgiveness in our relationships with others and with God. Similarly, in Colossians 3:13, Paul writes, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (NIV). These verses demonstrate that forgiveness is not just a human virtue, but also a divine command.

Forgiveness is an essential element in building stronger faith. When we choose to forgive others, we release emotional baggage, cultivate gratitude, foster spiritual growth, and heal relationships. By recognizing the hurt, letting go of anger, seeking God’s help, practicing self-care, and seeking support, we can cultivate a culture of forgiveness in our lives.

Remember that forgiveness is not always easy, but it is always worth it. As we choose to forgive others, we open ourselves up to greater intimacy with God and experience His love more fully.

 

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.

C.B. Helping Hands

FREE
VIEW