Title Rehema Jonathan

Praise be to the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Welcome to another study of the Bible. We have already covered several books from the beginning. 

Today, we continue our journey by exploring another book, the Book of Job.

THE BOOK OF JOB

The Book of Job is the oldest book in the Bible, written long before the Book of Genesis. While Moses is credited with writing the Book of Genesis, he is also believed to have written the Book of Job.

Moses wrote the Book of Job first, and after that, the other books of the Torah, like Genesis, Exodus, and so on. It’s important to note that Moses did not live during Job’s time. Job lived many years before Moses, and the events of Job’s life were initially recorded by Job himself and those around him, such as his friends and family. Even after Job’s death, his story lived on, though it wasn’t organized into a formal book. When Moses came much later, under divine guidance, he gathered all the details about Job and presented them in an orderly form, resulting in the Book of Job we read today.

The Book of Job starts by introducing Job’s background: where he was born and his devotion to God. Job was from the land of Uz, which today is located in the southern part of Jordan (you can check a map to see where Jordan is).

Job lived before Abraham, meaning he was not an Israelite, but he knew the true God and feared Him, following the faith passed down from his ancestors (like Noah).

The Book of Job is divided into four main sections:

1. Part 1 (Chapters 1–2): This section tells the story of Job’s life and the trials he faced.

2. Part 2 (Chapters 3–38): This section focuses on the dialogues between Job and his three friends.

3. Part 3 (Chapters 39–41): God intervenes in the discussions and brings them to an end.

4. Part 4 (Chapter 42): God passes judgment on Job and his friends for their words.

Let’s begin with Part 1:

Part 1:
This part includes the first two chapters, which are easier to understand than the others that follow. These chapters describe how Job was upright and righteous before God he was a man who feared God and avoided evil (Job 1:1, ESV).

Additionally, these two chapters provide us with a glimpse of the spiritual realities above us. They show that, while we live our lives, there is someone accusing us before God, and this is the cause of the trials we face. It’s just one chapter in the Bible, but it reveals a profound truth: the righteous can go through suffering. If you want to understand more about how these accusations are taking place in heaven, you can explore the topic further here >>> HOW SATAN BLOCKS OUR PRAYERS. But for now, let’s not dive too deep into that.

In Job 1:6-12, we witness Satan presenting himself before God and accusing Job, stating that Job only fears God because of the blessings he enjoys. God permits Satan to test Job’s faith through suffering, but He sets limits on how far Satan can go. This highlights the theological concept of the sovereignty of God even in the midst of trials, God is in control and allows suffering within His divine purpose. Job’s faithfulness is tested, but his response,

“The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21, ESV),

sets a theological example of how believers are called to respond to suffering.

Part 2:
From Chapters 3 to 38, this part focuses on the conversations between Job and his three friends: Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar.

These three friends had known Job for a long time and were filled with wisdom. When they heard about the terrible misfortunes Job was experiencing, they came to comfort him and offer advice (Job 2:11-13). However, they did not realize that their counsel was not in line with God’s will. They believed with certainty that Job must have sinned against God in some way to deserve such suffering. Their advice was based solely on their human reasoning, and they were unaware of the spiritual battle taking place in heaven. They came with the sole purpose of convincing Job to repent for hidden sins, which they assumed caused his calamities. They argued that no one could face such suffering unless they had offended God.

Despite Job’s insistence that he had done nothing wrong, his friends didn’t believe him. They continued to accuse him of sinning. This led to a prolonged back-and-forth of arguments, each of Job’s friends offering their wisdom to explain his suffering. Job, in turn, defended himself, stating he had done nothing wrong. The conversation went on for a long time, and eventually, they all became exhausted. At that point, a younger man named Elihu entered the scene and tried to offer his advice as well.

The theological principle of retributive justice (that suffering is always a direct result of personal sin) is a key concept addressed throughout these dialogues, particularly through Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar’s arguments (Job 4:7-9; 8:4-7; 11:6-7). However, God later rebukes these friends for misrepresenting His character and actions, showing that while suffering can sometimes be a result of sin, it is not always the case (Job 42:7-9). This teaches us that human understanding of suffering is limited, and we must trust in God’s higher wisdom.

Part 3:
After all the debates and arguments, God responds to Job in a mighty way, through a storm a whirlwind. This was something Job had never seen before, and it made him realize the vastness and mystery of God’s wisdom.

In Job 38:1, it says: “

Then the Lord spoke to Job out of the whirlwind and said,”

And then God asks Job a series of questions, the first of which is:

“Who is this that obscures my plans with words without knowledge?” (Job 38:2, ESV)

Essentially, God was saying, “Who are you to question my work with ignorant words?” This question was directed not only at Job but also at his three friends, whose words were accusing God of wrongdoing in how He dealt with Job. God’s response is not to answer Job’s questions directly but to point him to the greatness and majesty of His creation, highlighting Job’s limited understanding of divine sovereignty.

As you read on through to Chapter 41, you’ll see that God continues to question Job about the greatness of His creation and His sovereignty, questions which Job could never answer. One example is found

in Job 38:4:
“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand.”

This was a question Job had no answer for, and there were many other questions like it. Through these questions, God teaches Job and the reader a profound lesson about humility and the limits of human wisdom (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Part 4:
After God finishes asking Job all these questions, Job realizes he cannot answer them. He humbles himself and repents for questioning God’s ways. Although Job never doubted God’s existence, he recognized that challenging God’s actions was wrong. So, he repented by putting on sackcloth and remaining silent. You can read about this in Job 42:1-6.

In Job 42:1-6, Job says:
“I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted. You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’ Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.”

Job then admits that he has sinned by questioning God and repents in dust and ashes.

This is an act of repentance and humility, showing that even the most righteous must acknowledge their limitations and trust in God’s greater plan. This repentance echoes throughout Scripture as a model for how believers should approach God, especially when faced with suffering and mystery (Psalm 51:17).

After Job repents, God turns to Job’s three friends Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar—and expresses His anger toward them. Their words had been more destructive than Job’s, and they had falsely accused God’s ways. God tells them to offer a sacrifice and go to Job for prayer, promising to forgive them through Job’s intercession.

In Job 42:7-9, it says:
“After the Lord had said these things to Job, he said to Eliphaz the Temanite, ‘I am angry with you and your two friends, because you have not spoken the truth about me, as my servant Job has.’”

God then commands them to offer a sacrifice and have Job pray for them.

Finally, God restores Job’s fortunes, blessing him with twice as much as he had before (Job 42:10).

Conclusion:

From the Book of Job, we learn several key lessons:

1. Fear God and avoid evil, as Job did (Job 1:1).

2. Patience during trials (James 5:11: “As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.”)

3. Living a pure life because our accuser, Satan, accuses us daily (Revelation 12:10). If Satan accused Job because of his righteousness, imagine how he might accuse us if we are living in sin.

4. Avoid religious arguments (Even if you know the truth, it’s unwise to argue with someone who refuses to believe it. Job knew he was right, but engaging in argument was still displeasing to God—Job 40:4-5).

5. The righteous suffer but that does not mean God has abandoned them (1 Peter 4:12-13). Many people today wrongly believe that if a believer faces hardship, God has forsaken them.

6. Pray for our friends and enemies. Despite being wronged by his friends, Job prayed for them and did not curse them. This opened the door to God’s blessing upon him (Matthew 5:44).

As it says in Job 42:10,

“After Job prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before.”

May this understanding deepen our faith and give us a better perspective on the sovereignty of God over all circumstances.

In many traditional cultures, there is a belief in the “evil eye” the idea that someone can cause harm, misfortune, or even curses simply by looking at another person with envy or ill intent. This belief has led some to use protective charms, rituals, or spiritual objects to shield themselves. But what does the Bible really say about the “evil eye”? Is this belief supported by Scripture?

Let’s explore this biblically and theologically.

1. Jesus and the Evil Eye – Mark 7:21–23

Mark 7:21–23 (NKJV):
“For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders,
thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness.
All these evil things come from within and defile a man.”

In this passage, Jesus confronts the Pharisees’ obsession with external rituals and shows that true defilement comes from the heart, not from external factors. Among the sins He lists is “an evil eye.”

The Greek term used here for “evil eye” is “ophthalmos ponēros,” which refers not to mystical power, but to an attitude of envy, jealousy, greed, or stinginess. Jesus was exposing the inward corruption of a person who views others with resentment or selfish desire.

2. The Parable of the Workers – Matthew 20:15

Matthew 20:15 (NKJV):
“Is it not lawful for me to do what I wish with my own things? Or is your eye evil because I am good?”

This is part of a parable where a landowner pays all his laborers the same wage, regardless of how long they worked. Some workers grumbled because they thought it was unfair.

Jesus uses the phrase “your eye evil” (Greek: ophthalmos ponēros) to reveal their jealousy and resentment at the generosity shown to others. The theological message here is about God’s grace He gives not based on our effort but on His mercy. To envy God’s kindness to someone else is to have an “evil eye.”

3. Old Testament Example   Deuteronomy 15:9

Deuteronomy 15:9 (NKJV):
“Beware lest there be a wicked thought in your heart, saying, ‘The seventh year, the year of release, is at hand,’ and your eye be evil against your poor brother and you give him nothing, and he cry out to the Lord against you, and it become sin among you.”

Here, the Law warns against withholding generosity near the seventh year, when debts were canceled. If someone refused to help a needy person out of fear of financial loss, they were said to have an “evil eye” a selfish and ungodly attitude.

This reveals a consistent theme: an evil eye is a heart posture, not a magical curse. It means refusing kindness, harboring jealousy, and acting in selfishness.

4. Spiritual Health   Matthew 6:22–23

Matthew 6:22–23 (NKJV):
“The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light.
But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!”

This teaching is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. A “good eye” is generous, pure, and focused on the Kingdom of God (see Proverbs 22:9). A “bad” or “evil eye” is stingy, greedy, and full of envy. The condition of your inner perspective affects your entire spiritual life.

5. The Root: Envy and Selfishness

Theologically, the “evil eye” in Scripture is consistently tied to envy, jealousy, greed, and selfish motives. It stems from a heart not transformed by God’s love. Paul describes similar sinful attitudes in:

Galatians 5:19–21 (NKJV):
“Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness,
idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions… and the like;
of which I tell you beforehand… that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

6. Practical Application

We are called to guard our hearts against envy and comparison. The cure for the “evil eye” is not a charm, ritual, or religious item it is a renewed heart through faith in Christ.

Titus 3:3–5 (NKJV):
“For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient… living in malice and envy…
But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us…”

Conclusion

The Bible does not support the superstitious idea of the evil eye as a mystical curse. Instead, it teaches that the true “evil eye” is a spirit of envy, jealousy, greed, and selfishness attitudes that defile the soul and grieve God.

Let us ask the Lord to purify our hearts so that we may rejoice in the blessings of others, give generously, and walk in love and light.

Psalm 51:10 (NKJV):
“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”

Shalom.

Introduction

Children are a gift from the Lord (Psalm 127:3), and with that gift comes a divine responsibility. As parents and guardians, we are not only called to provide for their physical needs but also to secure their spiritual foundation. The enemy Satan is not selective by age. He seeks to destroy, starting as early as possible.

In Mark 9:17–29, we encounter a boy possessed by an unclean spirit that had afflicted him since childhood.

This incident reveals a profound spiritual reality: children can be spiritually oppressed, and it’s the duty of parents to stand in the gap.

Let’s explore what this means and what practical steps a godly parent can take.

1. Spiritual Warfare Can Begin in Childhood

Mark 9:21 (ESV)
“And Jesus asked his father, ‘How long has this been happening to him?’ And he said, ‘From childhood.’”

Jesus, knowing all things (John 16:30), asks this to emphasize how early the boy’s suffering began. This is a warning to all of us spiritual battles do not wait for adulthood. The enemy begins early because he knows the foundation is everything.

Proverbs 20:11 (ESV)
“Even a child makes himself known by his acts, by whether his conduct is pure and upright.”

If a child can be known by his actions, it means the battle for character and righteousness begins early and so can demonic influence.

2. The Devil Targets Children to Destroy Futures

John 10:10 (ESV)
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

The demon in Mark 9 tried to throw the boy into fire and water to destroy him (Mark 9:22). This is symbolic of Satan’s mission: destroy destinies before they even begin.

Ephesians 6:12 (ESV) reminds us:
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness…”

As a parent, you’re not just dealing with behavior you’re in a spiritual battle for your child’s soul.

3. The Parent’s Responsibility: Laying a Strong Spiritual Foundation

Proverbs 22:6 (ESV)
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”

If we don’t teach our children the ways of God, the world and worse, the devil will gladly step in to fill that gap.

This training involves:

A. Discipline in Love

Discipline is not abuse; it is correction for righteousness.

Proverbs 23:13–14 (ESV)
“Do not withhold discipline from a child; if you strike him with a rod, he will not die. If you strike him with the rod, you will save his soul from Sheol.”

Discipline done prayerfully and in love teaches children about boundaries, obedience, and consequences all vital in the spiritual life.

B. Teaching the Word of God

Deuteronomy 6:6–7 (ESV)
“And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children…”

Teach your child to:

• Memorize Scripture

• Sing hymns and worship songs

• Pray

• Read the Bible (or listen to stories from it at their level)

Even if they don’t understand fully now, the Word will dwell in their hearts and guide them in the future.

C. Consistent Intercessory Prayer

Job 1:5 (ESV)
“Job would send and consecrate them, and he would rise early in the morning and offer burnt offerings… Thus Job did continually.”

Job regularly prayed for his children. Parents are priests in their homes we must cover our children with prayer daily, pleading the blood of Jesus over them.

D. Guarding Their Eyes, Ears, and Surroundings

Psalm 101:3 (ESV)
“I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless.”

Monitor:

• The shows and videos they watch

• The music they listen to

• The games they play

• The clothes they wear

• The friends they keep

Not everything that entertains is spiritually safe. Teach your child discernment and model it through your own lifestyle.

4. The Enemy Will Strike If You Don’t Build the Hedge

1 Peter 5:8 (ESV)
“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

If you don’t lay the spiritual foundation for your child, the devil will gladly lay his. The boy in Mark 9 was afflicted from childhood. How many children today are carrying invisible battles because no one ever prayed for them, corrected them, or led them to Jesus?

Final Word: Build Their Future Today

Every godly parent has the privilege and the command of standing as watchmen over their children’s souls.

• Discipline with love

• Teach the truth

• Pray without ceasing

• Guard their minds and hearts

When we do this, our children will be like trees planted by streams of living water (Psalm 1:3), and they will not be easily shaken when trials come.

Isaiah 54:13 (ESV)
“All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children.”

And the Lord will bless you.

Blessed be the name of our Lord Jesus. Welcome, let’s learn together from the Bible.

In the Bible, God did not change people’s names based on the meanings of their names. It is crucial to understand this, as failing to do so may lead the enemy to cause you distress over the meaning of your name. If you don’t understand how God works, you may be swayed by various teachings and ideologies that only bind people rather than set them free, burden them instead of relieving them.

John 8:36 says, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

Let’s now examine a few individuals in the Bible whose names were changed and look at the meanings of their names before and after the change. This will help us understand God’s character more clearly.

1. Abraham

Abraham’s original name was Abram, which means “Exalted Father.” His new name, Abraham, means “Father of many nations.”

Genesis 17:5 says, “No longer will you be called Abram; your name will be Abraham, for I have made you a father of many nations.”

God didn’t change Abraham’s name because the first name had a bad meaning no! The original name was actually good. Being called “Exalted Father” is not a bad name at all. However, when God made His covenant with Abraham, promising that he would be the father of many nations, God changed his name to Abraham. The name change was a result of the purpose and calling God had for his life.

2. Sarah

Sarah was Abraham’s wife and was initially called Sarai, meaning “Princess.” Her name was changed to Sarah, which means “Mother of Nations.”

Genesis 17:15 states, “God also said to Abraham, ‘As for Sarai your wife, you are no longer to call her Sarai; her name will be Sarah.’”
Her name wasn’t changed because it had a bad meaning, but because of God’s promise. God promised that Abraham would be the father of many nations, and Sarah would be the mother of many nations and kings. Just as a child matures into a parent, her name change reflected her new role as the mother of nations.

3. Jacob

Jacob, the son of Isaac, had his name changed from Jacob to Israel. The name “Jacob” means “Supplanter” or “Heel holder,” because when he was born, he was holding onto his brother’s heel (Genesis 25:26). The name Israel means “Struggles with God” or “Prevails with God.”

Genesis 32:28 says, “Then the man said, ‘Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.’”
Jacob’s name wasn’t changed because the meaning of his name was bad. It was changed after he wrestled with God and overcame. The change in his name reflected the new purpose and promise God had for him. If the meaning of the name was the issue, then the Apostle James (who was also called Jacob) would also have had his name changed. But his name remained the same, and he continued faithfully serving as an apostle of Jesus.

4. Peter

Peter was originally called Simon.

In John 1:42, it says, “And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, ‘You are Simon, the son of John; you will be called Cephas’ (which, when translated, is Peter).”

The meaning of the name Simon is “He has heard,” while the meaning of Cephas/Peter is “a small stone to throw,” not “rock.”

Matthew 16:18 records Jesus saying, “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.”

Jesus didn’t change Simon’s name because it had a bad meaning. The name change was linked to the purpose and role Simon would play in the work ahead, where he would be used by God as a foundational part of the church. Jesus chose to call him “Peter,” which signifies the role Peter would play in the establishment of the church.

5. Saul (Paul)

Finally, let’s look at the Apostle Paul, who was originally called Saul. The meaning of “Saul” is “Asked for” or “Prayed for.” His name was changed to Paul, which means “Small.”

Acts 13:9 states, “Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked straight at Elymas and said…”

God didn’t change Saul’s name because the meaning was bad. In fact, in a worldly sense, “Saul” might sound like a better name than “Paul.” But the name change reflected the work God had planned for him, which would require Paul to humble himself and become small in his own eyes for the service ahead.

In Ephesians 3:7-8, Paul says, “I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power. Although I am less than the least of all the Lord’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.”

The Importance of Our Names

The Bible clearly shows that God changed people’s names based on their purpose, calling, or the covenant God made with them, not because their original names were inherently bad. The name change often signified a new role or a promise from God. However, it’s important to note that the meaning of your name isn’t what determines your relationship with God. It is your faith and obedience that matter.

Revelation 20:12 says, “And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books.”

This passage reminds us that our actions, not the meaning of our names, are what matter in the end. God judges based on our deeds, faith, and obedience to His will, not on the names we carry.

In conclusion, changing your name after getting saved is not necessary. If you feel led by God to change your name, that’s fine, but remember that God does not look at the meaning of your name to decide your destiny. What matters is your relationship with Him and how you live out His calling in your life.

May we focus on living according to God’s will, just as those in the Bible did, and trust that He is with us in every step, regardless of our names.

Maranatha!

Have you ever had a dream where you were walking on water? You might have woken up wondering what it means. In Scripture, this act is most famously associated with our Lord Jesus Christ and later briefly with Peter. So, what is God trying to tell you through such a dream?

Let’s explore the biblical context and spiritual meaning behind it.

The Biblical Event: Jesus Walks on Water

The story is found in Matthew 14:22–33, and it’s more than a supernatural displayit’s a powerful spiritual lesson.

“Now in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out for fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.’”
– Matthew 14:25–27 (NKJV)

Peter, full of faith, asked to join Him:

“And Peter answered Him and said, ‘Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.’ So He said, ‘Come.’ And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus.”
– Matthew 14:28–29 (NKJV)

But Peter’s focus wavered:

“But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, ‘Lord, save me!’ And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, ‘O you of little faith, why did you doubt?’”
– Matthew 14:30–31 (NKJV)

Spiritual Meaning: Faith Over Fear

This passage is more than history it’s a spiritual principle. Walking on water is humanly impossible, but through Christ, Peter did it until fear and doubt crept in.

Theologically, this reflects how faith in Jesus enables believers to do the impossible, as long as their focus remains on Him. Doubt, however, interrupts divine possibilities.

“Jesus said to him, ‘If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.’”
– Mark 9:23 (NKJV)

So, if you dream of walking on water, God might be reminding you: Your faith has power, but only when it is grounded in Him. It’s not about personal strength or ability it’s about divine dependence.

The Role of Prayer and Fasting

Later in Matthew, Jesus explains how to deal with spiritual challenges and grow stronger in faith:

“However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”
– Matthew 17:21 (NKJV)

Before Jesus walked on water, He spent hours in prayer (Matthew 14:23). This shows us that walking in divine authority requires intimacy with God. In dreams, walking on water could symbolize a spiritual calling that needs deep devotion, prayer, and spiritual discipline.

Living in God’s Power Today

If you are living in sin or far from God, such dreams may be a call to repentance. The impossible becomes possible only when Christ lives in you.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
– Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)

But if you are saved and still feel spiritually dry or powerless, the dream could be a call to deeper fellowship. Set aside time for prayer, study the Word, fast, and seek the Holy Spirit’s power. Only then will your spiritual walk reflect the kind of supernatural faith God desires.

If You’re Not Yet Saved

The first step is surrender:

“That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
– Romans 10:9 (NKJV)

Turn away from sin, ask for forgiveness, and begin a new life in Christ. Baptism and a consistent walk with God through His Word and Spirit will guide your steps.

Conclusion: The Message of the Dream

So, what does dreaming of walking on water mean? It’s likely a divine reminder that:

1. All things are possible with God.

2. Faith must overcome fear and doubt.

3. A deeper relationship with God through prayer and fasting is necessary to access spiritual authority.

4. If you’re not saved, it’s an invitation to come to Christ.

Never forget what Jesus said:

“However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting.”
– Matthew 17:21 (NKJV)

Amen

QUESTION:
Shalom. I’ve been experiencing a strange issue at night. I sometimes feel frozen—as if I can’t move my hands, legs, or even speak. My mind remains alert, but I can’t do anything physically. I usually try to call on the name of Jesus, and although it takes some time, eventually I’m released. What could this mean? Please help me understand.

ANSWER:
What you’re experiencing is commonly described by many people, and it can have both a natural explanation (like sleep paralysis) and a spiritual dimension—especially in the context of your experience with prayer and the name of Jesus.

From a spiritual and biblical perspective, such experiences often represent spiritual warfare or battles that take place in dreams or in the spiritual realm. The key detail is that when you call on the name of Jesus, the oppressive state eventually breaks. This suggests that God may be revealing to you the power and authority that lies in Jesus’ name especially in moments of weakness or spiritual attack.

1. God Speaks Through Dreams

The Bible confirms that God communicates through dreams.

“For God speaks again and again, though people do not recognize it. He speaks in dreams, in visions of the night, when deep sleep falls on people as they lie in their beds.”
 Job 33:14–15 

So, a dream or experience where you are being attacked, frozen, or overwhelmed but find deliverance through Jesus can be a message from God meant to teach or prepare you for deeper spiritual truths.

2. The Name of Jesus Has Power

In all the examples you’ve described whether it’s battling demonic forces, feeling voiceless, or paralyzed victory comes when the name of Jesus is invoked. This is consistent with Scripture.

“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.”
 Philippians 2:9–10 (NIV)

“And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues.”
 Mark 16:17 (NIV)

The fact that victory comes as you persist in calling on Jesus shows that God is reminding you of your spiritual weapon—the authority found in Christ’s name. But this power is most effective when it’s grounded in a personal relationship with Him.

3. Spiritual Authority Comes Through Relationship

Simply mentioning Jesus’ name without understanding or living in Him is not enough. Spiritual authority comes through deep connection to Jesus and His Word.

“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”
 John 15:7 (NIV)

“The seventy-two 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.’”
 Luke 10:17–19 (NIV)

So your experience is a reminder that real spiritual power comes not just from saying the right words but from knowing Jesus deeply and walking in obedience to His Word.

4. Sleep Paralysis and Spiritual Insight

Some dreams like the one you described, where you feel frozen or unable to move, are also similar to real physical phenomena like sleep paralysis. However, in some spiritual cases, this can serve as a revelation.

It may also be God showing you what it feels like at the moment of death or spiritual separation from the body.

“And the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.”
 Ecclesiastes 12:7 (ESV)

Many who’ve had near-death experiences report being conscious and aware while their body was lifeless. If your dream felt real, it could be God’s way of showing you that life continues after death, and the spiritual realm is very real. This raises a deeper question for every believer: Are we prepared for where our soul will go when we leave our body?

Final Reflection:

The main message from your experience is this:
God is teaching you that victory over spiritual darkness comes through the power of Jesus’ name and that name becomes most powerful in your life when you’re rooted in Him and His Word.

Use this dream as a wake-up call to grow deeper in your faith, study Scripture, and walk closely with Christ.

May you be strengthened and encouraged in your walk with the Lord.

Many people experience this type of dream, especially those who were once saved (born-again) but are now entangled in worldly matters or have completely fallen away from the faith. It often serves as a spiritual warning from God.

The dream may come in various forms: being left behind by a car, a bus, a plane, or by companions who were on a journey with you. However, the most common variation is dreaming of being left behind by a vehicle usually a bus.

A Testimony of a Troubling Dream

One man shared a dream his friend had that greatly disturbed him. In the dream, the friend was on a bus traveling somewhere. The bus stopped due to traffic, and seeing that it was idle, he decided to step off briefly. But unexpectedly, the bus started moving again. He ran after it and found many others men, women, and children also running after the same bus.

Eventually, with great effort, he caught up and boarded the bus. But when he got inside, his seat was already taken. He had to squeeze himself into another spot, only to be pushed away by an elderly man. He then saw an empty seat nearby and sat down, just before waking up.

The Interpretation

This dream was a spiritual revelation. The man had once accepted Christ and began the journey of salvation, but due to pressures and distractions of this world, he drifted away. God was revealing to him that he had left his spiritual position and was struggling to regain it.

Hebrews 10:38-39 (NKJV) says:

“Now the just shall live by faith; But if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him. But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul.”

James 4:4 (NIV) warns:

“You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.”

The struggle to re-enter the bus and the seat being taken illustrates the danger of delaying repentance. It aligns with Luke 13:24 (NIV):

“Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to.”

Like Lot’s Wife

Turning back to worldly pleasures is dangerous. The Bible gives the example of Lot’s wife, who was warned to flee but looked back and was turned into a pillar of salt.

Luke 17:32 (NKJV) simply says:

“Remember Lot’s wife.”

The implication is clear looking back or returning to a sinful life after knowing the truth is spiritually fatal.

If You’ve Had This Dream

If you have had such a dream, it may be a direct warning from God: you are losing your salvation. Continuing in this path of spiritual neglect or worldliness may cost you your eternal life.

Hebrews 2:3 (NKJV) asks:

“How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation…?”

And if you’ve never been saved at all if you’ve never surrendered your life to Jesus Christ this dream is a divine call to repentance. It shows how terrifying and tragic it will be to be left behind when the final journey begins.

Romans 6:23 (NKJV):

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

The Call to Salvation

Jesus is calling you to begin a new journey with Him. This message is not a coincidence it’s God speaking directly to you.

John 14:6 (NKJV):

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’”

Isaiah 35:8 (NIV) adds:

“And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness; it will be for those who walk on that Way. The unclean will not journey on it; wicked fools will not go about on it.”

This world and all its pleasures will pass away. You may chase the things of the world endlessly, but in the end, your soul remains the most important part of you.

1 John 2:17 (NIV):

“The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”

What Must You Do?

If you feel the call to return to God, or to begin your journey of faith for the first time, pray this prayer sincerely, in faith:

PRAYER OF SALVATION

Heavenly Father, I come before You, acknowledging that I am a sinner and have fallen short of Your glory. I have walked in rebellion and deserve judgment. But I believe that You are a merciful God, slow to anger and rich in love.

I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who died for my sins and rose again for my justification. I confess Him as my Lord and Savior. Wash me with His precious blood, cleanse me from all unrighteousness, and make me a new creation, beginning today and for all eternity.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for receiving me and forgiving me. Amen.

Next Steps

If you have prayed that prayer with faith, now take the next step:

• Repent genuinely by turning away from all known sin.

• Find a Bible-believing, Spirit-filled church.

• Be baptized in water by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38).

• Begin studying the Word of God and walk daily in obedience and fellowship with other believers.

Philippians 1:6 (NIV) says:

“…He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

God bless you abundantly. Your journey has just begun.

At some point, many people experience a deeply emotional dream where a loved one such as a parent, sibling, or close friend dies. These dreams can feel alarmingly real, sometimes leaving you in tears or panic when you wake up. It’s only after a few moments that you realize, thankfully, it was just a dream. You may find yourself whispering, “Thank You, Lord, that it wasn’t real.”

But are such dreams meaningless? Not necessarily. In fact, from a theological standpoint, such dreams can serve as spiritual wake-up calls a way God reminds us of life’s fragility and the reality of death.

1. Dreams and God’s Communication

In Scripture, God often used dreams to communicate with people. Consider Joseph, son of Jacob, who received divine revelations through dreams (Genesis 37). In the New Testament, God warned Joseph (the husband of Mary) in a dream to flee to Egypt with baby Jesus (Matthew 2:13). While not every dream is from God, some are certainly a tool He uses to draw our attention to serious matters.

2. Death: A Reality We Must Face

Whether a dream points to a literal future event or not, it often reminds us that death is certain.

“Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment.”
 Hebrews 9:27 (NIV)

It’s not always about how someone will die, but that death will one day come. These dreams can urge us to consider the spiritual state of those we love and even ourselves.

3. What Should You Do About It?

If you’ve had such a dream, don’t be alarmed be awakened. Here are two biblical responses:

A. Share the Gospel With Your Loved Ones

It’s not enough to hope our loved ones “live good lives.” The Bible teaches that salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ alone.

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”
 John 14:6 (NIV)

“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
 Romans 10:9 (NIV)

Whether your loved ones are religious or not, it is your responsibility as a believer to share the message of the cross that Christ died and rose again to offer forgiveness and eternal life.

B. Pray for Their Souls and Protection

Intercessory prayer is powerful. In fact, the prophet Samuel considered it a sin to stop praying for Israel even when they had sinned.

“As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right.”
 1 Samuel 12:23 (NIV)

Similarly, Moses often interceded for Israel during their rebellion (Exodus 32:9–14). God listens to those who stand in the gap. When you walk with Christ, your prayers are heard.

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
 James 5:16b (NIV)

4. What If You’re Not Yet in Christ?

If you have not yet given your life to Jesus, it’s difficult to effectively stand in the gap for others. The first step is to be reconciled to God yourself.

“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”
 Acts 3:19 (NIV)

“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”
 John 1:12 (NIV)

Jesus is not the Savior of Christians only He is the Savior of all who believe. No matter your background Muslim, atheist, or anything else Jesus welcomes you.

“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.”
 John 3:16 (NIV)

A Simple Prayer of Salvation

If you are ready to give your life to Christ, pray this from your heart:

“Heavenly Father, I come before You knowing I am a sinner in need of Your mercy. I have done wrong and deserve judgment. But I believe Jesus died for my sins and rose again. Today I repent of all my sins. I ask You to forgive me, cleanse me with the blood of Jesus, and make me a new person. I confess Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. Thank You for saving me. Amen.”

5. Next Steps After Salvation

Salvation is a journey. If you’ve prayed sincerely, God has received you. Now take these steps:

• Live out your repentance. Let go of sin and pursue holiness.

  “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.” — Matthew 3:8 (NIV)

• Join a Bible-believing church. Fellowship helps you grow and stay accountable.

• Be baptized in water. The early church practiced full immersion in the name of Jesus Christ.

  “Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”   Acts 2:38 (NIV)

• Read your Bible and pray daily. Feed your soul with the Word.

Conclusion

Dreams about death aren’t always warnings of immediate danger, but they are divine opportunities to reflect, intercede, and realign your heart and priorities. Don’t ignore them. Let them move you toward action both for yourself and for those you love.

God is not only speaking He is inviting you. Will you respond?