Looking Back-Thanking God, Looking forward-Trusting God by Nonie Sables

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” — Lamentations 3:22-23

Life is a journey marked by seasons of joy, challenge, and growth. As we travel this road, we often find ourselves looking back at where we have been and looking forward to where we are going. This dual perspective—one of gratitude for the past and trust for the future—is a cornerstone of our faith journey.

Looking Back and Thanking God

One of the greatest practices we can cultivate as believers is the habit of remembering. In the Old Testament, God frequently instructed His people to build altars or memorials to commemorate His faithfulness. For example, after God parted the Jordan River, Joshua instructed the Israelites to set up twelve stones as a reminder of God’s miraculous provision (Joshua 4:1-7). These stones served as a testimony not only to the current generation but also to future ones.

As you look back on your life, what “stones” of remembrance do you see? Perhaps it’s a season when God provided for your needs in ways you never imagined. Maybe it’s a moment of healing—physical, emotional, or spiritual—when God’s power was undeniable. Or it could be a time of waiting, where the Lord sustained you through His Word and the encouragement of others.

When we reflect on the past with a heart of gratitude, it changes our perspective. The apostle Paul reminds us to “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have received. It reminds us that every good and perfect gift comes from God (James 1:17).

Take a moment to write down specific instances of God’s faithfulness in your life. Speak them aloud in prayer or share them with a friend or family member. As you recount these blessings, your heart will be strengthened, and your faith will be renewed.

Looking Forward and Trusting God

While gratitude roots us in God’s past faithfulness, trust propels us into the future with hope. Trusting God means believing that the same God who has been faithful in the past will continue to be faithful in the days ahead. This trust is not blind optimism but a deep conviction anchored in God’s character.

Proverbs 3:5-6 urges us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Trusting God often requires surrendering our desire for control and embracing His sovereignty. It’s a daily decision to place our confidence not in circumstances, abilities, or resources, but in the unchanging nature of our Creator.

The future can feel uncertain, and it’s natural to wrestle with fear or doubt. However, Scripture is filled with promises that speak to God’s provision, guidance, and presence. Isaiah 41:10 reassures us: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

As you look ahead, choose to trust God by committing your plans to Him. Pray over your goals, dreams, and even your worries. Ask the Lord to align your desires with His will and to give you peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:6-7). Trust grows as we take one step of obedience at a time, knowing that God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105).

The Intersection of Gratitude and Trust

Looking back with gratitude and looking forward with trust are not separate practices but deeply interconnected. When we remember God’s past faithfulness, it strengthens our confidence in His future promises. Similarly, as we step forward in trust, we create new opportunities to experience God’s goodness, which will fuel future gratitude.

Consider the example of David. As a young shepherd facing Goliath, David’s trust in God was rooted in his remembrance of past deliverance. “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine,” he declared (1 Samuel 17:37). David’s gratitude for God’s past provision gave him the courage to trust Him for future victory.

Practical Steps to Live This Out

1. Create a Gratitude Journal: Regularly write down ways God has been faithful in your life. Include answered prayers, unexpected blessings, and moments of spiritual growth.
2. Memorize Key Promises: Commit Scriptures to memory that remind you of God’s faithfulness and sovereignty. Verses like Romans 8:28, Jeremiah 29:11, and Hebrews 13:8 can serve as anchors in times of uncertainty.
3. Share Your Testimony: Share with others how God has worked in your life. Your story can encourage someone else and deepen your own appreciation for God’s goodness.
4. Pray Boldly: Ask God for the courage to trust Him with your future. Bring your fears, plans, and dreams to Him, and listen for His guidance.
5. Celebrate God’s Goodness: Set aside specific times to celebrate God’s faithfulness, whether through worship, a special meal, or gathering with fellow believers.

As you journey through life, keep looking back and thanking God, and looking forward and trusting Him. This rhythm of gratitude and trust will not only deepen your relationship with God but also empower you to face each day with faith and hope. 

A BLESSED NEW YEAR TO ALL!

Christmas Is All About God’s Plan – By Nonie Sables

 When we think of Christmas, images of twinkling lights, decorated trees, and festive gatherings often come to mind. While these traditions warm our hearts and bring us together, they can sometimes overshadow the deeper truth of what Christmas truly represents: God’s masterful plan to redeem humanity.

In Matthew 1:18-25, we find the heart of Christmas—the unveiling of God’s divine purpose. Through the miraculous birth of Jesus, God demonstrates His sovereignty, His faithfulness, and His invitation for us to trust and obey His plan.

God’s Plan Is Sovereign

Have you ever faced a moment in life when everything seemed to spiral out of control? Mary and Joseph surely did. A young woman pledged to be married suddenly finds herself pregnant—not by human means but by the Holy Spirit. Joseph, a righteous man, considers quietly ending their engagement to spare Mary public shame.

But this was no random disruption. It was the sovereign work of God. The angel’s message to Joseph in a dream revealed the truth: “Do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:20).

God was not improvising; He was fulfilling a plan set in motion before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4). Christmas reminds us that even when life seems chaotic, God is always in control, working for His glory and our good.

God’s Plan Is Fulfilled in Jesus

The angel’s message continued with a declaration of purpose: “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus because he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21).

Here lies the crux of God’s plan: salvation. Jesus did not come to be a political leader or a cultural icon. He came as the Savior, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

Matthew emphasizes that this event fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (Matthew 1:23, cf. Isaiah 7:14). Immanuel means “God with us.” In Jesus, God stepped into our broken world, bridging the gap between heaven and earth.

This fulfillment of prophecy is not just a historical fact; it is a personal invitation. Christmas is God’s way of saying, “I see you; I love you, and I have made a way for you to be reconciled to Me.”

God’s Plan Invites Obedience

When Joseph woke up from the angelic dream, he did not delay. He obeyed immediately, taking Mary as his wife and naming the child Jesus, just as he was instructed (Matthew 1:24-25).

Joseph’s obedience was not without cost. He faced gossip, judgment, and misunderstanding. Yet his faithfulness became a vital part of God’s redemptive story.

Christmas calls us to a similar response. It invites us to trust God’s plan, even when it challenges our understanding or disrupts our expectations. Like Joseph, we are called to walk in faith, knowing that obedience to God brings blessings far greater than anything we could achieve on our own.

Why God’s Plan Matters This Christmas

In a world filled with uncertainty, Christmas reminds us that God’s plan is unshakable. The birth of Jesus assures us that:

1.      God is in control: His sovereignty is unwavering, even during life’s storms.

2.      God keeps His promises: Just as He fulfilled His word through Jesus, He will remain faithful to His promises for us.

3.      God’s love is personal: He did not send a messenger; He came Himself, as Immanuel, to save us.

This Christmas lets us go beyond the surface-level celebrations. Let us pause and marvel at the beauty of God’s plan—a plan that began in eternity past, unfolded in a manger in Bethlehem, and continues in the hearts of all who believe in Jesus.

A Call to Action

As you celebrate this Christmas, ask yourself:

• Do I trust God’s plan for my life, even when it seems unclear?
• Have I embraced Jesus as my Savior, the fulfillment of God’s promise?
• How can I reflect on the joy of this plan to those around me?

Christmas is not just a holiday; it is an invitation to step into the wonder of God’s sovereign, redemptive plan. Let us celebrate not only the birth of Jesus but also the hope and salvation He brings.

This Christmas, may your heart be filled with awe and gratitude, knowing that you are part of God’s plan—a plan that is perfect, unchanging, and centered on His incredible love for you.

Merry Christmas and may the truth of Immanuel—God with us—transform your life this season.

Why the Name Jesus is Unique Above All Other Names? By Nonie Sables

In a world filled with countless names—some celebrated, others remembered, and many forgotten—there is one name that stands out above them all: Jesus. This name is not merely a label or identifier. It carries a weight, authority, and significance unparalleled in history, culture, and faith. But why is the name Jesus so unique, and why does it hold such power?

1. Because The Name was Given by God

Unlike most names chosen by parents, the name Jesus was divinely assigned. In Matthew 1:21, the angel instructed Joseph, “You are to give him the name Jesus because he will save his people from their sins.” This divine naming signifies purpose and identity. Jesus (from the Hebrew Yeshua) means “The Lord saves,” encapsulating His mission to bring salvation to humanity.

Other names might carry historical or cultural importance, but the name Jesus was chosen by God Himself to declare His redemptive plan for all humankind.

2. Because the Name Has Authority

Philippians 2:9-11 states:

“Therefore, God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

This passage underscores the absolute authority and exaltation of the name Jesus. It is not just a name spoken in reverence but one that commands recognition from every corner of creation—heaven, earth, and even the spiritual realms. No other name carries such universal dominion.

3. Because The Name Has the Power to Save

Acts 4:12 declares:

“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”

In a world searching for hope and answers, the name of Jesus offers what no other can: salvation. Other names might inspire, educate, or lead, but only Jesus provides a pathway to eternal life. His name represents the ultimate hope for humanity, bridging the gap between a holy God and a sinful world.

4. Because The Name Transforms Lives

Throughout history, countless individuals have encountered life-changing transformations through Jesus. His name has been whispered in prayers of desperation, proclaimed in hymns of praise, and cried out in moments of need. When spoken in faith, the name of Jesus has brought healing, deliverance, and restoration.

The unique power of this name is not in its pronunciation but in the person it represents—the Son of God, who overcame sin and death. Whether spoken in English, Spanish (Jesús), or any other language, its power remains undiminished.

5. Because The Name Unites

In a divided world, the name of Jesus transcends boundaries. It unites people across nations, languages, and cultures under one banner of faith. Christians from all walks of life gather to worship the name of Jesus, finding common ground in His message of love, grace, and truth. No other name has the same capacity to draw such a diverse community together in unity and purpose.

6. Because the Name Is Worth Proclaiming

As followers of Christ, we are called to proclaim the name of Jesus boldly. It is not just a matter of personal faith but a declaration of the greatest news the world will ever hear. The name of Jesus is an invitation to hope, a promise of redemption, and a testimony of God’s faithfulness.

The Name Above All Names

The name Jesus is unique because it embodies the essence of who He is—Savior, Lord, and King. It is a name given by God, exalted above all, and imbued with the power to save and transform lives. While many names have made their mark in history, only one name will echo into eternity as the name above all names.

Have you experienced the power of Jesus’ name in your life? If not, there is no better time than now to call on Him and discover why His name is unlike any other.

“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13)

 

How to overcome spiritual dryness? – Nonie Sables

Overcoming Spiritual Dryness: Reigniting Your Passion for God

There are seasons in every believer’s life where the flame of faith seems to flicker, the vibrant connection with God feels distant, and spiritual practices that once brought joy feel like a burden. This experience is often described as “spiritual dryness.” It is a time when prayer seems unanswered, worship feels hollow, and reading Scripture feels like a chore rather than a delight.

But spiritual dryness, while challenging, is not the end of your faith journey—it is an invitation to deeper intimacy with God. If you are feeling stuck, distant, or unmotivated in your walk with the Lord, do not lose hope. Here is how you can overcome spiritual dryness and reignite your passion for God.

1. Recognize the Season

The first step to overcoming spiritual dryness is recognizing it for what it is: a season. Every believer goes through spiritual ebbs and flows. Even King David, described as a man after God’s own heart, cried out in desperation, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?” (Psalm 13:1).

Feeling distant from God does not mean you have failed or that God is absent. It is simply a season that requires extra attention, intentionality, and a willingness to press deeper into His presence. Instead of allowing this dryness to create guilt or doubt, use it as a moment to re-evaluate where you are spiritually and what God may be teaching you in this time.

2. Return to the Basics of Faith

When our spiritual lives feel dry, it is often a sign that we have drifted from the basics. We can get caught up in routines, going through the motions of prayer and Bible study without truly engaging with God. Reignite your passion by returning to the fundamentals:

• Prayer: Instead of focusing on elaborate prayers, return to simple, heartfelt conversations with God. Share your frustrations, your desires, and your heart openly with Him.
• Scripture: Go back to reading God’s Word, not as a duty, but as a source of nourishment. Start with short, focused passages that remind you of God’s love and faithfulness. Psalms are a wonderful place to find comfort and renewal during these times.
• Worship: Sometimes the best way to reignite your heart is to worship God for who He is. Put on worship music, sing, or simply sit quietly and reflect on His goodness.

In Zechariah 1:3, God promises, “Return to me, and I will return to you.” Returning to the basics is a way of turning your heart back to God, inviting His presence to refresh you again.

3. Confess and Repent Where Necessary

Sometimes spiritual dryness is the result of unconfessed sin or disobedience. When we knowingly walk outside of God’s will, it creates a barrier in our relationship with Him. In Psalm 32:3-4, David reflects on how hiding sin impacted his spiritual state:

“When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy on me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer.

Ask God to reveal any areas of your life where sin may have crept in. Confession and repentance clear the way for renewed fellowship with Him. It opens the door for grace, healing, and restoration. If spiritual dryness is a result of disobedience, trust that God is faithful to forgive and restore when we humble ourselves before Him.

4. Rediscover the Joy of Salvation

When spiritual dryness takes over, it is easy to forget the beauty of salvation itself. We lose sight of the joy we once had when we first encountered God’s love. In Psalm 51:12, David prays, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.”

Ask God to restore the joy of your salvation. Reflect on how much He loves you, the price Jesus paid for your redemption, and the promise of eternal life. Reclaim the wonder of what it means to be saved, forgiven, and loved by the Creator of the universe.

5. Change Your Spiritual Routine

Sometimes, spiritual dryness comes from a stagnant routine. Doing the same thing over and over can lead to complacency. Try refreshing your spiritual habits by:

• Switching up your Bible study method: If you typically read the Bible in large sections, try focusing on one verse or passage and meditating on it. Or consider starting a topical study that addresses areas where you need growth.
• Praying differently: If your prayer life feels stale, explore new forms of prayer. Try journaling your prayers, using prayer prompts, or spending time in silent prayer to listen for God’s voice.
• Fasting: Fasting is a powerful way to seek God’s presence and clarity. It shifts your focus from earthly concerns and helps you reconnect with the spiritual.

Minor changes in your routine can spark new excitement and deepen your engagement with God.

6. Surround Yourself with a Faith Community

Spiritual dryness often thrives in isolation. When we pull away from fellowship with other believers, we miss the encouragement and accountability that helps keep our spiritual lives healthy. Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us:

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another…”

If you are feeling spiritually dry, reach out to trusted Christian friends, join a small group, or connect with a prayer partner. Share your struggles, ask for prayer, and let others help carry the burden. Often, others can offer insights and encouragement that reignite our passion for God.

7. Persevere in Faith

Spiritual dryness is often a test of perseverance. It is tempting to give up, but God calls us to remain steadfast in seeking Him, even when it is difficult. In James 1:2-4, we are reminded:

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

Persevere in your pursuit of God, knowing that He is using this season to refine your faith and strengthen your character. He has not abandoned you, and in time, the dryness will give way to deeper intimacy with Him.

Therefore.

Spiritual dryness is not an end; it is an invitation to grow, seek, and rediscover God in new and deeper ways. As you walk through this season, remember that God is still with you, even when He feels distant. By returning to the basics, confessing sin, embracing fellowship, and persevering in faith, you will find that your spiritual dryness gives way to renewed passion and intimacy with God.

Trust in His promise: “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13). Keep seeking Him—your spiritual fire will be reignited, and your passion for God will be renewed once again.