Category: Religion

Categories
Religion

My Personal Account of Overcoming Spiritual Battles

Life has an uncanny ability to throw unexpected challenges our way, pushing us to our limits and testing the strength of our spirit and faith. In the face of these trials, one individual emerged as a symbol of resilience and an embodiment of the human spirit’s capacity to overcome. That person is me. And this is my story. I faced a lot of spiritual battles but found a Godly path towards healing while battling the dark clutches of depression in the process. Oh yes, depression is real!

The Spiritual Struggles:

Yes, I faced a bit of physical challenges too, but it wasn’t the physical battles that weighed heavily on my shoulders. Within the depths of my being, a spiritual turmoil raged, casting shadows upon my soul. Everything seemed to be at a standstill. Stagnation, delay, and backwardness became my companions. People mocked me. They looked down on me and saw me as a failure. 

But they overlooked the fact that God is the author of everyone’s life’s chapter. He could and would change the course of your life just as He did mine. Back then, I would spend the day indoors and just venture outside at night. You might be curious as to why I did this. The fact that I would have bushy hair, worn-out shoes, and faded clothing was awful for me. I lacked the funds to buy a new set of clothes or even take care of basic needs. My clothes were all shabby, faded, and outdated. Everyone would pitch in whenever we needed to make minor repairs in the house, except for me. I was just a mere addition to the family—nothing to contribute.

I wouldn’t call myself worthless, either, since I wasn’t. Although I was trying, nothing seemed to be going the way I had planned or for me. My younger siblings treated me poorly. I endured a lot of pain and happiness. Tears are welling up in my eyes even as I write this. I’m not sure if they are tears of joy or sadness. But despite my successful turnaround, I still recall all the hardships, humiliations, embarrassments, rejections, dejections, challenges, and sorrows. 

The combination of physical and spiritual challenges formed a perfect storm that almost pushed me to hopelessness, depression, and despair.

The Abyss of Depression:

In the darkest hours, when the weight of the challenges seemed insurmountable, I found myself teetering on the edge of an abyss called depression. The despair that shrouded my existence threatened to consume me entirely. The journey through depression is a harrowing one, leaving me feeling lost and isolated.

The Path to Healing:

I embarked on a quest to reclaim my life and rightful possessions and to rebuild my spirit. l embraced spiritual practices that resonated with my soul, beliefs, and religion. I consulted with servants of God. And learned the secrets to effective prayers. Now, I no longer pray for more than 7 days to get directions and instructions on any issue I seek the face of God upon.  

The Turning Point:

However, in the depths of despair, a glimmer of hope emerged. As I started the intense prayer sessions based on the “secret formula” I introduced, I encountered a divine visitation. A revelation; a dream. Simple, concise, and straightforward.

When I woke up, I knew that my journey on the path of healing and restoration had begun. This was the beginning of my transformative journey, one that would take me from the depths of darkness to the light of self-discovery. My turning point. And the one I’m using this medium to share with the world right now.

The Triumph of Resilience:

My scary nightmares stopped and I gradually noticed a rise above the difficulties and struggles that had formerly threatened to overwhelm me. After recognizing that my challenges and obstacles did not define or destroy me but rather acted as catalysts for my development and transformation, I began to turn from fear to faith. Making it possible for me to tell my story to the world today.

Conclusion:

My story is a testimony to the strength of the human spirit and the existence of the Holy Trinity. Through spiritual battles, I faced the depths of despair, emerging on the other side with newfound hope, resilience, and stronger faith.

Nevertheless, my journey serves as an inspiration to others facing trials too, reminding them that even in the face of adversities and immense challenges, healing, restoration, and transformation are possible. It is a story that emphasizes the importance of seeking help, embracing vulnerability, and nurturing the indomitable spirit that resides within us all.

Furthermore, let me leave you with this– do everything in your power to make your relatives happy, especially if they are struggling financially and seem to be withdrawn and prefer to be alone most of the time. They could be dealing with depression without anyone knowing it. This is a fact based on experience. In such circumstances, suicidal thoughts are also inevitable. People are ‘built’ differently; meaning that not everyone can tolerate or withstand pressure, pain, and difficulties. So, this is a sign you should always keep in mind. 

E-book: From Fear To Faith: How Trusting In God Changed My Life Story

Categories
Religion

The Combination of all these gave me Spiritual Breakthrough

I faced a lot of spiritual obstacles while growing up. At first, I didn’t believe they were unnatural. They seemed to me to be a part of life’s struggles- the challenges, disappointments, heartaches, stagnation, delays, and even ill luck.

But as my 40th birthday approached, I realized that neither these plans—the ones I had for myself nor the ones God had for me—were mine. I, therefore, decided to become closer to some men of God in my neighborhood. Even more so, I started going to Sunday fellowship services and staying back to see the pastor for personal prayers and counseling sessions.

The teachings I learned in the Fellowship program gave me the foundation I needed to start growing spiritually. And my personal life started getting better. The outcomes, though, took time to materialize. I would watch videos on spiritual topics while also reading my bible from Genesis to Revelation. Then, in an effort to get results faster, I started combining all of these strategies, and guess what? It worked for me!

I was advised by my preacher to take cognizance of the dreams I had. That spiritual advancement was facilitated by dreams. In other words, dreams are a sign to look out for after your prayer sessions. My dreams were at first hazy, partial, or ambiguous. I was, however, encouraged to see it as a sign of spiritual development. And that the dreams would get clearer with time, which they did.    

And then, one night, I experienced a short, clear, and concise dream. When I opened my eyes, I realized right away that I had been visited by the Holy Spirit, and all of my problems were solved. Since then, I have noticed a positive change in all I do and, in my life, as a whole. The pastors I spoke with provided me with some prayer points, which I almost forgot to mention. I included similar prayer points that were related to my spiritual struggles as my main prayer topics.

Then, I used to stay up all night praying for myself and into the salt-infused water for my bath. For a bucket of water, I would add about one handful of salt. I would then begin singing songs of praise and adoration. The Bible contains numerous situations that happened when God is praised. The Wall of Jericho serves as one amazing illustration. By worshiping God, a high and mighty wall was brought down (Joshua 6:20). The Heavenly Hosts descend, chains are broken, and slaves are freed when you praise and worship God in spirit and truth.

Another instance is the story of Paul and Silas. Two apostles who were imprisoned in Philippi. At midnight, they prayed and sang praises unto God. And suddenly, a miracle happened (Acts 16:25-26). These examples, thus, demonstrate that God appreciates praises. So, it’s important to include praise and worship in your times alone with God if you desire prompt answers to your prayers. It’s been doing a great job for me. And I’m appreciative to God for introducing me to His servants who have imparted the art of prayer.  

My next act is to pray using Psalms, beginning with Psalm 51, the Psalm of Forgiveness. Then come 23 and 91 (these two are for God to watch over me). Then Psalms 3 and 35 for protection from evil people who reside in the realm of darkness and for spiritual combat and liberation.

The next stage is to pray to my God after reading the Psalms from the Bible.

Asking God to bless me so that I could be a benefactor to others. This is a potent prayer that I learned from my spiritual mentor. To be completely honest, I love the prayer. Asking God to let His will be done in your life is another wonderful addition to your prayer points. God wants you to have a positive impact on other people’s lives, so He answers these requests more quickly.

After praying, I would take a shower using the water that has been diluted with salt. And I would be able to get a good night’s sleep since the Angels would be keeping watch over me. This also led to the end of my terrifying nightmares.  

Now, when I look back, all I could think of to do is praise the Almighty. One of the reasons I made the decision to publish a book or start a blog on my life’s story was so that those who are facing difficulties could benefit from what I learned and from my story as well.

Because of how horrible it was, I lost my respect, dignity, position, and status in the family. In fact, my biological mom detested me. And would speak poorly of me at every chance she could find. At one time, she even threatened to lay a curse on me. Even my younger siblings received the respect I deserved from her. As a man, going to my younger sisters for support and assistance was really painful. It was even more hurtful seeing my family treat friends and neighbors with respect while disrespecting me who’s a blood relative. I was isolated. I lost my self-worth.      

But I thank God today. And with all that I know now, I would never leave Him nor worship any other god. He really does exist and He answers prayers.

From Fear To Faith: How Trusting In God Changed My Life Story

Categories
Religion

Spiritual Implications of Praise and Worship

Expressing Gratitude: One way to thank God for His generosity, mercy, and love is to sing praises and songs of worship. It is a means to express gratitude to God for His provision in our lives and to acknowledge his blessings.

Getting Closer to God: Singing songs of adoration and praise could also assist us in getting closer to God and sensing His presence. It is a means of developing a closer relationship with God, showing Him our love and devotion, and receiving His love and grace in return.

Boosting Faith: Singing songs of adoration and praise could boost and bolster our faith. It encourages us to put our faith in God even in trying circumstances by serving as a reminder of His constancy, His promises, and His power.

Encouraging Submission: Also, singing praises and songs of worship could assist us in developing humility and submission to God. It reminds us that we are completely reliant on God and that only He is deserving of our adoration and gratitude.

Creating Unity: Praise and worship songs could help believers come together. It is a means of uniting people in a shared display of love and devotion to God as well as creating a sense of community and fellowship with other Christians.

Overall, singing songs of praise and worship could have a profound effect on our spiritual lives, assisting us in expressing thankfulness, getting closer to God, strengthening our faith, developing humility, and fostering unity among Christians. It is a potent approach to get in touch with God and feel His love and presence in our lives.

Categories
Religion

Praying with White Candles

Before we continue, have you ever questioned the purpose of being asked to make a wish before blowing out the candles on your birthday?

Well, it’s true that many cultures have long practiced the custom of making a birthday wish before extinguishing a cake’s candles. Although its precise beginnings are unknown, this practice has grown to be a beloved component of birthday celebrations.

And the reasons why people make a birthday wish before blowing out the candles include some of the following:

Symbol of Purity and Divine Light: Candles have traditionally been connected to spiritual importance, illumination, and warmth. Blowing out the candles represents overcoming the dark and beginning anew in the new year. The flame of a candle is seen as a symbol of purity and divine light in many cultures. This is so because people frequently equate fire with light or the sun, which they view as a source of vitality and life. A birthday cake’s candles are extinguished, metaphorically, putting an end to the darkness in the person’s life and inviting in the light.

Superstition: Some individuals think that making a wish and keeping it to themselves increases the likelihood that it will come true. It is believed that blowing out the candles while making a wish allows you to quietly express your desires to a higher power. So, on your next birthday before blowing out the candles on the cake, make a wish on your aspirations and dreams for the coming year. And pray that they come true. But please, dream big (laughs)!

Fun and Tradition: The birthday celebration is made more exciting and mysterious by the tradition of making a wish before blowing out the candles. Regardless of the particular meaning behind it, it has grown to be a beloved practice that people enjoy partaking in.

It’s important to keep in mind that everyone interprets birthday wishes differently. Some might take it extremely seriously and think that their wishes have real power, while others might just see it as a custom without giving it any thought.

Similarly, this information was acquired from studies on the spiritual significance of candles:

Candles were seen in classical Greece as a means of communication with the gods. People used to blow out the candles on their birthday cakes to make a wish that the gods would grant.

In some Native American societies, candles were regarded as a symbol of the spirit realm. It was believed that blowing out the candles on a birthday cake was a way to communicate with the spirits and solicit their favor and blessing.

While blowing out candles on a birthday cake was thought to protect the celebrant from danger in some Chinese cultures because candles were thought to be a way to ward off evil spirits.

But in terms of spirituality, candles stand for illumination, enlightenment, or direction. And I could assure you that this is accurate. I spend three to seven days praying with a white candle whenever I need God’s instruction, guidance, or wisdom on a matter. And in my dream, I get an epiphany or a revelation.

Warning: Please understand that I mentioned only WHITE candles. This is so because holiness, purity, and divinity are only connected with the color white. And it facilitates or helps with effective praying. In other words, it speeds up the effects of prayers. Additionally, it has no repercussions, negative or detrimental spiritual effects and consequences.

Besides, if you’d like to pray with candles, one is enough. But if you must use more than one, then use three or seven. Please, take note of these numbers.    

Categories
Religion

Spiritual Implications of Adding Salt to Bath Water

Salt is viewed as a symbol of purification and cleansing throughout many cultures and spiritual traditions. Depending on their practices and beliefs, some people may feel that adding salt to the bath water has spiritual ramifications.

Some spiritual beliefs view the addition of salt to bath water as a technique to purify the body and rid it of evil spirits or other things. It is thought that salt has the ability to neutralize unfavorable energies and foster a sense of spiritual purity.

Salt is employed in purifying ceremonies and rituals in several cultures. Before engaging in these practices, adding salt to the bath water might be viewed as a method to purify oneself or as a way to become ready for spiritual contacts or experiences. 

Salt is also thought to have protective qualities in some spiritual traditions. A protective barrier around oneself, sheltering one from evil spirits or energies might be formed by adding salt to bath water.

However, it is important to highlight that, depending on one’s beliefs and practices, the spiritual connotations of adding salt to bath water might differ greatly. Others might consider it a straightforward method to encourage physical relaxation and wellness, while some might see it as a potent tool for spiritual cleansing and purification. 

Using Salt

As was previously said, putting salt in the bath water has certain spiritual ramifications. But those who have profound experience in spiritual growth frequently discuss the efficacy of sea salt. The spiritual advantages of both sea salt and table salt are well documented. Sea salts, however, have been discovered to function more quickly. But if you don’t have access to sea salt, it’s okay. The typical refined table salt accomplishes the same task.

Personally, I combined the two, but I used the refined table salt more because it’s easier to get. [For more spiritual uses of salt, please see Leviticus 2:13].

Categories
Religion

Praying with Psalms 23 and 91

Well-known Psalms like Psalm 23 and Psalm 91 in the Bible provide protection and direction to those who pray and concentrate on them. There are certain similarities and connections between them even though they are separate Psalms with different subjects.

Protection: Protection is a concept that is heavily emphasized in both Psalms. In Psalm 23, God is described as a shepherd who leads and cares for His flock, preventing hurt and meeting their needs. God is described in Psalm 91 as a refuge and a fortress who offers safety and defense to those who put their trust in Him.

Trust in God: The idea of trusting in God is emphasized in both Psalms. Psalm 91 describes the trust of the believer in God’s faithfulness and protection, whereas Psalm 23 describes the reliance of the sheep on the care and supply of the shepherd. This is where the title of this blog came from. If you trust in Him, you would have no fear. And with faith, He would change the story of your life. [Psalm 23:3-4: He restored my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me].

God’s Presence: Words of consolation and assurance are provided in both Psalms for those who are going through trying circumstances. Psalm 91 describes God’s protection and presence amid danger, whereas Psalm 23 describes the shepherd’s presence and solace in the valley of the shadow of death.

Spiritual Direction: Both Psalms provide direction and inspiration for individuals who seek God’s help and will. Psalm 91 describes how God sends angels to guard and lead His people, while Psalm 23 describes the shepherd’s leading and guiding.

Overall, although Psalms 23 and 91 have different topics and are separate Psalms, they both provide words of consolation, safety, and direction to those who pray and reflect on them, highlighting the value of trusting God and His provision and care for His people.

Categories
Religion

Praying with Psalm 3

Trust in God: Psalm 3 demonstrates faith in God despite challenging circumstances. Knowing that God is our protection and shield might help us develop a stronger sense of confidence and faith in Him as we pray using this Psalm.

    Deliverance: Psalm 3 is a plea for protection from adversaries and people out to do us harm. We could seek God’s protection and deliverance from the difficulties and problems we face in life by praying with this Psalm.

    Assurance: The assurance that we could rely on God to meet all of our needs and to give us the strength and bravery we need is another benefit of Psalm 3. Even amid chaos and upheaval, praying with this Psalm could assist us in finding comfort in God’s presence.

    Gratitude: Praying with Psalm 3 might help us feel thankful for God’s faithfulness and protection. It could assist us in realizing and appreciating the numerous ways in which God has provided for and taken care of us throughout our lives.

    Bravery: Finally, Psalm 3 might offer us the bravery and fortitude we need to confront life’s obstacles and hardships. It might serve as a reminder that God is our rock and our stronghold, and that we could rely on Him to give us the stamina and fortitude to endure.

    Overall, praying Psalm 3 could be a potent spiritual exercise that might give us the courage and fortitude to face life’s obstacles, develop our faith in God, ask for protection and deliverance, find peace and rest in His presence, and express thanks for His faithfulness.

    Categories
    Religion

    Praying with Psalm 35

    Psalm 35 contains a petition for protection from adversaries and those who would do us harm. This Psalm encourages us to pray with a sense of security and confidence that God will protect us from our adversaries.

    Renewed Faith: Psalm 35 could be used in prayer to help us strengthen our faith and reliance on God, especially in trying circumstances. It might serve as a reminder that even in trying times, God is with us.

    Direction: Psalm 35 could offer direction and wisdom when we must make difficult decisions or overcome obstacles. It could also assist us in making the correct decisions and in having faith in God’s plan for our lives.

    Strength and Courage: Psalm 35 could offer us the courage and strength we need to overcome difficulties and obstacles. It might serve as a reminder that God is with us at all times and that we are not alone, giving us the confidence and fortitude to carry on.

    Healing: When we have been wronged or harmed by others, Psalm 35 could also assist us in seeking forgiveness and healing. It might serve as a reminder to seek God’s healing for our wounds and to forgive those who have wronged us. This specifically worked for me. It provided healing and restoration.

    The bottom line is that Psalm 35 is a tool to fight against those who fight against you. A prayer of warfare. [Psalm 1-3: Plead my cause, O Lord, with them that strive with me. Fight against them that fight against me. Take hold of Shield and Buckler, and stand up for mine help. Draw out also the spear and stop the way against them that persecute me; say unto my soul, I am thy salvation].   

    Categories
    Religion

    Wishing You a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year in Advance

    As we celebrate the birth of our Savior this Christmas, let us be reminded of the incredible love and light that Jesus brought into our lives. In a world that often feels uncertain, His arrival is the ultimate promise of hope and peace. May this season fill your heart with joy, your home with warmth, and your spirit with the strength to walk boldly in faith.

    As the new year approaches, we reflect on the journey God has led us through—turning our fears into faith, our doubts into trust, and our struggles into testimonies. His grace has carried us through challenges and prepared us for His divine purpose in the days ahead. Let us enter this new chapter with a renewed commitment to His will and a heart full of gratitude.

    May 2024 bring you closer to His promises and deeper into the joy of living by faith. Together, let us embrace each moment as an opportunity to share His love and be a light to others.

    Merry Christmas

    Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Christmas and a New Year filled with His abundant blessings!

    Categories
    Religion

    Praying with Psalm 51

    Psalm 51

    Praying with Psalm 51

    Repentance: Psalm 51 contains a prayer of repentance that expresses a sincere desire for God’s pardon for sin. This Psalm could be used in prayer to help us examine our hearts, confess our transgressions, and ask God for mercy and forgiveness.

    Rebirth: Spiritual regeneration could also be prayed for with Psalm 51. The Psalm recognizes our need for a purified heart, a revitalized spirit, and a repaired bond with God. We could feel a sense of rebirth and transformation in our spiritual lives by praying this Psalm.

    Humility: In Psalm 51, a spirit of humility and reliance on God is expressed. When we pray using this psalm, we might develop a more profound sense of humility by realizing our frailty and dependence on God’s strength and direction.

    Gratitude: Praying with Psalm 51 might also help us feel thankful for God’s forgiveness and mercy. It could assist us in appreciating the gift of salvation and in expressing our gratitude and adoration in response.

    Final thought: Knowing that we are forgiven and at peace with God could bring inner peace and comfort when we pray with Psalm 51. We might feel a sense of release from guilt and humiliation and find comfort in the awareness that God accepts and loves us.

    Psalm 51 is typically interpreted by Christians as being about sin forgiveness. Everyone is aware that no one is flawless. So, we either intentionally or unknowingly sin. Therefore, beginning your prayers with this Psalm helps to cleanse your sins and creates a pathway for your requests to be heard.

    Stay tuned for more chapters and learn how I was able to combine all these prayer points for Divine restoration.