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Have You Ever Felt the Labor Pains for Your Spiritual Children?

Can a woman give birth without experiencing labor pains? That would be a strange and unnatural thing. Why? Because labor pains are part of the divine design for bringing forth life.

Even the Bible acknowledges this divine pattern:

Isaiah 66:7–8 (NKJV)

“Before she was in labor, she gave birth;
Before her pain came,
She delivered a male child.
Who has heard such a thing?
Who has seen such things?
Shall the earth be made to give birth in one day?
Or shall a nation be born at once?
For as soon as Zion was in labor,
She gave birth to her children.”

This prophetic imagery refers not only to Israel’s restoration but also illustrates a spiritual principle: for new life to be born whether physical or spiritual there must be pain, labor, and sacrifice. No one comes into this world without someone else suffering for them. And the same is true in the spiritual realm.

The Theology of Spiritual Travail

This principle is mirrored in salvation history. Christ Himself labored in Gethsemane, sweating drops of blood (Luke 22:44), and suffered on the cross to give birth to the Church (Acts 20:28). So, it follows that anyone brought into Christ must also come through spiritual labor someone paying a price in prayer, tears, and discipleship.

Paul’s Example: Birthing Spiritual Children

The Apostle Paul understood this deeply:

Galatians 4:19 (NKJV)

“My little children, for whom I labor in birth again until Christ is formed in you.”

The Greek word used here for “labor in birth” is ōdinō (ὠδίνω), which literally means to feel the pains of childbirth. Paul is not just expressing emotion he’s pointing to the spiritual agony and intercession required to disciple others into maturity in Christ (cf. Colossians 1:28-29).

These Galatian believers had received the gospel but were turning back to the Law. Paul, like a spiritual mother, says he must go through the pain again to see them restored to the image of Christ. This is not just evangelism this is spiritual formation.

Three Characteristics of Spiritual Labor

Just like in natural childbirth, spiritual travail has defining traits:

1. Travail Involves Weeping and Intercession

Spiritual birthing always begins with tears. Before revival or repentance comes to a person, a family, or a nation, there must be deep intercession.

Acts 20:31 (NKJV)

“Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears.”

This wasn’t mere preaching. It was preaching with weeping the fruit of burdened prayer. Paul’s tears were an extension of Christ’s heart for the lost (cf. Matthew 9:36). Today, many want to see transformation in their homes or churches but are not willing to pray through the night, fast, and weep over lost souls.

2. Travail Invites Spiritual Warfare

Natural childbirth carries risks pain, bleeding, even death. Likewise, spiritual travail draws the attention of the enemy. Satan resists the birth of new life because every soul delivered from sin is a soul snatched from his dominion (Colossians 1:13).

Revelation 12:1–4 (NKJV)

“…The woman, clothed with the sun…
Then being with child, she cried out in labor and in pain to give birth…
And the dragon stood before the woman who was ready to give birth,
to devour her Child as soon as it was born.”

This imagery shows the constant battle between the Church (the woman) and the devil (the dragon). Whenever you intercede for someone’s salvation, don’t be surprised if opposition comes emotional discouragement, strange delays, health challenges, or relational conflicts. These are often strategic distractions from the enemy.

But the power within you is greater:

1 John 4:4 (NKJV)

“He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.”

Don’t be discouraged when the person you’re praying for seems unresponsive. Don’t stop just because they start resisting. Spiritual birth is a battle, and perseverance is part of the process.

3. Travail Ends in Great Joy

Labor is painful but the result is pure joy.

John 16:21 (NKJV)

“A woman, when she is in labor, has sorrow because her hour has come;
but as soon as she has given birth to the child,
she no longer remembers the anguish,
for joy that a human being has been born into the world.”

This is what happens when someone truly comes to Christ not just emotionally moved, but spiritually reborn. That’s when every tear, every prayer, and every sacrifice feels worth it. The burden is replaced by rejoicing, and even heaven celebrates:

Luke 15:10 (NKJV)

“There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

A Challenge for You

So I ask: Where is your labor?

Can you look at anyone today and say, “This is my spiritual child. I travailed for them in prayer. I discipled them in Christ”? Or have you simply passed by, said “Jesus loves you,” and led them in a short prayer then left them to figure it out?

Too many claim to have “accepted Christ,” but show no evidence of new life. Why? Because they were never spiritually born, only emotionally influenced.

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV)

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation;
old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”

True conversion produces transformation a new life, a new heart, a new direction.

Conclusion: Let’s Labor Until Christ Is Formed in Them

Spiritual parenting is not casual it is costly. It means teaching, praying, following up, fasting, and loving consistently. It means refusing to give up until Christ is formed in them.

This is what Jesus did for us. This is what Paul modeled for the Church. And this is what we are called to do for others.

May the Lord give you gracefully.

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Different Seasons, Different Expressions of Love

Song of Solomon 2:10-13 (ESV)

“My beloved spoke and said to me,
‘Arise, my love, my beautiful one, and come away.
For behold, the winter is past;
the rain is over and gone.
The flowers appear on the earth,
the time of singing has come,
and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land.
The fig tree puts forth its figs,
and the vines are in blossom;
they give forth fragrance.
Arise, my love, my beautiful one, and come away.’”

Just as creation moves through seasons winter, spring, summer, and fall our relationships and spiritual lives experience different seasons as well. These natural cycles reflect God’s ordained order and timing (Ecclesiastes 3:1), reminding us that change and growth are part of life.

In the Old Testament era, God’s people often faced harsh “winters” in their spiritual walk times marked by struggle, exile, and separation from God due to sin and the enemy’s influence. The presence of Satan brought hardship and confusion (cf. Job 1-2; Zechariah 3:1-2). They were still learning to fully know the character and redemptive plan of God.

Then Jesus Christ came, the promised Messiah (Isaiah 53), who through His death and resurrection fulfilled God’s plan to redeem humanity and defeat sin and death (Hebrews 9:12-15). He proclaimed Himself “Lord of the Sabbath” (Mark 2:28), signifying His authority to bring true rest—not merely physical rest, but rest for the soul (Matthew 11:28-30). This rest is a gift of grace through faith, breaking the bondage of sin and spiritual weariness.

The invitation in Song of Solomon echoes Christ’s call to His bride, the Church (Ephesians 5:25-27), to arise from spiritual dormancy and come into the refreshing and renewing presence of God’s love. “The winter is past” signifies the end of hardship and the beginning of new life, symbolizing resurrection and renewal (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Accepting this invitation means entering into a deep, personal relationship with Jesus—a relationship that brings eternal life, peace, and hope beyond the temporary struggles of this world (John 10:10; Romans 15:13).

These are perilous times, filled with deception and spiritual darkness (2 Timothy 3:1-5). The world’s ways cannot truly save or satisfy the soul. But by turning to the Savior and following Him, we receive the gift of eternal life (John 3:16), and experience the fullness of joy and peace found only in Him (Philippians 4:7).

Shalom—peace and wholeness to you.

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The Marvels of the Covenant of Christ’s Love

Based on Song of Solomon 8:6-7 (ESV)

“Set me as a seal upon your heart,
as a seal upon your arm,
for love is as strong as death,
jealousy is fierce as the grave.
Its flashes are flashes of fire,
the very flame of the Lord.
Many waters cannot quench love,
neither can floods drown it.
If a man offered for love
all the wealth of his house,
it would be utterly scorned.”

Theological Explanation

  1. The Seal as a Sign of Ownership and Covenant
    In biblical culture, a seal was an official mark of ownership or authority (cf. Genesis 41:42; Revelation 7:3). When Christ asks to be set as a seal on the heart and arm, He is asking for full, covenantal possession of the believer. The heart represents the innermost being thoughts, will, emotions while the arm represents action and strength. Together, they symbolize a holistic submission to Christ, both inward and outward (Proverbs 3:3).

Theologically, this sealing points to the Holy Spirit’s role as the seal of salvation (Ephesians 1:13-14; 4:30). The Spirit guarantees our identity as God’s children and secures our inheritance in Christ.

  1. Love as Strong as Death
    Love’s comparison to death emphasizes its unbreakable and all-consuming nature. Death is inevitable and final; similarly, true love binds the believer irrevocably to Christ (Romans 8:38-39). This love’s power extends beyond temporal challenges and even death itself.
  2. Jealousy and Zeal
    Jealousy here is understood as a protective, holy zeal God’s righteous jealousy (Exodus 20:5; 34:14). It rejects idolatry and spiritual unfaithfulness. This divine zeal burns like a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:29), purifying the relationship and driving out sin and compromise.
  3. Unquenchable Love
    The imagery of “many waters” and “floods” expresses overwhelming trials and opposition (Psalm 69:2; Isaiah 43:2). The statement that love cannot be quenched by these symbolizes Christ’s enduring, victorious love over all adversities.
  4. The Pricelessness of True Love
    The passage highlights that no amount of worldly wealth can purchase or replace true love. This reflects the biblical teaching that salvation and relationship with God are gifts of grace, not commodities to be bought (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Practical Application and Assurance

The Seal of the Holy Spirit
Receiving Christ’s love means being sealed by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30), which manifests as inward transformation and outward holiness (2 Corinthians 5:17). This seal is God’s mark of ownership and protection until the day of redemption.

Inner and Outer Transformation
True faith involves both heart and deed (James 2:17). Some profess faith verbally but deny it by their works (Titus 1:16). Genuine love for Christ changes the whole person.

Security in Christ’s Love
Romans 8:35-39 (ESV) assures believers that no trial or power can separate them from the love of God in Christ Jesus:

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers,
nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

This is the foundation of Christian hope and perseverance.

Conclusion

The covenant love of Christ is powerful, all-consuming, and eternal. It marks believers inwardly and outwardly by the Holy Spirit’s seal and secures them through every trial. Nothing in all creation can overcome this divine love.

May we all embrace this marvelous covenant and walk in the fullness of Christ’s love.

Be blessed!

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DON’T WAIT—OPEN YOUR HEART NOW

Song of Solomon 5:2-6 (ESV)

“I was asleep, but my heart was awake.
Listen! My beloved is knocking.
‘Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my perfect one,
for my head is wet with dew, my locks with the drops of the night.’
I had taken off my robe should I put it on again?
I had washed my feet should I soil them again?
My beloved thrust his hand through the latch-opening;
my heart began to pound for him.
I rose to open for my beloved,
and my hands dripped with myrrh, my fingers with flowing myrrh,
on the handles of the bolt.
I opened for my beloved, but my beloved had withdrawn and was gone.
My heart sank at his departure.
I sought him but did not find him; I called him but he gave no answer.”

Theological Reflection:

This passage from Song of Solomon serves as a powerful allegory of Christ’s pursuit of the believer’s heart. The bride represents the soul longing for communion with Christ, the Beloved. Her sleep symbolizes spiritual slumber or delay in responding to His call, while her heart remaining awake signifies a yearning or sensitivity to His presence (cf. Romans 13:11   “It is high time to wake from sleep”).

The Beloved knocking illustrates Christ’s patient and persistent invitation to fellowship (Revelation 3:20), revealing the grace and mercy of God who continually seeks a relationship with His people despite their hesitation.

The bride’s hesitation questioning whether to put on her robe again or soil her feet represents the conflict between remaining in a state of separation or sin, and the willingness to respond to God’s call (cf. Isaiah 1:18, Psalm 51:7).

When she finally rises to open, her hands dripping with myrrh (a fragrant resin used in worship and anointing) symbolizes preparation, devotion, and the costly effort of true repentance and openness before God.

However, the Beloved’s withdrawal before she opens is a sobering reminder that delays in responding to God’s call can lead to missed opportunities for intimate fellowship (Luke 13:24  “Strive to enter through the narrow door”).

What Does Christ Teach His Church?

Revelation 3:20 (ESV):
“Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.”
This verse emphasizes Christ’s initiative in salvation  He patiently knocks, but it requires our willing response to open the door of our hearts.

Many delay due to worldly distractions or false security, waiting for “the right time” to surrender. This is dangerous because Scripture warns that the moment of salvation is urgent and unpredictable.

Luke 12:36-40 (ESV) exhorts believers to be spiritually vigilant and ready at all times, since Christ’s return may come unexpectedly.

The Urgency of Now

The invitation is clear: Open your heart to Christ now. Do not procrastinate. Salvation is a present reality, but grace is not guaranteed forever (cf. Hebrews 3:7-8).

Delaying risks losing the intimate fellowship Christ desires, and the bride’s sorrow reminds us of the pain of missed opportunity.

Practical Application

If you feel the Lord knocking at your heart today, respond immediately. You don’t have to wait until life feels perfect or circumstances change. Jesus calls you now.

If you’re ready to receive Him as your Savior, please contact us for free prayer support and guidance. We are here to help you walk this new path of faith.

May God bless you richly as you respond to His loving call.

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JAWA NA UPENDO UNAOTAFUTA.

Respond with the Love You’re Searching For

 Song of Songs 3:1-4 (ESV)*\[1] At night, while lying in bed, I looked for the one my soul loves; I searched for him but didn’t find him.

\[2] So I got up and walked through the city streets and squares, searching for the one my soul loves. I looked for him but still couldn’t find him.

\[3] The city’s watchmen saw me as I wandered the streets and asked, “Have you seen the one my soul loves?”

\[4] Just as I was passing them, I spotted him! I held him tight and refused to let go until I brought him home to my mother’s house the place where I was born.

Theological Reflection:The Song of Songs is often misunderstood as a purely romantic or marital poem. However, within Christian theology, it is frequently interpreted allegorically to reveal the intimate relationship between Christ (the Bridegroom) and the Church (His bride). This passage reflects the mutual seeking of love God’s pursuit of humanity and our response in seeking Him.

The Bible consistently portrays God’s desire for a personal, covenantal relationship with His people. This relationship is founded on love, obedience, and intimacy. The imagery of the bride searching for her beloved mirrors the believer’s spiritual journey at times feeling distant from God but called to actively pursue Him (cf. Jeremiah 29:13, “You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart”).

 

In this passage, the woman’s urgent, persistent search illustrates *faith in action*. She does not remain passive despite spiritual “darkness” or dryness but actively seeks restoration of the relationship. This teaches believers that spiritual vitality requires intentional pursuit through prayer, fasting, Scripture meditation, and seeking godly counsel.

 

The “watchmen” represent spiritual authorities or obstacles that may seem to guard access to God, yet God’s grace breaks through these barriers for those who earnestly seek Him (Hebrews 4:16).

 

Jesus’ teaching in Mark 2:18-20 reinforces this dynamic of relationship: fasting (a form of spiritual discipline) is not appropriate while Christ is physically present with His disciples symbolizing the joy of intimate fellowship. However, after Christ’s ascension, fasting and earnest seeking become necessary to maintain and deepen that fellowship in His physical absence.

 

The passage challenges believers not to settle for a passive or one-sided relationship but to “respond with the love you’re searching for.” True Christian love is reciprocal and active, fueled by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5).

Practical Application:

If you feel spiritually dry or distant from God, don’t simply wait passively. Like the woman in the Song, get up and seek God with all your heart.

 Engage in spiritual disciplines such as prayer, fasting, Bible study, and fellowship to restore intimacy with Christ.

 Seek godly counsel and community when you feel lost or spiritually weak.

 Remember that God is always pursuing you, but He also calls you to actively respond and deepen your love and faith.May this encourage you to pursue the Lord with a passionate, seeking heart, knowing He delights to be found by those who earnestly seek Him (cf. Proverbs 8:17).

Bible version:English Standard Version (ESV) you want, I can add specific

cross-references or expand any part further!

Shalom

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HEKIMA ILIYO SAHIHI, KATIKA HIMIZO LA UTOAJI SADAKA.

 

TRUE WISDOM IN GIVING: A BIBLICAL PRINCIPLE FROM THE TEMPLE REFORMS OF KING JOASH

In the time of the kings of Israel, King Joash (also known as Jehoash) had it in his heart to restore the Temple of the Lord, which had fallen into disrepair after years of neglect and desecration by his predecessors—especially during the reign of the wicked queen Athaliah, who promoted Baal worship and destroyed the sacred things of the house of God (2 Chronicles 24:7).

Understanding the importance of worship and reverence in the life of the nation, Joash recognized that proper worship could not continue without a holy and functional sanctuary. Therefore, he initially commanded the collection of the temple tax, which was originally established in the Law of Moses to maintain the Tabernacle (see Exodus 30:12–16).

2(Chronicles 24:10, NKJV)

“Then all the leaders and all the people rejoiced, brought their contributions, and put them into the chest until all had given.”

However, despite assigning the Levites to oversee the collection and repairs, progress was slow. Joash became concerned and questioned the delay (2 Chronicles 24:6). In response, he implemented a new, Spirit-led strategy that aligns with God’s heart for giving.

THE NEW STRATEGY: GIVING FROM A WILLING HEART

Instead of demanding offerings through compulsion, Joash placed a chest at the entrance of the Temple and sent a proclamation throughout Judah and Jerusalem inviting all who were willing to freely give to the Lord. This was a significant theological shift: from duty to devotion, and from legal obligation to loving worship.

This voluntary approach reflects the very nature of God’s desired relationship with His people—one based on love, not legalism. God desires worship that flows from the heart (Isaiah 1:11–17; Hosea 6:6).

And the response of the people? It was overwhelming. They gave with joy and abundance, daily filling the chest. This generosity enabled the hiring of craftsmen to repair and restore the house of God. Eventually, there was even a surplus that was used to make new utensils for temple service (2 Chronicles 24:14).

THEOLOGICAL INSIGHT: GOD LOVES A CHEERFUL GIVER

This account anticipates the New Testament principle of giving taught by the Apostle Paul. Just as the people in Joash’s day gave from joyful hearts, so Paul writes:

2 Corinthians 9:7, NKJV)

“So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Giving that honors God is not based on manipulation or pressure. It must flow from faith, love, and gratitude for what God has already done. The grace of giving is a test of our sincerity and spiritual maturity (2 Corinthians 8:7–8).

WHY GOD BLESSES VOLUNTARY GIVING

When God’s people give from the heart:

Worship is purified (Malachi 1:10–11)The work of ministry advances (Philippians 4:15–18)The giver is blessed spiritually and materially (Luke 6:38; Proverbs 11:24–25)The Kingdom expands (Acts 4:32–35)

Joash’s reform teaches us that revival and restoration begin when God’s people honor Him with what they have, giving not because they must—but because they love Him.

APPLICATION FOR TODAY’S CHURCH

As the Body of Christ today, we must move beyond ritualistic or forced giving and instead cultivate a culture of joyful, willing generosity. Leaders must teach the truth about giving without resorting to guilt or manipulation. At the same time, believers should take personal responsibility to give faithfully, regularly, and cheerfully (1 Corinthians 16:2).

When the Church reaches this level of spiritual maturity, God will pour out His blessings, just as He did in the days of Joash.

Luke 6:38, NKJV)

“Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over…”

Do not wait to be pushed or reminded constantly. Let your tithes and offerings come from a heart full of gratitude and love for God. When you give joyfully, you are participating in His Kingdom work—and He will not fail to reward you.

(Proverbs 3:9–10, NKJV)

“Honor the Lord with your possessions,
And with the firstfruits of all your increase;
So your barns will be filled with plenty,
And your vats will overflow with new wine.”

Share this message with others and encourage them to walk in the grace of giving.

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SAFARI YA KUUONA USO WA MUNGU.

THE JOURNEY TO SEE THE FACE OF GOD

Moses (the Back)
Christ (the Mirror)
Heaven (the Full Revelation)

It was Moses’ deep desire to see the face of God after a long time without visibly encountering Him.

Face-to-face with God (Theophany)

The scriptures say God spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. This implies an intimate, direct communication what theologians call a theophany, a visible manifestation of God to humans without fully revealing His essence, since God’s full glory is too great for fallen humans to withstand.

Exodus 33:11 (NIV)
The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun did not leave the tent.

But later Moses asked to see God’s face, and God warned:

Exodus 33:20-23 (NIV)
But,“he said, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.” Then the Lord said, “There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen.”

The Invisibility of God’s Essence

This emphasizes the doctrine of Divine Invisibility God’s essence is invisible and unapproachable in His fullness (1 Timothy 6:16). Seeing God’s “face” means experiencing His full glory, which sinful humans cannot survive without atonement.

Moses’ sinfulness and humanity limited his capacity to behold God’s glory fully. Thus, God allowed Moses to see only His “back,” a metaphor indicating partial revelation of God’s presence (a limited view of His glory).

1 Timothy 6:16 (NIV)
Who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see.

The Nature of God Revealed to Moses

When Moses saw God’s “back,” he understood His character compassion, grace, patience, love, and justice.

Exodus 34:5-7 (NIV)
Then the Lord came down in the cloud and stood there with him and proclaimed His name, the Lord. And He passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet He does not leave the guilty unpunished; He punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.”

This passage reveals God’s mercy and justice in tension a foundational theme in biblical theology, balancing God’s holiness and love.

The Face (Through the Mirror): Jesus Christ Reveals God

God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to reveal the face of God to humanity. Jesus is the ultimate theophany the full, perfect revelation of God in human form (John 1:14; Colossians 1:15).

John 1:18 (NIV)
No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.

Colossians 1:15 (NIV)
The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.

Because no sinful human can see God and live, Jesus’ atoning death and resurrection make it possible for us to stand before God’s glory.

Hebrews 9:14 (NIV)
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…

Jesus revealed God’s true nature as love, perfectly unconditional and sacrificial.

1 John 4:8 (NIV)
Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.

Seeing God Face to Face: The Future Hope

Currently, we see God “through a mirror” (Greek: katoptron), meaning a partial and indirect vision, a spiritual perception.

1 Corinthians 13:12 (NIV)
For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

The ultimate vision of God beatific vision will happen in heaven, where believers will fully behold God’s glory.

Revelation 22:4 (NIV)
They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads.

Conclusion and Invitation

The journey to seeing God’s face:

  • Began with Moses’ partial vision (God’s “back”)
  • Was advanced through Christ, God’s image on earth (the mirror)
  • Will be perfected in heaven when we see God face to face.

Have you received Christ as your Savior? Without Him, no one can withstand God’s glory or see His face and live.

God commands repentance and faith, through which sins are forgiven by Jesus’ sacrifice.

Acts 4:12 (NIV)
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.

Choose light over darkness today. Jesus said:

John 3:36 (NIV)
Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.

Run to Jesus, receive His grace, and walk in the love of God. The Lord bless you!

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How Can I Understand God’s Will?

 Colossians 1:9

“For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you.
We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives.” — Colossians 1:9 (NIV)

In this verse, Paul expresses one of the most important spiritual priorities: that believers should be filled with the knowledge of God’s will. This knowledge isn’t just intellectual   it involves spiritual wisdom  and understanding (synesis) given by the Holy Spirit.

What Is God’s Will?

In Christian theology, God’s will is commonly understood in three dimensions:

God’s Sovereign Will (Decretive Will)

This refers to God’s unchangeable plan that governs all of history. It is hidden and cannot be thwarted.

“The Lord Almighty has sworn, ‘Surely, as I have planned, so it will be, and as I have purposed, so it will happen.’” — Isaiah 14:24

“Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him.” — Psalm 115:3


This aligns with the doctrine of divine sovereignty. God’s ultimate purposes (like Christ’s crucifixion for our redemption  Acts 2:23) unfold exactly as He intends.

God’s Moral Will (Preceptive Will)

This is God’s revealed will in Scripture  what He commands all people to do.

“It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:3

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18

“Do not lie. Do not steal. Love one another.” — (Various commands in Romans 13, Exodus 20)

This reflects God’s holiness and moral character, and aligns with the ethical aspect of sanctification  growing in Christlikeness (cf. Romans 8:29).

God’s Specific (Personal) Will

This is God’s unique guidance for individual decisions  such as career, relationships, or ministry assignments.

“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” — Isaiah 30:21

“The Spirit told Philip, ‘Go to that chariot and stay near it.’” — Acts 8:29


This is associated with divine providence and personal calling, which varies per individual and is discerned over time through spiritual disciplines and surrender.

How Do I Discover God’s Will?

The Bible outlines several key ways by which believers can discern God’s will for their lives:

 1. Prayer — Communing with God

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” — James 1:5

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” — Colossians 4:2

Prayer is a means of grace, a spiritual discipline by which believers engage God relationally and receive His wisdom. According to Reformed theology, prayer aligns us with God’s purposes more than it changes God’s mind (cf. Matthew 6:10 – “Your will be done”).

2. The Word of God — The Foundation of Discernment

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” — Psalm 119:105

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” — 2 Timothy 3:16–17


According to the doctrine of Sola Scriptura (Scripture alone), the Bible is the highest authority for faith and life. The general will of God is always consistent with Scripture, and personal guidance never contradicts it.

 3. Christian Community & Counsel — The Wisdom of the Body

“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” — Proverbs 15:22

“Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” — Proverbs 11:14 (ESV)

“It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us…” — Acts 15:28


In ecclesiology (the theology of the church), the body of Christ functions together in mutual edification and discernment. This reflects the priesthood of all believers (1 Peter 2:9) and the need for communal discernment, especially in major decisions.

 4. Spiritual Discernment — Growth in Wisdom and Maturity

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is his good, pleasing and perfect will.” — Romans 12:2

“But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.” — Hebrews 5:14


This connects with sanctification and the work of the Holy Spirit. As we grow in Christ, we develop discernment  a spiritual “radar” to sense what aligns with God’s heart. This is what Paul called “the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16).

Why Is This So Important?

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven,
but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” — Matthew 7:21

“The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” — 1 John 2:17


This highlights the difference between nominal Christianity (in name only) and true discipleship. Doing God’s will is not just about knowledge it’s about obedience, which is the fruit of saving faith (James 2:17).

Practical Summary — How to Walk in God’s Will:

Final Encouragement

“The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs… and strengthen your frame.” — Isaiah 58:11 (NIV)

Knowing and doing God’s will is not a mystery for the elite, but a calling for every believer. Through prayer, Scripture, community, and spiritual maturity, God lovingly makes His will known to those who seek Him.

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” — Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV)

Be Blessed 

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Let the Mouth of the Holy Spirit Speak Through You

1. Introduction: The Promise of the Holy Spirit Includes Speech

One of the most profound promises of the Holy Spirit to believers is His empowering presence to speak the mind and wisdom of God. This is evident throughout Scripture. From the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2 to Paul’s teachings in 1 Corinthians, Spirit-inspired speech  often in the form of prophecy, prayer, or bold proclamation  is a clear sign of the Spirit at work.

When the Holy Spirit comes into a person’s life, He does not remain silent. He speaks  and often, through the believer’s own mouth. The Spirit does not merely give feelings; He gives words that align with the will and nature of God.

2. The Day of Pentecost: Symbolism of the Tongue

On Pentecost, when the Spirit descended, He appeared as tongues of fire and rested on each of the gathered disciples:

“And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
— Acts 2:3–4 (ESV)

The “tongue” symbolizes speech. Fire, in Scripture, often represents purification, presence, and power (cf. Isaiah 6:6–7). This manifestation was not random. It showed that the primary evidence of the Spirit’s presence would be seen in what believers speak  whether in tongues, prophecy, or preaching.

3. Prophecy is for Every Believer

Contrary to popular belief, prophecy in the New Testament is not restricted to the “office of the prophet.” Paul teaches that all believers can operate in this gift to build up the Church.

“And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh,
and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
and your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.”
— Acts 2:17 (ESV)

“For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all be encouraged.”
— 1 Corinthians 14:31 (ESV)

The Greek word for prophesy (prophēteuō) means to speak forth, to declare the will and counsel of God. It includes foretelling (future events) and forth-telling (speaking God’s truth for now). Every believer can do this as the Spirit enables.

4. Speaking Without Fear: The Spirit Will Speak Through You

Jesus taught His disciples not to worry about what to say when brought before authorities, because the Spirit would give them words in the moment.

“For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.”
— Matthew 10:20 (ESV)

This is an important theological principle: the Spirit indwells us (Romans 8:11) and speaks through us when we yield. The believer becomes a mouthpiece of God when surrendered in obedience.

5. Prophetic Prayer: Let the Spirit Pray Through You

Prayer is another way the Holy Spirit speaks. Paul tells us that even our weakness in prayer is met by the Spirit’s intercession:

“Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.”
— Romans 8:26 (ESV)

Many believers feel they cannot pray for long or run out of words. But the key is not eloquence  it’s surrender. As you continue praying, meditating on God’s Word, and staying in conversation with Him, the Spirit takes over. Sometimes what starts as routine prayer flows into deep intercession, revelation, or prophecy.

6. Don’t Quench the Spirit — Speak Boldly

Paul gives a clear warning:

“Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:19–20 (ESV)

One way we quench the Spirit is by keeping silent when He prompts us to speak. Some people long to speak in tongues or prophesy but never give the Spirit room to act  by opening their mouths and speaking in faith.

7. Everyday Moments Are Opportunities for Prophetic Speech

Sometimes, prophecy doesn’t come with thunder and lightning  it comes through ordinary speech. This is seen in the account of Caiaphas, the high priest:

“He did not say this of his own accord, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation.”
— John 11:51 (ESV)

Even without full awareness, his position and words became prophetic. This shows us that God can speak powerfully even through casual conversations, especially when your heart and mind are yielded to Him.

8. Blessing Your Children, Speaking Over Others

In the Old Testament, Isaac spoke blessings over Jacob and Esau, and those words shaped their futures (Genesis 27). You too, as a believer, can speak God’s destiny over your children.

Use your mouth to bless your children and family. Speak life, identity, purpose, and truth. These declarations become prophetic when spoken under the guidance of the Spirit.

9. Healing, Encouragement, and Evangelism: Use Your Voice

If someone is sick, speak healing boldly  not as a ritual, but in faith, trusting the Spirit’s power to back your words. Speak God’s Word over people. Paul said:

“Let all things be done for building up.”
— 1 Corinthians 14:26 (ESV)

Whether you’re preaching, praying, teaching, or just encouraging a friend, let your speech be saturated with Scripture and Spirit-led faith. You never know when you’re delivering a word straight from God’s heart.

10. Conclusion: Your Mouth Is God’s Mouthpiece

The mouth of the believer is not just for human talk  it is an instrument of the Holy Spirit. If you are in Christ and filled with the Spirit, you already have a mouth of fire. Let it speak.

  • Speak the Word.
  • Speak life.
  • Speak boldly in prayer.
  • Speak prophecy.
  • Speak blessings.
  • Speak healing.

“Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it.”
— Psalm 81:10 (ESV)

Final Encouragement

Let the Holy Spirit flow through your words  not only in church settings but also in your home, your workplace, and your community. Your obedience in speaking could be someone else’s breakthrough.

May the Lord bless you and anoint your mouth for His glory.

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LINDA CHEMCHEMI YA MOYO WAKO.

GUARD THE WELLSPRING OF YOUR HEART

Proverbs 4:23

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (NIV)

A spring is a source of water—it provides water for drinking and for sustaining plant life. When the spring yields bitter or salty water, it becomes useless. Life cannot thrive around it. Neither people, nor animals, nor crops can survive with such water.

But when a spring produces clean, fresh water, it brings life wherever it flows. People flourish, animals thrive, crops grow, and even the local economy benefits.

A vivid example of bitter water is found in the journey of the Israelites at Marah.

Exodus 15:22–25

“Then Moses led Israel from the Red Sea and they went into the Desert of Shur. For three days they traveled in the desert without finding water.
When they came to Marah, they could not drink its water because it was bitter. (That is why the place is called Marah.)
So the people grumbled against Moses, saying, ‘What are we to drink?’
Then Moses cried out to the Lord, and the Lord showed him a piece of wood. He threw it into the water, and the water became fit to drink. There the Lord issued a ruling and instruction for them and put them to the test.” (NIV)

The Bible compares our hearts to springs of water. This means that what flows out of our hearts can either bring life and fruitfulness—or corruption and destruction. Everything around us—our health, our relationships, our work, our education, our favor with people and with God—depends on what is flowing from within.

So what are these “bitter” or “sweet” waters?

Jesus gives us clarity.

Matthew 12:34–35

“You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.
A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.” (NIV)

Matthew 15:18–20

“But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them.
For out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander.
These are what defile a person…” (NIV)

From this, we understand that things like lies, slander, adultery, theft, and murder come from the heart—and these are the bitter waters. They pollute relationships, ruin lives, destroy ministries, end marriages, and rob people of their divine calling.

Many have lost their purpose or blessings because their hearts have become corrupted springs—producing bitter water instead of life-giving truth and purity. Some have lost favor with God and man because of unfaithfulness, deceit, or sin. Others have seen their once-thriving ministries or marriages fall apart because of impurity flowing from within.

James 3:8–12

“But no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness.
Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.
Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?
My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.” (NIV)

If what flows from our hearts is good—things like love, truth, kindness, patience, holiness—then we are like a pure spring. Our words and actions will bring life. Our salvation, ministries, marriages, and work will be fruitful. Our influence will be holy and life-giving.

So, what kind of water is your heart producing? Sweet or bitter?

If it’s bitter—there is hope! The remedy is the Holy Spirit. Believe in Jesus Christ, and be filled with the Holy Spirit, who purifies the heart freely and completely.

Once the Holy Spirit fills your heart, the dead things in your life—your marriage, ministry, calling, or education—can be revived. Because now the water flowing from within is pure and life-giving.

But even if your heart is already producing clean water, there is a command: Guard your heart. Protect it from corruption. Keep it from the influence of this sinful world.

Proverbs 4:23

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (NIV)

How do you guard your heart?
Through prayer, by reading and meditating on the Word of God, by avoiding worldly influences, and by regularly fellowshipping with other believers.

May the Lord bless you.
Share this message of hope and truth with others.

 

 

 

 
 
 

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