There is always a desire in our world where everyone yearns to be happy. This happiness can come because of financial stability, enjoying the company of family and friends, taking a well needed vacation, achieving academic success… and the list goes on. This happiness, however, fades whenever there are challenging situations. Happiness is based on situations, but the joy that God wants to produce in each of His children is eternal. “Joy is not necessarily the absence of suffering, it is the presence of God.” -Sam Storms

“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.” -Habakkuk 3:17-18 NIV. This joy that Habakkuk speaks about is not dependent on his current situation. This joy, as a fruit of the spirit, is the natural reaction to remain cheerful and positive when we view our situation from a heavenly perspective. Continue reading →

Have you ever experienced the sweet, wonderful peace of God?

I’m talking about that aspect of the fruit of the spirit, where the Holy Spirit works in your life, to produce that sweet serenity. God wants to grant each of us this constant quietness and tranquility, regardless of our circumstances. “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ. -Philippians 4:7. If we accept Jesus as our Savior and intercessor, we can enjoy His sweet, perfect peace.

Even amidst wars and turmoil in our world, we can remain in peace. When we put our faith and trust in God, we can experience the peace of God that exceeds our greatest expectations. Jesus says “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. -John 14:27. The true believer in Christ, who is guided under the influence of the Holy Spirit, has a peace that is abundant. This peace is available in every situation, and it’s unlike anything that the world has to offer. Continue reading →