We must keep ourselves reminded of diverse kingdom principles that influence our faith. Among these kingdom principles lies ‘Unity’. That isn’t a new word in Christendom. In other words, we’re cognisant of the word ‘Unity’.

Therefore, unity means oneness. Oneness of heart as Christian women. Where we get to a point of agreement with each other.

The point where the welfare of others become a priority to us. Subsequently, Unity in the body of Christ grows us to the point where we can be our sister’s keepers genuinely.

The Christian race isn’t a puzzle where we have to guess our way through to win. Instead, it’s a race in which we thrive together to obtain the heavenly prize. Therefore, I need you, you need me, and we all need one another to grow in faith.

Why crave to pull down a sister in the faith? How about the attitude of envy and jealousy towards another in the body of Christ? Or the unhealthy competition we engage in to showcase how good we’re at at certain times areas of life and make others feel less about themselves.

I tell you, if we must win the race, then we must set aside every weight of disunity, hatred, malice, and strive to relate with one another with the love of Christ bestowed upon us. “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.”(John 13:35)

We must not let the enemy (devil) create enmity among us Christians.
The end time is here. Hence, it’s time to work together as we await the return of our savior. We must realize that united we stand as Christians.

Furthermore, there are still certain women in the body of Christ who think less of themselves and believe they have nothing to contribute. Hence, they prefer to stay inactive or fight others who are succeeding.

However, If you’re among these categories of women, I have glad tidings for you; God has never created anyone without a virtue. Therefore, we need to come to the point of alignment with God’s plans for us to experience the manifestation of those virtues deposited in us.

I need you to think about how your body system functions—all parts working together to stay alive. The eyes are not more important than the legs or any other part of the body. Similarly, the body of Christ works this way.

Brace up sis and play your role in the body of Christ. This is important because when we grow weary along the way, there is a stronger hand from a loving sister to lift us.

In other words, we shouldn’t despise another sister. We need the oneness of the heart to finish strong.

God has a reason for placing you in whatever group or fellowship you belong to right now. He desires you to stand up and encourage others. Cultivate the lifestyle of drawing closer to other sisters within your local church, offices, and neighborhood. Learn to inquire about their struggles and see how you can be of help to them.

Happiness Hassan

I’m Happiness Hassan, the founder of Inspiring Guide—A personal development blog that empowers you to become the best version of yourself!

Also, I’m an SEO content writer and strategist with over 7 years of experience helping brands boost visibility, engagement, and sales.

On the coaching side, I’ve trained countless writers to turn their passion into profitable SEO careers.

When I’m not geeking out over SEO, you’ll find me deep in the world of self-development. As a dedicated student of continuous growth, I write about my growth journey, sharing insights to help others unlock their potential. So, if you’re looking for a little push to become your best self, stick around—I’ve got you covered!

The post United We Grow appeared first on Cup of Faith.

Father, I give you my all. I surrender everything I own to your will. I’m willing to obey your instructions. Take the wheel of my life, for my strength, has failed me. I trust you Lord to come to my rescue. Thanks for the prayers answered.

Those above lines became my daily heart cry to God. I struggled to keep my side of the bargain. Having confessed those words sincerely, a few hours later I was back to the regular me of worrying if God truly could handle my life.

This inconstancy in trusting God has become a battle for a lot of us. This minute we trust God for help and the next minute we are engrossed with worries and fears. We ask God to perfect His plans for our life—but along the way, we begin to interfere in His way.

We’re truly looking up to Jesus and trusting in Him. However, a slight glimpse of our problems distracts our focus, and gradually we begin to sink into those challenges.

What are your reactions when your gaze on Jesus is diverted? Will you rather sink or cry out?

However, we aren’t left in the dark to guess our way through. This same attitude of inconsistency in trusting God was evident in Peter’s life. – Matthew 14: 25 – 33

Peter’s story about how he walked on water was epic and daring. He was one of Jesus courageous disciples who wouldn’t hesitate to follow in his master’s footsteps.

He wasn’t afraid to try something new. Hence, when he saw his master walking on water he immediately left the boat and stood on the water.

At that stage, we could believe that he became unconscious of the vast waters around him and the waves. All his attention was focused on getting to Jesus. He was certainly looking unto Jesus.

But then something happened—he lost his focus. Doubt began to creep into his heart because he became conscious of sinking. Suddenly, he started sinking.

My spirit got open to see the way out of my struggle through Peter’s story.

Peter would have sunk if he hadn’t cried out to Jesus. But thank goodness he did and instantly Jesus took hold of his hand and pulled him back on course.

That’s exactly what God expects from me and you. He knows how we battle to keep our gaze on Him. He isn’t compelling us to do it at all cost. Neither is He offended we get to doubt His abilities and power.

All He desires is that we cry out to Him to help us from sinking into our worries. He is waiting to hear our cry—He wouldn’t hesitate to come to our rescue.

We shouldn’t feel discouraged, whenever we doubt God’s help. Instead, we should be quick to cry for His help. We may be shaken by the storm of life, but God isn’t.

By looking unto Jesus, we’re empowered to do the impossible, just the way Peter walked on the water. Perhaps we begin to sink on that path—Cry out! He is listening.

Happiness Hassan

I’m Happiness Hassan, the founder of Inspiring Guide—A personal development blog that empowers you to become the best version of yourself!

Also, I’m an SEO content writer and strategist with over 7 years of experience helping brands boost visibility, engagement, and sales.

On the coaching side, I’ve trained countless writers to turn their passion into profitable SEO careers.

When I’m not geeking out over SEO, you’ll find me deep in the world of self-development. As a dedicated student of continuous growth, I write about my growth journey, sharing insights to help others unlock their potential. So, if you’re looking for a little push to become your best self, stick around—I’ve got you covered!

The post Cry out! He is listening appeared first on Cup of Faith.

I usually thought life was all rosy and fun-filled. Back in those days when I had my entire life altogether, fewer worries!

I thought wrong!

I began to see the clearer picture when I had to face the real world. Situations around made me withdraw my previous statement about life being rosy. Life isn’t all rosy, it’s a mixture of ups and downs. Happy times and frustrating moments. Finding strength amidst trials isn’t an easy track to trail on. So, there were days we felt we couldn’t keep up any longer. Most of us had suicidal thoughts flipped through our minds and had no one to turn to… I could recall nights I stayed up crying due to the pain I felt inside.

However, through it all, we’re still pushing strong, hoping that our next step will set us free from the invisible cage we’re locked up inside. Be encouraged sis, that whatever you’re going through has a temporary effect and doesn’t define you. Though it seems help isn’t forthcoming despite inputting your best, be encouraged! It may seem difficult to find strength amidst trials you’re going through but know that there is always light at the end of the tunnel.

Weeping may last for the night, but joy is set to come in the morning. The storm of life won’t overcome you, you’re not alone in this. I know there are lots of unanswered questions running through your mind. You wondered if God truly exists and still cares for you. Personally, there were times in my life I made those confusing statements. But not anymore.

My growth in God has shown me the way of finding strength amidst the trial through the lens of the Bible. I tell you, sis! Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint – Isaiah 40:31. Therefore, worry less.

Perhaps, you lost your job and none seems forthcoming. Stay strong! The great provider will intervene if you don’t relent in asking. It looks like your home is tearing apart. Be encouraged the prince of peace(Jesus Christ) is on His way to the rescue, don’t faint before He arrives.

Are you still battling with secret sin, feeling no one cares? If yes, you’re not alone. Hold your peace and hand over the struggles to Jesus. Possibly, your heart is overwhelmed with fear for your future, know that your life isn’t yours but God’s, and He owns your future. However, yours may be that you battle with spiritual inconsistency, don’t relent! Jesus will take away every form of spiritual laziness and lukewarmness from your life.

Similarly, you’re worried about what to do with their life’s now that the kids are all grown up. Well, God won’t leave you to go through this stage alone. He will certainly walk alongside you. Perhaps, you’re like me who struggled to forgive herself for committing a grievous mistake. But not anymore. I have learned to ask Jesus to help me forgive myself. You can do the same!

Probably you’re single and tired of waiting, be encouraged, your knight in shining armour is riding through the mountains just to get to you. Hence, don’t leave your waiting post. Or you’re married and battling with infertility, God sees your tears and desires. Just like Hannah, don’t stop praying. God will wipe your tears soon.

Yours could be depression, rejection, career dilemma, low self-esteem, overburdened with the cares of life, pressured to compromise your faith, health challenges, loss of a loved one, and lots more. This is an indicator that we all battle with one trial or the other in life and finding strength amidst those trials only comes from Jesus.

No matter what’s happening around your life in this instance, keep trusting in God. You don’t have to understand how God is going to work miracles in your life. All you need do is cast your cares on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken–Psalms 55:22

Happiness Hassan

I’m Happiness Hassan, the founder of Inspiring Guide—A personal development blog that empowers you to become the best version of yourself!

Also, I’m an SEO content writer and strategist with over 7 years of experience helping brands boost visibility, engagement, and sales.

On the coaching side, I’ve trained countless writers to turn their passion into profitable SEO careers.

When I’m not geeking out over SEO, you’ll find me deep in the world of self-development. As a dedicated student of continuous growth, I write about my growth journey, sharing insights to help others unlock their potential. So, if you’re looking for a little push to become your best self, stick around—I’ve got you covered!

The post Be Encouraged appeared first on Cup of Faith.

Mothers are a great source of encouragement and strength to our generation. Without a mother, home isn’t perfect. A child also needs to feel the impact of a mother while growing up. This is because children learn quality etiquette from their mothers whom they spend most of their time with. You may ask; what about fathers? Well, the role of fathers is unique in itself. God never intended the role of the mother to compete with that of the father. In essence, everyone has a part to play, and it becomes beautiful when united as one without comparison or competition.

Now! Back to mothers. Mothers are special, that’s why they are being celebrated around the world. Mother’s Day is a wonderful fun-filled day for all mothers. This is a period where love is shown to mothers like never before, from their husbands, children, friends, and family. As Mother’s Day draws close each year, all mothers wait in anticipation for it. This anticipation is often triggered by the amount of love shown to them in the previous years.

As a mother, I need you to reflect on your previous mothers days. The surprise parties, flowers, chocolates, cakes, appreciation letters, presents, love songs, dancing, fireworks and lots more. Why were you celebrated with so much love? The truth is, we all love to be appreciated. Appreciation is an indication of the level of impact we’re gaining on those around us.

Therefore, as a mother, you need to thrive at living an exemplary life worthy of imitation. Indeed, your position as a mother is already influencing others. If it weren’t, you wouldn’t be celebrated. But there is a need for maintenance. However, if your life isn’t, or you’re struggling to make a positive impact, there is still a chance for you to improve.

Kids are uniquely designed by God to watch and learn from their parents. This makes your role of being a mother important, as you’re a role model to your kids and others. Therefore, you’ll need the guidance of someone who knows the way better than you do, whose life is worthy of imitation.

That person is Jesus Christ who gave a perfect illustration of an exemplary life while on earth. I believe all mothers can follow His footpaths and make a tremendous impact. The easiest route to living an exemplary life is by “Abiding in Jesus Christ”. Only then can you bear impactful fruits. John 15:4 expounded this: Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. Therefore, the secret to an exemplary life is Jesus. Stop striving and guessing your way through!

Allow Christ to take over your battle, then your victory is sure. Don’t resist the pruning process, He will accompany you through. While undergoing pruning, certain traits that aren’t conforming to the image of Christ begin to fade away because your life has been transformed and your mind renewed. This process might be difficult for some persons since you won’t be in control of your will rather Jesus Christ. But, it is worth it!

Afterwards, your life begins to produce impactful fruits. These fruits include love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). All fruits are solutions to challenges you might encounter in motherhood. Moreover, one must learn how to apply those fruits. For instance, when tempted to use abusive words on your kids due to anger, that’s when you should apply self-control.

Similarly, when facing marital troubles more love is required to solve the problem without issuing for a divorce. Therefore, an exemplary life becomes achievable as you yield your will unto God. As you celebrate this year’s Mother’s Day be reminded that your life is a guide to others. And lots of people are looking up to you.

Happiness Hassan

I’m Happiness Hassan, the founder of Inspiring Guide—A personal development blog that empowers you to become the best version of yourself!

Also, I’m an SEO content writer and strategist with over 7 years of experience helping brands boost visibility, engagement, and sales.

On the coaching side, I’ve trained countless writers to turn their passion into profitable SEO careers.

When I’m not geeking out over SEO, you’ll find me deep in the world of self-development. As a dedicated student of continuous growth, I write about my growth journey, sharing insights to help others unlock their potential. So, if you’re looking for a little push to become your best self, stick around—I’ve got you covered!

The post An Exemplary Life appeared first on Cup of Faith.

Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her– Proverb 31:28

As a mom emerging your normal life with raising kids is often strenuous and can take you off balance. It becomes a bit complex when you have about three or four or more little ones. Your daily routine takes a new form, somewhat hectic. This change applies to both stay-at-home moms and working moms.

Gradually you begin to pay less attention to yourself, career, husband, goals, friend, housekeeping, including God. This is because 80% of your attention becomes centred on the well-being of your kids. You become obligated to prepare their meals, bathe and dress them, wash their clothes, assist in their school works, put their rooms in order, go see a movie, and lots more. For most moms the list is endless and we don’t get to finish all the lists in a day. Hence, the next we pick up from where we stopped the previous day.

It’s your God-given assignment as a parent to groom your kids towards the right standard of living according to God’s requirements. Just as Proverbs 22:6 advised; Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. However, in the process of raising kids, we disarranged lots of digits making our life equation unbalanced with lots of errors. This needs to be fixed to avoid further harm.

A balanced equation is all it takes to have a worthwhile motherhood experience. This calls for your commitment to time management. You must understand how vital your relationship with God is and how His help is greatly needed to be an amazing mom. When you seek God’s wisdom and direction it becomes difficult to give in to the pressure of grooming children. Preferably, fellowship together with your kids. A perfect avenue of drawing them closer to God.

Do you need your husband’s assistance? If yes, the easiest route to achieve this is becoming cognizant of his needs. When you do this, you can confidently ask for his support as a father to your kids. Instead of using flimsy excuses to push him aside, try the soft explanatory method. This method creates a conducive atmosphere of telling him how two hands are better than one in grooming kids.

Furthermore, you need to pay close attention to the way you look. Let your outward appearance look neat and presentable. This doesn’t mean you overdo your make-up and wear costly attires. In essence, let your modernization be known to all. In addition, don’t bury your goals and career in motherhood. You can still achieve it, although not all at the same time. It’s understandable to take a break off those things if you’re still a breastfeeding mom. However, the moment your kids are enrolled in a school. Revive your career.

A wise saying goes; cleanliness is next to godliness. What does your home look like? Is it well arranged or things are left haphazard? Be dedicated to beautifying your home. This includes the interior and exterior areas of your home.

The desire of every mother is to be appreciated by her husband, children, and those around just as the proverb 31 of women (Proverbs 31:28). Hence, to have a balanced equation, start by observing how things have changed. Therefore, there are certain activities you would need to engage in once or twice a week to balance your equation. Whereas there are others you need to do once a month. So, the choice is up to you.

Perhaps, your kids are still very much little, it’s profitable you get a trusted person to assist you if the workload is much on you. But if they are a bit older, you should enrol them in a school. Besides, don’t let the syndrome of motherhood tie you down, which is hesitation at doing things. Break out and be up and doing. This implies the utilization of your time between the hour your kids leave for school and their arrival. Use such time for other important activities of life.

Subsequently, there are lots of ways your husband could help. This includes dropping the kids off at school before he goes to work, shopping for a thing or two from the mall while returning home, engaging the kids while you make dinner, see the kids off to bed, and lots more. Ensure you ask politely.

You may as well take them over to visit a trusted relative for the weekend or some days, So you have time for yourself and other things. It’s necessary to create a daily slot to fellowship with God. If need be, do that with your kids, at least an hour from your time to God wouldn’t cause you much.

Be reminded; children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him.–Psalm 127:3

Happiness Hassan

I’m Happiness Hassan, the founder of Inspiring Guide—A personal development blog that empowers you to become the best version of yourself!

Also, I’m an SEO content writer and strategist with over 7 years of experience helping brands boost visibility, engagement, and sales.

On the coaching side, I’ve trained countless writers to turn their passion into profitable SEO careers.

When I’m not geeking out over SEO, you’ll find me deep in the world of self-development. As a dedicated student of continuous growth, I write about my growth journey, sharing insights to help others unlock their potential. So, if you’re looking for a little push to become your best self, stick around—I’ve got you covered!

The post A Balanced Equation appeared first on Cup of Faith.

I don’t like my looks, I’ve got bulging eyes, my nose is small, my ears are off-balance, I hate my complexion, I dislike my hair, I am overweight, and I appear older than my age. I think I need a change of diet, more exercise, no! My cosmetics are the ones I should change. Wait a minute! Does that sound familiar to you? I’m sure you have heard that from a desperate friend or sounded it yourself.

Girl! Let’s straighten that out. There is no amount of body changes that can make you satisfied or happy with your looks. Until you come to accept and love yourself for the way you look. You would always believe if you can make a few changes here and there on your body, then it would appear the way you desire.

Paul speaking in 1 Timothy 6:6 says, But godliness with contentment is great gain. Did you read that?. Contentment in this context is beyond material and possession satisfaction, it also includes satisfaction with your God-given body.

What makes you feel you don’t look good? Or someone looks better than you? This is because you have failed to accept your uniqueness. Forgotten so soon that your creator is a being that loves variety. In short, He is crazy about variety. We see that portrayed in Genesis chapter one and two. God made all shades of vegetation and animals, for us to appreciate the wonderful works of his hands. What then convinces you that He left humans out of the picture of variety?

We have missed out on the real thing chasing after shadows of what is meant to be. We have lost the power of self-love to embrace body comparison with other women we see in the movies and magazines. Nothing is wrong in admiring a confident body shape. But everything goes pear-shaped when it results in self-hate. You’re much better than the way you look. So quit worrying about body fragility and get busy with your God-given purpose.

I think it’s about time we appreciate the body God gave us. We are His temple (1Chorithians 6:19). In essence, God dwells inside our body. God doesn’t feel cool when he sees his precious Pearls having sleepless nights over their bodies and how to look more gorgeous. All those changes alter God’s temple (your body).

The truth is, we need to grow into the stage of self-acceptance just like the psalmist, where he boldly declares; I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. —Psalms 139:14. Most times, we provide others the free tickets to treat us like trash through the way we value and adore our body.

Arise, and walk over to your dressing mirror and look beyond you and see God’s image staring back at you. Now! That’s exactly who you are. God’s image, likeness, and His temple. Stop struggling to look like someone else and use that time and give God praises for creating you uniquely. And there is no other person like you.

The power of self-love is a powerful weapon that can change your life for the better. Believing you are overweight and getting angry with your body, is enough to create a route for the devil to step into your life and mess things up. I don’t think you like the sound of that.

Self-love eliminates insecurity, fear, and low self-esteem. Furthermore, bring you a sound mind to live a peaceable life, combat the lies of the devil, fix all that isn’t going right with your family and your life.

Go get your life back. Pick it up from the trash bin of self-hate you have dropped it. You know, the less you care about amending all the faults on your body, your confidence is ignited which equals peace, love, joy, and a healthy lifestyle. It will amaze you, that with fewer worries those body faults becomes invisible to your eyes and unnoticeable to others.

Self-love is the best reward you can offer yourself as a woman. No matter how terrible you feel you look, beauty always lies in the eyes of the beholder. Therefore, erase the thoughts of “what if he doesn’t like me or what if he thinks I’m overweight”. Go get busy with the needful. Be reminded that your impression about yourself is the way others will view and treat you. Hence, value your God-given body which is His temple

Happiness Hassan

I’m Happiness Hassan, the founder of Inspiring Guide—A personal development blog that empowers you to become the best version of yourself!

Also, I’m an SEO content writer and strategist with over 7 years of experience helping brands boost visibility, engagement, and sales.

On the coaching side, I’ve trained countless writers to turn their passion into profitable SEO careers.

When I’m not geeking out over SEO, you’ll find me deep in the world of self-development. As a dedicated student of continuous growth, I write about my growth journey, sharing insights to help others unlock their potential. So, if you’re looking for a little push to become your best self, stick around—I’ve got you covered!

The post You’re Beautiful The Way You Are appeared first on Cup of Faith.

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?–Romans 8:35 

I have come to understand that as Christians our confidence grows when we consciously dwell on and study the word of God. And beyond memorizing scriptures, we are committed to practising what is written in God’s word. Only then can the word be planted on the soil of our heart and bear precious seeds (see James 1:22-25).

Who is a confident Christian? The Holy Spirit questioned me while studying the scriptures. Without a doubt, I boldly replied that a confident Christian is she who loves God, does His work, has His kingdom at heart, goes to church, maintains peace with her family and neighbours. Also, gives to the needy, reads her bible, and has a fervent prayer lifestyle.

Amazingly, as beautiful as my responses were, they weren’t the right description of a confident Christian. Curiously, I asked the Holy Spirit to tell me exactly who a confident Christian was. He (The Holy Spirit) directed me to the book of Romans 8: 35-39, therein lies the answer I seek.

Apostle Paul revealed exactly what it meant to be a Confident Christian, we saw this portrayed through his experience to preach the gospel of Christ to the ends of the earth. He encountered so many trials and persecutions along the way but amidst this all he declared

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any power, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus Our Lord.– Romans 8:38-39

Therefore, a confident Christian is she who is unashamed of her faith, proclaims Christ publicly. Also, she will never compromise her standard in God no matter the situations surrounding her, because she believes in her God to always come to her rescue. He might be late, but I tell you, he is always right on time. Romans 8: 37; No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

It’s disheartening how many Christian women deny their faith in the face of obstacles, which appeared as though the end has come. Countless women give in to the devil’s counsel when their marriages aren’t going right. Perhaps, when their family is falling apart. However, Yours may be because of your children, your health, or your career. Through all these, none is worth denying your faith.

I heard of a committed Christian woman, who at work intentionally compromised her stand in Christ, manipulated figures at the office to clear her family bills. However, six months after the incident, she was caught, lost her job, and had to face a series of trials at the court. She wished she had not compromised her trust in God to provide for her family’s needs.

Lots of trouble could be averted from our lives and family if we become confident Christians, bold enough to turn to God when things don’t go as planned. Let’s grow to the point where we can boldly declare; what can separate us from the love of the father? And stop developing cold feet when it seems the devil is having an upper hand, just as Peter did. (See Matthew 26: 69-75)

Furthermore, a confident Christian wouldn’t let a day go by without telling someone about the Goodness of Jesus and how proud she is that Christ paid all our debt and reconciled us back to the father, and has given us eternal life.

I dare you to become a confident Christian, don’t let a day go by without encouraging a brother or sister in faith. In short, cultivate the attitude of thanksgiving to God Almighty for all the good things He has been doing irrespective of your circumstances.

Praising God when the devil expects you to mourn is one of the attributes of a confident Christian. Remember Paul and Silas while they were in prison? These two men got their freedom miraculously while they engaged in praising and dancing unto God, despite the sorrow and pain they found themselves in. (See Act 16:25-40).

Look beyond your problems and see the light which is at the end of the tunnel. Rather than doubting God, practice more of Philippians 4:6; Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Happiness Hassan

I’m Happiness Hassan, the founder of Inspiring Guide—A personal development blog that empowers you to become the best version of yourself!

Also, I’m an SEO content writer and strategist with over 7 years of experience helping brands boost visibility, engagement, and sales.

On the coaching side, I’ve trained countless writers to turn their passion into profitable SEO careers.

When I’m not geeking out over SEO, you’ll find me deep in the world of self-development. As a dedicated student of continuous growth, I write about my growth journey, sharing insights to help others unlock their potential. So, if you’re looking for a little push to become your best self, stick around—I’ve got you covered!

The post A Confident Christian appeared first on Cup of Faith.

Hey there, I need you to take a minute to analyze your top five priorities arranged based on their order of preference in your life. Now! Rate yourself, what number on your list do you place your love for God and his Kingdom? Be sincere to yourself, what’s your top priority?

It’s currently rampant how everyone claims to be occupied with their own business, doing all it takes to achieve it. Ignoring the life anchorage that holds every other aspect of life together.

This type of lifestyle was formally practised by the unbelievers who cared only for themselves, their main goals were centred on power, money, fame, influence, and affluence. Which gains detrimental effects on them and those around them due to mismanagement.

However, believers are seen engaged with the activities of life, having little or no regard for the things of God, because their priority is misaligned. What’s your top priority matters a lot to your success in life. Once the main life anchorage which is Jesus Christ is off your radar, your struggles to acquire other things become uneasy, endless, frustrating, and disastrous.

Jesus Christ while on earth gave an easy route to acquiring everything in the book of Matthew 6:33; But seek first his kingdom (God’s kingdom) and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. During Jesus’s ministry, he came to understand how difficult it is for men to acquire life possessions with his human strength. Likewise, the distraction that route entailed. Hence, he provided a suitable route.

Dear sisters, this is a call for us to return and set our priorities right, setting Jesus Christ as number one, second to none. However, until we are able to lay down our all to Jesus, our struggle will persist.

Candid advice; today, become determined to pursue God’s kingdom and its righteousness, I assure you that the money, ministry, power, peace, fame, true love, children, happy marriage and home, career success, good health, and lots more which you seek will come chasing you, instead of vice versa.

However, to experience peace and notable progress in life your top priority should be centred on Jesus Christ. He is that anchorage that holds our life ship together no matter the turbulences of a life storm. Therefore, cherish the presence of God, learn his ways, and practice them effectively.

Remember, anything gotten outside the circumference of God’s help is with a temporary effect, and fades away rapidly. Most times there are accompanied by sorrow, fear, and pain. Don’t get me wrong. I am not writing to discourage you from acquiring the necessities of life. Rather, I want you to see reasons why you need God’s help to obtain all your needs. King Solomon reveals this in Proverb 10:22; The blessing of the Lord brings wealth, without painful toil for it.

Likewise, Deuteronomy 8:18 gave a perfect illustration; But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today. In essence, the power to achieve whatever we desired comes from God and hinged on our ability to make him our top priority.

Happiness Hassan

I’m Happiness Hassan, the founder of Inspiring Guide—A personal development blog that empowers you to become the best version of yourself!

Also, I’m an SEO content writer and strategist with over 7 years of experience helping brands boost visibility, engagement, and sales.

On the coaching side, I’ve trained countless writers to turn their passion into profitable SEO careers.

When I’m not geeking out over SEO, you’ll find me deep in the world of self-development. As a dedicated student of continuous growth, I write about my growth journey, sharing insights to help others unlock their potential. So, if you’re looking for a little push to become your best self, stick around—I’ve got you covered!

The post What’s Your Top Priority? appeared first on Cup of Faith.

“The Spirit of the Lord is on me because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.”–Luke 4:18-19.

This scripture is one of my favourite scripture because it reminds me of the great works Christ was sent to accomplish for us. Why then do we struggle with life? Why does it seem as though Christ never died, so we could enjoy life here on earth (John 10:10) and have eternal life (John 3:16)?

Have you taken out time to inquire why Christians still pass through oppression, poverty and hardship? Well, the reason for this is traced to their ignorance of the finished work of Christ for them when he was crucified. From the very beginning, God never intended for man to live in pain, suffering, hardship and all its sorts. His divine purpose for man was to dwell continually in his presence, hence he created man and placed him in the garden of Eden where he could come down in the cool of the evening and fellowship with man. However, along the way, someone truncated the divine plans of God for man. That being was the devil who deceived the woman and led to the great fall of man, paving the way for suffering and hardship on mankind.

God in his infinite mercy was not comfortable about the way man was living in agony, having to struggle through life to make things happen. What could be done to reverse man to his original blueprint? And due to God’s agape love for mankind, he offered his only begotten son Jesus Christ to go die for the sins of the world and reconcile man back to God. Christ humbly without objections became flesh and dwelt on the earth (John 1:14).

Afterwards, Christ grew, performed many miracles, restored smiles on people’s faces and eventually when he was crucified before giving up the spirit he proclaimed it’s finished John 19:30; When Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, It is finished! And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit. It’s a tragedy when believers fail to understand that statement which Christ made on the cross and as a result, they keep on battling and struggling hoping their situation will turn around for the best.

Christ was crucified with all our problems and challenges we could ever imagine, he nailed them to the cross with him and when he proclaimed it is finished, in essence, it signifies that all our old being which includes hardship and challenges are over, no more sorrows, no more pains, worries and depression. It’s finished likewise meant that all things that were not God’s plan for our life ended on the cross. Most importantly, sin was destroyed on the cross and now has no power over us as believers hence, Christ has opened the door of reconciliation between us and God.

As a result of the finished work of Christ on the cross we now have access to the life of dominion and power, God has prepared for us. This reconciliation destroyed the evil plans of the devil for mankind which was eternal damnation.

Furthermore, when Christ was buried, all that was crucified with him was buried completely. However, that would have been enough to bring mankind into God’s original plans but with a temporary effect because our enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour, and can attempt to restore all the negative stuff Christ has buried–1 Peter 5:8. Therefore, Christ needed to resurrect on the third day.

His resurrection gave us a new life in him which made it possible for the Holy Spirit, the spirit of truth to dwell in us making the power of God much active and living in us. Afterwards, we’re able to stand strong against all Wiles of the devil and live a life of freedom found in Jesus Christ.

Christ’s death, burial and resurrection was beyond a ritual to fulfil prophecy but was needed to reconcile man back to his creator. Titus 3:7 went further by saying; so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This rightly proves us as heirs of God’s kingdom here on earth and in eternity. All these benefits were made possible as a result of the finished works of Christ on the cross.

Today be at peace knowing you have an inheritance in God’s kingdom, the abundance of Christ’s life is made available for you. Don’t let sin have dominion over you anymore because you now have the power in you to subdue sin, Satan and all his works. Subsequently, when you notice the unusual occurring in your life remind yourself of the finished works of Christ and exercise the power which is at work in you by countering every negative happening with God’s word which is alive and active sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart –Hebrews 4:12 and a life of victory is yours.

Happiness Hassan

I’m Happiness Hassan, the founder of Inspiring Guide—A personal development blog that empowers you to become the best version of yourself!

Also, I’m an SEO content writer and strategist with over 7 years of experience helping brands boost visibility, engagement, and sales.

On the coaching side, I’ve trained countless writers to turn their passion into profitable SEO careers.

When I’m not geeking out over SEO, you’ll find me deep in the world of self-development. As a dedicated student of continuous growth, I write about my growth journey, sharing insights to help others unlock their potential. So, if you’re looking for a little push to become your best self, stick around—I’ve got you covered!

The post The Finished Works Of Christ appeared first on Cup of Faith.

Reliving past experiences that hurt you, are thorns that pierce the souls of many women. These sets of women are battling with their past wishing it had never happened. Surprisingly, they have failed to see the detrimental effects of such memories. Over the years, this has been one of the major limiting factors that have kept women from living out their best version and exercising the amazing potentials deposited in them by God.

You wouldn’t understand how bad I was hurt and what I had been through, you might give it as an excuse. Well, I do. Everyone on earth has a story to tell about their past and how they wish they could turn the hands of the clock backwards. That’s impossible!

The past is gone and can’t be reversed. We’re in the present, this entails living out the deposited talents lying dormant in us, hence, we must let go of the past no matter how hard it seems. I love what apostle Paul said

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead – Philippians 3:13 

I strongly believe our lives will be better when we make apostle Paul’s aspirations ours. Things might not be going as we had always wanted them to be, but in the midst of that all I urge you to forget the things behind, let go of your past mistakes and live in the moment. Moreover, dwelling in the past hampers our progress, because we tend to lose our concentration and enthusiasm about the present. Gradually, it gains an advance effect on our health, which in turn affects the way we relate to others.

It’s time we realize that by being born again, Christ dwells inside us, we’re a new creation, the old has gone and the new is here–2 Corinthians 5:17. Hallelujah, that’s our testimony and the life we’re created to experience as believers. However, you need to gain control over your emotions and be determined not to allow your past to control your present.

In essence, embrace the fresh new you and shine God’s light. God is counting on us as his ordained ambassador sent forth for the accomplishment of mighty works to the pulling down of strongholds. Practical ways of letting go of the past include:

1. Effective study of the word of God

The word of God has the power to heal your past. From his words, you’re able to realize your true identity in Christ, which boosts the consciousness of God in your heart and the hope of being a work in progress in God’s hands. He is not yet done with you, no matter what you have been through he loves and cares for you. God is committed to bringing all which concerns you to perfection.

2. Prayers

Your prayers are a powerful weapon. When utilized will transform your life into the initial blueprint of God for you. Instead of beating yourself up about your past, allowing regrets and depression to gain access into your life, use such a moment to pray. Be sincere to God about how you feel concerning your past, how you were hurt, the number of times you’ve tried letting go but still find yourself dwelling on the past. Lastly, don’t forget to ask for his grace to overcome. For his grace is sufficient for you and his strength is made perfect in weakness–2corinthians 12:9.

3. Surround yourself with encouraging individuals

Furthermore, to let go of the past it’s advisable to do away with things that remind you of the past and likewise surround yourself with individuals that encourage you to live out your best. Words are effective mechanisms used in transforming things either in the negative or positive direction. Therefore, associate with those who speak positive words concerning you, who love to see you grow. In essence, learn to tell a listening ear exactly how you feel this could be an older woman in your church or environment, preferably a trusted friend or spouse.

4.Get to engage in productive activities

Our enemy, the devil, always takes advantage of our ignorance. Oftentimes when we’re idle, he (the devil) creeps into our hearts and replays memories. To combat his trick, get engaged in creative activities, your list should include things you love to do, your passion, most importantly reaching out to others and lots more.

Everything revolves around time. Hence, don’t be hard on yourself when your efforts in letting go of the past amounts to nothing. Give yourself a little more time and keep on trying. It won’t take long before you start seeing noticeable changes in your life and how you are beginning to conform to the image of Christ.

Happiness Hassan

I’m Happiness Hassan, the founder of Inspiring Guide—A personal development blog that empowers you to become the best version of yourself!

Also, I’m an SEO content writer and strategist with over 7 years of experience helping brands boost visibility, engagement, and sales.

On the coaching side, I’ve trained countless writers to turn their passion into profitable SEO careers.

When I’m not geeking out over SEO, you’ll find me deep in the world of self-development. As a dedicated student of continuous growth, I write about my growth journey, sharing insights to help others unlock their potential. So, if you’re looking for a little push to become your best self, stick around—I’ve got you covered!

The post Letting Go Of The Past appeared first on Cup of Faith.