In Mark 9, a father carried his son to Jesus’s disciples to ask that they would pray for his healing. The disciples prayed but they could not cast out the spirit which tormented the boy. When Jesus arrived, the father ran to tell him what had happened. “And Jesus said to him, “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes”” (Mark 9:23). The father acknowledged that he had faith, but that there was still some doubt in his mind. “Lord I believe; help my unbelief” (Mark 9:24)!

This story teaches us that it is possible to have faith mixed with some doubt or unbelief. There are times when I have felt that I needed really strong faith in order for God to act on my behalf. Let us look at what Jesus told his disciples in Matthew concerning faith. “He said to them, “Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you”” (Matthew‬ ‭17:20‬).

Mustard seeds are extremely small seeds and are perhaps one of the smallest seeds that I know of. While we think that we need giant size faith to gain a small victory, Jesus is saying that we can do major things with just a small amount of faith. What that means is that faith is such a potent antidote, that an extremely small amount can do major things.

We often speak of ‘strong faith’ and admire people who seem to possess this. Paul made reference to each of us having a measure of faith which God has assigned (Romans 12:3). Faith increases through listening to the word of God and as we exercise faith, like a muscle it will grow. The final analysis is this, that I have not always felt strong in faith during the times when I have seen God move. What God needs is faith as much as a mustard seed and with that much faith we can move a mountain.

A.P.-Y.

Issachar was one of the twelve sons of Jacob who received a blessing. The blessing over Issachar sounded more like a curse, as he was bound to a life of hard labour. Not much is said about Issachar except for instances when there were battles. What is notable about this tribe was their mention during the times of David’s battles. These men had wisdom to understand the times and knew what Isreal needed to do. This skill can seem trivial, except if you consider the value that Solomon placed on wisdom and understanding. God blessed Solomon with wealth and influence, because his request was for wisdom (1 Kings 3:1-15).

It was Solomon who also taught us about the times and seasons for every purpose under heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8). What is significant about this, is the need for the body of Christ to understand times and seasons. We have to be watchful to discern patterns and cycles. There are particular months of the year for example, that seem to be characterised by major atrocities. What should be the response of a Christian, if they realise that every year, around a particular month, that there is an increase in demonic activity. Many believers have described the months of September and October as being quite difficult months.

Some people have seen an increase in atrocities, bloodshed and major disasters. Perhaps someone will say that this is merely a coincidence, that events like 9/11 and other calamities have happened around this time. Some believers have chosen to increase their prayers, intercession and fasting ahead of what seems like difficult seasons. For other people, it may not be autumn, but they can notice particular patterns of difficulty and resistance around certain times of the year. We can simply accept this and resign ourselves to what will be, or seek the Lord to discern what is the cause of these activities. Some families may notice that a family member may die at a certain time one year and then every year after that, around the same time, there may be another death or some major disaster.

Could you be dealing with a demonic cycle or pattern, which has been created to target your family? Some families may also come under attack from a spirit of death for example. Are people willing to rise up and cry out within the porches and pray for redemption? There are also other seasons of intensity which are characterised by breakthrough. People may feel the pangs of travail and can mistake these for spiritual attack. Sometimes the pain is an indication to push through in prayer, as we have come into our due season. “When a woman is giving birth, she has sorrow because her hour has come, but when she has delivered the baby, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world” (John 16:21). These are seasons to push through and travail until you experience joy.

Whether we are dealing with cycles of spiritual warfare and attack or a season of breakthrough, we need the wisdom of the Holy Spirit to understand the times. What is your current season and how are you positioned in the place of prayer and intercession? Do you know when you need to increase your fasting, prayer and intercession? Do you also understand when you are in a season of rest? Are you able to discern those seasons when you need to press in the place of prayer and push in order to give birth? We need the wisdom, knowledge and understanding of God to maintain a victorious life, as we continue to discern and understand seasons.

A.P.-Y.

Context: Daniel, Shedrach, Meshach and Abednego were among the people taken captive by King Nebuchadnezzar to Babylon. They were considered: “young men in whom there was no blemish, but good-looking, gifted in all wisdom, possessing knowledge and quick to understand, who had ability to serve in the king’s palace, and whom they might teach the language and literature of the Chaldeans” (Daniel 1:4).

The King instructed his chief Eunoch to provide daily for them, delicacies and drinks from the king’s treasure and they were to be on training for three years. Daniel made up in his mind, not to be defiled with the King’s delicacies or to drink his wine. The Jews had quite a strict diet which restricted them from eating food sacrificed to idols, for example. Daniel asked the Eunoch to test them for ten days with just vegetable and water. At the end of the ten days, their appearance was better than the other men who ate the King’s delicacies. The steward allowed them to continue eating vegetables only and to drink water. “As for these four young men, God gave them knowledge and skill in all literature and wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams” (Daniel 1:17).

In terms of the 21 days, Daniel sought the Lord in chapter 10, to get answers about the situation concerning his people. Daniel was concerned that his people were in bondage and wanted to hear from God. “In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks. I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled” (Daniel 10:2-3). As Daniel fasted, Gabriel was sent with a message for him on the twenty fourth day. Gabriel assured Daniel that from the first day of his fast, that his prayers were heard and he was sent to give him with the answer. However, Gabriel was held up by demonic activities in the region where Daniel lived. “The prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days, but Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I was left there with the kings of Persia” (Daniel 10:13).

As Daniel continued in fasting and prayer, Michael the Chief angel was sent to help Gabriel in the spiritual battle. This allowed Gabriel to be released to bring Daniel’s answer, while Michael carried on fighting. This story gives us a glimpse into what is happening in the spirit realm, as we contend in prayer and fasting. Fasting is setting aside time to pray and seek the face of God. During this time, we limit our consumption of food and certain drinks as a sacrifice to God. Fasting is not a religious exercise and as long as we make a sacrifice to God, from a heart which is pleasing, God will respond.

Strictly speaking, Daniel and his friends ate vegetables and drank water. I believe that everyone can interpret the Daniel fast, based on their own conviction and different churches and denominations have interpreted this fast differently. What is generally consistent for most people, is giving up meat, processed foods, pastry and sweet drinks. If you are able to supplement your protein using vegetables and legumes then, that is great. Some people continue to have fish as a protein supplement. Pray and go as you feel led by the Holy Spirit. I would recommend cutting out excesses including: sugar, processed foods, anything deep fried, and meats.

The Daniel fast focuses on accessing divine favour and revelation knowledge to win spiritual battles.

A.P.-Y.

In Paul’s final letter to the church in Timothy, he exhorted them to preach the word in season and out of season. This means preaching whether people are willing to hear and accept or not. He wanted the church to be ready to reprove, rebuke and export. This is because the time will come when people will not want to hear sound doctrine. Having itchy ears, people will go after preachers to suit their own passions. “and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths” (2 Timothy 4:4). He warned us to remain sober-minded, endure suffering and continue to do evangelism.

Paul was ready to be ‘poured out like a drink offering,’ as the time of his departure had come. Paul was in prison and he knew that the time was near for his execution. Nevertheless, Paul was ready for death and was convinced that he had done what God had called him to do. How many people can say with such confidence, that they have accomplished the mission set before them? Life and it’s many distractions, keep people from fulfilling their God given assignments. Either way, Paul’s determination was to end well. Endings are a natural part of life as much as beginnings. Many people are good at starting projects for example, but are not good finishers.

Some people are even more rubbish at ending relationships. Many people end relationships abruptly or in the midst of turmoil and difficulties. It is sensible to end relationships that have become toxic and dysfunctional. However, it is possible to end even bad relationships well. Let us consider Abram and his nephew Lot. When strife broke out between the servants of Abraham and Lot, Abram chose to separate. Despite their separation, Abram managed this well and they departed amicably. “Then Abram said to Lot, “Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are kinsmen” (Genesis 13:8).

Despite being the elder among them, Abram allowed Lot to choose the area where he wanted to settle. Abram then settled on the remaining land that was left for him. This separation could have resulted in conflict and strife, however Abram used wisdom to prevent it from escalating. There are a few things that we can learn from the separation between Lot and Abram. 1. Know when a relationship or partnership has become counter productive and consider separating to maintain peace. 2. Separation does not have to include conflict and animosity. 3. End well so as not to damage a worthwhile relationship. Remember that later on, Abram had to go to Lot’s rescue when he was captured from Sodom (Genesis 14). 4. Show gratitude for what the other person has done, while the relationship lasted.

Endings do not have to be nasty and messy and walking in the will of the Lord means that you go where you are sent. Many relationships last for a time, season and purpose and not all relationships last a lifetime. This is not the case in marriages which God has ordained to last until death. Some marriages may end due to ongoing abuse and infidelity and even in these instances, it is useful to remain amicable, especially when there are children involved. “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him” (Proverbs 16:7).

A.P.-Y.

James taught about the testing of our faith and experiencing trials of different kinds. He said that when our faith it tested, it produces endurance and patience. When patience has done it’s perfect work in us, we will be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. James encouraged a person without wisdom to ask God, who would give freely without holding back. He had a prescription for our asking of God. This was to be done without doubt, as doubting is a sign of instability. He described a doubter as having a mind that is like the waves of the sea. The waves are driven by the currents of the wind. Someone with this sort of mindset, will struggle to receive anything from God.

James described a double minded person who was doubtful as an unstable person. Remember that the requirement for pleasing God is an attitude of faith. “And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him” (Hebrews 11:6). We cannot please God without first believing, that he is who he says he is and that his word is true. Why is doubt such a big deal and how does it rob us of faith? Having doubt is to call into question the truth of something or to lack confidence in a person. With God there is no sitting on the fence; either we believe in him or we don’t.

The scripture makes several references to being either hot or cold, wheat or tares, sheep or wolves. Many people enjoy sitting on the fence as it means that they don’t have to fully commit to anything. Most people won’t put up with half hearted commitment, so what makes us think that God will accept it? The term well balanced can suggest having a good mix of different traits and characteristics. It also connotes emotional stability and a sense of security. Having Christ Jesus as our solid and secure foundation is a source of stability.

“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock” (Matthew 7:24). As believers, we listen to the voice of God and obey his commandments. This helps to guarantee both emotional and spiritual stability, as the storms of life will not cause us to drift. Contrasted to the person who hears and does the word, is the person who does not listen and take heed. That person’s foundation is like sand which does not withstand the storms of life. Paul also admonished us to continue to be built up in the word. “so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes” (Ephesians 4:14).

A.P.-Y.

David wrote about waiting for God alone and in silence. He spoke of God as his rock and his salvation. David was putting his trust and confidence in God alone. He warned against placing our trust and confidence in riches gained from robbery and extortion. “Once God has spoken; twice have I heard this: that power belongs to God” (Psalm 62:11). David spent a lot of his life on his own and this time carved out intimacy with God. He spent time in song writing and praise unto God, as he kept his father’s sheep. David also spent other times alone with God, when he ran away from Saul.

Another bible prophet who spent a lot of time alone with God, on Mount Sinai, was Moses. There were occasions after he had been in the presence of God, when his countenance changed. “When Aaron and all the Israelites saw Moses, his face was radiant, and they were afraid to come near him” (Exodus 34:30). After Moses met with God, he would put a veil over his face when he met with the people. The veil came off again when he went back to speak with God. Imagine spending so much time with God that your face glows.

Jesus also spoke often about being alone in times of prayer with God. He was alone in the wilderness for forty days and nights, in fasting and prayer. “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed” (Luke 5:16). He was often thronged by large crowds and he had disciples that were with him throughout his life. Despite the constant pull of other people, Jesus understood the importance of alone time.

The presence of the Lord brings illumination and transformation. Many people are afraid or uncomfortable about spending time alone. Most people dread loneliness and isolation, yet so many people are alone. Having a relationship with God means that you are never alone. We have a need for human contact and healthy relationships that are well balanced. Yet, God wants us to spend time alone with him, in his presence in order to communicate with us. Relationships are born and maintained through intimacy. God wants our alone time and he will reveal his secrets to those who find the time to be with him.

A.P.-Y.

David prayed to God to ask for forgiveness, after the prophet Nathan confronted him about his sins with Bathsheba. David lusted after a man’s wife, slept with her, got her pregnant and tried to cover it up by getting her husband drunk, so he could sleep with her. When his attempts at a cover up didn’t work, David killed the man. What would lead David into such a depraved condition? Lust, envy, covetousness, adultery, deception and murder. These attitudes which David displayed are all works of the flesh. David was referred to as, ‘a man after God’s own heart.’ What led him from such devotion to God, to this place of sin and defilement?

Psalm 51 gives us the answers as David poured out his heart to God. His heart had become unclean and impure. Many psychological theories would suggest that, perhaps David was experiencing a mid-life crisis. He was a skilled warrior and during the height of a battle, he was sitting at home. He had valiant warriors who were on the battlefield, to bring home the victory for Isreal. Whatever the explanation that we might come up with, the bible is clear about what leads to sin. James explained that God does not cause anyone to be tempted. “But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire” (James 1:14). Desire then gives birth to sin and sin leads to death.

David was not guarding his heart and had taken his eyes off the things of God. Over-confidence can also cause people to fall into sin. Paul said that we should, “Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test” (2 Corinthians 13:5)! What this means is that lifestyle changes, loss, grief and other significant life changes can cause people to veer off course. Regular spiritual examination is as important as going for routine health checks. Consecrating ourselves before God will help us to examine and test ourselves.

Weeds, doubts, fears and deceptive voices are all tools that the enemy uses to constantly wear away at believers. Most people don’t backslide in a day, but are gradually led away and enticed by the things of the world. Our hearts and spirits need constant maintenance, to ensure that no foreign entities have entered in. Our inner circle also needs regular maintenance and examination. People can be sent to infiltrate your inner circle, who have familiar and other spirits lying dormant. Once they get close enough to cause damage, these spirits can then be activated to carry out their assignment. Don’t allow sentimentality to cause you to ignore warning signs, that people have become unsafe and are being used as agents of the devil.

“Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life” (Proverbs 4:23).

A.P.-Y.

In Hebrews 12, Paul exhorts on faith and living for God. He reminded us that God will discipline his children, because of his love for us. Paul advised that we try our best to live peacefully. “Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14). In Romans 12, he also said that we should live at peace, as much as it is possible. This means that at times, peace may not be possible as some people are not at peace with themselves. At these times, we follow Abraham’s example when he chose to separate from his nephew Lot. “Then Abram said to Lot, “Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are kinsmen” (Genesis 13:8).

Abram allowed Lot to choose from the surroundings lands, to settle with his family and servants. There are some instances when separation is necessary for peace. There are other occasions however, when this is not possible. This is when we need the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, to guard our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:6). Paul knew that as believers, it is difficult for us not to have experiences that will cause us to become angry. Having feelings of anger is not sinful, but our response to anger is what can lead to sin. “Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil” (Ephesians 4:26-27).

Although we become angry, we should not sin with our mouths and make sure that we don’t harbour It. Anger unresolved leads to resentment and bitterness. “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice” (Ephesians 4:31). Bitterness has roots in anger and hatred and these emotions are harmful. Anger opens a door for the devil to tempt us into works of the flesh.

We are human, is what we generally say, in response to acting out of character. We are to live in the spirit, so that we do not gratify the desires of the flesh. We have to constantly submit ourselves to God in order not to allow bitterness to take root. It’s like taking a shower daily. We don’t take a shower today and say tomorrow that we don’t need another one. We shower daily for hygiene maintenance, because our bodies become dirty. It’s the same thing with our spirit man and our hearts which can be deceitful. We daily consecrate ourselves and ask God to take away any anger, bitterness or resentment. It’s not easy, but God gives us strength.

A.P.-Y.

Another week of bible quizzes and celebrations when we get the answer correct. Tam is a great bible Teacher and her weekly quizzes keep us engaged and searching our bibles to learn more.

Hey Neighbor! This week, our CareBibleStudy class searched through the Bible for a certain prophet on Tuesday, and a certain King on Thursday, and …

More Solution Saturday!!

A lot of research has been done to support the claim, that laughter is good for the mind and body. Solomon spoke of a joyful or merry heart being like medicine. Many people live their lives in search of happiness. The church often makes the distinction between joy and happiness, although the actual definitions are interchangeable. Nehemiah once instructed the people of God about the importance of being happy. The people were weeping after Ezra read the law of God to them. Nehemiah offered them consolation. “Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength”” (Nehemiah 8:10).

Can we determine whether or not we have joy and peace? Does joy depend on our economic or relationship status for example? There are people who are unfortunately living in abusive relationships. In these cases, it will be difficult for them to experience joy, while they remain in these relationships. The challenge is that many people who are abused, feel trapped in these situations. It takes the grace of God, to escape abusive situations and to find peace and joy. Debt and financial deprivation can also lead to feelings of depression. It is in trusting God that a person can successfully navigate their way out of debt.

In both instances, counselling and support can go a long way. Most people are dealing with one challenge or another and have a need that has not been met. How do we maintain joy and happiness while we wait for God to resolve our situation? “Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble with it” (Proverbs 15:16). Solomon was not saying that it was bad to have great treasure, but that wealth gained unjustly will not produce joy. Many people scheme their way into positions of power. Gaining wealth through unjust means will often mean that you have to continue to be dishonest in order to maintain it.

Some of the scriptures that speak about joy suggests that it is a choice. There are people who experience clinical depression and anxiety and struggle to regulate their emotions. We do believe that God can heal the mind and emotions, even for people with a diagnoses. For the average person, many lifestyle choices can affect the quality of our mental health. What we read and feed our minds with, what we watch on television, the friends and people that we associate with, are all contributing factors to our mental health. A good balanced diet, regular exercise, having good friends with a positive attitude, meditation and prayer are all antidotes for stress and anxiety.

While some conditions are outside of our control, there are things that boils down to our lifestyle choices. We reap the fruits of good works and healthy choices often lead to positive outcomes. “My son, do not forget my law, But let your heart keep my commands; For length of days and long life And peace they will add to you” (Proverbs 3:1-2).

A.P.-Y.