• Christian Living

    Spiritual Strongholds

    Happy Monday! Or at least, OK Monday! A friend’s post reminded me of something this morning: the nature of spiritual strongholds, and can Satan really influence us? Let’s be 100% clear: Satan or his demons can NOT possess a Christian. Can’t do it. The Holy Spirit is within us, and “He who is within us is greater than he who is in the world.” However, he CAN influence us if we let him. And since we’re imperfect sinners in a fallen world, sometimes that will happen. It’s called sin and is why Jesus Christ died on the cross so He could bless us with His resurrection and salvation. Now, about…

  • Christian Living

    Heart on Fire

    Someone asked a question in another group yesterday: “What was one of the hardest things you have ever experienced, and God brought you through it?” I remembered this. It might encourage you. In 2001, I was going through three horrible things at the same time: separation, bankruptcy, and having to sell my dream home because I couldn’t keep up the payments. My son was just 5. I was SO MAD AT GOD. I had asked for the divorce because of some bad decisions on my husband’s part. I knew I was right to do it since the situation was untenable, but here I was–the family breadwinner–about to lose everything. One…

  • Christian Living,  The Holy Spirit

    How to Listen to God

    First, ask! “[Jesus said] ‘Listen! I stand at the door and knock; if any hear my voice and open the door, I will come into their house and eat with them, and they will eat with me.’” (Rev. 3:20) Ask Jesus Christ to transform your mind, to help you to become the person He created you to be. Take Time. Breathe deeply. “Be still and know that I am God.” Quiet your spirit before God. Relax physically and mentally. Wait receptively. Find a place and time where you can be alone, and stay quiet and uninterrupted. Early morning is the best time for many people, but whatever works for you.…