What did God tell you—yesterday? He said or showed you something. Since things are more apparent in hindsight, it will serve you well to set aside time each day to think about what He probably told you the day before; His words are like priceless diamonds; you don’t want to lose any of them.

Did God already tell you the answer you are waiting to hear?

The Holy Spirit speaks in all kinds of ways; do you have the faith to discern His unexpected networks of communication? Everything He says might not strike you as skyrocketing information, but be not deceived; those are valuable gems in God’s overall plan. How can a human brain rank the relevance of what God said? Don’t let any of His words slide by as irrelevant.

. . . Speak; for thy servant heareth (1 Samuel 3:10b).

We hear people say, perhaps even ourselves, “something told me . . .” We should stop giving “something” God’s glory when the Holy Spirit was the One doing the talking and leading. I’m pretty sure Mary didn’t say “something,” told her that she would birth the Son of God. (See Luke 1:26-35.)

Precious diamonds!

After repeatedly reflecting on our yesterdays, we’ll become aware that the Holy Spirit communicates with us all the time. Soon, our ears will develop the habit of listening intently for God’s precious diamonds in the present moment—not the day after.

© 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

I’ve never seen anything like this; the world is fuming. No longer do we come together to intelligently debate and come up with compromises when there are differences of opinion. Instead, rage is the new format for dialogue. Lines are drawn, barricades mounted as veins bulge in anger.

We need to stop the foolishness and obey God!

But unknowingly to some, all this bickering and clawing is useless and a waste of time. The battles are spiritual and must be fought spiritually (see Ephesians 6:11-18). Fighting by any other means is entertainment for the devil who is conspiring this fury. He has studied us and knows how to provoke our most sensitive areas of vulnerability.

Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools (Ecclesiastes 7:9, KJV).

When fury rages, beware; demons are on the prowl.

The world is fronting a cascade of serious issues, all of which are coming unglued at once. But, when all this bottled-up rage is handled apart from God’s way of doing things, we lose. He is the Only answer; the earth and everything in it belong to Him, the Creator of all. One day every knee will bow.

The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein (Psalm 24:1, KJV).

Humans are easy marks for the kingdom of darkness when they lack the faith to see and acknowledge evil spirits exist. Then some are aware but tip-toe—afraid they will rattle the enemy’s cage if confronted. Being passive won’t stop evil forces from coming after us, but our active faith in God—will stop him in his tracks.

Some time ago, I wrote a post called: Don’t Bring Toy Weapons to a Spiritual Fight. If we’re not using the Word of God, the Sword, in these spiritual wars, we’re fighting with toys, and the devil is laughing.

The battle belongs to the Lord (see 2 Chronicles 20:15); therefore, follow His orders. Let the enemy know he can rage all he wants because we know who’s really in Charge.

© 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

The Holy Spirit, our Teacher, uses life experiences, especially those attached to pain, to grow us spiritually. When He allows adverse circumstances, there’s something in it for us to learn. Therefore, we should expand our focus beyond the troubles—concentrate and learn the lessons while God’s classes are offered—there will come a time when His instruction will end.

Don’t cut class!

Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: (Isaiah 55:6, KJV)

The other day I went to the dentist for a deep cleaning; they went under the gum line to clear away hardened plaque. Damage occurs when the debris is allowed to remain on the gums and become calloused. I see a similarity with that dental procedure and when sin sets up in our lives.

These aren’t the times to be a laid-back Christian because the devil will slip in, and before we realize it, “compromises” have eroded our godly principles.

I didn’t enjoy having my gums gutted, but it was necessary. Extracting sin from our lives isn’t pleasurable either—but essential if we want the power of God to operate in our lives. So, when the Holy Spirit shines light in dark decayed areas, it’s time to get it right while His grace and mercy are available to aid us through.

Everybody is taking life classes!

Ask the Holy Spirit what should you be learning from your present situations? I’m not saying all classes are challenging; however, there are still lessons to be learned even in good times. But when we ignore God’s instructions in those rough classes, the sessions are prolonged and will likely become more intense.

Do you know the classes you’re taking?

    © 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

Your faith is as strong as your trust is in God. You can’t expect mountain-moving faith without trusting the One who has the power to move the mountain—Hello! Therefore, if you want to strengthen your faith, intensify your relationship with the Holy Spirit. When intensity occurs, a bond begins to establish.

It’s good to know, or at least have an idea, of the strength of our faith before being faced with challenging circumstances. When we know our weakest areas, it guides us where to place our focus for improvement.

Below is a sample faith test. The entire pre and post-assessments can be found in the Paulette Talks Faith Workbook.

Instructions: Note the number above each column that best describes you.

Spiritual Growth:

How has my faith grown over time? 

0	1	2	3	4
I didn’t know faith could grow.	I see no growth in my faith. I don’t believe God will answer my prayers.	I see a little growth in my faith, but I don’t know how to receive help when I need it.	I see some growth in my faith, but I waiver if the circumstances become too challenging.	I see a lot of continuous growth in my faith. I am confident that God always answers my prayers.

The Holy Spirit:

 Do I have the faith to be guided by the Holy Spirit?

0	1	2	3	4
I never think about the Holy Spirit.	I rarely think about the Holy Spirit. I never depend on Him to direct my life.	Sometimes I think about the Holy Spirit, but not for everyday guidance.	I often depend on the Holy Spirit’s guidance.	I always depend on the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

Discernment:

 Do I have the faith to recognize God’s voice?

0	1	2	3	4
I didn’t know I could hear from God.	I never try to listen for God’s voice.	I usually can’t tell whether or not I’m hearing God’s voice.	I often hear and try to obey the voice of God.	I always hear and obey the voice of God.

Spiritual Warfare:

 Do I have the faith to fight a spiritual battle?

0	1	2	3	4
I know nothing about spiritual battles.	I have a nominal understanding of spiritual battles.	I understand spiritual battles take place, but I fight physically.	I will sometimes fight a spiritual battle if it doesn’t get too intense.	I fight all battles  spiritually.

Profile Interpretation:

0-1 You are not aware that you can lean and trust God in your life.

2    You are skeptical of how God fits into your everyday life.

3    You are aware, but not fully committed to God in every aspect of your life.

4    You fully depend and trust God in every area of your life.

Based on this analysis, you can see where you need to focus.

For the complete assessment, along with hundreds of discussion questions surrounding faith, click the graphic or link below to purchase a copy of the Paulette Talks Faith Workbook.

https://www.pauletteboston.com/store/paulette-talks-faith-workbook

Before we can start executing God’s power, some key principles must be in place.

• First, we must have a relationship with God—be Christ-followers, working to imitate Him to the best of our abilities. (See 1 Corinthians 11:1.)
• Second, we must keep in mind that God’s power is specifically for building His kingdom. God empowers His people to impact the lost world (see 2 Corinthians 5:20).
• Lastly, it requires faith to bring God’s supernatural power on earth (see Matthew 17:20).

There are probably additional requirements, but at the moment, I could only come up with three. Nevertheless, you can see, God’s power necessitates more than just wishing to be powerful; it takes a sacrificial life—focused on loving and serving Him. He knows who’s serious from those whose dedication is conditional upon circumstances.

God’s power is a privilege.

However, those who genuinely love the Lord and want to please Him will experience power beyond what they could ever imagine. In Ephesians 3:20, Paul said, Now to Him who can do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.

In 1 Corinthians 2:9, it is written that eyes haven’t seen, nor ears have heard, neither entered the heart of man, the things God has prepared for them who love Him. This is not referring to when we leave this world, but to experience while on the earth.

But there are some Christians who will not meet the basic standards to live a supernatural life on earth. They are satisfied to know they are going to heaven when they leave here. But then the questions become, did they accomplish their earthly purpose? Did they influence others to Christ?

Power is a tool needed to accomplish God’s mission.

When I transition, I want the LORD to say, well done! I want to achieve everything He planned for me to do in service to Him—leaving not a drop of unused power—after all, He had a reason for anointing me with it. Every day, I ask the Holy Spirit to teach me how to exert the gift He planted within because I can’t think of a more urgent time in our era than now—to execute the power of God.

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light; (1 Peter 2:9)

© 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

C’mon now, you know we can do better! God’s Word doesn’t suggest but commands us to treat one another the way we want to be treated (see Luke 6:31). It doesn’t take biblical scholars or a prophetic word to realize God has sounded the alarm bells throughout the world for us to get our act together and change our selfish ways. It’s no mystery why the world is in a mess. If we took the verse in Luke to heart—injustice, hypocrisy, cruelty, and other forms of coldheartedness-

Poof—gone!

Do to others as you would have them do to you (Luke 6:31, NIV).

God’s Word will not return to Him void; if He said it—it will come to pass (see Isaiah 55:11); therefore, we can count on reaping what we sow (good and bad) to come to pass.

Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap (Galatians 6:7, KJV).

Imagine what would happen if the ugly spewed out made an immediate U-turn back to its sender. I’m sure after a few quick U-turns, more compassion would soon cover the earth. Maybe then we wouldn’t be so hasty to judge people without walking in their shoes. There’s something about having skin in the game to prompt us to see things differently.

Lord, help me to see before You make me see.

If we know it or not, selfishness is bondage. Do you know any happy selfish people? The Word of God is our guardrail; it keeps us on the right track. Some people think living a Christian life is too restrictive; however, the Word is what keeps us safe and out of the enemy’s clutches—into the blessings of the Lord.

We all want blessings, but are we willing to be a blessing—indiscriminately?

³⁵ For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:

³⁶ Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.

³⁷ Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?

³⁸ When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?

³⁹ Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?

⁴⁰ And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me (Matthew 35:40).

 

How we treat one another is one of our biggest challenges on earth.

C’mon now—we have to do better!

© 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.

 

Life is not a straight unimpeded line but rather a labyrinth of complicated complexities, making it impossible to successfully navigate our way through without the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Without His direction, we are hoping and guessing; winging it; playing it by ear; functioning off the top of our heads; because He’s the only One who knows for sure the way we should go—God designed it that way.

I will instruct you (says the Lord) and guide you along the best pathway for your life; I will advise you and watch your progress. ⁹ Don’t be like the senseless horse or mule that has to have a bit in its mouth to keep it in line! (Psalm 32:8-9, LAB)   

In John 16:7, Jesus told His disciples He was going away but would send the Holy Spirit into the world to be their Comforter. Today, the Holy Spirit is still among us as our Advocate, Counselor, Intercessor, Helper, Strengthener, and Standby (AMP). We are to lean on Him to get us through our everyday situations—God designed it that way.

So, what should you do when you can’t detect God’s presence?

• First, have faith to believe He’s still there with you—teaching and counseling you to trust Him even when He’s silent. Teachers don’t talk during tests.
• Second, remember He’s your Standby—and standbys are always standing by. His eyes are over the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayers (see 1 Peter 3:12).
• Finally, if you are having a problem following the Holy Spirit’s path, ask Him to help you. Remember He’s your Helper, too.

Life is hard, especially during these unparalleled days we’re facing now. “Normal” isn’t coming back. Therefore, we need help beyond human means to take us through this uncharted territory.

God designed it that way!

© 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

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

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.

 

Do you know who you are? I’m not talking about on a superficial level but inside your being, the part that makes you—you; inside the chambers where your soul resides. Not who you would like to be, or who you want people to think you are, but who you indeed are. For instance, are you a loving person full of compassion? Or are you self-absorbed full of bitterness? Or perhaps you fall somewhere in the middle, depending on the circumstances and whose involved.

How judgmental or sensitive are you when people you don’t like or even know are going through some of the roughest times in their lives? Do you offer mercy or quick-to-snap conviction? How do you react under pressure when doing the right thing has a hefty price tag on your well-being? The answers to those questions ought to give you a clue who you are. Whichever category you might place yourself in, you will be tested—just to make sure.

Peter, a disciple, assumed he knew himself until he was tested on the day Jesus was arrested. Peter told Jesus that he would never renounce Him. Despite the fact, Jesus told Peter that he would deny Him three times that very evening. Of course, Jesus was right; when pressured, Peter denied knowing Him when that association put his own life in jeopardy.

And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly (Matthew 26:75).

I believe God is giving us a crash course by allowing all these ongoing disasters to come upon the earth so we can see our true nature. There’s nothing like a death-grip—to squeeze what’s in us out.

Are we who we think we are?

Some people who considered themselves unfriendly and uncaring might be pleasantly surprised to find out they’re the ones people can count on in time of trouble. But, on the other hand, some who think of themselves as loving and caring might fail the test when hard times hit people they don’t particularly like; therefore, refusing to show any kindheartedness.

Our test is to love those we don’t even like—NO one is exempt.

With eyes and ears of faith, pay attention. God has His reasons for all the unrest that’s happening in the world. Have you noticed the solution to all the turmoil we’re facing depends on how well we cooperate and treat one another? Nothing is by chance—or coincidental. These events are perfectly scripted with us in mind for such a time as this. The Lord already knows us, but He wants us to know who we are.

How well do you know—you?

© 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

Drop—the stone! We don’t need another stone thrown. The world is already on edge; we’re living in a tinderbox—waiting for the next shoe to drop. So please, don’t throw any more stones of bigotry, lies, or other hate-filled rocks.

God is speaking, but are we listening?

God is showing the world it’s headed in the wrong direction. He allowed a pandemic to ransack the entire globe; He’s ripping veils off deep-seated prejudices and hypocrisies. Yet, with all this going on, we still dare to be throwing stones at one another. With the mess before us, we need to humble ourselves and heed the Holy Spirit’s guidance because the way of the world isn’t working for us.

The life we live is just a prelude to eternity. I once heard someone describe the length of eternity by using grains of sand as an analogy. They said if one grain represented one lifespan, then all the grains of sand on all the beaches wouldn’t begin to measure the length of eternity. I don’t know how accurate that description is or how well I explained it, but you get the point.

With that said, most of us need to rethink our priorities and base decisions not just on the moment but also on the future. For example, there’s nothing wrong with climbing the ladder of success or accumulating nice things, but the question is, how did we treat one another as we climbed that ladder, and did we mistreat others to get those nice things? In other words, were any stones thrown?

Jesus never minced words.

One morning while Jesus was teaching in the temple, the scribes and Pharisees brought Him a woman caught in adultery. The law of Moses specified to stone her for such an act. But when they asked Jesus what they should do, Jesus responded, “he without sin, cast the first stone.” The woman’s accusers were convicted by Jesus’ profound reply and left the temple one by one. If we apply this Scripture to our lives, do you think any stones would be thrown?

… he [Jesus] lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her (John 8:7).

Another day when a great multitude had gathered to hear Jesus speak, He spoke about people who judge others when they have more enormous sins going on in their lives. If more of us would take a look at ourselves, we wouldn’t be in such a hurry to throw stones at others’ iniquities. The apostle Paul said we have all sinned and come short of the glory of God (see Romans 3:23).

Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye (Matthew 7:5).

We need to drop the stones—and drop to our knees and repent.

© 2021

See you next time on Paulette Talks Faith.

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.

Have you noticed people are in a high pursuit after positions and material possessions, a.k.a. the “American Dream”? Of course, there’s nothing wrong with that—until those aspirations become their gods and are willing to do whatever it takes to accomplish them. Sadly, some people are so captivated that they are willing to massacre their self-respect and sacrifice the well-being of others if it gets them what they’re going after. However, when they cross those lines, they have entered into idolatry.

Idolatry is described in the Bible as anything that we allow to take the place of God in our lives. With such a broad definition, everything can fall into that category; the determining factor is our attitude. Do we worship things? Are we jealous when others have what we want? Can we be happy for people who are living our dream?  Can our lives be content without it?

A good thing can turn into an idol.

Sometimes it’s hard to know when our desires have become idols, especially when the things we are striving after are virtuous; therefore, we must ask the Holy Spirit to alert us when this insidious spirit of idolatry enters our lives. By faith, we must accept what the Spirit tells us; even if He says, not My will—let it go.

Gauge: Who gets most of your attention, God or things?

Thou shalt have no other gods before me (Exodus 20:3).

What does God mean we’re not to have other gods before Him? The word before in this context is not suggesting it’s okay to have other gods as long as we list El Shaddai, LORD Almighty first. Instead, it means God is the only God—Periodt!

Don’t be mesmerized by worldly junk.

For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? (Mark 8:36)

The devil blinds us with the world’s sparkle and glamour. He peddles his junk to lure people off focus. Remember, he tried to use that ploy when Jesus was on His forty-day fast in the wilderness. (See Matthew 4:1-11.)

The enemy approached Jesus, showing Him all he would give Him if He would worship him.

And saith unto him [Jesus], All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me (verse 9).

But Jesus replied:

Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve (verse 10).

Are there any hidden idols in your life?

© 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.

 

In Psalm 139, David said, If I ascend into heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in hell, You are there (see vs. 7-9). Believers find it consoling that they’re never out of the Holy Spirit’s spotlight—His view. This is very reassuring when the enemy is attacking them. By faith, they know, hell can’t make a move against them without Heaven knowing about it.

The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good (Proverbs 15:3).

Some people find the spotlight intimidating.

Although, not everyone is comforted by God’s spotlight—illuminating all the hate, lies, and injustice they bestow upon others. Those who have a smidgen of ethics, integrity, and scruples might find being watched intimidating when choosing to ignore what they know is right.

It’s all done under the Spotlight—Ha-ha-ha.

Then they are those whose conscience is seared; they could care less about God watching their evil actions. The enemy has deceived them into believing they are gods; they don’t have to answer anyone. We see so much of this going on in the world today; people walking around like cold-hearted zombies, not caring about who they hurt as long as it profits their selfish needs.

The Word says in Mark 8:36, What shall a man profit, if he shall gain the world, and lose his own soul?

But despite evildoers’ dismissal of God, the Holy Spirit will not dismiss their underhanded, deceitful actions. Every day a batch of wickedness comes to light. I see this exposure as an unrecognizable blessing; God is showing them the gig is up; it’s time to give their lives to Him before it’s too late.

 ^12,13The Lord is laughing at those who plot against the godly, for he knows their judgment day is coming. ¹⁴ Evil men take aim to slay the poor; they are ready to butcher those who do right. ¹⁵ But their swords will be plunged into their own hearts and all their weapons will be broken  (Psalm 37:12-15, LAB).

Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. ² For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb (Psalm 37:1-2).

It doesn’t matter if sin is done in a sealed crypt—

It’s All Done Under the Spotlight.

© 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