The Bible gives us great insight for this puzzling question. In James 1:2-4, it says; “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.“

Isn’t it interesting that James tells us to “consider it all joy, when we go through different trials..“? It is certainly a difficult task to be joyful when we face hardship. However, that’s exactly what the Bible tells us to do! I am sure that if we each take into account all of the trials and tribulations of our past, we can come to a common conclusion that we endured and that our faith grew as a result.

Our outlook on the matter needs to change in order to experience this joy that we are to practice while under such tribulations. How so? By having faith and knowing that our Lord is right there with us and that He will see us through! Simple right? YES INDEED!

In the wonderful faith chapter in Hebrews 11, the Bible tells us that “Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” You see, we need to have the faith and assurance that no matter what, our God will see us through! If you recall the message I gave a few weeks ago…while Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego were in the fiery furnace, it was Jesus who was right there with them. They didn’t get burned and they were smoke-free when they came out!

So today, as you face your fiery furnace, know that the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords is right there with you, so count it all joy! James 1:12 tells us, “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.“

Consider it all joy, for He will always see you through!

Are you going through a rough time in your life presently? Please know that there is a church that will pray for you. Feel free to send us your prayer requests by using this link. (Prayer Request)

Filed under: Commentary, Scriptures by Yvetter Gallinar
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Pastor and I had an encounter with a woman yesterday who wanted to invite us to visit her “Teacher.” After speaking to her for a few moments, we deduced that her mental state was not very stable. Her “Teacher” appears to be teaching New Age philosophy and it was apparent that she was a faithful follower. Upon leaving, we were reminded of Jesus’ warning in Matthew 24:23-24, “At that time if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or, ‘There he is!’ do not believe it. For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect-if that were possible.”

More and more these days, we hear of different teachers and prophets rising up, twisting the Word of God while followers flock to their side. The New Age movement has grown in many directions, while those who call themselves Christians agree with some of these ideas. There is much caution to be taken as followers of Christ.

Note in 2 Peter 2:1-3, Peter warns us of such teachings; “1But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them-bringing swift destruction on themselves. 2Many will follow their shameful ways and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. 3In their greed these teachers will exploit you with stories they have made up. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping.” Some believe there are many ways to God and that we too are ‘little’ gods here on earth, among many other heretical doctrine.

The bottom line is that JESUS IS THE ONLY WAY! In John 14:6, Jesus is clear when He responds to Timothy; “Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Do not let anyone deceive you by saying that ‘all roads or religions lead to God.’ Make no mistake, the One who died for our sins, who was nailed to a cross and rose on the third day, who ascended into Heaven and is seated at the right hand of Almighty God…it is HE who is the TRUE WAY, the REAL WAY, the ONLY WAY…the ONE WAY. And His name is JESUS!

Filed under: Commentary by Yvetter Gallinar
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The corporate fast and prayer is well underway at Vida Nueva Christian Ministries. We are at Day 9 today. 2 Chronicles 7:14; "if my people who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land."

Fasting is a privilege and allows for the Christian to grow closer to God. It is also a very powerful weapon. During our fast, let us be specific about our prayers. Remember that our focus during this fast is to pray for the youth! This generation is under attack and we must intercede for them during these very trying times. 1 Peter 2:9 says, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." Let us declare this verse for our youth!

If you need a copy of the outline we are following or would like to send it to someone, use this link (FASTING OUTLINE).

A few things to keep in mind during the fast:

1. Meet with the Father daily! Set a time from your busy schedule to sit with the Master and Creator of the Universe! He always has time for you!
2. Pray without ceasing! Just because you have finished praying during your scheduled time, doesn’t mean you have to stop praying. As you go through your day, be open to pray for others as the Lord leads.
3. Keep a journal. There are some incredible things He has done, and will do in your life. This is a good way of keeping record of answered prayers or experiences.
4. Trust Him for your miracle! "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:4-6)
5. Have a spirit of expectation! When you meet with the Lord, know that He too has set that time aside just for you, so be expectant that He is there with you, hearing your cry and listening to your heart.
6. Seek after Him fervently! For…"He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him!" (Hebrews 11:6)

Let us know your experience during this fast so far. We would love to hear from you!

Filed under: Commentary, Reminders, Scriptures by Yvetter Gallinar
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