Dating
Dating: a special building interaction between two people. that could lead to a sacred thing called marriage. This prerequisite stage is where things are laid out in figuring one another. But most importantly, whether both individuals are trying to reach the same goal. That goal is seeking the Father together in what they are doing. Knowing the truth will help in moving the relationship in the correct and righteous ways.
“We’re just talking… still figuring things out”
“We’ve been together for a while now and it's going well”
“Are you and so and so still together… nah we broke up, it wasn't working”
“I’ll just wait”
Dating: a special building interaction between two people. that could lead to a sacred thing called marriage. This prerequisite stage is where things are laid out in figuring one another. But most importantly, whether both individuals are trying to reach the same goal. That goal is seeking the Father together in what they are doing. Knowing the truth will help in moving the relationship in the correct and righteous ways. Dating is building a relationship but how does one do such a thing? Well we must not forget to put the Lord at the center. Similar to our article a few weeks ago, at the base. When you love and seek the Father, everything else follows through. Therefore loving the person in which you find yourself in a relationship with will come easy.
Men and women were not meant to be alone, because if that was the case, there wouldn't be a need for stories about being or finding the “perfect” man or woman. Nonetheless, the Lord wouldn’t have made Eve for Adam.
“Then the Lord God said, “I see that it is not good for the man to be alone. I will make the companion he needs, one just right for him.”
- Genesis 2:18
So if men and women weren’t meant to be alone, why do some relationships don't work out? We sometimes individuals get into the dating stage for the wrong reasons and their goals are not aligning with anyone especially themselves.
“So encourage each other and help each other grow stronger in faith, just as you are already doing.”
- 1 Thessalonians 5:11
The center focus isn't to grow and the Lord is not at the center of it all, as the Father says:“Turn to the Lord for help in everything you do, and you will be successful” in Proverbs 16:3.
Take the time this week to reflect on your relationship, and if you are not in one that’s fine. Take the time to reflect on your friendships and what you may be looking for. Do you respect and encouragement in your equation? Are you asking the Lord for help when things get rough or when you feel everything is falling apart? Sometimes we think that we must experience certain things within our relationship or friendship because “others” have. Nonetheless, don’t let that be a reason you continue to walk, run, or drive down an unknown street. As Philippians states, we must be focused on the positive things and not let the negative thoughts and actions takeover and become the core. “Brothers and sisters, continue to think about what is good and worthy of praise. Think about what is true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected.” (Philippians 4:8)
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Explaining Sin
I grew up in a family that was filled with believers. From a young age, I heard things such as “don’t do this, it’s a sin” and “be careful, that’s sinful”. It took me a long time to understand what that even meant. F
I grew up in a family that was filled with believers. From a young age, I heard things such as “don’t do this, it’s a sin” and “be careful, that’s sinful”. It took me a long time to understand what that even meant. Frankly put, I only really understood what it meant a little before I turned my life over to Christ. And even then, there are still so many aspects of it that I don’t fully understand.
Which is why I am here today to share that information with you, so that you don’t live in confusion like I once did. To add to that, why be confused if the God of Israel isn’t a God of confusion, but of peace? (1 Corinthians 14:33)
Easy question: what is sin?
Maybe it isn’t as easy as anyone ever thought. So to understand what it is, let’s look into the Bible. 1 John 3:14 says that sin is “all sin is contrary to the law of God”. In other versions, it's referred to as being “lawless” and a “transgression of God’s law”. So, from that verse alone, we can understand that anything that goes against God’s law is sin.
This led me down a rabbit hole: where do we find sin? How do we avoid sin? How can I be more like Christ and be less sinful?
The first question can be answered simply: the Bible. In it, you can find God’s Law. All of it is inside. This law, as well as His commandments, were originally meant to be told from one generation to the next (Deuteronomy 6:6 - 7). These were supposed to be impressed into our hearts, as a sign of the covenant with God (Jeremiah 31:33). But that didn’t happen, the proof being that Ecclesiastes 7:20 says that “Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins”.
But we can still live life without sin today! There’s only two ways for that to happen, and we need them both: the Holy Spirit, as well as the continuous search of the truth through the Word of God. That’s how we avoid sin and be more Christ like in our daily lives. With the Holy Spirit and continuous search, we learn more. We are able to quench the temptations of our own desires (James 1:14) and develop the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22 - 23).
Explaining sin isn’t an easy task, as it requires that people accept their own sinful nature (Romans 3:23). But it also brings us closer to God when we know that we have fallen, repent and seek Him with more fervor. It is a possibility for all of us who have Yeshua as Lord and Savior.
THANK YOU FOR READING THINKING TWICE! MAY OUR LORD YESHUA BLESS YOU! FEEL FREE TO LIKE THE ARTICLE, SHARE IT ON SOCIAL NETWORKS AND SEND IT TO YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY SO THEY CAN ALSO RECEIVE THIS BLESSING.
Peer Pressure
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)
Alright, let’s talk about something that purportedly never happens in schools: peer pressure. As much as teens and young adults will say that they aren’t involved in acts of peer pressure or haven’t succumbed to it, the statistics on the fact don’t lie. Thirty-eight percent of teens have been pressured to drink and twenty-four into having premarital sex. We will not claim that it is the same for everyone and that everyone goes to those extremes: it’s to show that it happens. So what does the Bible say?
One of the many things that the Bible can be considered as is informative. King Solomon says “ and there is no new thing under the sun” in Ecclesiastes 1:9. The reason why this is important is because there are blatant acts of peer pressure in the Bible. One of the most flagrant happens throughout the entire book of Job. While he isn’t pressured to do anything physical, his wife Zophar tells him “Are you still maintaining your integrity? Curse God and die” (Job 2:9). In the end, he doesn’t do that and resolves to maintain his relationship with Yahweh and to not succumb to the evil of this world, repenting to God (Job 42:1 - 6).
Job did not succumb to the pressure to leave Yahweh, and it is what we are supposed to do as well.
Allow me to go outside the Bible for the next example. Let’s say that there is a fourteen year old boy named Peter. When he goes to a party, him and his friends are confronted with a guy who offers them alcohol. Peter knows that he should not drink alcohol at this party as he does not have the age, nor does he have permission. However, he decides that it isn’t that bad and takes one. His reasoning is that because his friends are doing it, then he can do it.
Peter fell into temptation and he would therefore have to suffer the consequences for his disobedience.
Every step that we take is a choice that we make between eternal life with Yahweh and death (Deuteronomy 30:15 - 16). Sometimes, the road will seem harder than it was intended to be. It’s in those moments that you are to turn to the Lord and truly put your trust in Him. It’s the moment that the people want you to do something that you don’t want to do for personal reasons or as to not go against Yahweh. It’s when you follow that thought process that you accomplish what the book of Exodus says: “You shall not follow the masses in doing evil, nor shall you testify in a dispute so as to turn aside after a multitude in order to pervert justice” (Exodus 23:2).
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Obediance
Obedience: the compliance with an order, request or law to another’s authority. Since our early hood, we’ve been taught to obey our parents.
“Just listen and follow and everything will be alright”
“Know the difference”
“Be conscious of your doings”
Obedience: the compliance with an order, request or law to another’s authority. Since our early hood, we’ve been taught to obey our parents. The commandments are a set of rules we are taught to use these rules in our life. Obedience isn't a hard concept when you know that it's for the best for you. We are given the choice to receive good or one that leads to negative outcomes.
From the beginning looking at Genesis we have the story of the garden. Then we are introduced to Noah and his ark. As we read further, we continue to see that the soul purpose looked for is obedience.
“Always remember what is written in that book of law. Speak about that book and study it day and night. Then you can be sure to obey what is written there. If you do this, you will be wise and successful in everything you do.”
- Joshua 1:8
Take the time this week to examine yourself and really examine yourself. How is obedience seen in your life? What are some aspects in which you are neglecting? “So get rid of everything evil in your lives—every kind of wrong you do. Be humble and accept God’s teaching that is planted in your hearts. This teaching can save you. Do what God’s teaching says; don’t just listen and do nothing. When you only sit and listen, you are fooling yourselves.” James 1:21-22.
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Freshman Year: A Movie Review
This is what the Lord says: “Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans, who rely on human strength and turn their hearts away from the Lord. [..] But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. (Jeremiah 17:5, 7)
Spoiler Alert: some elements of the movie are discussed in this review. If you would like to watch it, it is available on Netflix.
This is what the Lord says: “Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans, who rely on human strength and turn their hearts away from the Lord. [..] But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. (Jeremiah 17:5, 7)
Freshman Year is an American movie released in 2019, directed by Jude Okwudiafor Johnson. It stars Diallo Thompson (The Christmas Swap, Mann and Wife) in the lead role of CJ, a young African-american believer who enters his first year of college and the pitfall that can come from the experience. He shares the screen with Natalia Dominguez (Organize Chaos, The Alternate) and Benjamin A. Onyango (The Beautifully Broken, God’s Not Dead) in this hour and forty-five minute heartwarming story about failure, family and the ability to be resilient in tough times.
The story begins with the graduation of CJ, a young African-american believer, son of Pastor Chukwumah (Benjamin A. Onyango). He goes to university with aspirations to continue spreading the gospel, playing basketball and studying. However, upon his arrival, he meets and befriends Marcella (Natalia Dominguez), who quickly becomes a love interest. After a game winning shot in the first game of the season, he goes out to party and drinks for the first time, leading to Marcella getting pregnant. The rest of the story recounts how they face their struggle, their families and the newest addition to their lives.
The lessons that resound and can be taken from this movie are multiple. The first begin with the main character CJ. He headed to the advice of his dad, which is great, but what started the entire affair was the fact that he didn’t listen to Marcella by agreeing to drink with the boys. The wise advice given by Marcella should’ve been listened to; the book of Proverbs says: The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice (Proverbs 12:15). It’s after that mistake that the young man humbles himself and listens to everybody and weighs out his options carefully in this new situation.
The second character that needs to be highlighted in Freshman Year, is the father, ¨Pastor Chukwumah, played by Benjamin A. Onyango. The character is faced with the situation of preparing his son for fatherhood much sooner than what he expected. He repeats the following verse throughout the movie: “For the righteous falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked stumble in times of calamity” (Proverbs 24:16). This serves as the central theme, for himself and the rest of the characters.
The final character from which a lesson can be taken from is Marcella. She is thrown into a situation which she had not planned for. Through the trials that she and CJ go through together, she is oftentimes weary, but willing to learn. Her arc ends with her accepting faith and Christ in her life. Appropriately, the bible verse that stands as the conclusion of her story is that of Hebrews 1:11, which reads: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”
In the end, the movie is a powerful lesson in the ability to rely on Yahweh. What is learned in this movie can be truly attributed to everyday life. What a believer must do is rely on the Lord at all times, for all things (Proverbs 3:5). It is a decent movie, one with powerful morals. It may not be the type of movie that everyone likes, but the message being given is a powerful one.
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The Heart is the Core
The heart: an important human organ, an important aspect in the eyes of the Lord and an important piece in decision making. The heart has many different definitions and they are all valid. With this much, how can one circulate around all these meanings and still follow what is right?
“Guard your heart among everything else”
“It is only with the heart that one can see rightly”
“Believe and listen to your heart”
The heart: an important human organ, an important aspect in the eyes of the Lord and an important piece in decision making. The heart has many different definitions and they are all valid. With this much, how can one circulate around all these meanings and still follow what is right? Well to start off the heart needs to be in sync with the rest of the body or it is useless. For example, your mind cannot be hating or judging while you say that your heart is loving. That is not right. Above all, your heart needs to be pure in order for everything else to fall in place to be valid. Even the Lord says that He doesn't look whether or not you have the flashy things or what people may look at you for. He looks at the heart and whether they are pure (1 Samuel 16:7 & Jeremiah 4:14). For when the heart is nor pure consequences are not far behind.
We establish how important the heart can be and that it is at the core of everything we do in our life and an important aspect to seek the Lord. From a young age, we are taught that there’s always two sides to a story just like a coin. Well the heart also has to side. The loving and the consequences. The loving side is something we are all aware of such as kindness, empathy and sympathy. It's all the good things we love to see. Yet there’s also the consequence side such as being evil and evil thoughts (Mark 7:21), selfish ways (James 3:14) and deceitfulness (Jeremiah 17:9) .
There is so much to say about the heart and its importance and how we can turn our pure heart tender heart into impure. However the key element here is to understand that all the Lord is asking is to obey and follow his law (Deuteronomy 5:29). That when we feel tempted by something, we take a step back and evaluate and ask for guidance for we can’t do all of this by ourselves. It’s just too much work. Our heart is the base of most of thinking and moving around the world and interaction with the people around us. Now we are still human and we will still feel certain things in our life, however the premise here is that through faith and this new heart, our core will result in positive outcomes.
Take the time this week to really examine your heart. Take a further look at the verses mentioned above and take the time to read them this week. What is your heart being fed? Is it pure, strong and full? What are some ways and steps you can take to get there? Try to free it from any negative thought because at the end, the Lord will look at your heart and people opinion won’t matter on the last day. “Jesus said to them, “You make yourselves look good in front of people. But God knows what is really in your hearts. What people think is important is worth nothing to God.”(Luke 16:15)
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Why We Shouldn't Celebrate Halloween
The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. (John 1:4 - 5)
The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. (John 1:4 - 5)
If you live in the Americas, it is a very eventful part of the year. With the cold settling in and the nights becoming longer, people begin to bunker for the coming winter months. That being said, people still roam to celebrate certain festivities. One of those festivities being Halloween. For a long time, it has been a very debated question amongst believers: do we or do we not celebrate Halloween? Today, we try to explain what the word of GOD says on the subject by diving into its history and what it means for us in our lives.
To begin, there are no direct mentions of Halloween in the Bible. That being because it is a Celtic holiday, from northern France and the British Isles. It stands important to know the history and origin of the holiday, because during the end times, some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons (1 Timothy 4:11).
Indeed, for the Celtic people, it was the beginning of the year. They believed that the lord of death, Samhain, would send spirits to attack humanity and that the only way to avoid them was through costumes. These costumes were generally those of evil spirits, so to blend in with them. Christians co-opted the festivity once they arrived in the region in the fourth century, so as to be able to convert more people to the faith.
Today, Halloween is a simple celebration with costumes and treats for kids. However, for people who practice Wicca, the official religion of witchcraft, they hold it as a sacred holiday. With the history of the holiday uncovered, it is easier to pinpoint what the Bible says about the subjects in question.
The book of Ephesians reads “Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them” (Ephesians 5:11). As believers, we are supposed to be the light of the world, yet celebrate holidays that promote sorcery? It’s a contradiction in our faith and a compromise that shouldn’t have been done when the first believers arrived in Celtic territory, nor today. God is clear on how He does not want compromise, saying : “You cannot drink from the cup of the Lord and from the cup of demons, too. You cannot eat at the Lord’s Table and at the table of demons, too” (1 Corinthians 10:21).
We can conclude with a reading of Romans 12:2, which reads “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” Just because Halloween is popular to the world, doesn’t mean that you are meant to celebrate it. As a child of GOD, you are called to be set apart for you are not of this world (John 15:19). Therefore, do not be weary if the world sees you as being different for not celebrating Halloween with them, the world hates what is of GOD.
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The Feast of Tabernacle (Part II)
39 “Remember that this seven-day festival to the Lord—the Festival of Shelters—begins on the fifteenth day of the appointed month, after you have harvested all the produce of the land. The first day and the eighth day of the festival will be days of complete rest. (Leviticus 23:39)
39 “Remember that this seven-day festival to the Lord—the Festival of Shelters—begins on the fifteenth day of the appointed month, after you have harvested all the produce of the land. The first day and the eighth day of the festival will be days of complete rest. (Leviticus 23:39)
The seven Feasts of the Lord are appointed celebrations, created by the Lord (lLeviticus 23). Each and every single one of these events hold a specific place in the heart of the believer and in their walk with Christ. Every single one is a time for celebration and commemoration; opportunities to spend time with the Lord. The Feast of Tabernacle is the last of all of the Feasts of the Lord during the year. While Part I on Bible 101 presented the history, the reasoning and the spiritual aspect, this week will be different. Today, we break down the Feast of Tabernacles, from the Lord to you.
A quick recap on last week’s Bible 101 article shows that the Feast of Tabernacle is one of the seven Feasts of the Lord, as prescribed in the books of Exodus, Leviticus and Deuteronomy. It was a celebration of the harvest, and a time to remember that the Lord removed the Isrealites from the clutches of slavery in Egypt. Finally, the spiritual aspect was established in the fact that it is a time of joy for all who are within the Lord, as He prescribed it. This Feast has many facets, and within them, are the ways that they affect us in our every day life.
The Feast of Tabernacle is meant to be celebrated with seven days of joy. It is a feast to celebrate all of the good that the Lord has done for you since the beginning of the year. This was seen through the fact that this was a celebration of harvest (Exodus 23:16): all they had to eat came from the harvest, and they thanked the Lord for that. While many of us do not spend our time on farms, we still go to work and reap what we sow. Therefore, we can still celebrate and be thankful to the Lord for that blessing.
During this feast, there are three days of Sabbaths: the Sabbath to begin the Feast, the weekly Sabbath on the seventh day as well as the Sabbath to end the Feast (Numbers 29:12). The book of Numbers tells us of the sacrificial offerings, but through the sacrifice of Yeshua, the lamb of Yahweh, we are able to offer Him as our sacrifice (Hebrews 10:1 - 19). In that case, we present ourselves in the place of worship and celebrate Him on the appointed day. It is during this day that is normal to be instructed to folllow Nehemiah 8:19, when it says:
Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.
It is a time to rejoice in what Yahweh has done for you. Do not grieve the things of the past, but take joy in the fact that they happened. Rejoice in the fact that the Lord has delivered you from your enemies. He is there for you when you call Him; this is the feast to celebrate that fact.
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The Feast of Atonement
29 “This is to be a lasting ordinance for you: On the tenth day of the seventh month you must deny yourselves and not do any work [...] 30 because on this day atonement will be made for you, to cleanse you. Then, before the Lord, you will be clean from all your sins. 31 It is a day of sabbath rest, and you must deny yourselves; it is a lasting ordinance. (Leviticus 16:29 - 31)
29 “This is to be a lasting ordinance for you: On the tenth day of the seventh month you must deny yourselves and not do any work [...] 30 because on this day atonement will be made for you, to cleanse you. Then, before the Lord, you will be clean from all your sins. 31 It is a day of sabbath rest, and you must deny yourselves; it is a lasting ordinance. (Leviticus 16:29 - 31)
In our walk with the Lord, there are certain days that cannot be missed. They are holy convocations - better yet, appointments - that we are meant to live. They’re moments of intimacy with the Lord. One of the most innate personal things someone can do in a relationship is to admit their faults. Once a year, we are meant to present ourselves before Yahweh and present our faults and ask for forgiveness: it is the Feast of Atonement.
Understanding of this specific day of the year means we have to understand the key word: Atonement. It’s a word that isn’t common, therefore it’s important to go to the dictionary. It says that atonement is “reparation for a wrong or injury”, “ reparation or expiation for sin” and “the reconciliation of God and humankind”. It can be changed by words such as penance, redemption and expiation.
How we celebrate this feast is different from every other feast of the Lord. It is arguably the most quiet of “feasts” - the time is meant to reflect, think back and reassess your relationships. During this time, you aren’t just encouraged to ask forgiveness to GOD, but also to your neighbors, friends and family. If in a situation where you are meant to ask forgiveness, be like the Prodigal Son of Luke 15:11 - 32, and be true with the words you say. If put in a position where you are to forgive those who wronged you, be forgiving like Esau in Genesis 33 and Joseph towards his brothers (Genesis 50:19-21). All in all, welcome these people into your life and do good to them, like David to Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 9).
As for what we do for Yahweh, we are to repent profusely. The Bible says it clearly, saying:
“None is righteous, no, not one [...] For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:10, 23).
Therefore, during this time, we are meant to deny ourselves (Leviticus 23:32): that is through dry fasting, giving up something you truly enjoy and even practicing sabbath. Yahweh does not ask you to do something that you are not capable of doing. If dry fasting isn’t for you for whatever reason, give something else up so you can focus and dedicate yourself to the Lord.
This doesn’t mean that you are supposed to keep track of your sins and not ask for forgiveness during the entire year as you wait for this day; on the contrary, you are supposed to do it all the time (Proverbs 28:13, Acts 3:19). It’s meant to be a specific time of reflection; time to spend with GOD, acknowledging your wrongdoing and finding ways to do better in your walk with GOD. The Feast of Atonement is a moment in the year where you truly check yourself and make yourself right with Yahweh.
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Salvation
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)
The one thing that everyone searches for is a higher purpose; something that is above the mundane course of their lives. In that search, some find spirituality while others find truth. When one comes to Christ, they are often told about “salvation”: that it is what everyone needs and wants. However, what is salvation? What does it mean and how does a child of God apply it in their lives? The answer is possibly slightly different from what most people believe.
Salvation is defined as being the “preservation or deliverance from harm, ruin, or loss.” Theology adds the concept of sin and its consequences for believers. This interpretation is directly from the Bible, in both the word and its translation. The Word of God says in the book of Titus that : “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.” In terms of translation, the ancient Hebrew word of ישע (said Y-Sh-Ah) can be translated into words such as “save, rescue”.
An understanding of salvation must come with an understanding of what we need saving from. The simple answer comes from James 4:4 :
You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.
What James is saying in this passage is stark in nature, yet tends to be overlooked. Basic theology and bible study presents Satan and his agents of evil as the enemies of Yahweh, however, it’s deeper than that. The enemy is the ruler of this world (John 14:30, 1 John 5:19), certainly so, but he does not have control over anything, as presented by the temptation of Yeshua in the desert (Matthew 4:1 - 11). To have a friendship with the World is to renounce the Holy One of Israel and become His enemy. But we become more than just his enemy, because by turning our hearts over to the enemy, we are breaking the covenant with GOD - like that of a marriage - and become adulterers and idolaters. Salvation is to be saved from sin and the clutches of the enemy.
Acts 4:12 tells us that no other name has been given to mankind for salvation: that is the name of Yeshua. That very same name, which means “The Lord Saves” (Matthes 1:21, NLT) was meant to save you by having faith in Him. The name that He holds is what saves us (Revelations 19:13 - 16) Having faith in Him means you have faith in His word as your Lord and Savior. In that same vein, you follow his precepts, concepts, laws and values. You show love to all people, even your enemies. You do not break His laws nor do you shun your neighbor. Salvation comes by embracing Yahweh and creating a bond in which you never want to leave His presence.
Salvation comes from reading the Scriptures carefully and diligently (John 5:49), but that you also apply them to your life through actions, attitudes, thoughts and words. That means that the reader is spending time with Yahweh, moments of intimacy and truthfulness. There is life in those moments where the focus isn’t on saving oneself from the clutches of the enemies, but in revelling in the presence of the Lord. It’s why David said that he found pleasure when told that he was going to the Temple (Psalms 122:1), as it was during those moments that he knew that His Lord was His salvation.
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Back to School
7 Your beginnings will seem humble, so prosperous will your future be. (Job 8:7)
Your beginnings will seem humble, so prosperous will your future be. (Job 8:7)
From the age of three-to-four years old, education is a part of your life. Whether you are a student, teacher, member of the support staff or parent, the beginning of the school year is always a new opportunity. Some may feel anxious, nervous, excited and that is okay: it’s a stressful and amazing time of the year. But as you dust off your books and prepare your backpacks, don’t forget your bible and the teachings you receive from the great teacher, Yeshua (Matthew 4:23).
The Bible is filled with verses that present the good that comes with being educated. Proverbs 18:15 says that “an intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge”. The knowledge is that you acquire during your lifetime, no matter the source is meant to be guarded, for it is your life (Proverbs 4:13). Knowledge comes from Yahweh, and “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5). Knowledge is life, guidance and wisdom: those who continuously strive for it, become better as a person and continue to walk with Yahweh.
There are many places that one is supposed to learn from; the Bible details three of them. Yahweh is the first teacher. We are meant to learn from Him and understand His ways (Psalms 24:4 - 5). It is why we have His word, search within them to find eternal life (John 5:39). The second source of knowledge and wisdom that is given to us is our parents. Parents are meant to bring their children up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). The third source and final source of education comes from schools and institutions. In Yeshua’s times, the modern concept of schools did not exist, but there was the concept of apprenticeship, of teacher and disciple. Hence, why the Bible says “A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher” (Luke 6:40). This works so that you may be who the Lord wants you to be as a person.
However, with everything that can be said about knowledge in the Bible, it also presents the pitfalls. The servant who is the most versed in this would’ve been Solomon, who notoriously speaks of this twice: the first time is in Ecclesiastes 1:18, when he says “The greater my wisdom, the greater my grief. To increase knowledge only increases sorrow.” He reiterates that statement not too long after in the same book, chapter 12:12, saying “Be careful, for writing books is endless, and much study wears you out.” What Solomon is saying is that the amassing of knowledge is good, but means nothing if you guard yourself from the love of Yahweh and those who care for you.
Therefore, as you take this time and begin this new journey in your education, do not forget to take time to rest from your studies. Remember the seventh day - the Sabbath - as a time of observance and rest for Yahweh, as you have spent your days studying and working (Exodus 20:8 - 11). Take time to spend with your family as well, as those who do not are worse than non-believers; they cannot show love to Yahweh, or the love of Yahweh, if those closest to them cannot live it (1 Timothy 5:8). Your education is important, but the people in your life, and your GOD, the Holy One of Israel, should take precedence.
THANK YOU FOR READING THINKING TWICE! MAY OUR LORD YESHUA BLESS YOU! FEEL FREE TO LIKE THE ARTICLE, SHARE IT ON SOCIAL NETWORKS AND SEND IT TO YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY SO THEY CAN ALSO RECEIVE THIS BLESSING.
The Internet
You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is beneficial. (1 Corinthians 10:23)
You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is beneficial. (1 Corinthians 10:23)
Chances are that if you find yourself reading - or listening - this, you are on the internet. It is a part of all of our everyday lives. From the moment we wake up, our cellphones, laptops and tablets buzz with the fury of a thousand bee hives, invading our minds with news, texts and more information. The Internet is an entire aspect in the lives of Generation Z and Millennials, but how are those who follow the Word of Yahweh to live in this increasingly digitized world?
The internet, like all things, has its positives and its negatives. There are many aspects that can be seen when one discusses the topic of the internet. Elements such as the spreading of information, learning, economy and communication have helped the world, thanks to the Internet. All the while, one can not forget that cyber bullying, predators, private information and pornography are also on the internet. For every good thing, there is a negative that comes with it, and the internet does not stand as an exception to that rule.
As children of Yahweh, who follow His word with discernment and understanding, knowing that the Internet isn’t always good. King David states clearly, telling God to “Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways” (Psalms 119:17). There are things that aren’t worth it for you. The internet is a place with so much misinformation, you must be someone who has the discernment to understand what is good and what is bad for you (1 John 4:1), whether that be news or other things.
Another thing that needs to be clarified is how much internet you consume. If you find yourself consuming the internet for ungodly things, such as random videos on YouTube or just diving into your news feed on Instagram, more than you are edifying yourself with worship and reading His Word, who wins? You do not win, because you become conformed with this world when to be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect (Romans 12:2). You become addicted, and with every addiction comes the sin of idolatry, because that thing becomes bigger and more important to you than God (Jonah 2:8; 1 John 5:21; 1 Corinthians 10:14).
All the while, the internet isn’t always bad. The fact that you are reading this article is proof that there are positive things online. You can proselytize and evangelize in mediums and social media outlets such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and in blogs across cyberspace. Matthew 24:14 says “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” The Internet is part of that plan that Yahweh has to spread the truth amongst all nations and dispel the false doctrines.
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Rest
28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. (Mattieu 11:28)
28 Then Yeshua said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)
Have you ever taken the time to sit in a completely silent room? Somewhere outside of the constant distractions of everyday life: work, school, family, friends. A room in which the buzzing sound of your device can’t reach you and the constant news cycle is brought to a stop. It’s a moment in time in which your body decompresses and starts to release all of the stress accumulated. It’s a moment of rest. Within your life, you need to be able to insert times of rest for yourself and Yahweh. It becomes a time to rejuvenate and renew yourself.
Life is stressful. The system that the world imposes is that you are to spend everyday working so that you may accomplish what the body claims it needs. Your body needs to eat? Have a comfortable place to sleep? Have clothes? Therefore you need money. While working hard is not bad and is even a good thing in the eyes of Yahweh when it is done for Him (Colossians 3:23), putting your life in this type of situation is bad. The constant search for money and earthly things, then we are truly the most pitiful (1 Corinthians 15:19), for all of these earthly things will disappear (Matthew 5:18).
The consequences of a life without rest, one where you remain working is not one that is positive. This is something that is echoed in literature that is far away from biblical readings: The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller present the same moral. You become sad and depressed, knowing that you will never accomplish your goal as there is not enough money in the world to satisfy anyone’s desires. Biblical figures such as David (Psalms 38:4), Job (Job 3:26), Elijah (1 Kings 19:4), and Jonah (Jonah 4:3) all faced such feelings, but found themselves in better spirits once they realized that true rest and happiness came from Yahweh alone.
David says in the scripture “I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the Lord” (Psalm 122:1). It’s because he understood that it is in His presence that one receives true rest. Matthew 11:28 shows that Yeshua gives rest, as He is also the Master of Sabbath (Matthew 12:1-8, Mark 2:23-28 and Luke 6:1-5). The time of Sabbath, that spans from Friday evening to Saturday evening at sunset is a time in which Yahweh has set aside for you to spend time in His house and in His presence (Hebrews 10:24-25), to receive the all important concept of rest, for man wasn’t made for Sabbath but Sabbath for man (Mark 2:27-28).
When the Lord created the Sabbath at creation (Genesis 2:1 - 3), He did it so that all of creation can take time to rest, just as He did. It’s an expression of love that He would set into stone with the ten commandments (Exodus 20:8 - 10). From there, He wants us to be able to make time for Him for there is a time for everything (Ecclesiastes 3). He will give you rest as it is the time that He has ordered rest, that, out of the love that He has for you for obeying Him and having faith in Him.
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Being You
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. (Psalms 139:14)
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. (Psalms 139:14)
“Never see your importance through the standards of the world”
“Begin to understand yourself”
“You’re stronger than you think so stop thinking so much”
Today’s society has evolved so much there’s always a new thing. New gossip, new technology, new music, new shows, you name it. As human beings, we tend to chase and gravitate towards the new things. We are always looking on the outside. As cliche as this may sound, how often do we look inside? Meaning how often do we appreciate what we have thoroughly before being gravitated to other things. We often talk about getting our priorities straight. Well we can only do so once we lay out those priorities and that’s by figuring out and chasing the image the Lord made of ourselves. First step is to appreciate what’s within ourselves because we can find precious treasures.
In the book of Mark 8:36 , it is written “It is worth nothing for you to have the whole world if you yourself are lost.. The verse literally speaks for itself. Why navigate the world in which you live thinking you are driving down the right highway when you had missed the exit. In the book of Proverbs 15:32 it is written to conclude the point mentioned above “If you refuse to be corrected, you are only hurting yourself. Listen to criticism and you will gain understanding”
Take the time this week to reflect on yourself by asking yourself some questions. Don’t complicate things that don't need to be. If you dig deep enough you will be able to find the answers you may have been looking for. And if you feel like there’s something stopping you to dig, ask the Lord for help and direction. He sees everything and is there to make sure you are becoming the best version of yourself in His eyes and those close to you. You will feel a weight off your shoulder.
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Growth: Seeds and What's Next (Part II)
“The foundations of law and order have collapsed. What can the righteous do?” (Psalms 11:3)
“The foundations of law and order have collapsed. What can the righteous do?” (Psalms 11:3)
“Find those patterns that aren’t you yet hiding within”
“Be patient. Growth is holy ground and there’s no greater investment”
“A garden is a great teacher”
In the post about growth a few weeks ago, we talked about building a foundation and using seeds as our motivator to guide us in the direction we want to achieve. We reflected on opportunities that could help us plant our seeds. We mentioned that once those seeds are well taken care of they can produce fruits. Well that’s what’s next on our step to growth. Our foundation, our seeds and our fruits reflect the kind of care they get. We are aware that fruits grow and only last if they are properly gardening. That being said if you ask for the Lord’s guidance at the proper time to water your seeds, your garden of fruits will grow at its proper season. It’s a simple principle such as we don’t plant in the winter because it will not last. Therefore we wait patiently until spring or summer so our garden can be well taken care of.
In the book of Luke 8, from verse 11 onward, we see the story about a farmer sowing seed. The story is about the obstacles a farmer has to face when he went out to sow seed. We all experience obstacles in life whether we want to be conscious about it or not. Some of the seeds of this farmer were eaten, others died and some did make it. When we look in the book of Galatians 6:9, it is written We must not get tired of doing good. We will receive our harvest of eternal life at the right time. We must not give up.” Obstacles and time are two inevitable constructs yet the Lord is always present when we don’t know our next step or when we are on the verge of giving up.
Once we have our growing garden of fruits which will take time because all good things need time, what do we do? What can be said is the process is definitely not over. Our mission from the Lord is to take these fresh well taken care of fruits outside the garden and share it with the rest of the world. In doing this, we are on a journey to strengthen our faith, finding and knowing ourselves. We are helping and building others up. Killing two birds with a stone.
Take the time this week to reflect back on your foundation and your seeds. These seeds that will flourish into fruits, how will they strengthen your growth? Your garden of fruits is your weapon to accomplish the deeds the Lord have placed for you. Remember don’t lose hope, patience is very powerful and it will happen at the right time.
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Growth: Foundations (Part I)
“The foundations of law and order have collapsed. What can the righteous do?” (Psalms 11:3)
“The foundations of law and order have collapsed. What can the righteous do?” (Psalms 11:3)
“Don't go through life, grow through life”
“Jeez i feel like everything is working out better now”
“The light bulb finally went on”
Foundation, a word that is at times used lightly yet holds great meaning. No pun intended. Without foundation there’s no stability therefore nothing. We need it in literally everything from house building to building a relationship with the Lord and ourselves. Foundation is the basis of all. Once that is established we need seeds as our mini indicator to guide us in what we are trying to build. These seeds are as simple from faith to trust to communication and many others. However, it could not exist without a solid foundation. Once a foundation is set and the seeds are well taken care of, they become fruits that strengthen our foundation which we will talk about later.
The Bible is filled with heartwarming stories about foundations. We will be looking at two distinct texts. The first one is the book of Psalms chapter 104:5-6, it is written “You built the earth on its foundations, so it can never be moved. You covered it with water like a blanket. The water covered even the mountains”. The verse speaks for itself. With the guidance of the Lord we want a solid foundation that doesn't shift regardless of the situation presented.
In the second text is the book of 1 Corinthians 3: 6-7 where it is written “I planted the seed and Apollos watered it. But God is the one who made the seed grow. So the one who plants is not important, and the one who waters is not important. Only God is important, because he is the one who makes things grow..” Here, we see that we need the Lord's help to grow out our seeds from our firm foundation for we can't do it ourselves.
Mediate the two stories mentioned above. Take time this week to reflect on your foundation and the seeds you are trying to plant. Are both actions guiding you to better yourself into your best potential. Remember as much as you need the rain from the Lord, the Lord also needs your firm foundation for those seeds to flourish. So make it as solid as possible. Write them down and plan on steps to give them the proper growth for only those seeds well taken care of will last.
THANK YOU FOR READING THINKING TWICE! MAY OUR LORD YESHUA BLESS YOU! FEEL FREE TO LIKE THE ARTICLE, SHARE IT ON SOCIAL NETWORKS AND SEND IT TO YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY SO THEY CAN ALSO RECEIVE THIS BLESSING.
Like Arrows: A Movie Review
Like Arrows is an american movie released in 2018 written and directed by Kevin Peeples. It stars Micah Lynn Hanson (Overcomer, Where is Good?) and Alan Powel (Nashville, Quantico). The film is an hour and forty minutes long, recounting the ups and downs of a modern couple attempting to follow the teachings of the Bible through over fifty years of marriage.
Spoiler Alert: some elements of the movie are discussed in this review. If you would like to watch it, it is available on Netflix and other streaming services.
Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior’s hands. How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them! He will not be put to shame when he confronts his accusers at the city gates. (Psalms 127:4 - 5)
Like Arrows is an american movie released in 2018 written and directed by Kevin Peeples. It stars Micah Lynn Hanson (Overcomer, Where is Good?) and Alan Powel (Nashville, Quantico). The film is an hour and forty minutes long, recounting the ups and downs of a modern couple attempting to follow the teachings of the Bible through over fifty years of marriage.
The story begins with the engagement of the newly pregnant couple of Alice (Micah Lynn Hanson) and Charlie (Alan Powel). The story skips over to the birth of their first son and the beginning of their family together. The movie will continue skipping years to show some of the most important moments of their lives together as a family. After many years of struggle, they both come to the agreement that the only way to keep their family together is to put their life in the hands of Yeshua, following the Bible. They will anchor their child rearing efforts on Psalms 127:4 - 5, “Children born to a young man are like arrows in a warrior’s hands.” As the story progresses, we learn that they will have four children. Each one of them will have a different course, but all of them mirror replicates of various stories in the Bible.
While the entire affair could seem to be a little preachy or even corny to some, the messaging is clear: having a child is hard. As young adults in relationships geared towards marriage, following the teachings of Yahweh, talking to your partner is important. Do they want children? If so, how do you make your children disciples who follow the Lord faithfully?
The entire movie shows many different tricks that can be used: reading the bible consistently with their children, praying together and attending church as a family. Through it all, the couple took the time to pray together, putting God at the center of their lives. If they were to guide their children, like arrows in the hand of a warrior, they needed God's word. The Husband, Charlie, had to understand what Peter said "In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God's gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered." (1 Peter 3:7) while Alice needed to pray for them all. They succeeded and brought their family to Christ.
As a movie, it is a good watch. A very important message on making Yahweh the foundation for your relationship is well presented. It is a lesson that many people still need to learn - Yahweh is the center of your life, not a part of it.
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The Holy Spirit
Yahweh’s love for humanity is shown countless times in the Bible and in our daily lives. Every breath taken is an act of love by the Holy One of Israel, because nothing is assured. He sent His son, Yeshua, to the cross to die for all of our sins (1 Corinthians 15:3). After Yeshua’s death and resurrection, He would return to His apostles, to tell them that they would receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:5, 8). In our daily lives, the Holy Spirit is there, but to understand His importance in our lives, we have to understand the Holy Spirit.
But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. (John 14:16)
Yahweh’s love for humanity is shown countless times in the Bible and in our daily lives. Every breath taken is an act of love by the Holy One of Israel, because nothing is assured. He sent His son, Yeshua, to the cross to die for all of our sins (1 Corinthians 15:3). After Yeshua’s death and resurrection, He would return to His apostles, to tell them that they would receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:5, 8). In our daily lives, the Holy Spirit is there, but to understand His importance, we have to understand the Holy Spirit.
Let’s start by dispelling common beliefs that people have about the Holy Spirit: He isn’t some foreign power or a mode that Yahweh takes. The Holy Spirit can be considered a person, who feels (Ephesians 4:30) and acts (Acts 2). The Spirit has always been there; He is present in the beginnings of the Earth, as told in the book of Genesis, moving over the surface of the water (Genesis 1:2). The Holy Spirit is the breath of life that was given to Adam that made him live (Genesis 2:7).
Therefore, as a person with feelings and who acts in our lives, it is important to have a relationship with Him. The book of Amos asks the question if two people can walk together without an agreement (Amos 3:3): you have to agree to walk with the Holy Spirit. That’s baptism in water and baptism through the Holy Spirit (Matthew 3:11). It’s in that state that you are able to tap into the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22). By the Holy Spirit, you will be able to live according to what Yahweh has prescribed because the law will not be difficult, it will become a part of you and in your heart (Hebrews 10:16; Jeremiah 31:33). Those are the fruits of your relationship with the Holy Spirit and of the time spent in the presence of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
Paul says in the book of Galatians:
“So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses.” (Galatians 5:16 - 18)
That verse says a lot about the Holy Spirit and His impact on our lives: we are meant to live righteously and He gives us that opportunity. The media portrays the little angel and the little devil on each shoulder that give advice. The Holy Spirit is removes the sinful and gives you what is right and just before Yahweh. You are no longer an outlaw or under obligation to the law because you live freely and properly as you respect that Law, thanks to the Holy Spirit. You do not kill, you do not steal because the Holy Spirit influences your decisions. Therefore, give your life to the Holy Spirit and watch as He changes you.
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Samson's Plea
The book of Judges offers the compelling story of Samson, from chapters 13 to 16. A man who was given extraordinary strength by Yahweh so that he may drive out the Philistines, his fall would come at the hands of his wife, Delilah. Stripped of his power and left to his last resort, he prays to the Holy One of Israël: “Sovereign Lord, remember me. Please, God, strengthen me just once more, and let me with one blow get revenge on the Philistines” (Judges 16:28). He would proceed to destroy the Philistines one last time with his dying act. But what can the youth of today learn from Samson?
24 The woman gave birth to a boy and named him Samson. He grew and the Lord blessed him, 25 and the Spirit of the Lord began to stir him while he was in Mahaneh Dan, between Zorah and Eshtaol. (Judges 13:24 - 25)
The book of Judges presents the ever compelling story of Samson, from chapters 13 to 16. A man who was given extraordinary strength by Yahweh so that he may drive out the Philistines, his fall would come at the hands of his wife, Delilah. Stripped of his power and left to his last resort, he prays to the Holy One of Israël: “Sovereign Lord, remember me. Please, God, strengthen me just once more, and let me with one blow get revenge on the Philistines” (Judges 16:28). He would proceed to destroy the Philistines one last time with his dying act. But what can the youth of today learn from Samson?
There are many lessons that can be taken from the story of Samson; one of the most important being that of listening to the commandments that Yahweh gave. The Lord gave specific instructions to his parents for him to live by (Judges 13:3 - 5, 14) and it can be deduced that by the fact that he hadn’t lost his power before, that he had never transgressed those commandments before. God wants all of his children to keep His commandments (1 John 5:3a). However, as easy as the Bible says they are to follow (1 John 5:3b), the temptation is there to make people fall and sin (James 1:13 - 18) - sometimes they succumb, just as Samson did.
Samson fell when he started loving Delilah, a Philistine woman that he had met (Judges 16:4). She would ask for the source of his strength and Samson would lie to her every time; she’d discover the lies once she betrayed him to her fellow Philistines and his strength was still there (Judges 16:5 - 15). While he would reveal his secret and be arrested by the Philistines once they cut his hair, the important lesson to be learned is the importance of Yahweh in decision-making. Samson knew of the Lord and of what he was capable of doing, but decided to go about it alone - when he fell for Delilah, spoke to Delilah and revealed his secret. Yahweh gave us freedom (Galatians 5:13), but we can not walk alone without Him, or we will fall (2 Corinthians 4:9).
But what stands as the legacy of Samson’s plea isn’t just the story that stands before it, but the precedent that it creates. By the time Samson was chained and imprisoned, he understood that he needed Yahweh to accomplish his destiny and defeat the Philistines (Judges 16:28). It is the same thing for all of us; we will fall, but we need to be able to acknowledge that we need the Holy One to do what He called us to do. We need Him to guide us away from danger and bring us into His holy plan, or else we are doomed to failure.
THANK YOU FOR READING THINKING TWICE! MAY OUR LORD YESHUA BLESS YOU! FEEL FREE TO LIKE THE ARTICLE, SHARE IT ON SOCIAL NETWORKS AND SEND IT TO YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY SO THEY CAN ALSO RECEIVE THIS BLESSING.
Parents
'Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, that your days may be prolonged and that it may go well with you on the land which the LORD your God gives you (Deuteronomy 5:16)
'Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, that your days may be prolonged and that it may go well with you on the land which the LORD your God gives you (Deuteronomy 5:16)
The first relationship that most people have will be the one that they have with their parents. Whatever the situation may be, they are the people that guide and try their best to make you into a good person. However, with time and other factors, the relationship between you and your parents may become strained.
From the perspective of a teenager or young adult, life is to be lived. At this time, it’s about trying new things and starting to figure out the person that you want to be. That may be through things such as education in school, new experiences and new relationships. The world will seduce during this period; the bible even says “Rejoice, O young man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Walk in the ways of your heart and the sight of your eyes.” in Ecclesiastes 11:9. With that being said, the final part of the verse shouldn’t be forgotten, which says “But know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment.”
As much as it may seem like it was a long time ago and that they did not have the technological advances - and some of the dangers - that you do, parents have lived through what you’ve lived through. They heard rumors, had bullies and were themselves stressed by their parents. There is nothing new under the sun (Ecclesiastes 1:9). Because of the experiences that they acquired in their youth, they want to help you avoid those same mistakes and consequences.
The best way to deal with a parental relationship as you get older is to look to the Bible for guidance so that you may remain pure (Psalm 119:9). In times of trouble, Yahweh’s words are clear: trust Him (Joshua 1:9). For the teens that are reading this, you will grow. Some of you may become parents someday: know that whatever your parents are telling you is because they love you and want you to be righteous (Proverbs 22:6). Obey your parents, as you know that is what pleases the Lord (Colossians 3:20). If you still doubt whatever they are telling you, do not fear going to the Father so that He may clarify the situation for you in His word (2 Timothy 3:16).
Parents aren’t easy, but honor them in the way that you speak and in the way that you act (Exodus 20:12) as they are here to help you grow and become the person that Yahweh wants you to be.