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What is the Spirit of Poverty and How Does It Work?

Question: What is the spirit of poverty, how does it operate, and how can it leave a person?

The “spirit of poverty” refers to a spiritual force or influence that keeps a person in a state of lack and financial struggle, hindering them from achieving their God-given potential. Biblically, poverty can be both a result of spiritual forces at work in a person’s life, or it can be a temporary season of testing by God.

When this spirit takes hold, it can lead to continual need, deep debt, and a lack of progress. In some cases, the spirit of poverty is linked to generational curses (see Exodus 20:5), or it may be the result of a lack of spiritual knowledge and wisdom to thrive in life.

From a Christian perspective, God does not intend for His people to live in permanent poverty. Though God may allow seasons of lack for purposes of spiritual growth and character development (see James 1:2-4), He desires for His people to be prosperous in all areas of life spiritually, emotionally, and financially. This aligns with the promise found in 3 John 1:2, which says,

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.”

While there are times when God allows His children to experience financial difficulty, this is not meant to be a permanent condition. In fact, the Bible speaks to the fact that God desires His people to be the head and not the tail, to be lenders and not borrowers (Deuteronomy 28:12, 13). However, Christians are also taught that wealth and prosperity should not become an idol or a source of pride (1 Timothy 6:9-10).

Examples of Poverty in the Bible:

Jesus Christ: Jesus, though He was rich in glory, chose to live a life of humility and poverty for the sake of His mission to redeem humanity. 2 Corinthians 8:9 tells us,

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.”

His poverty was voluntary and for the sake of others, not a permanent condition.

John the Baptist: John also lived a simple, ascetic lifestyle, renouncing material wealth to fully devote himself to preparing the way for Jesus. His lifestyle was a choice of humility, not an outcome of financial hardship forced upon him by God.

Abraham and Job: Both Abraham and Job, in contrast, were rich and remained prosperous throughout their lives. Genesis 13:2 tells us,

“Abram was very rich in livestock, in silver and in gold,” and Job 42:10 says, “And the Lord restored Job’s losses when he prayed for his friends. Indeed the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.”

These men were blessed by God not only spiritually but also materially.

The Role of Knowledge and Wisdom:

While God is the ultimate provider, Hosea 4:6 says,

“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”

This suggests that a lack of understanding in God’s principles particularly in areas like financial stewardship and hard work can contribute to ongoing poverty. It’s important for believers to gain knowledge, both spiritually and practically, to thrive in life.

How Can the Spirit of Poverty Be Broken?

Get Saved (Spiritual Rebirth)
The first step in breaking the spirit of poverty is salvation through Jesus Christ. When a person accepts Christ as Lord and Savior, they are delivered from the spiritual forces of darkness, including the spirit of poverty. Colossians 1:13 states,

“He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love.”

Salvation brings freedom from the bondage of sin, which can include poverty.

Pray and Break Strongholds
Prayer is a powerful tool for breaking spiritual strongholds, including the spirit of poverty. 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 teaches us that,

“For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God.”

Through prayer, you can rebuke any demonic influence that seeks to block your financial progress.

Seek Knowledge and Wisdom
In addition to prayer, believers are instructed to seek wisdom and knowledge to prosper in life. Proverbs 24:3-4 says,

“Through wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.”

As Christians, we are called to apply biblical principles of stewardship, hard work, and integrity in our daily lives. This is how we unlock the doors to financial prosperity.

Stewardship and Generosity
God blesses those who are good stewards of the resources He has given them and those who are generous toward others. Luke 6:38 says,

“Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”

Generosity and wise stewardship are keys to financial breakthroughs.

Conclusion

The spirit of poverty can affect believers in various ways, but God does not want His people to live in a state of lack. Through salvation, prayer, seeking wisdom, and applying biblical principles of financial stewardship, believers can break free from the spirit of poverty and step into the abundance that God has promised. Remember, Philippians 4:19 assures us,

“And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

May you walk in the fullness of God’s provision and live a prosperous life, both spiritually and materially.

 

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I MUST BE A WOLF OF CHRIST

If you believe these are not the times to live carelessly, how do you feel when you see people dying in sin and heading to hell without knowing Christ? How do you feel when you see Satan’s work flourishing and destroying people? How does that make you feel deep in your heart?

Theological Insight: The Importance of Evangelism

The Bible emphasizes that the mission of the church is to bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to all nations, as commanded in Matthew 28:19–20. The eternal destiny of souls depends on whether they hear the gospel and respond to it in faith. The apostle Paul writes in Romans 10:14–15:
“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?”
This highlights the urgency of the mission to preach the gospel, and as believers, we are called to be proactive in reaching out to the lost.

Samson’s Anger and Christ’s Redemption Plan

What can we learn from Samson’s anger? When he saw that his wife had been given to strangers by her father, did he stay calm and say, “Well, this is just my fate”? No! Instead, he rose up in anger and said, “I will take revenge on the Philistines.”

In Judges 15:3-5, Samson’s anger leads him to take drastic action:
“Samson said, ‘This time I have a right to get even with the Philistines; I will really harm them.’ Samson went out and caught 300 foxes, tied them tail to tail in pairs, and fastened a torch to every pair. He lit the torches and let the foxes loose in the standing grain of the Philistines, burning up the shocks and standing grain, together with the vineyards and olive groves.”
Samson’s act of destroying the Philistines’ crops was not just personal revenge, but an act of judgment against Israel’s enemies who were oppressing God’s people. This destruction symbolizes God’s justice against the wickedness of the Philistines.

Theological Insight: Divine Judgment and Retribution

Samson’s act of vengeance is a shadow of God’s justice in the world. Romans 12:19 tells us, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”
God’s judgment is just and will come in His timing. Samson’s actions were a reflection of God’s eventual judgment upon evil.

Christ’s Work: A New Strategy for Warfare

Who is Samson pointing to? It’s Jesus Christ.

When the Lord saw that Satan’s works needed to be destroyed in Israel, what did He do? He took His disciples, sent them two by two, and gave them the power to cast out demons, heal the sick, and preach the good news. And what happened after they returned?

In Luke 10:17-19, we read:
“The seventy returned with joy and said, ‘Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.’ He replied, ‘I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions, and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.'”

This passage reveals the authority Christ grants to His followers to fight against the works of darkness. Just as Samson fought the Philistines, Christians are called to wage spiritual warfare against the forces of evil, with the authority of Jesus.

Theological Insight: Spiritual Authority and Victory Over Satan

Jesus’ statement, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven,” refers to His victory over Satan’s kingdom through His life, death, and resurrection. In Luke 11:20, Jesus says, “But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.”
Through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers can confront and defeat demonic forces. This victory over Satan is secured by Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, as noted in Colossians 2:15:
“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”

The Mission of Every Believer: You Are a Wolf of Christ

And now, for those of us who are saved, if you’ve been filled with the Holy Spirit, you are already a wolf of Christ. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to destroy Satan’s works by preaching Christ and His salvation. What are you waiting for, my friend?

The Bible teaches that we, as believers, are called to proclaim the gospel to the world. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus gives the Great Commission:
“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.'”

Theological Insight: The Holy Spirit’s Empowerment for Evangelism

When the Holy Spirit fills believers, He empowers them to be effective witnesses. Jesus told His disciples in Acts 1:8:
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
This empowerment enables us to preach the gospel boldly and destroy the works of Satan, just as the disciples did in Luke 10.

The Call to Evangelize: Carry the Fire of the Holy Spirit

Look at what Jesus said in Luke 12:49:
“I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled!”

The fire of the Holy Spirit has already been placed on your tail! Be careful not to let it go out before it has done its work. This fire symbolizes the passion and power of the Spirit, urging believers to spread the gospel and bring others into the kingdom of God.

Theological Insight: The Fire of the Spirit in Evangelism

The fire that Jesus refers to is not just a metaphor for passion, but for the power of the Holy Spirit at work in us to spread the message of salvation. In Jeremiah 20:9, the prophet Jeremiah said, “But if I say, ‘I will not mention his word or speak anymore in his name,’ his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot.”
This burning desire to share the gospel is the fire that every believer should have within them. It is the Holy Spirit’s power working in us, compelling us to take action.

Conclusion: Together, We Can Change the World

Together, we can turn the world upside down. Let’s preach Christ, for that is the great command for all humanity. Each of us is a wolf of Christ. Stand up, receive courage, and preach Christ so that people may be saved.

May the Lord bless you!

This version provides a deeper theological understanding of the message, incorporating Bible verses that align with the concepts of judgment, authority over Satan, the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, and the Great Commission.

If you believe these are not the times to live carelessly, how do you feel when you see people dying in sin and heading to hell without knowing Christ? How do you feel when you see Satan’s work flourishing and destroying people? How does that make you feel deep in your heart?

Theological Insight: The Importance of Evangelism

The Bible emphasizes that the mission of the church is to bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to all nations, as commanded in Matthew 28:19–20. The eternal destiny of souls depends on whether they hear the gospel and respond to it in faith. The apostle Paul writes in Romans 10:14–15:


“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?”


This highlights the urgency of the mission to preach the gospel, and as believers, we are called to be proactive in reaching out to the lost.

Samson’s Anger and Christ’s Redemption Plan

What can we learn from Samson’s anger? When he saw that his wife had been given to strangers by her father, did he stay calm and say, “Well, this is just my fate”? No! Instead, he rose up in anger and said, “I will take revenge on the Philistines.”

In Judges 15:3-5, Samson’s anger leads him to take drastic action:

“Samson said, ‘This time I have a right to get even with the Philistines; I will really harm them.’ Samson went out and caught 300 foxes, tied them tail to tail in pairs, and fastened a torch to every pair. He lit the torches and let the foxes loose in the standing grain of the Philistines, burning up the shocks and standing grain, together with the vineyards and olive groves.”
Samson’s act of destroying the Philistines’ crops was not just personal revenge, but an act of judgment against Israel’s enemies who were oppressing God’s people. This destruction symbolizes God’s justice against the wickedness of the Philistines.

Theological Insight: Divine Judgment and Retribution

Samson’s act of vengeance is a shadow of God’s justice in the world. Romans 12:19 tells us,

“Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”


God’s judgment is just and will come in His timing. Samson’s actions were a reflection of God’s eventual judgment upon evil.

Christ’s Work: A New Strategy for Warfare

Who is Samson pointing to? It’s Jesus Christ.

When the Lord saw that Satan’s works needed to be destroyed in Israel, what did He do? He took His disciples, sent them two by two, and gave them the power to cast out demons, heal the sick, and preach the good news. And what happened after they returned?

In Luke 10:17-19, we read:
“The seventy returned with joy and said, ‘Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.’ He replied, ‘I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions, and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.'”

This passage reveals the authority Christ grants to His followers to fight against the works of darkness. Just as Samson fought the Philistines, Christians are called to wage spiritual warfare against the forces of evil, with the authority of Jesus.

Theological Insight: Spiritual Authority and Victory Over Satan

Jesus’ statement, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven,” refers to His victory over Satan’s kingdom through His life, death, and resurrection. In Luke 11:20, Jesus says,

“But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.”


Through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers can confront and defeat demonic forces. This victory over Satan is secured by Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, as noted in Colossians 2:15:


“And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”

The Mission of Every Believer: You Are a Wolf of Christ

And now, for those of us who are saved, if you’ve been filled with the Holy Spirit, you are already a wolf of Christ. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to destroy Satan’s works by preaching Christ and His salvation. What are you waiting for, my friend?

The Bible teaches that we, as believers, are called to proclaim the gospel to the world. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus gives the Great Commission:


“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.'”

Theological Insight: The Holy Spirit’s Empowerment for Evangelism

When the Holy Spirit fills believers, He empowers them to be effective witnesses. Jesus told His disciples in Acts 1:8:


“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”


This empowerment enables us to preach the gospel boldly and destroy the works of Satan, just as the disciples did in Luke 10.

The Call to Evangelize: Carry the Fire of the Holy Spirit

Look at what Jesus said in Luke 12:49:
“I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled!”

The fire of the Holy Spirit has already been placed on your tail! Be careful not to let it go out before it has done its work. This fire symbolizes the passion and power of the Spirit, urging believers to spread the gospel and bring others into the kingdom of God.

Theological Insight: The Fire of the Spirit in Evangelism

The fire that Jesus refers to is not just a metaphor for passion, but for the power of the Holy Spirit at work in us to spread the message of salvation. In Jeremiah 20:9, the prophet Jeremiah said, “

But if I say, ‘I will not mention his word or speak anymore in his name,’ his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot.”


This burning desire to share the gospel is the fire that every believer should have within them. It is the Holy Spirit’s power working in us, compelling us to take action.

Conclusion: Together, We Can Change the World

Together, we can turn the world upside down. Let’s preach Christ, for that is the great command for all humanity. Each of us is a wolf of Christ. Stand up, receive courage, and preach Christ so that people may be saved.

May the Lord bless you!

 

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Why Do We Give Offerings?

Question: Why should we give offerings? Is it mandatory? And if someone doesn’t give, is it a sin?

Answer: Giving whether through offerings, tithes, or acts of generosity is an essential part of the Christian life. It reflects the heart of a true believer. A person who continually withholds and refuses to give demonstrates a lack of transformation, because the Spirit of God, which leads us into the likeness of Christ, is generous by nature.

1. We Give Because God is a Giver

God is the ultimate giver. From the beginning, everything we have life, breath, provision, salvation comes from His generous hand. He gives without expecting repayment. This is seen most clearly in the gift of Jesus Christ:

John 3:16 (NIV): “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

As believers, we are created in God’s image and called to reflect His character:

Genesis 1:26 (ESV): “Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, after our likeness…'”

If God is generous, and we are made in His image, then we too are designed to be givers.

2. Giving is an Act of Worship and Obedience

Giving is not merely a financial transaction it is an act of worship. It shows gratitude, trust, and surrender to God. In the Old Testament, offerings were required as part of covenant obedience (see Leviticus 27:30, Malachi 3:10). But even in the New Testament, the spirit of generous giving continues not as law, but as love and devotion:

2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV): “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Proverbs 3:9 (NIV): “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.”

3. Cain’s Example: Giving Without the Right Heart

The story of Cain and Abel (Genesis 4) teaches us that God does not just look at what we give, but how and why we give. Abel gave his best, and God accepted his offering. Cain gave without faith or reverence, and God rejected it.

Genesis 4:4-5 (ESV): “And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard.”

This shows that giving should come from a willing and faithful heart. When giving feels like a burden or a loss, it reveals a spiritual issue that needs correction. That spirit of reluctance and resentment is what led Cain down a destructive path.

4. Giving is a Responsibility, Not Just a Rule

We don’t give because we’re forced to. We give because we understand it’s our responsibility and privilege. True generosity flows from a heart changed by the Gospel. Jesus calls us to be perfect as our Father is perfect:

Matthew 5:48 (NIV): “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”

And perfection, in this sense, includes walking in the fullness of God’s love and generosity.

5. The Consequences of Withholding

Jesus teaches that neglecting to care for others or refusing to be generous has eternal implications. In Matthew 25:41–46, He warns that those who fail to show compassion and generosity are separating themselves from Him.

Matthew 25:45-46 (NIV): “He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’ Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”

6. A Heart Check

Ask yourself: if God gives you air to breathe, ground to walk on, sunshine to enjoy, all for free, why is it painful to give back even a small portion? We easily pay for utilities, food, and entertainment, yet struggle to give to the One who gives us everything. That reveals a deeper issue of the heart, not of the wallet.

Final Encouragement:

Don’t run from your responsibility to give. Don’t wait for a command embrace it as part of your new identity in Christ. When we give cheerfully and generously, we not only bless others but align ourselves with God’s nature.

 

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Why Cain’s Offering Was Rejected

(Based on Genesis 4:3–5, ESV*)

Background

Cain (the farmer) brought “some of the fruits of the soil” as an offering to the Lord (Gen 4:3 ESV).

 

Abel (the shepherd) brought “fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock” (Gen 4:4 ESV).

 

“The Lord looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but on Cain and his offering he did not look with favor” (Gen 4:4–5 ESV).

1. Not Simply Crops vs. Animals

  • Levitical Context (later codified in Leviticus):

  • Grain offerings (Le 2) symbolized thanksgiving and consecration, requiring “fine flour” and “firstfruits.”

    • Animal sacrifices (Le 1–3) pointed forward to atonement through the shedding of blood (Heb 9:22 NIV).

  • The blood principle: Sheep/goat sacrifices anticipated the necessity of “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22 NIV).

Theological note: Abel’s offering foreshadows the greater “Lamb of God” (John 1:29 ESV), whose “firstborn” status (Ex 13:2 NIV) and perfect sacrifice reconcile sinners to God.

2. The Heart of the Giver Matters

  • Quality of Gift

    • Abel: Gave the firstborn (Hebrew bikkurim) and the fat—the choicest parts (Gen 4:4 ESV).

    • Cain: Brought an unspecified portion of his crops—implying leftovers or second-best (Gen 4:3 ESV).

  • Attitude Behind Gift

    • Abel’s offering was rooted in faith: “By faith Abel… offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain” (Heb 11:4 ESV).

    • Cain’s offering revealed self-interest—holding the best back from the Lord.

Theological note: True worship demands “first fruits” (Prov 3:9 NIV)—our best and earliest—to acknowledge God’s ownership of all (Ps 24:1 ESV).

3. God’s Grace and Cain’s Warning

  • Before judgment, God said to Cain:

    “Why are you angry?… If you do well, will you not be accepted?… but if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door… you must rule over it” (Gen 4:6–7 ESV).

  • Opportunity for repentance: God’s question “Will you not be accepted?” underscores His desire for restoration, not mere ritual.

Theological note: Scripture repeatedly shows God’s patience: “The Lord is… patient, not wishing that any should perish but that all should reach repentance” (2 Pet 3:9 ESV).

4. From Offering to Outrage

  • In resentment, Cain “lured Abel… and killed him” (Gen 4:8 ESV).

  • Moral slip: A heart hardened against God quickly turns against neighbor (1 John 3:12 NIV).

Theological note: Sin’s progression—from neglect (offering second-best) to murder illustrates James’s warning: “Each person is tempted… by his own evil desire… and desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death” (James 1:14–15 ESV).

5. What We Learn

  1. God examines the heart, not just the ritual (1 Samuel 16:7 NIV).

  2. Our giving reveals priorities: “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matt 6:21 NIV).

  3. Firstfruits theology: Offering the first and best signifies trust that God will provide the rest (Deut 26:2–4 ESV).

  4. Repentance invitation: God’s warnings are rooted in mercy—calling us back to right worship.

Practical Application

  • Give first, not leftover: Bring your best time, resources, and talents.

  • Examine motives: Before you give, ask, “Am I honoring God or preserving my comfort?”

  • Embrace Christ: Jesus, the perfect “firstborn” and ultimate sacrifice (Col 1:18 ESV), secures our acceptance when we trust in Him.

 

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What does it mean when you feel suffocated frequently?

Every time I sleep, I feel something choking my throat, making it hard to breathe. It feels like something is pressing down on me, and I sometimes feel like I’m going to die. Other times, I feel completely stuck and can’t move for a long time. Even when I try to fight it off, it takes a lot of effort, but eventually, it lets go. Is this a nightmare? This has been happening repeatedly. I’ve tried fasting and praying, and it sometimes stops for a few days, but then it returns. What should I do?

ANSWER:

What you’re experiencing is likely a form of spiritual attack in your dreams. The Bible tells us that our struggle is not only against physical forces but also against spiritual powers (Ephesians 6:12). The enemy often uses dreams to torment believers and distract them from their peace in Christ. Spiritual attacks in dreams can manifest in various ways: suffocating feelings, being unable to move, or facing disturbing and oppressive images. These are tactics of the enemy to instill fear, doubt, and helplessness.

Ephesians 6:12 (NIV): “

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

If you are facing such experiences, it’s crucial to know that there is a solution, and that solution is Jesus Christ. The Bible offers clear instructions on how to stand firm in the face of these attacks.

Here are three biblical principles that can help you overcome spiritual attacks in your sleep:

1) Use the Name of Jesus.

When you encounter spiritual attacks, do not remain silent. The Bible teaches us that we have been given authority over all the power of the enemy through Jesus Christ. His name is a powerful weapon in spiritual warfare.

Matthew 10:19-20 (NIV):

“Do not be afraid of them. For there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs.”

Luke 10:19 (NIV): “

I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.”

Jesus gave us authority to confront the forces of darkness. When you are under attack, speak the name of Jesus with authority, rebuking the evil forces and commanding them to leave. By invoking the name of Jesus, you align yourself with His divine power and dominion over all things, including the spiritual realm.

2) Prepare Yourself Spiritually Before Sleeping.

Before you go to bed, make it a habit to pray and surrender your night to God. This spiritual discipline helps you to establish a shield of protection over your life. The Bible warns us to guard our hearts and ensure that we are not giving the devil any foothold in our lives.

Ephesians 4:26-27 (NIV):

“In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.”

Spiritual attacks can be more frequent when there are unresolved issues in your heart, such as anger, unforgiveness, or bitterness. These emotions open doors for the enemy to exploit. Therefore, it’s essential to keep your heart clean before the Lord, asking for forgiveness and making sure there’s no resentment before you sleep.

Psalm 4:8 (NIV):

“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

God promises to provide peace and safety as you trust in Him, making it essential to release your anxieties and fears to God before sleeping.

3) Strengthen Your Faith.

If you are already using the name of Jesus and are praying before sleep but still experiencing attacks, the issue might lie in your faith. Faith is critical in spiritual warfare, and the Bible shows us that lack of faith can hinder our victory over the enemy.

Matthew 17:19-20 (NIV): “

Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, ‘Why couldn’t we drive it out?’ He replied, ‘Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.'”

Jesus said that even faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains. If you’re facing recurring spiritual attacks, it may be because your faith needs strengthening. You must trust that the power of Jesus’ name is greater than any spiritual force and that He has already won the victory for you through His death and resurrection.

Romans 8:37 (NIV):

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

As a believer, you are already victorious in Christ. Strengthening your faith in the promises of God will give you the boldness to confront these attacks without fear. The power of the Holy Spirit within you is greater than any demon or evil spirit that comes against you.

1 John 4:4 (NIV): “

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”

Final Encouragement: Stand Firm in Faith

Remember, just as Samson overcame the lion with the strength God had given him (Judges 14:5-6), you too can overcome any spiritual attack by trusting in the power that is already within you—through the Holy Spirit. Demons are powerless against you when you stand firm in faith, knowing that Jesus has already defeated them on the cross.

John 16:33 (NIV): “

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

You are not alone in this battle. The Lord is with you, and He will give you the strength to overcome.

2 Corinthians 10:4 (NIV): “

The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.”

Use the spiritual weapons God has given you: prayer, the name of Jesus, and unwavering faith. Rebuke the enemy with authority, and trust that God will fight on your behalf.

God bless you.

Shalom.

Please share this message with others.

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BEING CREATED IS NOT ENOUGH – TWO MORE THINGS ARE NEEDED

As the title of this lesson suggests, “Being created is not enough.” In other words, there are other necessary steps for God’s creation to reach its full purpose. Let’s explore these steps.

The first verse of the Bible sets the foundation for creation:

Genesis 1:1 (NIV)

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”

Here, the Bible introduces the idea of God as the Creator the One who brought the universe into existence ex nihilo (from nothing). Yet, as we read further, we see that creation wasn’t immediately “complete” in the sense that we understand a fully functioning world. That’s why the next verse clarifies:

Genesis 1:2a (NIV)

“Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep…”

This state of formlessness and emptiness is what theologians call tohu wa-bohu in Hebrew, meaning “waste and void.” The world was in a chaotic, uninhabitable state. It was dark, representing spiritual emptiness, a lack of God’s presence. But God did not leave the world in this state.

Two Divine Actions
God then took two essential actions to bring creation to its intended purpose:

  1. The Spirit of God moved over the waters:
    The Spirit of God (Hebrew Ruach Elohim) is not merely an abstract force but is the active, personal presence of God. The Spirit is often associated with life, renewal, and divine intervention (cf. Genesis 1:2b). In this instance, the Spirit begins the process of transformation.
  2. God’s Word was spoken:
    The divine Word, as God’s active expression, brings order and life. Genesis 1:3 says, “And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” The spoken Word of God is powerful and effective, bringing light out of darkness.

With these two divine actions the Spirit and the Word the creation begins to unfold in a purposeful and life-giving way.

The Importance of the Word and Spirit

John 1:1-5 (NIV)

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
He was with God in the beginning.
Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.
In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

Here, John explicitly connects the “Word” (Greek: Logos) with Jesus Christ. Jesus is not only the spoken Word but the eternal Logos, who was with God and who is God from the beginning. He was the agent through whom all things were created.

Jesus is the light that shines in the darkness, overcoming the darkness that we saw in Genesis. This light represents both the illumination of divine truth and the victory of life over the chaos and sin of the world.

What’s significant here is that Jesus, as the eternal Word, is central to God’s creative activity. This makes clear that any creation, whether physical or spiritual, is only truly complete when it is filled with His Word Jesus Christ.

The Spirit of God and New Creation

Romans 8:9 (NIV)

“You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ.”

The Holy Spirit is not just a power or a force, but the third Person of the Trinity. He is the one who regenerates the believer, giving new life to our spirit. Paul emphasizes that if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. Without the Spirit, one cannot be a true follower of Christ, and without the Word (Jesus), one cannot be fully aligned with God’s purposes.

This is why Jesus speaks of being born again through the Spirit, in order to see and enter the kingdom of God (cf. John 3:5-6). The Holy Spirit is the One who brings us into a new relationship with God, making us partakers of His divine nature (2 Peter 1:4).

Why Being “Born Again” is Essential

John 3:3 (NKJV)

“Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.’”

Being “born again” refers to the spiritual rebirth that occurs when a person accepts Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. It is essential because, through this spiritual rebirth, the believer receives forgiveness of sins and is made a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). It is the Holy Spirit who performs this work of regeneration.

Without this rebirth, a person is spiritually dead, separated from God. The new creation is only possible when both the Word (Jesus Christ) and the Spirit are active within the believer. This is when a person becomes truly complete and able to bear the fruits of righteousness that God desires.

Conclusion: Salvation in Christ

Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV)

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God not by works, so that no one can boast.”

To be saved is a gift from God, offered freely through the grace of Jesus Christ. But salvation is not just about being created or receiving grace it is about receiving Jesus Christ as both Savior and Lord. As the Bible teaches, we must be born again through the Spirit and made complete in Christ.

The urgency of this message is clear we are living in the last days. Christ’s return is imminent, and the world is heading toward its final conclusion. The question remains: Are you ready for the marriage supper of the Lamb in heaven? Where does your completeness stand before God?

Be blessed!

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JESUS IN HIS WEARINESS

The only recorded moment in the Gospels where we are explicitly told that Jesus was tired is found in John 4. This detail gives us profound insight into both His humanity and His mission. Jesus, fully God and fully man, experienced the full range of human limitations hunger, thirst, and fatigue   yet He never allowed these to hinder His obedience to the Father’s will.

1. Jesus’ Humanity and Physical Exhaustion

John 4:5–6 (NIV):

“So He came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and Jesus, tired as He was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon.”

The Greek word used here for “tired” (kekopiakōs) implies real physical fatigue. Jesus had been walking under the heat of the sun, most likely for several hours, through rough terrain. His weariness was genuine  not symbolic  demonstrating His full participation in the human condition (cf. Hebrews 4:15).

This moment reminds us that our Savior truly understands what it means to be physically and emotionally drained.

Hebrews 2:17 says, “For this reason He had to be made like them, fully human in every way…” so that He could become a merciful and faithful High Priest.

2. Divine Purpose in Human Weakness

While Jesus rested at the well, His disciples went into town to buy food (John 4:8). In this moment of isolation and physical weakness, the Father presents Him with a divine opportunity: a broken woman in need of living water.

Instead of prioritizing His own needs, Jesus engages in one of the most profound theological conversations recorded in the Gospels. He reveals Himself as the Messiah not to a religious leader, but to a marginalized, sinful Samaritan woman  a powerful demonstration of grace crossing ethnic, gender, and moral boundaries.

John 4:13–14 (NIV):

“Jesus answered, ‘Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.’”

Despite His tiredness, Jesus sows seeds that will lead to a spiritual harvest. Later in the chapter, He tells His disciples:

John 4:34–35 (NIV):

“‘My food,’ said Jesus, ‘is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to finish His work. Don’t you have a saying, “It’s still four months until harvest”? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.’”

This is the heart of Jesus’ obedience: putting the Father’s mission above His own comfort.

3. The Fruit of Faithful Obedience

The Samaritan woman is transformed by her encounter with Christ. She leaves her water jar  a symbol of her old priorities  and runs back to her town to tell others about Jesus.

John 4:28–30 (NIV):

“Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, ‘Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?’ They came out of the town and made their way toward Him.”

Because Jesus ministered in His weariness, many Samaritans believed (John 4:39–42). His temporary physical fatigue led to eternal spiritual fruit.

4. A Call to Faithfulness in Our Own Weariness

This account challenges us today. How often do we let exhaustion become our excuse?

“I’ve worked all week.”
“I’m too tired to pray.”
“This is my only day to rest.”

We often want to serve God when it’s convenient  when we’re energized, healthy, or have nothing else going on. But some of the most fruitful moments in ministry happen when we press through fatigue in obedience to God.

2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV):

“But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”

God does not waste our weakness. He honors the sacrifices we make when we serve Him even when it’s hard.

5. Strength in the Lord

We are not called to serve in our own strength, but in His.

Isaiah 40:29–31 (NIV):

“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but 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.”

This passage reminds us that divine strength is available to all who wait on the Lord. He renews, empowers, and enables us to keep going  even when we feel empty.

Shalom.

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THE POWER OF GOD BEYOND TIME

As believers, one of the most awe-inspiring truths we must grasp is this: God is not bound by time. His power operates both beyond and outside the human constraints of chronology. When we speak of God working “beyond time,” we often picture Him showing up in situations that seem overdue when the deadline has passed and hope seems lost. But we must also recognize that God can move ahead of time, intervening in ways that defy natural expectations.

1. God Moves After Time Has Passed The Case of Elizabeth and Sarah

In Luke 1:36, the angel tells Mary:

“Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month.” (Luke 1:36, NIV)

Elizabeth, much like Sarah in the Old Testament, conceived when it was physically and biologically improbable. Genesis 18:11 says of Sarah:

“Abraham and Sarah were already very old, and Sarah was past the age of childbearing.” (Genesis 18:11, NIV)

In both cases, God worked after what human reasoning deemed “too late.” This is a divine reminder that delays in our lives do not limit God’s ability to fulfill His promises.

2. God Moves Before Time Has Come The Miracle of Mary

Conversely, in the same narrative, Mary conceives before any human process begins. Luke 1:34-35 records her astonishment:

“‘How will this be,’ Mary asked the angel, ‘since I am a virgin?’ The angel answered, ‘The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.'” (Luke 1:34–35, NIV)

Mary’s pregnancy was not just a miracle it was a prophetic fulfillment brought about ahead of the natural order. This reveals that God is not only a Redeemer of lost time but also a God of acceleration, who can usher in seasons before they are expected.

3. Living Between Two Dimensions of Time

In your spiritual journey, you may experience both kinds of seasons:Delayed breakthroughs that come after much waiting and testing.Accelerated blessings that arrive suddenly, without warning or preparation.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us:

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1, NIV)

Yet God, who created time, is not restricted to it. He intervenes at kairos moments divinely appointed times that override chronos (natural time).

4. Trusting God’s Unsearchable Ways

In moments of delay, we may question God’s timing. In seasons of sudden blessing, we may feel undeserving or unprepared. Yet in both, God’s wisdom remains perfect.

“Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!” (Romans 11:33, NIV)

“Submit to God and be at peace with him; in this way prosperity will come to you.” (Job 22:21, NIV)

When you trust God beyond your own understanding of timing, peace and divine goodness follow.

Be blessed.

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What Is Incense? And Are Christians Allowed To Burn Incense?

Question: Is incense mentioned in the Bible? And what was its purpose?

Answer: Incense was one of the ingredients used in ancient times to make the sacred perfume called frankincense.

This ingredient (incense) comes from the resin produced by a tree known as Boswellia (see picture above). The Boswellia tree begins to produce resin between 8 to 10 years after being planted, and it thrives best in dry regions.

In the Bible, “incense” was mixed together with three other ingredients stacte, onycha, and galbanum to prepare the sacred perfume called incense. The high priest would burn it so that its smoke filled the Tabernacle before carrying out the work of atonement.

That kind of incense was strictly forbidden for any personal or private use. In other words, no one was allowed to make it using the same formula for their home, personal worship, or as perfume. Doing so was considered a serious offense.

Exodus 30:34–38

Then the Lord said to Moses, “Take fragrant spices gum resin, onycha and galbanum and pure frankincense, all in equal amounts,

and make a fragrant blend of incense, the work of a perfumer. It is to be salted and pure and sacred.

Grind some of it to powder and place it in front of the ark of the covenant law in the tent of meeting, where I will meet with you. It shall be most holy to you.

Do not make any incense with this formula for yourselves; consider it holy to the Lord.

Whoever makes incense like it to enjoy its fragrance must be cut off from their people.”

To understand more deeply about incense and its spiritual meaning, see here >> WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO OFFER INCENSE?

But the question remains: Are Christians today allowed to burn incense in worship or in our homes?

The answer is No. Christians have not been given any command to burn incense or to involve themselves with it. The incense was used under the Old Covenant in the Tabernacle, but after the New Covenant began, those practices became spiritual rather than physical. Therefore, no incense, frankincense, or any such spices are required in worship under the New Covenant.

Why are the rituals of burning incense no longer practiced?

For the same reason that animal sacrifices are no longer practiced. Today we do not use bulls or goats for the forgiveness of sins, because the blood of Jesus cleanses us in the spiritual realm.

In the same way, we cannot burn incense to draw the presence of God, since now we can do this through prayer and intercession.

Psalm 141:2

May my prayer be set before you like incense;

may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.

So, animal sacrifices (bulls, goats, lambs, doves) and the burning of incense have now become practices of pagan worship. Whoever engages in them invites the presence of spirits, not of God! Therefore, it is crucial to be careful.

May the Lord bless you.

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What Is the Conscience According to the Bible?

The conscience is an inner sense or awareness that enables a person to distinguish between right and wrong, good and evil, appropriate and inappropriate. It is an innate moral compass given by God to every human being at birth. This awareness does not originate from education or upbringing—it is part of human nature.

The conscience acts like an internal witness or a second person within you. It either affirms your decisions or convicts you of wrongdoing—both before and after you take action. If something is morally wrong, your conscience may trouble you by stirring up feelings of unease, guilt, or fear. On the other hand, when you do what is right, your conscience offers peace, joy, and confidence.

Conscience at Work

For instance, if someone considers committing murder or theft, even without anyone telling them it is wrong, something within—their conscience—warns them that such actions are not right. If the person listens to this inner warning, they will likely abandon their intentions.

This conscience is a divine gift, and it is referenced in multiple passages in the Bible.

Biblical Example: The Woman Caught in Adultery

One well-known example of the conscience at work is found in John 8:3–11. The Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery to Jesus, trying to trap Him. According to the Law of Moses, such a woman was to be stoned. But Jesus challenged them:

“Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.”
(John 8:7, NIV)

The result?

“At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left…”
(John 8:9, NIV)

Their consciences were pricked—they were convicted internally. Though eager to accuse, their own guilt caused them to walk away. This is a powerful example of the conscience bearing witness to moral truth.

The Conscience in the Last Days

The Bible also warns that in the last days, many will ignore their consciences and embrace deception:

“The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron.”
(1 Timothy 4:1–2, NIV)

A “seared conscience” means the moral sensitivity is deadened. Like skin burned by fire, it no longer feels—people lose their moral awareness and become numb to sin.

Other Key Scriptures on Conscience

  • Acts 23:1 – Paul says:

    “My brothers, I have fulfilled my duty to God in all good conscience to this day.”

  • Romans 2:15 – Paul describes the conscience in both Jews and Gentiles:

    “…their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts sometimes accusing them and at other times even defending them.”

  • Romans 9:1 –

    “My conscience confirms it through the Holy Spirit.”

  • Romans 13:5 –

    “Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.”

Can a Conscience Die?

If you no longer feel guilt, remorse, or moral conviction when doing wrong—if your conscience is silent even in sin—it may be an indication that your inner self has been damaged. Biblically speaking, this is often the result of persistent sin and resistance to God’s voice.

But there is hope. Through Jesus Christ, your conscience can be made alive again.

The Restoration of the Conscience

When you surrender your life to Jesus, get baptized, and are filled with the Holy Spirit, your dead or weakened conscience can be renewed.

“How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!”
(Hebrews 9:14, NIV)

Christ’s blood not only forgives sin—it also purifies the conscience, enabling us to serve God with a clean heart and sound mind.

Conclusion and Encouragement

If you feel that your conscience is weak, dull, or “dead,” turn to Jesus today. Let Him restore your inner being and give you a renewed heart. When your conscience is alive and guided by the Holy Spirit, it becomes a powerful ally in your walk with God.

“Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience…”
(Hebrews 10:22, NIV)

May the Lord bless you as you seek to live with a clear and Godly conscience.

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