Inspirational

Joining a church department can be a transformative and fulfilling endeavor. In this article, we’ll explore the various reasons why becoming involved in a church department is a valuable choice for your spiritual growth.

What if your faith was the only thing standing between you and your destiny? What if, like Christian in Pilgrim’s Progress, you had to risk everything to reach the Celestial City, a symbol of Heaven? This powerful allegory, written by John Bunyan, still speaks to us today with its timeless lessons. In the film Pilgrim’s Progress: Journey to Heaven, we follow Christian as he faces doubts, temptations, and life-changing decisions on his journey toward eternal glory. His path, filled with both struggles and triumphs, mirrors the journey of every believer who has wrestled with challenges and pressed on in faith. Let’s dive into 5 life lessons from Pilgrim’s Progress that can inspire and strengthen our own spiritual walk. “To go back is nothing but death; to go forward is fear of death, and life everlasting beyond it. I will yet go forward.”― John Bunyan, The Pilgrim’s Progress This movie isn’t just entertainment; it’s a wake-up call to the challenges and triumphs of a life of faith. Let’s dive into five profound lessons from Christian’s journey that each of us can carry forward, from the importance of strong faith to the invaluable role of friendship. The Story of Pilgrim’s Progress At the heart of Pilgrim’s Progress lies Christian’s mission to escape the weight of his sins and find salvation. Setting out with nothing but a book and a heavy burden, Christian faces a path that mirrors the struggles every believer encounters—doubt, temptation, and the unrelenting call of distractions. Yet, his courage, perseverance, and faith become his armor as he moves closer to the Celestial City. Each experience reflects the highs and lows of the Christian walk and the relentless hope of finding rest and freedom in God. Lesson 1: The Journey of Faith Embracing Faith as Our Compass Faith, the beginning of Christian’s journey, mirrors our own spiritual beginnings. He is given guidance by Evangelist, a wise figure who assures him that trust in God can release him from his burdens. This reflects our own need to step out in faith, trusting that God has a plan for each of us, even when it’s hard to see. Pilgrim’s Progress reminds us that embracing faith is both our starting point and our compass. “For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.” — Romans 4:3 Faith to Overcome Challenges As he presses on, Christian faces countless challenges, including the Swamp of Despond and the Valley of the Shadow of Death. Yet, despite his struggles, he trusts in God’s presence, which enables him to persevere. Like Christian, we too encounter overwhelming situations, and our faith becomes the light that guides us through. “For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.” — Isaiah 41:13 Lesson 2: The Power of Perseverance Never Giving Up In his quest, Christian faces numerous temptations to quit, especially when captured by Giant Despair. Yet, he perseveres, encouraged by his companion Hopeful. This lesson illustrates that while despair may visit, our calling as Christians is to persevere, assured that God’s strength will sustain us. “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” — 2 Corinthians 12:9 Finding God’s Strength in Hardships From fighting the demon Apollyon to resisting temptations, Christian learns that hardship is part of his journey. This perseverance becomes a spiritual discipline, and through each struggle, he grows stronger. Like Christian, our trials are often God’s way of strengthening our character and refining our faith. “Therefore, take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day and, having done all, to stand.” — Ephesians 6:13 Lesson 3: The Importance of Friendship Building Supportive Friendships On his journey, Christian is accompanied by friends like Faithful and Hopeful, who encourage and support him. When Faithful is martyred for his faith and Hopeful helps him escape despair, we’re reminded of the vital role that fellowship plays in our lives. Strong friendships uplift us in moments of struggle and keep us accountable on our spiritual journey. “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17 Supporting Each Other Through Tough Times When captured by Giant Despair, it’s Hopeful’s words that pull Christian from the depths of despair. This powerful scene illustrates how true friends provide encouragement when we’re at our lowest, keeping us aligned with God’s promises. Lesson 4: Learning from Mistakes Acknowledging and Growing from Errors Christian’s journey is marked by moments of failure, like when he listens to Mr. Worldly Wiseman and strays off course. Yet, he learns from these mistakes, turning back and repenting. His humility teaches us that acknowledging our errors and seeking God’s forgiveness is essential for spiritual growth. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” — 1 John 1:9 Growing Through Repentance Through Christian’s mistakes, we see God’s grace at work. Each time he repents, he gains a renewed sense of purpose and moves closer to his goal. Similarly, our missteps allow God to work within us, transforming our hearts. “If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their evil ways, I will hear from heaven and forgive their sins and heal their land.” — 2 Chronicles 7:14 Lesson 5: The Reward of Eternal Life Reaching the Celestial City After enduring hardships, Christian finally arrives at the Celestial City, symbolizing Heaven. His arrival reminds us that eternal life is the reward for a life of faith and perseverance. The journey may be difficult, but the promise of eternity with God makes it all worth it. “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.” — Revelation 3:21 Finding Everlasting Joy Upon

As humans, we constantly seek wisdom and guidance to help us navigate life’s challenges. The Bible contains a wealth of wisdom and insights to assist us in our journey. Here are the 7 top Bible life lessons that will transform your life. No matter who you are, these lessons are useful to anyone, regardless of your religious affiliation. 1. The Power of Forgiveness Forgiveness is one of the most powerful bible life lessons.. In Matthew 18:21-22, Peter asks Jesus, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus responds, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” Forgiveness is both a commandment and a gift we give ourselves. Holding onto anger and resentment only weighs us down, but when we forgive, we experience liberation and joy. 22 Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. – Matthew 18:22 NIV To practice forgiveness, consider this: Who do you need to forgive today? Reflect on how holding onto grudges has affected your well-being. Write down your feelings about the situation and then, when you’re ready, take a step toward letting it go. Maybe write a letter (even if you don’t send it) expressing your feelings or pray for the person who has wronged you. To learn more about the significance of forgiveness, check out these Bible verses on forgiveness. 2. The Importance of Humility The Bible teaches us that humility is a virtue to cultivate. Philippians 2:3-4 states, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.” Practicing humility opens us up to learning from others and appreciating their perspectives. It fosters compassion and kindness in our interactions, allowing us to create deeper connections. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Philippians 2:3-4 NIV Think about moments when you’ve felt prideful or overly self-important. How can you show humility in your daily interactions? Maybe it’s as simple as asking someone their opinion in a meeting or helping someone without seeking recognition. Reflect on the ways humility has positively impacted your relationships in the past and commit to practicing it more intentionally. To explore more on humility, visit this resource on biblical humility. 3. The Value of Perseverance Perseverance is essential in life’s journey. James 1:2-4 tells us, “Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials of many kinds.” This verse highlights that trials build resilience and strength. Embracing perseverance helps us develop character and equips us to face future challenges with confidence. It is in moments of struggle that we often find our greatest growth. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:4 NIV Think about a challenge you’ve overcome: How did perseverance play a role? Write about it in a journal, focusing on the lessons you learned and how you grew through the experience. When faced with new trials, remember those past victories and remind yourself that perseverance will lead to a greater purpose. For verses that inspire perseverance, check out these Bible verses to build perseverance of faith. 4. The Importance of Faith Faith is central to our relationship with God. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” With faith, we trust in God’s plan and find hope for the future. It gives us the strength to overcome fear and uncertainty, providing a sense of purpose in our lives. Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1 NIV Ask yourself: How can you strengthen your faith this week? Consider committing to daily prayer or reading scripture regularly. You could also join a faith-based group or community that encourages discussion and sharing of experiences. Reflect on moments when faith has guided you through difficult times and how you can cultivate a deeper trust in God’s plan. To understand more about the nature of faith, visit this guide on what faith is. 5. The Power of Love The Christian journey begins and ends with love. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son” (John 3:16). 1 Corinthians 13:13 reminds us, “But the greatest of these is love.” Love is more than an emotion; it’s an action that drives us to prioritize the needs of others. When we love, we create a ripple effect of kindness and compassion in our communities. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13 NIV Consider: How can you show love to someone in need today? It could be as simple as sending a text to check in on a friend or volunteering your time to help others. Reflect on how love has transformed your relationships and how you can continue to make love a central focus in your life. To explore scripture about God’s love, check out these Bible verses about God’s love. 6. The Importance of Wisdom The Bible teaches us that wisdom is a valuable asset to have. You can not do what you do not know. . Proverbs 4:7 advises, “Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” Wisdom helps us discern what is right and just and enables us to navigate challenges more effectively. By seeking wisdom, we align ourselves with God’s purpose for our lives. 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 NIV Reflect: What wisdom have you gained through life’s experiences? Consider keeping a journal of insights and lessons learned, especially during challenging times. To gain wisdom, actively seek out knowledge through reading, attending workshops, or having discussions with wise mentors. Remember that seeking God through prayer for guidance can also provide clarity in difficult situations. To gain insight into biblical wisdom, visit this resource on wisdom Bible verses. 7. Trust in God Trusting God

Are you looking for ways to stay grounded in your faith while navigating a tech-driven world? With the right tools, technology can be an ally in growing closer to God. Here, I’ve compiled my top five must-have Christian apps – each designed to bring you closer to Christ, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and connect you with other believers worldwide. Let’s dive into the best Christian apps every believer should have! 1. YouVersion: Your Digital Bible Companion Among the countless Bible apps available, YouVersion stands out as a powerhouse for daily spiritual nourishment. As of now, this app has been installed over half a billion times globally, proving its popularity and reliability. Key Features of YouVersion: If you’re looking for a versatile Bible app that offers structure, community, and variety, YouVersion is your go-to. And it’s all completely free, without any ads to interrupt your focus. You’ll find everything you need to start or continue a rewarding Bible reading habit with YouVersion! 2. Abide: Christian Meditation for Peace of Mind Mental health has become a pressing issue, and it’s no surprise that even Christians are turning to mindfulness and meditation to cope. While there are many popular meditation apps, Abide is one that specifically serves believers by integrating faith-based meditation and reflections on Scripture. Why Abide is Unique: Abide is an excellent app for any believer looking to integrate mental wellness into their spiritual life. Download Abide and take a few moments each day to meditate on God’s Word. 3. Podcast Apps: Learn and Grow on the Go Podcasts have become a popular way for Christians to gain insights on various topics, from theology to practical life advice. With apps like Spotify and Google Podcasts, you can explore countless Christian podcasts that offer wisdom and guidance. Why Podcasts Are a Must-Have: By incorporating Christian podcasts into your day, you’re making the most of the moments you have. It’s easy to fit learning about faith into your life—even in those spare moments. 4. Slowly: Connecting with Christians Worldwide In today’s world of instant messaging, Slowly brings back the art of letter-writing. It’s a unique way to connect with people globally, including fellow believers, through thoughtful letters that take time to reach their destinations, depending on the geographical distance. Highlights of the Slowly App: Slowly fosters patience and allows you to dive deeper into meaningful conversations, just like a pen pal but with a modern twist. Download it, connect with others, and share your journey of faith across the miles. 5. ChristianAudio: The Go-To for Faith-Based Audiobooks ChristianAudio is often called the “Audible for Christians,” and it lives up to that title. With thousands of faith-based audiobooks, devotionals, and Bible readings, it’s a treasure trove of Christian literature available at your fingertips. Features to Enjoy with ChristianAudio: ChristianAudio has become a favorite resource for growing my knowledge and strengthening my faith. Consider signing up and using the free trial to see what it has to offer. Bible Inspiration: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” – 2 Timothy 3:16 Conclusion: Let These Apps Guide Your Faith Journey Technology can be a powerful ally in your faith journey. From Bible study to meditation, and connecting with others, these apps make it easier than ever to keep Christ at the center of your life. Knowledge alone isn’t power—it’s potential power only if you put it into action. I encourage you to explore these apps and see which ones enhance your walk with God. If you enjoyed this list, don’t miss my post on Top 10 Christian Apps for Spiritual Growth in 2024 for more apps to aid you on your spiritual journey. Each of these apps has played a role in helping me deepen my spiritual life. May they bless and enrich yours as well.

Becoming a Christian is a life-changing decision. Accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior is the most important choice you’ll ever make, but there are things I wish I had known before starting this journey. It’s not just about accepting Jesus—it’s about understanding the dynamics of being part of a church, the spiritual battles, and the personal growth that follows. Here are 7 things I wish I had known before I became a Christian. 1. Christians Are Not Superhuman Proverbs 24:16 – “For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again, but the wicked stumble when calamity strikes.” The world often holds an unrealistic and critical view of Christians, expecting them to be perfect. This same perception can creep into our own expectations when we first join the church. However, Christians are far from perfect. The church is often referred to as a “hospital for sinners,” and this analogy is accurate. Joining the church doesn’t mean that everyone you meet is holy or has it all together. People are on different parts of their journey with God, and we all have struggles. It’s essential to remember that we are all sinners saved by grace, and the church should be a place where it’s safe to be vulnerable and allow Christ to work on us. 2. Pastors Are People Too 2 Samuel 11:2 – “One evening David got up from his bed and walked around on the roof of the palace. From the roof, he saw a woman bathing. The woman was very beautiful.” Many people place pastors and church leaders on pedestals, almost viewing them as infallible. But pastors are human, too, and they face the same struggles and temptations as everyone else. Just because they hold leadership positions doesn’t mean they are immune to weakness. Even King David, described as a man after God’s own heart, fell into temptation and sinned. It’s important to have grace for church leaders, recognizing that they are also on their own spiritual journey. The expectation of perfection can lead to disappointment, and it’s healthier to remember that God works through broken vessels, including pastors. 3. He Saved My Soul, Not My Heart Instantly Psalm 116:8 – “For you, Lord, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling.” When I first accepted Christ, I had unrealistic expectations of immediate transformation. I thought that becoming a Christian meant that my heart would instantly be free from all sinful desires and struggles. While I have heard stories of people being delivered from addictions or bad habits overnight, that wasn’t my experience, and it’s not for many others. Salvation is just the beginning of a lifelong process. Sanctification—the process of becoming more like Christ—takes time. We are all works in progress, and God works on each of us at different paces. As Philippians 1:6 says, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” 4. There Are Wolves Among the Sheep Matthew 7:15 – “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.” One of the biggest lessons I learned is that not everyone who claims to be a Christian or a man of God truly follows Jesus. The Bible warns us about false prophets—people who appear to be godly but have ulterior motives. Just because someone can perform miracles or prophesy doesn’t mean they are genuinely following Christ. Matthew 7:22 says, “Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’” It’s crucial to be vigilant and to test the teachings and behaviors of leaders against the scriptures. Acts 17:11 encourages believers to “examine the scriptures every day to see if what [they] said was true.” Not every spiritual leader has your best interests at heart, so it’s important to remain discerning. 5. The Church Is Like a Hospital Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” I used to believe that everyone in church was pursuing God with the same intensity, but the truth is, just like in a hospital, people come to church at different stages of their spiritual journey. Some are healed, while others are still seeking treatment. Not every person in the church is chasing after Christ, and some may still be struggling with worldly things. Just as patients in a hospital recover at different speeds, so do Christians as they grow in faith. This realization has made it easier for me to be gracious toward others and recognize that we are all in need of a Savior, walking different paths toward Him. 6. Serving God Isn’t Always Easy Luke 9:23 – “Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.’” One of the things I wish I had known is that serving God isn’t always comfortable. Accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior is the beginning of a new life, but it doesn’t mean life becomes free of challenges. In fact, Jesus tells us that we must take up our cross daily if we want to follow Him. There will be sacrifices, and you might face rejection or opposition, even from family and friends. However, this journey is rewarding. Through the trials, God refines us, and our faith grows deeper. Trusting Him through the hard times leads to spiritual maturity and a closer relationship with Him. 7. It’s About a Relationship, Not Just Religion John 15:5 – “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” One of the most critical things I wish I had known is that Christianity is more than just following a set of religious rules. It’s about having a personal relationship with God. Many people, including myself when I first became a Christian, focus on doing all

A new year is a chance to reset, renew, and refocus on what truly matters. It’s a time to reflect on where we’ve been, make adjustments, and turn our hearts toward God’s plans for us. These five Bible verses offer timeless wisdom and encouragement to guide you into the new year with faith and confidence. Let these words of scripture inspire you to let go of past worries, choose positive influences, and embrace God’s love and purpose for your life. 1. Philippians 4:6-7: Embrace Peace Over Anxiety “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:6-7 The start of a new year often brings mixed emotions. We’re excited about fresh opportunities, but we also face fears and doubts about what lies ahead. Apostle Paul’s words remind us that we don’t have to carry these burdens alone. When we bring our concerns to God, trusting in His guidance, we can find a peace that doesn’t rely on knowing all the answers. Consider starting a new year tradition of intentional prayer, where you list your worries, dreams, and goals, surrendering each one to God. In times of stress, reread these verses and let them remind you to trust in Him rather than trying to control every outcome. God’s peace is a gift, and it’s available to anyone who asks. 2. 1 Corinthians 15:33: Choose Your Company Wisely “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” — 1 Corinthians 15:33 It’s often said that we become like the five people we spend the most time with. This new year is an opportunity to reflect on your circle of influence. Do the people around you encourage your faith, support your dreams, and inspire you to be better? Or do they draw you away from your values? Choosing godly relationships helps us grow in character and faith. Proverbs 13:20 says, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” Reflect on who you spend time with and whether these friendships help or hinder your walk with Christ. This might mean distancing yourself from certain people or seeking out mentors who can encourage your spiritual journey. 3. Jeremiah 6:16: Reflect on Your Path “This is what the LORD says: ‘Stop at the crossroads and look around. Ask for the old, godly way, and walk in it. Travel its path, and you will find rest for your souls.’” — Jeremiah 6:16 The new year is a perfect time to pause and evaluate your spiritual journey. In today’s culture, trends can influence every part of our lives, even our faith. Jeremiah’s words are a call to return to God’s timeless truths. Have you drifted off course? Are there areas in your spiritual life that need renewal? Imagine your walk with God like traveling a road. As we progress, we’re often tempted to stray, choosing shortcuts or paths that seem easier but lead us away from God’s truth. This year, take time to pray and ask God to reveal the areas where you might have drifted, and ask Him to lead you back to His way. 4. Deuteronomy 30:19: Make Choices That Bring Life “This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.” — Deuteronomy 30:19 God has given us the freedom to choose our actions, but each choice comes with consequences. Deuteronomy 30:19 is a powerful reminder that our decisions can lead to life and blessings or to setbacks and struggles. Choosing life doesn’t just mean choosing a good or successful path; it means choosing God’s way. As you set your goals for the new year, pray for wisdom to make godly decisions. Think about the impact of your choices—not only on yourself but also on your family, friends, and future. This verse calls us to embrace a mindset of intentionality, to choose actions that bring life, joy, and blessings to those around us. 5. Jeremiah 29:11: Trust in God’s Plan for You “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11 It’s natural to wonder what the future holds. Will this year bring success, happiness, or challenges? Jeremiah 29:11 is a reminder that God’s plans for us are always filled with hope. Even in difficult times, we can trust that He is working all things together for our good. This verse isn’t a promise of an easy life but a reassurance that God’s intentions for us are always rooted in love. Reflect on past experiences where God guided you through a tough situation. As you enter the new year, remember that God is with you in every season. Trust His timing, and let your faith lead you forward. Conclusion: Steps to Embrace God’s Word This Year As you embark on a new year, think of these Bible verses as anchors for your soul. Here are a few ways to put these scriptures into action: Each of these verses reminds us that God has a purpose for our lives, a peace that surpasses all understanding, and a love that never fails. Let His word guide you through this year, giving you strength and hope with each step. And remember: whatever comes, you are never alone – God is with you, and He has a plan just for you.

Wanting to change the world has become more of a cliché nowadays. Most people use lack of money as an excuse for why they are not making an impact in the world. If we had money or power, we would change the world or at least do better than our current leadership. Today, I want to share with you the only three things you need to change the world. 1. Kindness I remember four years ago going to work my first job as a gardener. Being new to a foreign country, I was going through one of the darkest periods of my life, feeling unworthy and unlovable. On the first day of work, I met my boss who told me I was too young to be a gardener. Moreover, she began assisting me with my studies to land a better job. During the following weeks, I met her daughter, an 11-year-old child at the time named Jessica. She used to hug me every time I arrived for work. The hug from a child made me feel loved and valued. A hug and a few words of encouragement may be worth less to you but they can change someone’s world. Even the smallest act of kindness can inspire hope in other people’s lives. What starts here can change the world. 2. Accept Christ into your life Kindness is a good thing but it is not enough to change the world. The human heart is the most deceitful of all things – Jeremiah 17: 9. We need a way to keep it in check. Good intentions alone are not enough, we need to surrender our hearts to Christ. Prayer and the word of God has the power to move mountains and transform cities. “Give your life to God; he can do more with it than you can!” by Dwight L Moody. There will be those who take advantage of our kindness. We need the love of God to preserve and not lose hearts. 3. Be a loving person The world has a shortage of loving, genuine, and sincere people. As Apostle Joshua Selman would put it, Genuine people are scarce. Be the diamond in the rough, spreading love to those around you. Most of the time, you don’t need to touch someone on the other side of the world. But if you can touch and change the lives of those in your reach. They, in turn, spread the love to those in their reach. What starts here changes the world. Conclusion Money is not all you need to change the world. If you have any of the three things mentioned above, it becomes a catalyst on your journey to change the world. No matter how talented you are, you alone can not change the world. When we come together with the above mentioned things, I guarantee that there is no heart or life we can fail to transform.