Finances

In the journey of life, finances play an integral role, often stirring up anxiety and stress with their mere mention. As one wise individual remarked, "the cost of living can indeed feel burdensome." Yet, in the face of such worry and fear, a shift is necessary. When our apprehensions drown out our faith, it signals a need for reevaluation. Though the course of life may steer beyond my control, I retain agency over my reactions, the readiness I maintain, and most importantly, the centrality of faith. Thus, I choose to turn my prayers toward the Divine, seeking clarity of mind and spirit to attune to divine guidance. Prayer: Gracious Father above, I am grateful for Your assurance to supply all my needs according to Your riches. When trials loom and concerns mount, may Your Word be my anchor. Your promise in Isaiah 54:17 resonates within me, declaring that no weapon formed against me shall prosper. With a focused resolve on my financial journey this year, I beseech You, Lord, for wisdom, fortitude, and resilience. Though challenges may arise, I hold steadfast to the unwavering trust in Your unfailing Word. Your mercies endure eternally, and in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, I offer this prayer. Amen.

When God Sends His Angels

by Yvette van Niekerk Hebrews 1:14 NIV reminds us, “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?”

God's presence can manifest in countless ways. Just as the disciples mistook Jesus for a ghost during the storm, our human understanding can sometimes cloud our faith. The Scriptures affirm that angels are "ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation." Have you ever encountered an angel? They don't always appear in resplendent white robes with grand wings. Often, they blend so seamlessly with the ordinary that we may overlook them. Hebrews 13:2 urges us, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” Perhaps you wonder why God sends angels when He has blessed us with His Holy Spirit for help, protection, and guidance. It's crucial to remember that God dispatched an angel to rescue Peter from prison just before his execution. Likewise, on his journey to Rome, Paul found himself on a ship battered by a fierce storm. In that dire moment, God sent an angel to assure him of survival. Paul later shared with the crew and passengers: “Take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve, saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul’” (Acts 27:22-23). While I may not have seen angels with my own eyes, deep within my heart, I hold steadfast faith that they watch over me. Their gaze never wavers; they are God's messengers, sent to guide, protect, and bring us comfort in times of need.