To the little girl who grew up too fast…

The little girl who had to fend for herself…

The little girl who only ever wanted to fit in…

The little girl who needed someone…

 Dear younger self,

Life is going to happen and it’s going to be hard. You will face things–a lot of things good and bad but don’t get disheartened by the bad… Promise me you won’t, okay?

It might seem hard to picture now but those things are going to teach you, mould you and guide you to becoming the woman you are supposed to be… Right now it might seem like absolutely none of what I’m saying makes sense but one day you will understand and when that day comes, just know that it was not your strength that pulled you through, the world will tell you that it was and for a little while you’ll believe them.

Seek Jesus!

Promise me you will seek Jesus in the midst of it all – especially the bad things but remember when the bad passes and the good things come, never discard Him. Find the almighty Father and accept Him because He is the one who brought you into this world, who fashioned and knit you together in your mother’s womb ( Psalm 139:13-14) before you were HE WAS AND ALWAYS WILL BE ( John 8:58 & Exodus 3:14).

He is the one who loves you unconditionally, the Father and the man who can give you everything and teach you valuable lessons worth more than what this horrible world can and will ever give you.

Life Lessons

You have learned a lot along the way I’ll give you that but something you learned that is worth far more than any money, gold, jewels or diamonds is that you finally understand that Jesus died a horrid, shameful death at the hands of sinners (He knows exactly what it’s like to go through pain and heartache the same way you did!) for your sins (all of them) so that when you leave this earth one day you get to live with Him forever in a place He prepared just for you. You don’t know it now but you are storing all your riches in heaven, these earthly things don’t mean much! ( John 14:1-3 and Colossians 3:1-3) I know that everything you have been through made your heart break deep down, it caused you to build up walls so high that no pro athlete could hurdle over them, things that made you plunge into a depression and left you lonely, people hurt you but you hurt them too, forgive them just as God forgave you. But what you must never forget was that you, my dear, were never alone, God was always with you looking after you and keeping you safe ( John 14:15-18) you just chose to ignore him.

Don’t Forget

God never hurt you: that was humanity, so don’t be mad at Him. Sinful people who didn’t care about you, hurt you and believe me when I say it hurt Jesus too, He saw it all! Remember that revenge is for God not you. God never wanted to punish you for something you did or didn’t do. It was because sin entered the world and tainted all that is perfect, man’s evil heart causes all the pain and anguish people suffer. Yes, God indeed allows things to happen but there’s a purpose to it all and sometimes we don’t understand and that’s okay but be sure of this, what you went through led you to Him (trust me it was for your good and to show His glory and power) you gave our whole heart to Him – It was the best decision ever made!

A Reminder

Always be happy and grateful and enjoy the little things in life with a great appreciation to the Father who created it all, you aren’t stuck in darkness anymore! Rejoice always and pray without ceasing for this is what the Lord expects of you (see 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

One day you will hear this song “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet” among many others that have become your favorite. Still, as I thought while typing this I wanted to remind you that the Lord is always with you and that your plans should always align with His. It will not always be easy to follow God’s way; sometimes you will slip up but remember when you seek forgiveness the Lord will grant it to you! Always walk in His light no matter how hard the world becomes, no matter how hated you are for His name’s sake ( Matthew 10:22). All of it was worth it! One day you’ll say – out loud for all to hear, “Knowing what I know now, everything life threw at me; I’ll do it again because I have Jesus!”

I’m proud of who you will become, and you will too. It will be okay!

With love,

our older self

Prayer

My prayer for you my wonderfully and fearfully made sister is the following:

Dear Lord, as I type this message to my fellow sisters reflecting on the path you have chosen for me I tend to sometimes forget to thank you even for the trials and difficulties, that everything you put me through was to mold me into Christ-likeness, Lord, someone reading my blog post might be facing a trial struggling to trust you please will you help remind them of Your goodness, love, patience and kindness and that whatever they may go through You give them the strength to carry on. You are a lamp that lights our path, we were once lost but You guide us home!

Dear Lord, if someone here on this platform has not accepted You as Lord and Saviour please help them. Help them open their hearts and eyes to follow You, so that Your Kingdom may grow!

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Sylvia van Jaarsveld

I’m a volunteer blogger. Welcome to my blog posts! May my writings be an inspiration to you and an aid to get you into a biblical mindset: “It’s never me but God!”
Let us grow together!
~Col 2:6-8

The post A Letter from the Future You appeared first on Cup of Faith.

Do you remember that game we used to play when we were younger with our friends – “close your eyes and fall back I’ll catch you?” We used to laugh, screaming “No I can’t you are going to let me fall!” The response we always got was: “You can trust me!”

So lately I’ve been thinking of just how much trust we put into the ladies of our lives. We will trust them with our lives and in the same sentence we would give our lives for our children… doesn’t this sound much like what God did for us? Shouldn’t we trust Him and His comfort the same way we trust our mothers? (see Isaiah 43:1-2)

Let me address something that got me thinking this week about the topic of motherhood as being the next obvious step to take. In today’s society we as women are expected to meet certain societal norms – the proverbial box when it comes to motherhood. And when it doesn’t happen or it takes time to happen it’s then not in line to meet those “standards” and is frowned upon. Although I am not a mother yet I too get the same questions you thought of while reading this and quite honestly I find it to be a sensitive topic for a lot of us even more so for those who are finding it hard to fall pregnant, those who can’t ever be mothers, those who decided only to have one child or even adopt or perhaps those who don’t wish to step into motherhood and are questioning themselves as to whether or not people will judge them for it. No doubt that some of us may have an internal battle with God, questioning His timing and finding trust to be incredibly difficult. All of us have our own opinions regarding this topic but irrespective of what I mentioned I know – and I hope you do too – that God is in control and He will make a way where there seems to be no way! I’m here to present you with God’s love, joy, and peace that surpasses all understanding doesn’t matter where you stand in womanhood or progressing into motherhood (see Philippians 4:6-7) you can trust Him because He is GOD! (see Psalm 62:8)

You are not alone.

I want to give you a few check-the-box options to show that you aren’t alone in your deep 4 a.m. thoughts

• I feel like I’m failing
• I’m not good enough
• I’m tired, depressed and anxious
•  I’m not a good wife or mother (I am struggling)
• How do I trust you more, Lord?

How many times have we made these statements? Once or twice a week?

Women in the Bible

Let us look at the following scriptures that will be your beacon of light and hope to show you that you aren’t alone in your thinking.

Can you imagine how Mary must have felt traveling through the desert for a day only to realize her son wasn’t walking with them (not just any son but the son of God!) and then stressing about where he could be while traveling back for another day – and only finding him after 3 days (see Luke 2:43-51). I always laugh out loud at this story because how on earth do you lose Jesus? Is it not then evident that God saw her as a good enough mother for His son? Why would you not be good enough? Always remember Psalm 139:13-14: “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well” and Genesis 1:26 “Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” 

I want to further remind you dear sister of where your strength comes from and what is protecting you! Ephesians 6:10-11 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil”

Let us reflect further on the book of Proverbs chapter 31:10-30 (NIV)( I’m sure you know where I’m going with this!) “A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. She gets up while it is still dark; she provides food for her family and portions for her servant girls. She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet. She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple. Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised!”

I’ll be honest the first time I read this passage I felt as if I was not anywhere close to all the things the Bible says a Proverbs 31 woman should be. But the more I read the passage during my devotionals with some serious introspection, I came to realize that we aren’t perfect and will probably not meet this Biblical standard but what we can do is strive to become more and more like a Proverbs 31 women with the Lord’s help! – what encouragement!

Depression takes the form of hopelessness in the Bible and believe me many characters in the Bible like Cain, Elijah David, and Paul had this very feeling. Let us reflect on Psalm 102 for instance, “A Prayer of one afflicted, when he is faint and pours out his complaint before the LORD. Hear my prayer, O LORD; let my cry come to you! Do not hide your face from me in the day of my distress! Incline your ear to me; answer me speedily in the day when I call!” (Psalm 102:1-2 ESV) The Psalmist was so grief-stricken with being held captive with a severely broken heart, feeling as if God was far away BUT this ends with HOPE “but you are the same, and your years have no end. The children of your servants shall dwell secure; their offspring shall be established before you.” (Psalm 102:27-28 ESV) and what about 1 Peter 5:7 which also tells us to throw ALL of our anxiety and burdens onto Him because He cares for us.

Therefore, it does not matter what affliction you face or will face, be still and know that He is God and it will soon subside but the one thing that never ceases to exist or forsake you is our Heavenly Father! Renewed hope ONLY God can give! (see Hebrews 13:8)

Reflection

Simply put we can trust the Lord with every fiber of our being: why? God plans every event in our lives to absolute perfection – for our good and His glory even though the adversities we face don’t seem ideal and are NOT perfect in our eyes but always remember God doesn’t make mistakes. He didn’t make a mistake when He created us in His image. He didn’t make a mistake when He wove us together in our mother’s womb and He most certainly didn’t make a mistake when He died for our sins on that cross so that we can live with Him in paradise!

Hallelujah and thank you, Lord!

I’ll leave you with a quote my dear friend wrote to me in times of difficulty:

“We are overwrought and savaged upon the sea of humanity but I know a carpenter who can fix your boat!” – Linda-Ann

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, sometimes I feel distant from You like many-a psalmist but I know deep down in the core of my heart You are always there for me and that You have never left me.

Lord, I want to thank You for everything You do, even the little things we so often take for granted. I’m so thankful that You are all-knowing, all-powerful and that You orchestrate the universe in the palm of Your mighty hand. No one could do it better!

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Sylvia van Jaarsveld

I’m a volunteer blogger. Welcome to my blog posts! May my writings be an inspiration to you and an aid to get you into a biblical mindset: “It’s never me but God!”
Let us grow together!
~Col 2:6-8

The post The Trust Fall appeared first on Cup of Faith.

Easter weekend is fast approaching – I know I feel like Christmas was yesterday! I couldn’t help but think of everyone preparing for Easter egg hunts in their gardens with little fluffy bunnies hiding and baby chicks bringing presents in the form of chocolate eggs and sweeties. Now don’t get me wrong I love bunnies and baby chicks just as much as the next person and they are definitely beyond cute! I do realize that my statement does sound harsh but with that being said there is honestly nothing wrong with loving bunnies and having chocolate Easter eggs. The problem unfortunately is that sometimes we have entirely forgotten what this time of year means – the Easter bunny and chocolate eggs represent Easter rather than Christ! Easter time should solely be about remembering the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ according to the Scriptures (see 1 Corinthians 15:1-4). As believers we hold tight to the biblical truths found in the Gospel and the fact that Christ rose on the third day is not only incomprehensible to some but also an impossible task for an ordinary human if you ask me– so it SHOULD therefore be remembered don’t you think?

To me this monumental event deserves remembrance every day and not only during the Easter weekend. I mean, our whole biblical foundation lies on this very event! Our Lord Jesus Christ did what He said He would do. He conquered death and rose victorious over sin and Satan!

If His death and resurrection never happened then the whole Bible would be untrustworthy and full of flaws. Still, we know that God breathed out scripture and that His word is living and active (see Hebrews 4:12) but the secular world has shut God out of the picture entirely: Easter is now only about Easter bunnies and how many eggs I can fit into my little felt-lined basket.

He is risen indeed!

Let’s reflect on the passage where the stone was rolled away an empty tomb was found and whoever calls on the Lord is saved!

“But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel. And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise.” And they remembered his words, and returning from the tomb they told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest. Now it was Mary Magdalene and Joanna and Mary the mother of James and the other women with them who told these things to the apostles, but these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. But Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; and he went home marveling at what had happened.” (Luke 24:1-12 ESV).

“If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart, one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:9-13 ESV)

The Power of The Cross

Let us read this wonderful worship song together in our hearts with thankfulness to the Lord!
The Power of The Cross
Oh to see the dawn of the darkest day
Christ on the road to Calvary
Tried by sinful men torn and beaten then
Nailed to a cross of wood

This the pow’r of the cross
Christ became sin for us
Took the blame bore the wrath
We stand forgiven at the cross

Oh to see the pain written on Your face
Bearing the awesome weight of sin
Ev’ry bitter thought ev’ry evil deed
Crowning Your bloodstained brow

Now the daylight flees now the ground beneath
Quakes as its Maker bows His head
Curtain torn in two dead are raised to life
Finished the vict’ry cry

Oh to see my name written in the wounds
For through Your suff’ring I am free
Death is crushed to death life is mine to live
Won through Your selfless love
This the pow’r of the cross
Son of God slain for us
What a love what a cost
We stand forgiven at the cross

CCLI Song # 4490766 Keith & Kristyn Getty | Stuart Townend
©2005 Thankyou Music (Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing)

Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so

What Jesus did for us on the cross was the most selfless act in history … so I thought I’d share some of these Biblical truths about Christ’s love that I recently came across from Bible Love Notes and of course, a few of the verses I’ve read that shows God’s undying love for His children.

• In the Gospel of John chapter 15:13 it says that there is no greater love than someone who laid down His own life for His friends – there is no greater love than Christ’s love for us!
• In God’s love for us He sent His only Son into the world so that we might live through Him (see 1 John 4:9-10)
• As the Father loved me, so have I loved you… (see John 15:9) our service to God is only possible through our relationship with and in Him.
• He is our Shepherd and our Saviour; He is the good shepherd who lay down His own life for the sheep (see John 10:11)
• He watches over us daily, protects us from evil and His goodness and mercy follow us throughout our lives (see Psalm 23)
• Our hope for life was given before we understood it. ‘’For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God’’. (see Romans 5:6-9 ESV)

My dear fearfully and wonderfully made sister, let us follow God’s example and walk in the way of love. Let our light shine and forgive those who have hurt you, made you feel weak or spoken badly behind your back not because we love Jesus but because He loved us first!

If Jesus as God could love and forgive those who whipped, beat, spat on, humiliated and mocked Him we can too!

Prayer

My prayer for you, my wonderfully and fearfully made sister, is the following:
Dear Lord, I couldn’t possibly put into words the amount of appreciation I have for the fact that you laid down your life for a sinner like me, I give thanks that I get to serve a mighty King like you every single day, I also give thanks that you love me, protect me and guide me all the days of the earthly life I travel until you welcome me home one day.
Lord, I pray for those who have not yet seen the light, who have not yet put their faith and trust in you heavenly Father, may you grant them repentance and bring them to salvation.
Lord, I thank you for your ultimate sacrifice so that I can be free, let me be constantly reminded of the power of the cross and that we stand forgiven!

In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Sylvia van Jaarsveld

I’m a volunteer blogger. Welcome to my blog posts! May my writings be an inspiration to you and an aid to get you into a biblical mindset: “It’s never me but God!”
Let us grow together!
~Col 2:6-8

The post Bunnies, Chicks and Chocolate Eggs appeared first on Cup of Faith.

“I am prayerful and I am joyful!”

What a wonderful statement to make and ponder but in reality, some of us may be struggling to pray or perhaps you have questions: 

• To whom do I pray to? 
• How do I pray? 
• Why should I pray? 
• Do prayers even work?

One evening during Bible study a fellow believer asked a very simple yet intriguing question, it might sound trivial to some but to others, it’s an important question that they may have in their walk with Christ. When I pray, who is it that I am addressing? I tell you this got me thinking long and hard  –I know the answer, do you?

According to the Scriptures, the disciples directly addressed Christ in their prayers and today we do too but always remember it is the Holy Spirit that enables us to pray and draw us closer to God. 

Let us read the following scriptures together about how the Holy Spirit aids us: 

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you” John 14:26 (ESV)  and

“Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.” Romans 8:26-27 (ESV)

Simply put there is no right or wrong way to pray but Jesus does give us a guideline on how to, let us reflect on Matthew 6:7-15 where Jesus said “And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. Pray then like this: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

Our prayers not only acknowledge Him as our Lord and how sovereign He is but that we also wish to follow His statutes in everything we do daily. Prayer is essentially first to honor God and to give Him glory, He comes first and we come second.

How you conduct your prayer life is entirely up to you but it should always remain not only biblical but also respectful. I know some people who talk to God out loud as they go about their day or people like myself who have an internal dialog with the Lord in addition to  our quiet time during devotions. It does not matter how you do it as long as you are doing it respectfully. We should be constantly praying and rejoicing in the Lord (See Romans 12:12).

Pray and pray some more

Prayer is of such great importance in our lives as it forms a deeper more personal relationship with God and perpetual prayer emphasizes our true faith. (See Luke 18:1-8.) He should be the first person you seek counsel from. Remember “the war room” or a prayer strategy I spoke about in my previous blog post? That’s exactly what I mean when I say pray and pray some more! The reason behind prayer immediately takes me to Jeremiah 29:12 where God tells us that if we genuinely call out to Him, He will always listen and help us through the troubles and calamities we face and prayer ultimately gives us peace (see Philippians 4:6-7). 

This does not mean “lip service” for the sake of keeping appearances and relying on your own understanding and others to make or see a difference- this is superficial prayer; God wants genuineness and He wants the raw naked you with full dependence upon Him.

By genuinely praying (see James 4:3), calling out to God and seeking His will through His word you begin to grasp that everything lies in His powerful hands and everything in His time will be rectified. Leave it to Him and obey His commands and you will surely see Him working in ways you couldn’t possibly imagine!

Prayers do work

I couldn’t tell you how many times I’ve encountered God answering my prayers, not in ways I thought foolishly but I realized it was in His time once again. I will give you an example: when I became saved, the biggest battle I faced was my patience– or rather lack thereof! I had a very short temper and one of many prayers I prayed was that the Lord grant me patience…

It’s funny when I think back because it wasn’t something that happened by the snap of a finger – trust me it would have been very convenient if it did, but then there would be no lesson learned and zero accountability. I would have simply moved on without a second thought. Fostering patience was continuous – it is spiritual growth that leads to wisdom. God presented me with opportunities to become patient: from getting my sleeve caught on a doorknob to more complex situations where losing my temper would have created devastation. So I’ll pose you with another reflective question that applies to many if not all aspects of our lives: How can we say we reflect or are ambassadors for Christ when we act contrary to His commands? 

I urge you to think about all the prayers you prayed for, have they been answered or not? If your answer is yes, then did you remember to take the time in your devotion to write them down and thank the Lord for answering them – and with the same breath, thanking Him for never forsaking you? If your answer is no, not yet I’m still waiting: please do not lose hope or faith but trust in God and He will make straight your paths (see Proverbs 3:5-6). Be reminded that He knows what we need, when we need it and how much of it is needed in our lives. He knows what is good for us and what will bring Him glory. Our Divine Shepherd will provide and protect us in all situations. God is lavish in His love for His sheep! (see Psalm 23)

Prayer

My prayer for you, my wonderfully and fearfully made sister, is the following:

Dear Lord, today I surrender myself wholeheartedly to your hands. I’ve spent too much time in my own understanding. I’ve been leaning on others where I should have come to you first, I should have sought your counsel first rather than following the counsel of the world. 

Lord, may my plans always be in line with yours and if they are not please help guide me with wisdom, steadfastness, and endurance as I navigate how to follow your commands to become more Christ-like and that I never forget to be prayerful and joyful in you!

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Sylvia van Jaarsveld

I’m a volunteer blogger. Welcome to my blog posts! May my writings be an inspiration to you and an aid to get you into a biblical mindset: “It’s never me but God!”
Let us grow together!
~Col 2:6-8

The post I am prayerful and I am joyful! appeared first on Cup of Faith.

I recently came across an image from “prayerforanxiety” that was so applicable to my life right now and honestly, it should be a game-changer view for you:

“How many times as He said it but I didn’t listen? Instead, I rush forward so full of self-confidence without even a tiny bit of fear of God. I want all the answers now. I want to do something, anything. I want and I want more!” 

Meanwhile, the Lord says to me:wait. Wait upon me and let me do my good work. When it is time to act you will know, I will show you and I will tell you. You are my child therefore trust in My timing and My plans. I will show you miracles, liberation, and healing. Trust in Me and Me alone! Remember how I rose on the third day? I am the Lord your God.” (see Luke 24:46; Ezekiel 20:19)

Did you ever sit and think about God’s perfect timing? To us, it feels like God stepped in at 99 but that’s not the case. Let me give you a practical example. Let’s say there is a glass of juice on the table so close to the edge that it’s at any moment going to fall off but before it happens you catch it in time avoiding a huge spill and broken glass. You react with relief – that was so close! What are the odds! Doesn’t that sum up how we view God’s timing? 

We have the mindset of: I don’t know what I would have done if God hadn’t stepped in. What if God was too late and I was premature and missed something? Sister “what if” shouldn’t be part of your vocabulary when we think of God’s sovereignty. He is never too early or too late, He is ALWAYS right on His time. If I had to refer to the above example it would look like this: If God was too early, He would have had to wait for the glass to fall, and if He was too late the glass would have shattered all over the floor and there would be a huge mess, but we know God doesn’t make mistakes or messes because He is perfect!

Coincidence 

We humans try to explain unexpected or supernatural events by using the word “coincidence” but just because we are surprised by them, it does not mean God is. Scripture tells us that God makes all things work together for the good of those who love Him according to His purpose (see Romans 8:28). Therefore, God seems to not allow “coincidence” and considers everything even the most random of events. Let us reflect on the Scripture in Isaiah chapter 55: 8-9 (ESV): 

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways” declares the Lord

“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts”. 

I pose you with this reflective question: do you believe in coincidence? I don’t because I believe in God’s perfect timing every time!

We can trust His timing

This heading makes me want to reflect further on Ecclesiastes 3:11: “He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, he has put eternity into man’s heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.” We will never understand God’s timing but what we can rely on is that His plans will ALWAYS be for His glory and our good! I don’t know about you but I’d rather have the Lord ordain everything including my life because following your head and heart leads to not following God’s commands and to disasters.  This leads me to Galatians 4: 4-5 “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son…”. In Paul’s first letter to the church of Corinth, in 1 Corinthians 15: 3-4 we read that  Christ died and was raised on the third day “…according to the Scriptures”.  This phrase is mentioned twice, so the arrival of Jesus Christ was perfectly timed – and since God perfectly plans all events according to His word and purpose we can with certainty trust in Him!

Jesus didn’t come too late or too early but He came at the right time to fulfill what was proclaimed in the Old Testament. (see Genesis 3: 15; Psalm 2 & 22; Isaiah 53).

Prayer

My prayer for you my wonderfully and fearfully made sister is the following:

Dear Lord, I will wait upon you and your words and promises, I will find my comfort in you because I know your timing is the best for me and ultimately for your glory. May all my anxieties and fears disappear. I ask that the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer (see Psalm 19:14)

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Sylvia van Jaarsveld

I’m a volunteer blogger. Welcome to my blog posts! May my writings be an inspiration to you and an aid to get you into a biblical mindset: “It’s never me but God!”
Let us grow together!
~Col 2:6-8

The post Due Season appeared first on Cup of Faith.

This past Sunday during worship, I was moved by how wonderful and loving the Lord is and who it is we serve: my Creator King!  I wanted to share this worship song with you in the hope that it impacts you and gets you thinking about how deep your relationship with God is or even how much deeper it can become. We have the King of all Kings on our side!

Creator King

You Who made the mountains and the sea

Measured out the universe

And You made me

Echoes of the voice that called worlds to be

Reached through the ages and now speak to me

You’re my Creator King

You have made the valleys and the skies

Displayed Your love on far horizons

And before my eyes

You Who lit the stars and set the dawn in time

Called them all by name and now You whisper mine

You’re my Creator King

And who am I that You are mindful of me

And who am I that You set Your love on me

You’re my Creator King

You Who made the darkness and the light

Sun and moon to watch the day

And guard my night

A hand that stretched the heavens like a canopy

Reaches down to cover and watch over me

You’re my Creator King

CCLI Song # 4157377 Mary MacLean

© 2003 Integrity Worship Music (Admin. by Integrity Music) 

Is it not mind blowing that our Creator King designed and created the whole of the universe, everything inside of it and all of its complexity in just six days — and on day seven He rested!

God chose you and me before creation to be holy and blameless before Him dear beloved sister! (see Genesis 1:2; Ephesians 1).

How comforting is it to know that God watches over us and calls us by name? Who are we that He is mindful of us and that He sets His love on us. That despite our sins we are saved by Christ through faith. The Gospel is sufficient!

How great is He?

We serve a great, wonderful, big, righteous and loving God!

There is nothing He cannot handle as He is abundant in power and His understanding is beyond measure (Psalm 147:5). We need to realize that through His Word He will show us that the heavy lifting of life is not meant for us to carry alone but for Him to carry. He equips us with the armor of God to fight any battles.

•         Fasten the belt of truth
•         Breastplate of righteousness
•         Shoes put on given by the gospel of peace
•         In all circumstances take the shield of faith to extinguish all flaming darts of the evil one
•         Helmet of salvation
•         Sword of the Spirit which is the word of God

I challenge you today with a question: do you have a “war room” , a quiet space or a prayer strategy to seek God’s counsel before battle? I know I do!

What seems impossible to us is definitely possible for Him despite the situation you are currently facing. He knows every detail of our lives and we are special and precious to Him in every way., He cares deeply for us even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows. Luke 12:7 

Prayer

My prayer for you my wonderfully and fearfully made sister is the following:

Dear Lord, I thank you for what you have done for me on the cross. I thank you that I get to have a personal growing relationship with you every day!

Lord, I come to you today as I am tired and worried and I do not know what to do please help me Father because I know you will give me rest, I will take your yoke upon myself and eagerly learn from you for I know you are gentle and lowly in heart, your yoke is easy and your burden is light. Search me, O God and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me and lead me in the way of the everlasting! (Psalm 139:23-24).

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Blog post scripture reading for the day: Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances because this is the will of God for you! 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Sylvia van Jaarsveld

I’m a volunteer blogger. Welcome to my blog posts! May my writings be an inspiration to you and an aid to get you into a biblical mindset: “It’s never me but God!”
Let us grow together!
~Col 2:6-8

The post Celebrating the Creator King appeared first on Cup of Faith.

When I think of the thief on the cross or the Gospel as a whole I can’t help but feel a wave of emotion. Let’s reflect on the scripture in Luke chapter 23: 39-43 (ESV):

One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!”
But the other rebuked him saying, “Do you not fear God since you are under the same sentence of condemnation?
And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds but this man has done nothing wrong.”
“Jesus remember me when you come into your kingdom.”
And Jesus said to him, “Truly I say to you today you will be with me in paradise.”

To me this is the simplest example of the Gospel seen in the Bible but it’s so profound! Where the thief had experienced true repentance or remorse with a change of heart.

The thief was physically incapable of doing any good works, he did not know the scriptures nor was he baptised but he put all his faith in Christ and ultimately, he made it!

When we don’t share the Gospel with others and meditate on it for ourselves, we will start to rely on our judgments and our own experiences. Sometimes we will be running only on emotions  — and coffee! — lacking proper wisdom. Which is when we begin to stumble, right?

Isn’t the Gospel just beautiful? If the thief on the cross can be saved, then so can we, knowing that God loves each of us a lot. Our good works or failures, even those doubts of being worthy, don’t map our road to heaven. Only He can save us.

Practical Repentance

Biblical repentance calls for us to turn to God and to follow Him in a new direction. Romans 12:2 says “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may decide what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect”. This means we must turn away from our sinful nature which might affect our attitudes, our reactions, the words we speak, and our emotions towards others. The best advice my pastor always tells me is “Feel what you feel because God made those emotions in us but do not let those emotions make you sinful.”

It’s good to remember that this isn’t a one-time thing but something we do regularly in our Christian walk on earth. It is hard I know but that’s why we need to help each other not to stray and lose faith but to hold onto our relationships with God.

All of us have daily struggles with a focus shift on the world rather than Jesus and we tend to forget how easy it is to fall back into our old ways because it’s easier and more comfortable but believe me once we realize we are doing it remorse and guilt set in – I’ve felt this way many times.

We find ourselves lonely and stumbling desperately constantly praying trying to become closer to God and asking for forgiveness. This hurdle is something all of us have gone through on countless occasions and none of us are alone but how comforting is it to know that by our heavenly Father’s grace and love, he will always welcome us back with open arms. This is the warmest embrace you could ever feel in this world!

Take the time daily during your devotions to remember what Jesus did for you on the cross, and never stop putting all your trust in Him because he who began a good work in you will see it through till the end (Philippians 1:6).

My prayer for you, my wonderfully and fearfully made sister, is that you never lose sight of the Lord or feel as if you are drifting through the wind with no direction. May you always strive to become more Christ-like.

May our heavenly Father always guide you in all that you do.

Amen!

Sylvia van Jaarsveld

I’m a volunteer blogger. Welcome to my blog posts! May my writings be an inspiration to you and an aid to get you into a biblical mindset: “It’s never me but God!”
Let us grow together!
~Col 2:6-8

The post The Gospel in a Nutshell appeared first on Cup of Faith.