When facing a hard-pressed predicament, ask the Lord, “Did You set this up?” Once you examine the circumstances from that stance, your attention will focus more on your spiritual growth and maturity than on the problem. Of course, you want the matter resolved ASAP, but instead of praying for deliverance as your first defense, pray to hear what the Lord has to say because if He set it up—there’s something He wants you and/or others to learn before you are delivered.

Only You, Lord, can fix this!

 Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment, ³ now that you have had a taste of the Lord’s kindness (1 Peter 2:2-3, NLT).

Some learning possibilities:

• Walk by faith. (2 Corinthians 5:7)
• Put your trust in the Lord. (Proverbs 3:5)
• Seek God first. (Matthew 6:33)
• Impossible for man; possible for God. (Luke 18:27)
• God’s grace is sufficient. (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Your faith will grasp the joy; your fear will grasp the hurt.

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy (James 1:2, NLT).

So, why does James tell us to consider our troubles as opportunities for joy? He said that because he knows if we submit to God, hard times will transform us into the likeness of Christ, and anytime our actions reflect the Lord’s, that glorifies Him because of the spiritual advancement it produces.

Lord, did You set this up for Your glory?

© 2022

   See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

When heartstrings are being pulled, it’s hard to pray, with sincerity, “Lord, Your will be done.” That blind step of faith pleases God in that we trust His outcome in the matter. But all in all, that’s still a hard prayer to pray; I know because I haven’t prayed that prayer yet without adding my two cents on how things should go.

Letting God have His way is the ultimate test of our faith.  

When our Lord was in the garden of Gethsemane, He knew that doing His Father’s will meant He had to accept the bitter cup of wrath. That decision wasn’t easy; He toiled all night in agony; but concluded, “Nevertheless not what I will, but what thou would have me to do” (see Mark 14:36).

The apostle Paul received an invaluable revelation about God’s ways are best after he pleaded three times for the Lord to take the thorn away that Satan was allowed to dispense. I’m pretty sure Paul gave God a list of logical reasonings why the thorn should be removed. But God responded: “My grace is sufficient.”

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Once Paul realized that God’s grace supplied all the strength he needed to endure whatever infirmities and distresses came his way, it was his honor to showcase God’s power in those trying times.

But think about this: Satan can no longer control our emotions when we have resolved life’s outcomes to God’s will be done.

© 2022

   See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

The world has customized “truth” to fit its iniquitous lifestyles; whatever feels good, seems right, brings pleasure, or any jam-freeing fabrication is acceptable these days. Nevertheless, God warns His followers to keep the belt of His Truth wrapped tightly around their waist. We are in spiritual warfare, and functioning in the Truth is part of His armor (see Ephesians 6:10-17).

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist. (v.14, NIV)

Too many are tightening the wrong belts.

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15).

Unfortunately, sometimes followers aren’t aware they have conformed to the world; therefore, they have tightened the wrong belt. Some conformities come from having a complacent attitude towards spiritual matters; sometimes, conformism can also result from misquoting and taking out of context God’s Word for generations.

While in prison, the apostle Paul writes a letter to Timothy, an elder of the church at Ephesus, to stay encouraged during challenging times, hold fast to the doctrine, and reject and correct wrong teachings.

The advice Paul gave to Timothy is what we are to remember and take to heart. But we can’t differentiate God’s Truth from “truths” if we don’t read and study the Word for ourselves. I can’t overemphasize studying the Word for yourself; for when we do, we’ll better recognize misinterpretations. Also, when we don’t know the Truth, we miss out on the power it renders. For instance, knowing the Word of God keeps us from:

• wrapping ourselves in falsehoods,
• being incompletely armed for battle,
• being spiritually deaf,
• staying spiritually underdeveloped.

If you find understanding the Bible difficult, ask the Holy Spirit to lead you to a translation that you can comprehend. If you prefer listening, there are audio versions you might find enlightening.

The format we choose isn’t essential; receiving the knowledge of the Word is what’s important so that we won’t tighten the wrong belt.

© 2022

   See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

Just because an evil, worrisome thought pops into your head doesn’t mean you have to think that thought through. This can be easier said than done because even the Christians who can properly decern when the devil is talking to them will still, at times, listen and allow his lies to overtake what the Lord said about a situation.

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things (Philippians 4:8).

Invest time in faith, not fears.

The longer we ponder the enemy’s lies, the more our faith weakens, and his stronghold strengthens. Of course, we can’t stop the devil’s illegal suggestions (wicked thoughts) from entering our heads; no more than we can prevent birds from flying over our heads, but it is within our control not to give time to every thought.

Not until recently, I felt defeated whenever I found myself worrying, but the Holy Spirit brought to my attention that for the past two weeks, I was casting down those illegal suggestions. Because as soon as I realized one of the devil’s lies had entered my head, I vetoed it immediately and replaced it with what the Lord said about the matter. And the times when I couldn’t recall a verse to quote, or a personal word from the Holy Spirit to cast it down with, I just called: Jesus! What a relief when the Lord revealed that to me. Those two weeks of consciously taking control of my thinking will eventually become how my thoughts are processed in the future.

Why trade God’s peace for the devil’s torment? 

A measuring rod of spiritual growth:

• How much time do you allow the enemy’s frightening thoughts to linger in your head?
• Do you give those thoughts less time now than you did a year ago?

Remember, you don’t have to think about every thought—choose what you think—wisely.

© 2022

   See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

 

Can’t see it? Check the power line if you are a believer who can’t believe beyond the physical realm. There’s a disconnect somewhere if you can’t see those things that are not—as if they really are. After you receive salvation, your mind must be renewed; your old way of thinking must rise to a supernatural level and begin to see and call things like God wants you to see and call them.

Once you have prayed:

• If you’re sick—don’t keep talking about how ill you are.
• If your money is low—don’t keep talking about how broke you are.
• If you’re forgetful—don’t keep making jokes about your fading memory.

Calling those things which are not . . .  

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews11:1).

I speak only for me; I can’t be contained anymore by “religious restrictions” that leave me powerless when I know the Holy Spirit wants to take me to a supernatural realm where faith—is the predictable outcome—not a random incident. And for faith to have its way, my attention must be on God and His promises. Because what He says should be my reality; if not, do I really believe and trust God?

To see things the way the Holy Spirit wants us to see them—requires us to regularly spend one-on-one quality time with Him on a personal level. As our relationship matures, we become humbly honored just to be in His presence, not necessarily wanting anything but Him. That’s when a bond begins to form; intimacy develops; we want what He desires; we recognize His guidance and quickly obey the promptings of His voice; then our measure of faith begins to delete cataracts caused by doubts and fears; our spiritual vision comes into focus.

Is your power line connected?

Power line inspection:

• Is God your number one priority? (Matthew 22:37)
• Are your thoughts aligned with His Word? (2 Corinthians 10:5)
• Can you discern God’s voice from all the noise? (John 10:4; 1 John 4:1)
• Do you trust Him no matter what you don’t see? (Hebrews 11:1; Mark 9:23)
• Do you stay suited in the whole armor of God? (Ephesians 6:10-18)
• Do you think God is pleased with your relationship with Him? (John 14:15,21)

If you can’t see clearly through the lens of faith, don’t become discouraged; ask for the Holy Spirit’s help and believe what He tells you, and do what He says.

Our faith connected to the Power Source—Oh, My Goodness; we’re getting ready to see some stuff! 

© 2022

   See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

Is it just me, or have you noticed the world has gotten a whole lot smaller? It’s small enough to fit in my backyard; its troubles are now my problems—tribulations come in one size fits all. Could this be God’s way of letting us know we are all joined together despite our man-made lines of division?

 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God (2 Corinthians 1:4).

We all need one another—God created us that way.

We are at our best when our humanitarian traits work together in harmony. An example of that was last week when many outcries poured for prayer for a country in crisis. It’s beautiful to see the world pulling together in this joint effort. Oh, if we would only stay on this path. Today them—tomorrow could be us.

Keep praying—our well-being depends on it!

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. ² My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth (Psalm 121:1-2).

© 2022

   See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

It’s not a far stretch of the imagination to conclude that we are in spiritual warfare. The apostle Paul said that we wrestle not with flesh and blood but against spiritual wickedness in high places; we are to put on the whole armor of God to stand against the wiles of the devil. (Ephesians 6:11-17)

The Armor:

• The Belt of Truth
• The Breastplate of Righteousness
• The Shoes of Peace
• The Shield of Faith
• The Helmet of Salvation
• The Sword of the Spirit

Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand (verse. 13).

We should never take any piece of God’s armor off, not that anyone would knowingly. But, if we aren’t paying attention, Satan has ways of slithering in like a laser removing pieces that we’re unaware are missing until we’re in a battle. For example, the shoes of peace are the easiest for him to remove by setting us up against one another.

I learned something new about the armor the other day when Satan attacked me. From my outer appearance, I looked like a fierce warrior on the battlefield; for every lie he told, I held up the shield (faith) and cut him with the sword (the Word). This back and forth went on for almost an hour; I never caved in, but when it was over, I felt defeated. So, I asked the Holy Spirit, “Did I do something wrong?”

The Holy Spirit whispered in my spirit: You didn’t have the helmet on—that’s why you thought—you were defeated.

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: (verse 17)

Never take the helmet off.

Now I’m beginning to see, in my opinion, the helmet of salvation, walking in the confidence of Christ, is the glue that holds the armor together because it protects the mind where wrong thinking starts. Continually reminding ourselves who we are in Him is one way to stay victorious (see 2 Corthinains 5:17). When our thinking is defective, it leaves portals for the enemy to insert fears, doubts, and other mind-controlling emotions, like him telling me I was defeated when I really wasn’t.

Therefore, when we start each day, we should ask the Holy Spirit if we are dressed adequately for battle—are we leaving any pieces behind?

© 2022

   See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

 

Do you use the help God sent, or do you prefer doing things the hard way on your own? If you are a born-again Christian, your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). God has given every believer the help to be comforted, strengthen, and will remain on standby for whatever might occur.

But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I [Jesus] go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby) will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him (the Holy Spirit) to you [to be in close fellowship with you] (John 16:7, AMP).

Don’t wait for a fleshy feeling before you recognize the Holy Spirit’s presence.

• Do you need strength? The Strengthener lives in you.
• Do you need comforting? Reach inside and draw from the Comforter.
• Do you need someone to come to your defense? Appeal to the Advocator that dwells in you.
• Do you need wisdom? Call on the Counselor right inside.

Help has already arrived.

Most of the things we are longing for are already inside of us. The Holy Spirit is all-inclusive; not only does He have everything that we need, but the power to bring it about. Therefore, He should be our first interaction in time of need. The extent to which we can take advantage of this Superpower will depend solely on our faith to believe. Jesus’ disciples were in direct contact with Him, but so are we through His Holy Spirit.

God wants us to experience His power and not just talk about it theoretically.

But do we have a practical understanding of using the help God sent? I don’t know about you, but as for me, just knowing the Holy Spirit lives in me makes me want to know how to use Him more effectively in my life and the lives of others. I’m making this my life’s mission; I can’t think of anything more important for me to do.

The more we immerse ourselves in the presence of God, the more His proximity becomes undeniable.

Learn how to make the most of the Help God sent.

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help! ² My help cometh from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. ³ He will not permit thy foot to be moved; He that keepeth thee will not slumber (Psalm 121:1-3, NKJV).

© 2022

   See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

If you routinely pray for God’s blessings before you start your day—that’s good. But if that prayer is a thoughtless repetitive habit—that’s not good. A quick wink and nod in God’s direction won’t do in 2022.

God demands our undivided attention, not a wink on the run.

From the last couple of years, we should have learned that life is heating up. I remember people were thrilled and jumped for joy when they said good riddance to 2020, but to their surprise, 2021 said, “Not so fast—you haven’t seen anything yet.” So, what makes us think 2022 won’t have a few belly punches of its own. I see a pattern forming, don’t you?

I’m not trying to spread gloom, but who can’t see these bricks of adversity mounting? Consider this: The issues that marked 2020 and 2021 in history have not been resolved; therefore, 2022 bears those burdens plus whatever pages it decides to include.

God is up to something.

Yes, God is in control; He can turn things around in an instance. But more important than our wishes, He wants us to learn lessons that will help us grow spiritually. And one of those lessons He wants us to learn is we must draw closer to Him.

Each person can be as close to God as they want to (and the Holy Spirit knows that). The closer we draw to Him, the closer He draws to us. Moses strived for that deep level of closeness, and as a result, he was able to commune with God face-to-face, while others were satisfied with a long-distance relationship. (See Exodus 33:11.) I can’t speak for you, but a distant relationship with the Holy Spirit isn’t enough to satisfy my spiritual appetite.

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you (James 4:8a, NKJV).

The same was true when Jesus walked the earth. He appointed about seventy people to spread His message, but only twelve had a relationship with Him. Peter, James, and John were in the inner circle of the twelve and witnessed some of Jesus’ profound moments. And out of those three, John was the most intimate. This is why we shouldn’t compare our relationship with the Lord based on where others are positioned.

God is warning us to make Him our top priority in 2022.

However, not everybody is willing to pay the price for that deep level of intimacy. But as the last few years have shown us, a long-distance relationship with the Holy Spirit isn’t going to make the cut in these troubled times.

If your spirit isn’t on fire for God, then ask Him to put that flame in you because throwing a quick wink and nod in His direction won’t do in 2022.

Winks and nods don’t move mountains!

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled (Matthew 5:6).

© 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

Worrying is an illusion to make us believe we can solve problems. But instead of a problem solver, it manufactures hopelessness; it’s one of the devil’s tactics to weaken us while we marinate in agony and frustration. He wants us to dwell on things as they seem to be—rather than see them through the eyes of faith. The other day when I found my thoughts captive by the enemy, the Holy Spirit dropped this into my spirit:

Be still; give it to God—you won’t be disappointed.

I can’t tell you how much that blessed me; hopefully, it will help you stay strong in the Spirit. When you find yourself in adverse situations, remember that faith has another side of the matter and receive your strength from that perspective; encourage yourself in God instead of worrying.

That’s precisely what David did when he wrote Psalm 22. When he was faced with hardships, he encouraged himself, thinking about how God came through for him and others in the past. God is faithful; He’s the same today as He was since the beginning of time. It helps me when I think about the same God who brought my grandmother through is the same God who is bringing me through.

       The praises of our fathers surrounded your throne; they trusted you and you delivered them. ⁵ You heard their cries for help and saved them; they were never disappointed when they sought your aid  (Psalm 22:4-5, LAB).

The apostle Paul learned how to be content in whatever situation he found himself in, whether abounding or abasing—he knew how to give it all to God. What can the devil do with an attitude like that?

I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. ¹³ I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me (Philippians 4:12-13).

Whatever your problem might be, give it to God; you won’t be disappointed.

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28).

© 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

No one knows the day and hour of Christ’s return, but I think if we were back in Noah’s day, the animals would be boarding the ark right about now. Look around; you know situations and circumstances of this world are intensifying to dangerous levels. Yet, through it all, God’s love, mercy, and grace are showing us what we need to do to prepare for our LORD’s return. But, even if He doesn’t come back for thousands of years from now, we won’t be around, so for us, the animals are boarding—now.

As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man (Matthew 24:37, NIV).

But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: (2 Timothy 3:1, NKJV).

One of my pastime pleasures is watching the news because I view the happenings from a spiritual perspective. I parallel current events with God’s Word. (See Matthew 24.) Looking at the world from those lenses gives me the enjoyment of witnessing God’s extraordinary moves as they unfold. Because as traumatic as things are, El Shaddai, God Almighty, is showing the world Who He is, and that’s glorious to watch.

I’ve heard some Christians say they don’t watch the news; it’s too depressing. I don’t think believers have the luxury of keeping their eyes and ears closed during this crucial time. If God’s people don’t know what the world is being fed, how can they point them in the direction of Truth? Although, believers must be able to distinguish truth from fiction themselves. I’ll just leave that right there.

We live in a time we have to show the world the Word of God through our actions—if not now, when?

Because the animals are already boarding.

© 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

In my humble opinion, too many Christians (including myself) aren’t maximizing the power within them. Jesus’ unmatched—inexhaustible power lives on the inside of each believer through the person of the Holy Spirit. But, only a few will exert the faith to believe that’s true—leaving a lot of the power unused.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, (Ephesians 3:20, NIV)

With what the world is facing today, the concept of just knowing the third person of the Trinity abides in us isn’t enough to combat these evils. We need to understand how to transition potential energy into the Holy Spirit’s yoke-removing, burden-bearing, demon-slaying strength to carry out God’s will on earth.

When Jesus ascended to heaven, He told His disciples they wouldn’t have power until the Holy Spirit came. This is because the Lord knew they couldn’t effectively witness for the Kingdom without being endowed by the Spirit. They needed the functioning power of the Holy Spirit, and so do we.

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 1:8, KJV).

A few years ago, I told the Lord I wanted to operate and view my life from the supernatural realm. With the Holy Spirit living on the inside of me, why should I be fearful or worried about anything? Would the Spirit be anxious about the things that upset me? No!

Here’s how the Lord answered my request:

• The more intimate you are with the Holy Spirit, the more you’ll find yourself living supernaturally.
• Get to know Him by reading the Word and studying everything you can about this Person living on the inside of you.
• Become familiar with the many ways He contacts you.
• Consciously, include Him in everything that you do.
• Get into the habit of thinking like you’re empowered.

A month ago, I thought about my request to live supernaturally; and the Lord spoke again to my spirit:

You believe in Me, and I’m supernatural; therefore, you are living supernaturally. More power will be released as you mature spiritually.

Think about what the Holy Spirit could accomplish in this broken-down world if more of us would use the unused power within.

© 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

With all the madness in the world, the time to be still in the presence of God—is now. Hush the noise by reflecting on God and meditating on the Scriptures. We must pay attention to what He pours into our hearts, not what the enemy dumps into our minds. God is sovereign; therefore, what’s there to fear if we’re walking on the LORD’s side? Even in total destruction, He is our protector, our very help in trouble. Who or what can come against El Elyon, the Most High God? Though demons rage, and mountains quake—Be Still!

Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen,

I will be exalted in the earth (Psalm 46:10).

If our problems seem to be overbearing, perhaps we took our focus off the Problem Solver and became anxious. So, instead of worrying ourselves sick, make the “problems” accountable to God, by holding them up to His standard (the Word):

• There’s nothing too hard for God. (Jeremiah 32:17,27)
• All things are possible with God. (Matthew 19:26; Luke 1:37)
• If God is for us, who can be against us? (Romans 8:31)
• No weapon formed against us shall prosper. (Isaiah 54:17)
• The armor of God can withstand the wiles of the devil. (Ephesians 6:11)
• We have the strength for all things through Christ who strengthens us. (Philippians 4:13)
• God will give His angels charge over us in all our ways of obedience. (Psalm 91:11 AMP; Luke 4:10)

Who’s got infinite POWER—problems or God?

 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Hebrews 4:12).

Watch El Shaddai, God Almighty, work masterfully during challenging times. If He allowed the situation to manifest, the Holy Spirit will walk us through while He surrounds us in His peace. Not the world’s so-called peace, but His Peace—the kind that transcends human comprehension (see Philippians 4:7).

But, do we have the faith to trust the Holy Spirit will fight our battles? Hebrews 11:6 says that we cannot please Him without faith. Jesus said, “When I return, will I find faith on the earth”?

Do you have the faith to be Still?

© 2021

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. ² Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; ³ Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah. ⁴ There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High. ⁵ God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early.⁶ The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted.⁷ The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.⁸ Come, behold the works of the Lord, what desolations he hath made in the earth.⁹ He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire.¹⁰ Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.¹¹ The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah (Psalm 46).

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

 

After giving our lives over to the Lord, in my humble opinion and experience, the next step on the spiritual agenda is to learn how to discern God’s voice. Because if we can’t hear Him, how can we follow His instructions? And if we can’t follow His instructions, we’re susceptible to the enemy’s plans, and if we follow the adversary’s trajectory for our lives, it goes without saying—we’re in trouble.

And your ears will hear a word behind you, saying, This is the way; walk in it, when you turn to the right hand and when you turn to the left (Isaiah 30:21, (AMP).

Hearing God is a non-negotiable attribute.

Not hearing God is like meandering through life wearing a blindfold and earplugs. How many close-call situations have you found yourself in because you didn’t have the faith to know God prompted you to go in a different direction? Have you passed up any once-in-a-lifetime opportunities because you didn’t recognize the Holy Spirit speaking blessings into your life? Regrettably, some believers are under the delusion they can’t hear God for themselves. So they put their faith in others to listen for them.

But why would our heavenly Father not want all His children to hear Him? Think about that. How would you feel if your children only listened to their peers and friends over your advice? Isn’t that a frightening thought?

   How does God speak to His children?

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: (John 10:27)

God speaks in different ways at various times. We’ll miss Him if we expect to hear Him only in a particular format—the Spirit will keep us alert by changing His methods and approaches as He sees fit. He won’t allow us to place Him into a box of formulas.

Of course, the primary way we hear God is through the Scriptures. Reading and studying the Word of God illuminates His character. With that enlightenment, we learn what pleases and displeases Him. I like to personalize Scriptures to portray Him speaking directly to me. This is probably the closest I’ll ever get to hear Him speak to me audibly.

Example:

[Paulette] shall call upon me, and I will answer [her]: I will be with [her] in trouble; I will deliver [her], and honour [her]. (Psalm 91:15)

Other ways God speaks, but is not limited to, are through situations and circumstances, people, wisdom, dreams, visions, good old-fashioned gut feelings, and some have even heard His audible voice. The more time we spend in His presence fellowshipping, the better we’re able to detect if a wandering thought came from Him or someplace else.

As we mature spiritually, we’ll sense the Holy Spirit’s presence even when He appears to be silent in our circumstances. That’s one way He stretches our faith.

Developing our spiritual ear is a lifelong endeavor filled with many trial-error experiences and willingness to look foolish when (not if) we mistake His voice. Nevertheless, it’s good to know our hearing improves with practice.

Therefore, each time we misinterpret His voice, don’t count it as a failure but should be viewed as a valuable learning experience. We’re only in trouble when we don’t try to listen.

© 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

With all the turmoil that’s going on in the world, I often hear Christians say we need a revival. When I ask them what they mean, they say an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, a spiritual awakening; people repenting as God’s power blows across the globe. However, they always refer to revival in terms of an event that they’re waiting to happen. But the Holy Spirit spoke this to my heart: a revival is in progress—right now.

Revival is a process.

It’s hard to imagine people turning towards God when we predominantly see hatred and injustice around us. Keep in mind; however, most of us only see the speck of the world we occupy—that which is in front of us. But, if we had a panorama view of the world from a heavenly perspective, we would see powerful ventures being conducted on God’s behalf.

God has a purpose for allowing all this madness, and His plan is working—perfectly. His objective is to bring souls into His Kingdom. Regardless of what we may see, souls are repenting and turning to Him.

In 1 Kings 19:14, Elijah told God I worked hard for You, but rebels have revolted and have torn down Your altars and are worshiping Baal (false gods). Elijah went on to say they killed all Your prophets except for me; I’m the only one left.

Has God ever come up shorthanded?

But in verse 18, God told Elijah seven thousand men in Israel have never bowed to Baal. So to Elijah’s misconception, he was not the only one left to serve the Lord. Likewise, we have no idea of the mighty army God has working for Him.

Believers recognize the Lord is speaking profoundly through these dire circumstances. They know the hour is seriously late. Therefore, they have taken up the banner and, with determination, running as a cloud of witnesses cheer them on.

Since we have such a huge crowd of men of faith watching us from the grandstands, let us strip off anything that slows us down or holds us back, and especially those sins that wrap themselves so tightly around our feet and trip us up; and let us run with patience the particular race that God has set before us (Hebrews 12:1, LAB).

We know everyone won’t receive salvation, but we might be pleasantly surprised at how many are heeding the call. Please don’t lose hope. Instead, look up with your eyes of faith and watch this glorious revival unfold.

Revival in progress!

© 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

(LAB) Life Application Bible copyright © 1988 by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL 60189.

 

The war between good and evil, love and hate, has been raging since the devil’s demonic attack on mankind back in the Garden of Eden. (See Genesis 3:1-6.) Still today, we are experiencing the aftermath as sparks continue to ignite hellfires around the world. The most destructive spirit in the enemy’s arsenal is hatred. And we know it’s lethal because once it’s internalized, some people are willing to sacrifice their well-being and the well-being of those they love—just to do hateful deeds toward their fellow man whom God commands them to love.

If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? (1John 4:20)

It might seem like the enemy is winning—but he’s not!

With hate on the rise, it seems like the enemy is winning—but he’s not! Think about this: There was a time when hatred could hide behind insincere platitudes of admiration and false smiles. However, now, hypocrisy, injustice, and other forms of this vile spirit are no longer concealed; but broadcast around the globe for everyone’s viewing. This exposure is good news, especially for those who want to do right by God but have no idea they’re harboring such deep-rooted animosity that keeps this fire fueled.

Know who the real enemy is.

Imagine the military fighting against their unit instead of the adversary. That’s not what you would call a winning strategy. But that’s precisely the devil’s game plan to get our focus off him, the real enemy. He knows he lost the war. He also knows how much God loves people and wants no one to perish. Therefore, the devil’s mission is for multitudes to join him in hell.

^… [T]he devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever (Revelation 20:10).

By faith, stay encouraged; know when hate flickers its flames—God is Love, and Love Won!

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).

© 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

Why do bad things happen to good people? Why are innocent children abused? Our brains are left puzzled when trying to understand the “why” behind those types of questions. But we shouldn’t waste time trying to make sense of it all because that piece of the puzzle remains under the sovereignty of God. We must accept the fact that we are incapable of understanding everything. Therefore, our job is to grasp what the Holy Spirit wants us to know, and for everything else that we don’t know, we are to trust Him and walk by faith.

Oh, what a wonderful God we have! How great are his wisdom and knowledge and riches! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his methods! ³⁴ For who among us can know the mind of the Lord? Who knows enough to be his counselor and guide? ³⁵ And who could ever offer the Lord enough to induce him to act?³⁶ For everything comes from God alone. Everything lives by his power, and everything is for his glory. To him be glory evermore (Romans 11:33-36, LAB).

The book of Job is a perfect example of human logic’s shortcomings when trying to understand God’s ways. Job’s wife and his friends couldn’t figure out why all the catastrophic events came upon him, an upright man of God. They each offered their opinions on why all the disasters. Job’s wife went so far as to tell him to curse God and die.

After all of their dead-end discussions, analyses, and interrogations, God asked Job: “Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell me if you know so much.” (Job 38:4, LAB)

We know less than we think we know.

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.⁹ For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Job had no idea about the dialogue that took place between God and Satan before his turmoil started. During that conversation, God allowed the enemy to attack Job and all his possessions. Even though Job couldn’t understand what caused his afflictions, he remained loyal to God. In the end, he was given double blessings; his family, along with his material possessions, were restored. This entire heart-rending story can be found in the book of Job.

When we’re faced with troubles beyond our justification, we don’t need more intelligence; we need faith in God. Just like Job didn’t know what had transpired behind the scenes between God and Satan, we know less than what we think we know in our particular circumstances. One reassuring thing about Job’s situation was that God remained in control; He restricted Satan’s range. That detail should comfort us when we’re going through trials.

When we surrender our inept, misinformed wills over to the Almighty, the One who knows everything about everything, we align ourselves to His absolute wisdom. One of the best prayers we could pray should go something like this:

Lord, help me accept Your will as mine; You know things that I don’t know. You are monitoring my path as I walk by faith. I put my trust in You to make all this work out for my well-being.

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28).

Do you really know—what you think you really know?

 © 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

(LAB) Life Application Bible copyright © 1988 by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL 60189.

 

Not all blessings come neatly wrapped served on a silver platter. Some are unrecognizable and, at times, seem more like curses. How many blessings have we bypassed because they didn’t come in the “right” packaging? Or how many have we overlooked because we misjudged or didn’t like the person delivering it? It’s going to take faith to see—when the blessing is unrecognizable.

Lord Almighty, blessed is the one who trusts in you (Psalm 84:12, NIV).

It’s not our call to tell God how and when to bless us.

The story of Joseph is a perfect illustration of how some blessings can be unrecognizable. Thrown into a pit and sold into slavery by his brothers would not have been viewed as a blessing. Even though his brothers had evil intentions, God used their wickedness to bless a nation. Joseph played a crucial role in Israel’s history. See Genesis 37-50 for Joseph’s story.

You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives (Genesis 50:20, NIV).

What blessings could you be overlooking?

Most of my writings come from my life experiences, and this one is no exception. One day the Holy Spirit told me to look for Him, especially in the small things He will do throughout that day. When evening came, I replayed my day and realized all the unrecognizable blessings that I would have missed if I had not paid attention. I ended up making a sign so I’ll never forget in the future to:

Look for Me today!

If you are in a troublesome situation, Romans 8:28 says that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.

Therefore, there’s no need for those in Christ to spend all their time focusing on problems; instead, pray for insight and wisdom to recognize unrecognizable blessings.

 Recognizable or not, God will bless us as He pleases.

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you

 (1 Thessalonians 518).

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

© 2021