For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. (Galatians 6:8 NKJV)

There are so many stories I could tell you about my adventures with the Holy Spirit. I could tell you about the times He’s spoken to me during devotional readings, or ministered through me to others in my church. Or the time He expressed joy through my friend and I in the form of non-stop laughter. Out of the Trinity, I believe the Holy Spirit was the first Person of God that I really came to know intimately. In my first year of regular church attendance, as I slowly began to open my heart to God, I would cry and weep during every worship service, without fail. I wasn’t sad. My body was responding to the overwhelming presence of the Shekinah, the glory of God in the Person of the Spirit.

And yet writing about the Holy Spirit seems to be the most challenging. He’s described in scripture as ‘wind’ or a ‘river’ or ‘light’. Can you put wind in a box? Can you explain the shape of water to someone? Can you hold light to examine its qualities? Instead, the Holy Spirit has to be experienced.

He hates to be ‘quenched’, that terrible moment when we choose to listen to our flesh – our minds and wills and desires and physical longings – without submitting to His leading. He hates to be grieved when we choose legalism over the powerful, all-sufficient grace of the gospel. 

A worship service is empty and dry without that river, that light, that wind of His Presence. And yet we have no means to manufacture His Presence. In fact, the more we try to recreate ‘a spiritual atmosphere’ from our own efforts, the more we press into legalism and works, reaping corruption of the flesh. He comes when we wait for Him to. And when He does, there’s no mistaking, there’s no forgetting, that river, that light, that powerful wind that leaves nothing that it touches unchanged.

Exercise

Dear friend, when was the last time you just waited with expectation for the voice of His Presence? Without your own agenda, allowing Him to say whatever He wants to say, to do whatever He wants to do? If it’s been too long, I encourage you to do a small exercise today:

1. First, clear your cluttered mind by journaling or free-writing.
2. Set a timer for 5 minutes
3. Sit in a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed (this could even be a bathroom at desperate times!)
4. Open your hands out and close your eyes.
5. Pray: Lord, I’m here. Then wait quietly.
6. In your heart, submit to waiting for Him to move or speak as He wants to.

If after the timer goes off you haven’t experienced the Spirit, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. You can acknowledge and respect His choice not to show up without taking it personally. You exercised submission and desire and that’s all that is required from you. Perhaps He was delighting in you without your knowing it! When it comes to the Holy Spirit, we are asked not to try figure Him out. The wind comes and goes where it wishes, without our understanding.

Kate Walsh

Kate is the current owner and editor of Cup of Faith. She is a blogger who loves Jesus, loves to read, and currently lives in Johannesburg with her husband.

The post The Holy Spirit appeared first on Cup of Faith.

by Melissa de Lange

On the 30^th of January 1986 I was born at 11:00 in the morning. My journey into this world wasn’t an easy one. When my mom went for her check up at the doctors she didn’t know that she was in labor. She never experienced any labor pains or feel any symptoms. The doctor then rushed her to the hospital and that’s where all hell broke loose. I was laying transverse which the doctors never picked up in any scans. They rushed her to the emergency room where she had an emergency C-section. When I finally came out I didn’t breath for 20 minutes. The doctors confirmed that I would be a vegetable (what a nasty way to describe disabled people!), and that I wouldn’t be able to breastfeed. My mom would have to feed me with a tube. I wouldn’t be able to walk, talk, run or play. (I guess they were wrong again! All Glory be to God!)

I was in the ICU incubator for 10 days and during this time my parents couldn’t hold me; they could only touch me through the holes in the cradle. On one occasion the paediatrician came to my mom to tell her she would have to put me in a home because I wouldn’t be able to have a normal life. That broke my mom and that’s when she decided to invite all of the pastors to come to the hospital to pray. The following day I nursed for the first time like any other baby.

You see, when my mother was still pregnant with me there was a nasty incident. My parents had a lady helping them around the house and one day mom had asked her to do something. She replied with a sarcastic “NO”. Mom then proceeded to ask her to leave and that’s when she returned with a bucket of white stuff which she threw all over mom’s tummy. Mom’s pregnancy was otherwise normal and there were no complications until she went into labor.

Longing for Acceptance

I was discharged after 10 days. Mom had my room all done up in pink (can only imagine!). My brother was the one to make me laugh loud for the first time. They were all so happy! I did everything a normal baby could do but I struggled at times. I was referred to The Brown’s School where I started with physio therapy. I joined the school after that and attended creche. I only started walking at the age of 4 years old.

Growing up was hard. Wherever we went people used to stare and laugh (that really hurt the most). No one asked why I was sitting in a pram. My gran told me that when I just started walking I used to walk with my legs wide apart for balance. Honestly being at a school for the disabled that was the only place I really felt accepted. My whole life I knew that I was different but I had this burn deep down inside that when I grew up that I would be “normal” and accepted.

Spiritual Sight

I was quite young when I started seeing things, probably around 4 years of age. The very first thing I really took notice of was a little boy who used to run around in our backyard. At first I didn’t say anything to anyone because it seemed nobody else saw him. One day he had asked me to follow him through the banana trees but my mom called me inside just then. I can’t recall seeing him again after that day but from then on, things spiralled out of control. We moved around a lot and in every house we lived in, I saw things.

Honestly sitting here looking back, it brings tears to my eyes to think of the things I could see – and no one believed me at first. It got so bad to a point where I started sleeping in my parents room until I was about 14 years old. I was so scared these things wouldn’t leave me alone.

An Unhappy Life

I could never explain why, but I always was just so nasty to everyone, even to my friends at school. I would just get angry for the slightest reason, it destroyed a lot of my friendships and relationships. This went back and forth for years. I started smoking at the age of 16 started drinking at the age of 18 and so on. But I could never take drugs. I remember being suicidal. All I wanted to do was die. That was my biggest wish in life. Oh, I tried to commit suicide twice before (not proud of it but its true).

I went to counsellors, psychologists, pastors even and nothing seemed to help or work. In 2018 our house caught alight, just like that, without any storm or any other reason. Thank the Lord again no one was hurt. After that, things seemed to get worse so we then got in contact with these pastors. They came and cleared our home. It seemed to have worked for everyone else but not for me. I was still seeing things but they were the most ugliest things I have ever seen in my life.

Things used to come flying out of my room, my name was being called at all times when no one was home. There’s just so much that happened during the course of my life. I recall a nun that used to stand outside of the window whilst I would be washing dishes and she would just suck the life right out of me. That was when I had enough and decided to take control.

A Change

I contacted those same pastors and explained what was going on. They took months to get back to me so I gave up. One day I received a call from the pastor inviting me to go to church that Sunday and I said, ‘yes, please!’ Church was amazing but something didn’t feel right. I felt like I didn’t belong but I fought the feeling, and they had invited me to go back the following Sunday.

The morning of the 5^th of June 2022 I was so nervous and I had this overwhelming desire to run. I have no idea why because it was Church: what was there to be scared of, right? That day I would walk into church as melissa for the very last time. Sitting there in the front of the church I was so scared. Everything inside me started shaking. I remember the prophet saying, ‘If there is anyone here who needs to come up for prayers, now is the time.’ I couldn’t move but my aunty Elizabeth told me to stand up. I didn’t want to but I went. Standing in that line, waiting for Pastor Griffith to come to pray for me I then got an overwhelming desire to run but my feet didn’t want to cooperate with me. I saw him getting closer and closer; my heart leaped into my chest. I still can’t explain why I was feeling so scared. It’s the Lord, after all? When he came up to me he looked at me and started praying that’s the last thing I remember. I then woke up on the floor. 

When I opened my eyes, I knew that I was in a church, and that I had been delivered because I had a feeling I have never felt in my life before. Let me try and explain it the best way I can then I will tell you who I saw. Laying there for a few minutes, I felt like I was in the best place ever. I felt like I was surrounded by peace – not just any peace, but peace straight from heaven. I opened my eyes and saw the prophet and all of the pastors. But standing just behind the prophet I saw Jesus Himself. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing, Jesus was there and I SAW Him. (this brings tears to my eyes just recalling that day).  There was a feeling of sheer relief in my body. It felt like something left – I felt it leaving – and I never looked back ever since.

I see things still but not like before. I get visions of Heaven I have proper conversations with Jesus Himself. He sits with me and mom every night at the kitchen table while I read the Bible and pray. We have conversations. He’s shared a lot of things with me. I’ve even met His angels and Saint Peter who stands at Heavens gates.

I will never look back. My life is for Jesus. I have never ever loved someone so much as much as I love Him. He’s taught me things, He’s told me things, He’s showed me things.

I was born Melissa de Lange in 1986 but that’s not me anymore. People ask me today who are you, my reply?

I am Melissa de Lange the daughter of The Living God. I have a best friend, a father, a teacher. His Name is Jesus Christ and He is real. He is here and He wants to save us.

I hope that one day I can inspire people to begin a journey with Jesus Christ. Honestly it’s the best thing I have ever done. A lot has changed. Ive lost friends and family but one thing remains and that’s my Lord Jesus Christ. I will never walk alone.

I’ve come a long way and still have a long way to go. But I would love to gather as many people as I can for Jesus cause without Him we are nothing.

I hope this inspires people.

God Bless you and keep you.

Guest Author

From time to time, Cup of Faith receives guest posts from people who would prefer to contribute to the blog once-off. These authors may choose to stay anonymous or may have their name featured in the post itself.

The post My Story: Encountering Jesus Christ appeared first on Cup of Faith.

Beulah Kleinveldt

Beulah Kleinveldt or Ms B”, as she is fondly known is a mother, grandmother and mentor. Her journey speaks of success and victory, failure, shame and restoration. A passion to live an intentional life.

4shadesofscarlet.blogspot.com/

The post The Father Heart of God appeared first on Cup of Faith.

By Marthe Badibanga

Ever wondered how to weave the concept of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—into your everyday routine? It’s one thing to understand the Trinity as a theological concept, but living it out can make a real difference in how we experience our faith. Understanding and relating to each Person of the Trinity can profoundly enrich our spiritual journey.

Connecting with God the Father

Think of God the Father as the ultimate parent—one who’s always there, supporting and guiding you. He’s the creator of everything and the One who keeps the universe ticking. Relating to the Father often starts with seeing Him as the loving source of everything in our lives (James 1:17). One of the primary ways we get to know the Father is through prayer. Prayer is like having a heart-to-heart with a trusted friend or parent. It’s our chance to share our day, our worries, and our gratitude. Imagine sitting down for a chat with someone who’s always eager to listen and help. That’s how talking to God the Father can feel—comforting and personal. Jesus encouraged us to pray to God the Father through Him, and by the Spirit (Matt. 6:9; Eph. 2:18).

1. Start Your Day with Gratitude

Kick off your day by acknowledging God the Father as the source of all good things. Spend a few moments in the morning giving thanks for the new day, for the blessings you have, and for the opportunities ahead. This simple act can set a positive tone for your day.

2. Seek Guidance in Decision-Making

When faced with choices, big or small, turn to God the Father for guidance. Pray for wisdom and clarity.

3. Reflect on Creation

Sometimes, it’s helpful to step outside and just breathe in the beauty around you. Whether it’s a stunning sunset or the intricate details of a flower, seeing God’s handiwork can remind you of His presence and power. It’s like God saying, “Look, I made this just for you!”

Embracing God the Son, Jesus Christ, in our Life

Jesus Christ is like the ultimate friend who’s been through everything we’ve been through. He came to show us how to live, love, and even how to handle tough times. Jesus represents God’s love and redemption. His life, death, and resurrection are central to understanding how deeply God values us. Relating to Jesus involves recognizing His sacrifice and how it brings us into a new relationship with God and how it changes everything for us. This can be a source of profound gratitude and inspiration in our own lives.

1. Learning from His Teachings

Jesus’ teachings are not just historical accounts; they are living words that guide us today. By studying the Gospels and reflecting on Jesus’ life, we can learn how to live with compassion, forgiveness, and purpose. His example of love and humility serves as a model for how we can navigate our relationships and challenges.

2. Building a Personal Connection Through Worship

Worshiping Jesus, whether through church services, personal reflection, or acts of service, helps to build a personal connection with Him. This can involve singing hymns, participating in communion, or simply spending time in silent reflection on His life and teachings. It’s in these acts that we draw closer to Jesus and experience His presence in our lives.

3. Model Your Actions After Jesus

Jesus lived a life full of compassion, grace, and service. Try to mirror these qualities in your interactions with others. Whether it’s showing kindness to a stranger or forgiving someone who’s wronged you, let Jesus’ example guide your actions.

Inviting the Holy Spirit into our Daily Routine

The Holy Spirit is often seen as the active presence of God in our lives, guiding, comforting, and empowering us. Relating to the Holy Spirit involves being open to His influence and guidance. The Spirit helps us grow in faith, equips us for service, and brings comfort during times of trouble.

1. Listening to the Spirit’s Promptings

The Holy Spirit often speaks through subtle nudges and promptings. Learning to recognize and respond to these can enhance our spiritual journey. This might involve feeling a sudden urge to help someone, experiencing a deep sense of peace, or gaining insight into a personal issue. Trusting these promptings and seeking discernment through prayer can help us align more closely with the Spirit’s guidance. Spend a few moments each day in silence, inviting the Holy Spirit to speak to you. This could be through meditation, journaling, or simply being still. It’s a way to tune in to the Spirit’s guidance and support.

2. Experiencing the Spirit’s Power Through Spiritual Gifts

The Holy Spirit empowers believers with spiritual gifts such as wisdom, healing, and prophecy. Understanding and utilizing these gifts can be a way to relate more deeply to the Spirit. Engaging in practices that nurture these gifts and seeking opportunities to serve others can help us experience the Spirit’s active presence in our lives.

3. Engage in Community

Find a faith community where you can discuss and explore how the Spirit impacts your life. Sharing experiences and learning from others can provide additional insights and support for integrating the Trinity into your daily routine.

Bringing it All Together

Integrating the Trinity into our daily life is all about making these profound relationships a living, breathing part of our routine. By connecting with the Father, modelling our actions after the Son, and being open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, we can experience a richer, more vibrant faith. Relating to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit doesn’t have to be compartmentalized. Each aspect of the Trinity plays a unique role, but they work together harmoniously.
Consider how each Person can be a part of your daily activities. For instance, you might start your day with a prayer to the Father, seek Jesus’ guidance through study and worship, and remain open to the Spirit’s prompts throughout the day. Let your relationship with the Trinity influence your everyday choices and interactions. Whether it’s showing love and kindness, making ethical decisions, or finding ways to serve others, let the Trinity be reflected in your actions.

What about you? How do you connect with the Trinity in your daily life? Share your thoughts or practices in the comments—I’d love to hear how you keep your connection with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit alive and active.

Here’s to discovering and deepening our connections with the Trinity!

_______

I am a passionate volunteer blogger with a love for writing, dedicated to sharing inspiring words to uplift others and a drive to make a difference, I long to see fellow Christians become all that God wants them to be.

Marthe Badibanga

A volunteer blogger whose passion is to see the people of God become all that the LORD intended them to be in their personal relationships with Him that overflow into their daily lives.

The post Deepen Your Spiritual Journey: Engaging with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit appeared first on Cup of Faith.