LONLINESS:

Loneliness can be a challenging experience, especially for authentic Christians. Loneliness is a result of disbelief, stemming from the alienation caused by the serpent in the Garden of Eden. Just as Adam felt the painful emptiness of separation from God, we too can recognize our need for deeper communion with Him. The Bible calls it "oppression." Loneliness was the first psychological ramification of eating the forbidden fruit.

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Challenge:

Jesus experienced loneliness on the cross; Father, why have you forsaken Me. When rightly understood, loneliness can serve as a Truth, a healthy acknowledgement of separation. When saved, or unsaved, when individuals experience loneliness, it is a confession of a perceived brokenness to being relationally connected to Jesus Christ - in Jesus's case, God. It is NOT a "mental health" issue. That would by psychobabble. It IS a wonderful reminder of our need to connect to Jesus in salvation or for believers, to reconnect to the indwelling Life within us. ACTION: If not an indwelt believer, pray for salvation. If you are a believer, review this video, HERE.          

 

Review:

Exodus 20:12; Ephesians 6:1-4 (Read Dr. Phinney's Private Journal Entries)

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A MOTHER:

The power of a mother lies in her prayers, sacrificial love, and faithfulness. Whether through Hannah’s intercession or Mary’s obedience, mothers play a vital role in God’s redemptive plan. Their impact extends far beyond their immediate families, shaping generations to come. Sadly, in our anti-parent culture, mothers are not honored as the Word of God commands us. May we honor and appreciate the mothers who exemplify the virtues of the Holy Spirit!  

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Challenge:

Ultimately, a Christian mother’s mission is to raise children to honor and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ until the children receive Christ as their indwelling Savior - with the power of their kindness, discipline, and love. Her children should rise up and call her blessed; her husband also should praise her. A Godly mother shows selflessness: she places her children above her own needs. She is compassionate: she nurtures, comforts, and cares for her children and grandchildren. She is full of wisdom: she seeks God’s guidance in raising her children. Live a long life, find a mother, your mother if she is alive, and thank this woman for her lifelong dedication in being a mother.  

 

Review:

Exodus 20:12; Ephesians 6:1-4

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THE CHURCH:

The Church, composed of individuals living in this world, inevitably interacts with the culture, norms, and ideologies around it. Sometimes, this interaction leads to the Church being influenced by worldly values, practices, and attitudes. Thus, people get hurt and disappointed in the authentic meaning and purpose of the "church." Social media and other platforms often reveal harmful rhetoric from so called "believers," reflecting fear, cultural misnomers, frustration, and disdain rather than a Biblical worldview.   

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Challenge:

In the New Testament, the term “Church” (from the Greek word “ekklesia”) refers NOT to a lifeless institution or bureaucratic organization but to a vibrant, living organism—the Body of Christ. The manipulative displaced "Christian" leaders through the ages made it about denominations and separatist groups touting their version of what is most important - centered on their agenda(s). The authentic Church is the full body of believers globally. The next time you hear the title "church," remember that the Word of God states that the Church is Jesus's present Temple of the Holy Spirit, which makes authentic believers His body that He conducts His ministry.  

 

Review:

1 Corinthians 12:12-27; Ephesians 1:22-23

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VACCINATED BY LOVE:

An international study of around 99 million people confirmed known serious side effects of COVID-19 vaccination. The ramifications are mind-bending. While it’s essential to be informed, it’s equally crucial to consider the context of God's sovereignty. God's love extends beyond the depraved "fixes" of humanity, as well as the purposeful methods of reducing humanity's population.    

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Challenge:

John, from the Gospel of John beautifully encapsulates the essence of God’s love. Despite the challenges, uncertainties, and brokenness we face, God’s love remains steadfast and sacrificial. It’s a lighthouse of hope that pierces through the dark depraved actions of humanity, offering redemption, grace, and eternal life to all who embrace it. He sent His Son to offer healing - spiritual, psychological, and many times physical. Take time today to realign your beliefs with the mind of Christ within you, that is if you are indwelt by Him. 

 

Review:

John 3:16; Jeremiah 17:14

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IM DEPRESSED:

Over-diagnosis and over-treatment of depression is a significant concern, particularly in the United States. The secular world calls depression a mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, and loss of joy. The Bible calls it sorrow and lack of joy. Without the inner joy of the Lord, all humans can be plagued with the oppressive nature of defeat and hopelessness. Depression might be a warning sign of not connecting with Jesus Christ personally. 

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Challenge:

The Bible acknowledges that authentic believers can struggle with overwhelming sorrow and sadness - even oppression. Oppression is an external darkness from God's enemy that can show its face in the ideology of "depression." If we don't identify where this darkness comes from, those who suffer from it will likely turn to drugs. True healing comes from the renewal of the mind THROUGH the indwelling mind of Christ. I strongly encourage you to look inward to Christ, study and read the Bible, and stay connected to the fellowship of other believers. Jesus offers hope through these three actions. God promises the fruit of the Holy Spirit to those who refuse conformity to the world.

 

Review:

Romans 12:2; Deuteronomy 31:8

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FAKE GRACE:

The issue of true Grace versus counterfeit is based on one thing - faith vs. self-effort. During the early spread of the gospel among Gentiles, many so-called believers taught that converts needed to apply rules to Grace. They added human effort (works) to faith in Christ to maintain a relationship with the indwelling Life of Christ. The reality is, people are saved by Grace (unmerited favor) through faith in Christ alone.

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Challenge:

The test of true Grace vs. a counterfeit is demonstrated when we get hurt. If judgement and rules spring forth from our souls - we are stuck in the counterfeit. Grace, in the biblical context, is unearned blessings and undeserved kindness. It highlights God’s unconditional love and mercy toward humanity, particularly toward those that hurt us. True grace leads to a transformed life, while counterfeit grace falls short. May we release the genuine Grace that comes from God, through Christ's indwelling Life and live in alignment with His truth. 

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Review:

Philippians 3:1-3; Acts 15:1-29

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DISTRUST:

Distrusting the Word of God is a complex and multifaceted topic, and it’s essential to approach it with sensitivity, respect, and the indwelling Life of Christ. As someone who believes in the absolute teachings of the Bible, I understand the significance of faith and the challenges that doubt can bring.  Some struggle with reconciling scientific discoveries, historical context, or apparent contradictions within the Bible. Past hurts within the hearts and minds of the masses can erode trust in spiritual authority of the Word of God.

 

Challenge:

Understand that faith isn’t static; it evolves over time. Doubt can be a catalyst for deeper faith if approached with humility. Faith isn’t blind acceptance; it’s a deliberate choice to trust God despite uncertainties. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Today, decide that doubt doesn’t disqualify you from faith; it’s an invitation to seek deeper understanding. As you continue your journey, may you find wisdom, peace, and a stronger connection to God’s Word by trusting in Jesus's existence, then move on to His Word.

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Review:

Hebrews 11:1; James 1:6

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POPULATION CONTROL:

Population control refers to the practice of artificially maintaining the size of any population. Specifically, it involves limiting the size of human population so that it remains manageable. It involves birth control, abortion, female genital mutilation (FGM), affirmative transgender surgery, euthanasia, biological viruses, and others. In the Word of God, all fall under the category of murder. God is into life, and life abundantly.  

 

Challenge:

According to the Bible, God created the first human beings, Adam and Eve, in His own image. He blessed them and commanded them to “be fruitful and multiply.” Since Satan is the author of murder, he heard this and decided to reverse this mandate by inventing ways of logical murder that is logical and comfortable within human reasoning. As an example, over 95% of "Christians" believe birth control is not in violation to God's standards of multiplying life. Population control began with "birth control." Satan's goal is to block the birthing of future prophets and teachers of God. Multiplying the earth is in place to advance God's love for humanity. Decide today your position on logical murder.     

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Review:

Genesis 1:22, 28; Genesis 9:18-19

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MENTAL HEALTH:

Young people today grapple with anxiety, depression, and other so called mental health issues. The pressure to succeed, social media, and academic stress contribute to these challenges. However, "mental health" leans toward being a misnomer. It has become a "catch-all" for minds suffering from a deluge of lies. Many blame the oppressive whispers of demonic influences. It is also believed that TRUTH sets people free. Not the truth of cultural fractions, but the Person of Truth - Jesus.

 

Challenge:

Renewal of the mind is the corner post of sanity. When we conform to the ideations of this world, we need a renewal of thoughts in and through the mind of Christ, WHICH requires authentic indwelling Salvation - BY being filled with the Holy Spirit, WHO reveals the thoughts of Jesus. AFTER that, we are able to test and approve WHAT God's will is. Today, ask yourself these questions. Am I indwelt by Jesus Christ? Does the Holy Spirit live inside me? Am I a real-deal believer? In doubt? Read this explanation. HERE       

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Review:

Romans 12:2; Proverbs 27:17

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GENDER DYSPHORIA:

Gender dysphoria is a term used to describe the intense discomfort or distress that arises from a mismatch between a person’s biological sex (assigned by God) and their gender identity. Since the "norm" for humanity is gender confusion, and God is a He, are we not covertly accusing God of gender dysphoria? God is a "He," Jesus is a "He," and the Holy Spirit is represented as "feminine." The Holy Spirit is always subject to the "He" of the Triune of God. Thus, since indwelt believers (the Bride of Christ) host the Holy Spirit, we must submit to our Husband, Jesus, and obey His every command. 

 

Challenge:

Counseling will not "fix" this problem. However, repentance will. If you "feel" like a different gender than God assigned to you, identify your "feelings" as what they are - a hormone response to what is hosted in the mind. Focus on renewing your mind in Christ by sustaining it with the absolutes of His Word. That means spending time in a non-gender-neutral Bible, as in ESV, KJV, NKJV, or NASB. Avoid translations that have removed the gender identification of the masculinity of God the Father, and Jesus the Son.     

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Review:

Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:2; Psalm 104:34

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RICHES IN CHRIST JESUS:

Biblical Paul was an inspiration to all authentic believers. He stated the word "grace" twelve times in one letter, Ephesians. Amazing! He did this to declare God's calling and purpose for every real-deal believer. He notes God's many rich blessings through and in Christ - blessings that should strengthen every indwelt Christian's confidence and endurance. 

 

Challenge:

As an indwelt Christian, our confidence rests not in our own abilities or achievements, but in the unchanging character of Jesus Christ from within. We are secure in the knowledge that He is faithful, loving, and all-powerful. His promises are true, and His grace is sufficient for every circumstance. In Christ, we find hope, purpose, and eternal assurance. Today, make a decision to reflect the essence of Christ's indwelling faith: trusting in the person of Jesus Christ and relying on His work from the inside out. Always remember that our confidence is not in ourselves but in the One who is our Savior and Redeemer.

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Review:

Ephesians 2:8-9; Eph. 4:7

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HOLDING AN OFFENSE:

If believers in Christ held to one Biblical rule, “Do not hold an offense against another,” their lives would be 100% free from bitterness, strife, and unforgiveness. However, less than 1% dare to live such a life in Christ. All forms of bondage start with an offense.

 

Challenge:

The importance of forgiveness and the interconnectedness between our willingness to forgive others and God’s forgiveness toward us is paramount. It encourages us to release any grudges or offenses we may hold and extend grace to those who have wronged us. List three people you hold "guilty" of offending you. Release them in Christ, in prayer, then decide to NEVER bring up the offense again.  

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Review:

Mattew 6:14-15; John 6:61; 1 Cor. 10:32

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CHRISTIAN CONDUCT:

Biblical Peter's central theme is how indwelt Christians should conduct themselves as "God's own possession." He empowers us to live among those who do not believe and are looking for reasons to oppose the spread of indwelt Christianity.

 

Challenge:

Live a life proclaiming the excellencies of Him who called you out of the dark cultural world. Live as a representative of the person of light, Jesus. Live as a sojourner of Christ by releasing His Life onto others. Reveal your honor of Christ to one person today. 

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Review:

1 Peter 2:9 | 1 Peter 3:8-5:11

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JESUS'S SECOND COMING:

Peter is devoted to warning believers that scoffers would come asking, "Where is the promise of His coming?" Peter assures his readers that any delay in Christ's return does not show a failure regarding His promises; instead, God is giving humanity time so that all who will "should reach repentance." As we know, this was not isolated to the first-generation church, it is for all who live up to His second coming.

 

Challenge:​

The second coming of Jesus Christ is not only a future event but also a powerful motivator for righteous living and a reminder of God’s ultimate plan. The second coming represents the fulfillment of God’s grand plan for humanity. It’s the moment when Jesus returns to Earth in glory. This event marks the culmination of history, where Christ will judge the living and the dead, establishing the long-awaited Kingdom of God on earth - the 1,000-year reign of Jesus Christ. Study the book of Revelation - read through it completely without studying, reread it looking up all the cross-references, and finally, read it the third time taking notes as to the revelations found in your cross-reference study. 

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Review:

2 Peter 2:3:4; v9

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FALSE TEACHERS:

Peter devotes the middle portion of his second letter to false teachers who would come and seek to lure the believers into their fleshly/carnal ways. He wants his readers to focus on the teachings of Jesus from within, plus, the words being taught by the disciples rather than listening to the self-appointed teachers who claim their "own interpretation," which is popular in our culture today. In his day, these false teachers refused to believe that God will judge wickedness. Another common belief of fake Christians today.

 

Challenge:​

Staying anchored in Christ and practicing these disciplines will help you confidently hold onto Truth within you throughout your faith journey! Dive into the Bible regularly. Familiarize yourself with God’s Word, discerning what aligns with it. Join a Bible Study Group, engage with fellow believers who study the Bible together. Discuss and learn from one another. Don’t believe everything you hear, be cautious. Compare what you "hear" to the Word of God. Not every teaching is accurate. Testing the "spirit" is critical. 

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Review:

2 Peter 2:1-22; 3:3, v4

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THE BELIEVER'S KNOWLEDGE:

Peter uses this word five times in his opening chapter of his second letter. He urges his readers to far more than mere intellectual understanding; he implores them to pursue an intimate interaction with Jesus as Truth from the inside out. This yields the greatest transformation of all when a believer releases Christ versus practicing His Truth, which produces a deeply intimate relationship with Him.

 

Challenge:​

While knowledge of God is crucial, true fulfillment comes from experiencing intimacy—knowing Him personally, listening to His voice, allowing our hearts to be captivated by His love and by releasing His actual Life in and through us. Acquiring information about God—understanding theological concepts, doctrines, and facts—is essential. However, without releasing Him, it is all an intellectual pursuit. 

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Review:

2 Peter 1:2, v3, v5

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THE BELIEVER'S CREDENTIALS:

Among the common practices of false teachers questioning our credibility, Peter was certainly accused of such misnomers. He reestablishes his credentials with his readers; he was an eyewitness to the ministry of Jesus and His transfiguration, and resurrection. Even having such a testimony, he was doubted and ridiculed for his indwelling faith. 

 

Challenge:​

Jesus claimed to be the Son of God, the Messiah, and the Savior. His teachings, miracles, and resurrection provide compelling evidence for His credibility, even when He was consistent in His love, and unwavering commitment to truth demonstrate His trustworthiness. Yet - few believed in Him and in what He said. When believers share their stories, they contribute to the credibility of Christ. When they don't, they discredit His Life and His teachings. Take time to share your testimony with at least one person today. Share with them how the power of Christ brought you His indwelling Life through being possessed by the Holy Spirit. 

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Review:

2 Peter 1:16-18

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SEPARATION FROM THE WORLD:

Peter's audience had been dispersed because of severe persecution. All indwelt Christians, however, were temporarily deployed on assignment by God in a land that is not their/our own. Knowing this should give us proper perspective on evangelism and discipleship, on living differently from the world, and on our purpose in all circumstances, which is to bring God glory. Many indwelt believers in our generation attempt blend the two worlds. Peter states that those that do will reap condemnation of such practices. 

 

Challenge:​

Sin has a harmful influence on the soul. Separation from those who live in darkness protects us from its poison. The Lord calls us to come out from among them, be separate, and avoid touching unclean things. In doing so, He receives us as His sons and daughters. James 4:4 warns against friendship with the world, emphasizing that such friendship is enmity with God. Choosing to be a friend of the world makes us enemies of God. List out "friends" that you might have who are worldly and of bad influence. Without rejecting them, begin to practice separating yourself from partaking in their worldly deeds.

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Review:

1 Peter 1:13-2:12; 4:11

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SUBMISSION IN CHRIST:

In order for the first-generation church to maintain its testimony, Peter encourages submission to unreasonable authority as far as it is possible in all of life's relationships without violating God's Word: submitting to rulers, masters, wives to husbands, and young people to the Elders of their churches.

 

Challenge:​

The Bible instructs believers to submit to authority. Even when authority seems unreasonable, our obedience reflects our trust in God’s sovereignty and control over such leaders. Jesus Himself submitted to unjust authority. He endured false accusations, an unfair trial, and crucifixion without retaliation. Our response to unreasonable authority speaks volumes about our faith in Christ's indwelling Life. Today, identify one authority figure you resist, yield them to Jesus, and then begin honoring them by submitting to their guidance. Remember, never obey IF they ask you to break the mandates of God.

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Review:

1 Peter 2:13-3:7; 5:5

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SUFFERING IN CHRIST:

During Emperor Nero's rule of the Roman Empire back in the first-generation church, indwelt believers became a persecuted minority. Peter provides a wealth of supernatural guidance on the "how" to endure external sufferings by the practice of releasing the Life of Jesus instead of the fleshly self-life.

 

Challenge:​

Suffering is closely tied to the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. His sacrificial death on the cross brought salvation to humanity. Through His suffering, we find forgiveness and reconciliation with God. I challenge you to list three individuals you have struggled in forgiving. Offer them up to the Lord, release your unforgiveness, and begin to reconnect with them by way of the indwelling LOVE of Jesus. 

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Review:

1 Peter 2:19-25; 4:12-19

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INDWELLING GRACE:

Biblical Peter reveals that Grace is the foundation for all believers who proclaim the indwelling Life of Jesus Christ - salvation, possession of the Holy Spirit, Biblical marriages, spiritual gifts, suffering, humility, and the first and second comings of Jesus as the Lamb and the Lion of Judah.

 

Challenge:

As an indwelt believer, I challenge you to reflect the authentic Life of Christ from within by sharing your salvation story, release His Life from within, if married, use your marriage to communicate the believer's marriage to the Lamb, tap into your spiritual gifts, fellowship in Jesus's sufferings, stay humble, and openly share the End Times prophecies of the Rapture, and His second coming.

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Review:

1 Peter 1:2-23; 3:7; 4:10; 5:5, v10, v12