2024 | - Part 9

13Jul

Finding Faith in the Midst of Suffering

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

Suffering is a universal human experience. It can strike at any moment, without warning, and can be incredibly painful and overwhelming. Yet, it is in these moments of darkness that we are often forced to confront our deepest fears, doubts, and insecurities. For many of us, suffering can lead to feelings of hopelessness, despair, and a sense of abandonment by a loving God.

But what if I told you that it’s precisely in these moments of suffering that we have the opportunity to discover faith? Not a superficial, Pollyannaish faith that denies the existence of pain, but a deep, transformative faith that emerges from the ashes of our brokenness.

The Bible is replete with stories of people who suffered greatly, yet remained faithful to God. Job, who lost everything he had, including his family and his health. Joseph, who was sold into slavery and spent years in prison. Each of these individuals faced unimaginable suffering, yet their faith remained unwavering.

So why do we struggle to find faith in the midst of suffering? Perhaps it’s because we have an unrealistic expectation of how God should work in our lives. We expect Him to prevent or remove all pain and suffering, rather than using it as a means to draw us closer to Him.

Prayer is often the first thing that suffers when we’re going through a difficult time. But it’s precisely in these moments that we need to pray most. Prayer is not about changing God’s mind or asking Him to fix our problems; it’s about surrendering ourselves to His will and trusting in His goodness.

When we pray during times of suffering, we’re not trying to control the outcome; we’re simply seeking to know God more deeply and trust Him more fully. As we pray, we begin to see that God is not absent; He is actively working behind the scenes to bring about good even from evil.

Finding faith in the midst of suffering is not easy. It requires surrender, perseverance, and trust. But it’s precisely in these moments that we have the opportunity to discover a deeper level of faith – one that is not based on circumstances but on the character of God Himself.

Remember that suffering is not a sign of God’s abandonment; it’s an opportunity for us to draw closer to Him. And even when the road ahead seems uncertain and dark, remember that God is always working behind the scenes, using our suffering for good and bringing about redemption.

Apostle Shelia

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

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1Jul

The Gift of Forgiveness

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

As followers of Christ, we are called to forgive others as God forgives us (Ephesians 4:32). But what does that mean? How can we forgive others when they’ve hurt us so deeply?

The answer lies in understanding God’s love. God’s love is not just a feeling or an emotion; it’s a choice He makes every moment. He chooses to love us unconditionally, despite our failures and shortcomings. He chooses to forgive us time and time again.

When we experience God’s love and forgiveness, it changes everything. It gives us a new perspective on life, a new sense of purpose and direction. It helps us see that our worth and value come not from our accomplishments or achievements, but from being loved by God.

Forgiveness is a powerful tool that can change everything. When we choose to forgive others as God forgives us, we open ourselves up to a world of freedom, peace, and joy. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it.

As you journey towards forgiveness, remember that God is with you every step of the way. He loves you unconditionally and wants to help you experience the transformative power of forgiveness.

Forgiveness is not just about letting go of past hurts; it’s about embracing God’s love and allowing it to transform our lives. It’s about choosing freedom over bitterness, peace over resentment, and joy over sorrow.

Remember that forgiveness is a process, but with God’s help, you can overcome even the deepest wounds. Don’t give up – keep seeking Him and asking for His guidance.

Take one step today towards forgiveness. Reach out to someone who has hurt you in the past and offer them an olive branch. Write down three things you’re grateful for today related to your faith journey. Share this article with someone who could use encouragement on their own path towards forgiveness.

Remember – forgiveness is a gift from God that can change everything.

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.

1Jul

God’s Sovereignty

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

The Bible teaches us that God is sovereign over all things (Isaiah 46:10-11), but it also teaches us that humans have a responsibility to make choices (Deuteronomy 30:19). In fact, the Bible says that “what may be known about God is plain from what God has made” (Romans 1:19), implying that humans have the ability to seek after God and respond to Him.

The apostle John wrote that “whoever lives by the truth comes into light” (1 John 1:6), indicating that humans have the capacity to make choices based on truth and morality.

So how do we reconcile God’s sovereignty with human free will? The answer lies in understanding that our free will is not absolute, but it is still real. While our choices are influenced by various factors, they are not entirely determined by those factors.

God’s sovereignty does not cancel out our responsibility to make choices. Rather, it highlights His graciousness in giving us the capacity to respond to Him and live according to His will.

Ultimately, this paradox can only be understood through faith. We must trust that God is sovereign over all things and yet still believe that He has given us the gift of free will.

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.

25Jun

The Role of God in Human Suffering

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

Suffering is an inherent part of the human experience. From the natural disasters that ravage our planet to the personal struggles that we face in our daily lives, pain and hardship are an unfortunate reality. For many, the existence of suffering has led to questions about the role of God in these tragic events. Is God all-powerful, yet powerless to stop suffering? Is God all-knowing, yet uncaring? Or is God neither all-powerful nor all-knowing, leaving us to fend for ourselves in a seemingly cruel world?

If God is all-powerful, then why does evil exist? If God is all-knowing, then why did God not prevent evil from occurring in the first place? And if God is both all-powerful and all-knowing, then why does God allow evil to persist in the world?

These questions have led to various theological and philosophical responses over the centuries. Some have argued that evil is a necessary part of a free will universe, allowing humans to make choices and exercise their moral agency. Others have suggested that evil is a result of humanity’s rebellion against God’s will, or that it is a test of faith and endurance.

Despite these attempts to explain the problem of evil, suffering remains a mystery that continues to trouble many people. Why must innocents suffer? Why do some people experience such profound pain and hardship while others seem to live relatively comfortable lives? The answers are not always clear-cut, and the truth is that suffering can be both senseless and inexplicable.

In this sense, suffering can be seen as a manifestation of the unknown, a reminder that we are not always in control and that there are forces beyond our comprehension at work in the world. This perspective can be both humbling and challenging, as it forces us to confront our own mortality and the limits of our understanding.

While the existence of suffering can be difficult to reconcile with a loving God, it is also possible to find meaning and purpose in the midst of pain. Many people have found comfort in their faith during times of struggle, using their experiences as opportunities for growth and self-reflection.

The biblical concept of “cross-bearing” – carrying one’s cross with humility and faith – suggests that suffering can be a means of surrendering our will to God’s will, trusting that He has a greater purpose at play.

The role of God in human suffering is complex and multifaceted. While the problem of evil may never be fully resolved, it is possible to find meaning and purpose in the midst of pain. By acknowledging the mystery of suffering and seeking comfort in our faith, we can begin to make sense of the world around us.

Ultimately, the question of why God allows suffering is not necessarily a question that can be answered definitively. Instead, it may be more productive to focus on how we respond to suffering – with courage, resilience, and faith – rather than dwelling on its cause.

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.

25Jun

The Sacrificial Death of Jesus

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

Jesus’ death was not an accident or an unexpected event. It was a deliberate act that fulfilled his purpose as the Messiah. Accordingly, humanity was estranged from God due to sin, which had corrupted human nature. Jesus’ death served as an atoning sacrifice for humanity’s sins, making it possible for people to be reconciled with God.

Jesus was arrested by Roman authorities after being betrayed by one of his own disciples. He was tried, found guilty of blasphemy, and sentenced to death by crucifixion. This brutal form of execution was considered a curse from God in Jewish tradition. As Jesus hung on the cross, he prayed for his executioners and forgave those who were crucifying him.

Jesus’ death did not end with his physical demise. His sacrifice brought about a spiritual transformation that changed the course of human history. Through his death, Jesus broke the power of sin and opened the way for people to be reconciled with God. This redemption was made possible through faith in Jesus Christ, who became the mediator between humanity and God.

The sacrificial death of Jesus is a testament to the power of sacrificial love. Jesus demonstrated that true love is not about seeking personal gain or recognition but about giving one’s life for the benefit of others. His death shows that love can conquer even death itself, as it is able to bridge the chasm between heaven and earth.

The sacrificial death of Jesus is a profound event that continues to inspire awe and devotion across cultures and centuries. It serves as a reminder that true love requires sacrifice and that our lives have meaning when we give ourselves for others. As we reflect on this momentous occasion, may we be inspired to emulate Jesus’ selfless love and strive to make a similar impact on those around us.

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.

25Jun

Jesus’ Teachings on Love and Compassion

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

Jesus Christ’s teachings on love and compassion are some of the most profound and transformative messages in human history. His words continue to inspire and guide millions of people around the world, offering a path to a more loving, merciful, and compassionate life.

In Matthew 22:37-40, Jesus is asked which is the greatest commandment in the law. His response is clear: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

This simple yet powerful statement encapsulates Jesus’ teachings on love and compassion. He emphasizes the importance of loving God with every fiber of our being, while also extending that love to our fellow human beings. This commandment is not limited to romantic love or familial love, but encompasses a broader sense of universal love and compassion.

In Luke 10:25-37, Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan, which illustrates the importance of showing compassion to those in need. A man is beaten and left half-dead on the side of the road, and several people pass by without stopping to help. Only a Samaritan, who is considered an outcast by Jewish society, shows mercy and kindness to the injured man.

This parable teaches us that we are all called to show compassion and care for those around us, regardless of their background or social status. Jesus’ message is clear: we are called to be good Samaritans, to show love and kindness to those in need.

In Matthew 5:38-42, Jesus teaches us to “love our enemies” and “pray for those who persecute us.” This seems like a radical message, especially in today’s world where conflict and hatred often seem to dominate our headlines. But Jesus’ teaching is not about condoning or justifying evil behavior; rather, it’s about transforming our hearts and minds through love.

When we choose to love our enemies, we break down barriers and create space for healing and reconciliation. We show that even in the midst of conflict and hurt, we can choose to respond with compassion and understanding.

In Matthew 7:12, Jesus teaches us the Golden Rule: “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.” This simple yet powerful principle guides us in how we treat others. If we want to be treated with kindness and respect, we must show kindness and respect to others.

The Golden Rule is not limited to interpersonal relationships; it also applies to our treatment of the environment and all living creatures. We must recognize that our actions have consequences not only for ourselves but also for those around us.

Jesus’ teachings on love and compassion are a call to action for each of us. They challenge us to re-examine our priorities and values, and to respond with kindness, mercy, and understanding towards others.

As we strive to follow Jesus’ teachings, we will find that love and compassion become a way of life. We will see the world through new eyes, recognizing that every person has inherent worth and dignity. We will be drawn closer to God as we respond with love and mercy towards those around us.

May we embody the spirit of Jesus’ teachings on love and compassion, transforming our lives and the world around us with the power of his love.

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.

21Jun

The Power of God’s Love

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

As humans, we all long for love and connection. We crave acceptance, forgiveness, and understanding. And yet, in a world filled with pain, suffering, and uncertainty, it’s easy to feel lost and alone. But there is hope. There is a power that can transform our lives and change the world – the power of God’s love.

God’s love is not like human love, which is often conditional and fleeting. It is unconditional, unwavering, and eternal. It is a love that accepts us just as we are, flaws and all. It is a love that forgives us without condition, heals our wounds without hesitation, and redeems us from the depths of sin.

In 1 John 4:19, it says, “We love because he first loved us.” This verse reminds us that our capacity to love others begins with God’s love for us. When we experience God’s love, we are enabled to love others with the same unconditional nature.

The power of God’s love is not limited to our personal lives or individual experiences. It has the potential to change the world. As we deepen our understanding of God’s unconditional love for us, we will be compelled to spread it to others. We will become ambassadors of hope and kindness, transforming our communities and changing the world one person at a time.

The power of God’s love is a game-changer. It has the ability to heal our wounds, break chains of shame, bring hope, change our perspectives, spread kindness, foster community transformational communities. Let us grasp this truth deeply and allow it to transform us from the inside out.

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.

21Jun

The Role of Faith in a Relationship with God

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

As humans, we often find ourselves searching for meaning and purpose in our lives. We seek answers to life’s big questions, such as “Why am I here?” and “What is my purpose?” Many of us turn to a higher power, such as God, to find the guidance and direction we crave. But what does it mean to have a relationship with God, and what role does faith play in that relationship?

Faith is often misunderstood as simply believing in something without evidence or proof. However, true faith is so much more than that. It’s about trusting in something or someone despite uncertainty or doubt. In the context of a relationship with God, faith is about believing that God is real, loving, and sovereign, even when we can’t see or understand everything.

So, what role does faith play in a relationship with God? Faith is the foundation upon which our relationship with God is built. Without faith, we can’t truly know or understand God’s presence or plan for our lives. Faith allows us to trust that God has our best interests at heart, even when circumstances seem chaotic or confusing.

Faith plays a vital role in a relationship with God. It’s the foundation upon which we build our trust and reliance on Him. By understanding the different types of faith and growing our own faith through reading the Bible, praying, seeking community, practicing obedience, and trusting in God’s goodness, we can deepen our connection with Him and find the peace, hope, comfort, guidance, and purpose we crave.

Apostle Shelia

SBI Ministries

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

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15Jun

The Importance of Forgiveness: A Reflection on Jesus’ Teachings

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

As humans, we’ve all been hurt, betrayed, and wronged in some way or another. Whether it’s a personal relationship, a past trauma, or a current struggle, the wounds of pain and resentment can run deep. But what if we told you that there’s a way to break free from the cycle of hurt and find peace? Enter forgiveness.

The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant

One of Jesus’ most famous parables is the story of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:21-35). In this parable, a servant is forgiven a massive debt by his master, only to turn around and refuse to forgive his own fellow servant who owes him a much smaller debt. Jesus uses this parable to illustrate the importance of forgiveness, saying, “Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as your Father has had mercy on you?” (Matthew 18:33).

Forgiveness isn’t always easy, and it’s often not a feeling that comes naturally. In fact, our natural tendency is to hold onto grudges and harbor resentment. But Jesus teaches us that forgiveness is a choice we must make. He says, “If you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you” (Matthew 6:14).

So, why is forgiveness so important? Here are just a few reasons:

1. Freedom from bitterness: Holding onto resentment can consume our lives and weigh us down with bitterness. Forgiveness sets us free from this burden.

2. Healing: Forgiveness can lead to emotional healing and closure for both the offended and the offender.

3. Relationship restoration: When we choose to forgive, it creates space for relationships to be restored and rebuilt.

4. Spiritual growth: Forgiveness is a key aspect of spiritual growth and maturity.

5. Reflects God’s character: As believers, we’re called to reflect God’s character in our lives. Forgiveness is one of the ways we demonstrate God’s love and mercy.

Forgiveness is not only a vital part of Jesus’ teachings but also a powerful tool for healing, freedom, and spiritual growth. By choosing to forgive others as God has forgiven us, we can break free from the cycle of hurt and resentment and live in peace with ourselves and others.

As we reflect on Jesus’ teachings on forgiveness, let us remember that it’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. Let us choose to forgive others as an act of obedience to God’s commands and as an expression of our love for Him.

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.

20May

The Omnipotence of God

by CBHHM Cliff Jumpers

When we think about God’s attributes, one of the most awe-inspiring and mind-boggling is His omnipotence. The word “omnipotence” comes from the Latin words “omni,” meaning “all,” and “potentia,” meaning “power.” It simply means that God has all power, and is able to do anything that is possible. This attribute is a reflection of God’s sovereignty and majesty, and it is a comforting truth for believers.

God’s omnipotence is not limited to a specific area or domain. It is not just a matter of Him having power over certain aspects of creation, but rather it encompasses all of existence. He is all-powerful, meaning that He has the ability to do anything that is possible, both in heaven and on earth. This includes everything from the smallest subatomic particle to the vastness of the universe.

So, what does it mean for God to be all-powerful? It means that He has complete control over everything that exists. He is the One who spoke the universe into being, and He is the One who sustains it moment by moment. It means that He can do anything that He desires, and that His will is always done.

This attribute also has implications for our understanding of free will. While humans have the ability to make choices, we are not independent from God’s sovereignty. He is the One who ordains every event, including the decisions we make. This does not mean that we are robots or puppets, but rather that our choices are part of God’s larger plan.

Throughout Scripture, we see examples of God’s omnipotence. For example, in Psalm 135:5-7, we read:

“For I know that the Lord is great,
and that His name is to be feared.
For the Lord is the holy God.
He may make you stumble,
but He will never let you fall.”

Here, we see God’s power demonstrated in His ability to deliver His people from harm. We also see His power in His creation of the world, as described in Psalm 33:6-9:

“By the word of the Lord were the heavens made,
and by the breath of His mouth all their host.
He gathers the waters of the sea
as a heap;
He puts the deep in storehouses.

Let all the earth fear Him!
Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him!”

God’s omnipotence is a reminder of His sovereignty and majesty. It is a comfort to believers, as it reminds us that our God is all-powerful and able to do anything that He desires. It also reminds us of our place in His plan, and that our choices are part of His larger scheme. As we reflect on this attribute, let us be in awe of our mighty God, and let us seek to glorify Him in all that we do.

Apostle Shelia

C.B. Helping Hands Ministries

SBI Ministries

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