Under Pressure Don't Crack!

Greetings!

Let me share a story that holds a valuable lesson. I recently cooked some ramen noodles in a glass soup mug and added them to a cup of chicken noodle soup. While transferring the hot mug to the sink, I realized I wasn't being careful and put it under cold water instead of letting it cool off first. As a result, I heard a crackling sound, and the mug broke. 

Well, surprise, surprise, crack, crack, crack was the sound I heard. Oh dear, I exclaimed. I should've let the soup mug cool off; instead, I was running cold water instead of hot water, which would have matched the intensity of the present heat. 

Lesson to learn: When we are under pressure, we must allow ample time to cool off; otherwise, we will crack under pressure, just like the glass mug I used for the ramen noodles. It was a lesson to learn that we must always take the necessary precautions when handling hot items, especially when in a hurry or distracted. We need to give ourselves ample time to cool off, or we might end up making mistakes that we'll regret later.

So, it's always better to be cautious and attentive while dealing with hot objects.

When we're in a rush, we must be patient and give ourselves time to cool off before making any decisions. This story helps us to learn from our mistakes and avoid repeating them in the future.

Under Pressure but Not Defeated,

Minister Sylvia Joyner

Salt and Sugar Matthew 5:13

 Greetings,

Today, we will examine the differences between sugar and salt. Although they look similar, each function independently and creates different outcomes. However, my focus is not just on their similarities but on a fascinating metaphor from the Bible that emphasizes their distinct roles in the believer's life. We all know salt is a common household ingredient used to season and preserve food taste. But have you ever considered its use to depict Christians and their role? 

The Biblical metaphor in Matthew 5:13 gives us a clue. Jesus describes his disciples as the salt of the earth. This metaphor suggests that, just like salt, disciples have a responsibility to flavor and enrich the lives of others. 

However, sugar has been part of the diet for centuries, serving as an energy source and sweetener. But here's the fascinating part about sugar: considered an exclusive part only available to kings in ancient times. These monarchs viewed sugar as a symbol of power, status, and wealth. Something they were only able to enjoy. So, the next time you reach for the salt or sugar shaker, remember this lesson from history and scripture.

Both ingredients seem alike at face value, but they teach us about a disciple's roles in life and how we can bring sweetness and flavor to other's lives.

Remember this: let's not be unbalanced Christians who only display sweetness to others and are not the salt of the earth that God has called us to be. As it is said, "You are the salt of the earth. But how can the salt be made salty again if it loses its saltiness? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot" (Matthew 5:13). 

So, learn how to be wise in saving souls. A little sweetness goes a long way in bringing individuals to Christ.

Salt of the Earth,

Minister Sylvia Joyner

Strongholds and Imaginations: 2 Corinthians 10:3-6

We live in the world, but what sets us apart from the world is how we fight and our weapon of choice. The Christian must choose weapons that are not carnal but possess God-given power to destroy strongholds. Paul assures us these mighty weapons -prayer, faith, hope, love, God's Word, the Holy Spirit- are potent and effective (see Ephesians 6: 13-18). 

What type of strongholds do you ask? Strongholds against the knowledge of God in the form of arrogant arguments and various walls the adversary has built up to block our progress. And did you know that God has given us the power to take possession of all forms of thinking that would go against God's knowledge, bringing about its obedience to Christ?

Moreover, through our complete obedience to God's Word, made manifest is the punishing of every act of disobedience. In other words, we win when we follow God's order, not the worlds.

 

One of the most crucial elements in maintaining a strong and resilient faith is unwavering trust in God. Never underestimate the power of our faith in God, as it protects against the enemy's attempts to undermine our beliefs. Therefore, it is vital to be mindful of what we allow into our minds and to guard against any negative influences that may be detrimental to our faith. 

The adversary is persistent, and there is an ongoing battle between our natural and spiritual minds. In our world, unseen forces are at work, but with steadfast faith in God, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way. 

                               Move past it! It will only prosper if you let it!

Furthermore, be dedicated to God and His ways, and allow the Spirit of discernment to keep your thoughts focused on his truth.

Choosing God's Methods,

Minister Sylvia Joyner