Month: August 2024

African-American businesswoman wearing colorfully patterned suit jacket, white button-down shirt

Reader Q&A: Poor in Spirit – Beatitudes for Business

August 29, 2024 / Erica / 0 Comments

After my post on the first Beatitude in Matthew 5:3, a reader asked how that might apply to an entrepreneur. I decided to answer that here. If you’re a reader and you have any questions regarding anything I post, please leave a comment under that post and I will address it in a future post.

In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, where success is often measured by profit margins, market share, and innovation, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea that we must rely solely on our own strength, intelligence, and determination. But Jesus offers a countercultural truth in the Beatitudes that challenges this mindset: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3).

So, what does it mean to be “poor in spirit,” and how can this concept shape the way we approach our businesses and leadership? Let’s explore how this powerful beatitude can transform your entrepreneurial journey.

Understanding “Poor in Spirit” as an Entrepreneur

To be “poor in spirit” means recognizing our deep need for God in every area of our lives, including our work. It’s an acknowledgment that, despite our talents and abilities, we are ultimately dependent on God’s grace, wisdom, and provision. For entrepreneurs, this means admitting that we don’t have all the answers and that our success isn’t solely the result of our own efforts.

In a world that often glorifies self-made success stories, being poor in spirit requires humility. It’s about understanding that we are stewards of the businesses God has entrusted to us, and that without His guidance, our efforts can only go so far.

How Being “Poor in Spirit” Can Shape Your Business

1. Humility in Leadership: Great leaders are those who lead with humility, recognizing their limitations and valuing the input of others. As an entrepreneur, being poor in spirit means leading your team with a servant’s heart, putting the needs of others before your own, and creating an environment where everyone’s contributions are valued.
2. Dependence on God’s Wisdom: Entrepreneurship is full of challenges, and making the right decisions can be daunting. Being poor in spirit means regularly seeking God’s wisdom through prayer and Scripture, trusting that He will guide you in the right direction. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
3. Integrity and Ethical Business Practices: When you acknowledge your dependence on God, it changes how you conduct your business. Being poor in spirit means that you value integrity and ethical practices over cutting corners for a quick profit. It’s about doing what’s right, even when it’s hard, because you know that your business is ultimately accountable to God.
4. Resilience in Adversity: Entrepreneurship often involves facing setbacks and failures. Being poor in spirit gives you the resilience to persevere because you know your identity and worth aren’t tied to your success or failure. Instead, you can trust that God is working through every challenge, shaping you into the person and leader He has called you to be.
5. Generosity and Stewardship: When you realize that everything you have is a gift from God, it changes how you use your resources. Being poor in spirit leads to a heart of generosity, where you’re eager to use your business to bless others, whether it’s through fair wages, charitable giving, or investing in your community.

The Kingdom of Heaven in Your Business

Jesus promises that those who are poor in spirit will inherit the kingdom of heaven. For entrepreneurs, this doesn’t just refer to a future reward, but also to the present reality of God’s kingdom breaking into your business. When you lead with humility, seek God’s wisdom, and operate with integrity, you’re aligning your business with the values of God’s kinThis means experiencing God’s peace, favor, and blessing in your work, not just in financial success, but in the deeper satisfaction of knowing that you’re doing work that honors God and serves others. It’s about building a business that reflects God’s character and advances His purposes in the world.

Conclusion: Embrace Being Poor in Spirit

As an entrepreneur, embracing the beatitude of being poor in spirit can revolutionize how you approach your work. It frees you from the pressure of self-reliance and opens you up to the fullness of God’s provision, wisdom, and guidance. By acknowledging your need for God and leading with humility, you can build a business that not only thrives in the marketplace but also reflects the values of God’s kingdom.

So, the next time you face a business decision, challenge, or opportunity, remember that true blessing comes not from what you can achieve on your own, but from recognizing your need for God and trusting in His provision. This is the key to experiencing the kingdom of heaven in your entrepreneurial journey.

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven

Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit: Finding True Riches in God’s Kingdom

August 26, 2024 / Erica / 0 Comments

Welcome to the beginning of our series on the Beatitudes, where we’ll dive deep into the powerful teachings of Jesus found in Matthew 5. These blessings, known as the Beatitudes, reveal what it means to live a life that is truly blessed by God. Today, we’re starting with the very first Beatitude: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3).

What Does It Mean to Be Poor in Spirit?

Being “poor in spirit” might sound like a negative thing at first, but in reality, it’s the foundation of a blessed life. To be poor in spirit means to recognize that you need God. It’s acknowledging that, without Him, we are spiritually bankrupt. It’s about humbly admitting that we don’t have it all together and that we desperately need God’s grace, mercy, and guidance.

In a world that often celebrates self-sufficiency and independence, Jesus teaches us that true blessing comes from understanding our deep need for God. When we come to Him with empty hands, He fills us with the riches of His kingdom.

Biblical Examples of Being Poor in Spirit

King David is a powerful example of someone who was poor in spirit. Despite being a mighty king, David knew that he was nothing without God. After committing serious sins, David humbled himself and cried out to God for forgiveness, saying, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10). David recognized his need for God’s cleansing and restoration.

Another example is the Apostle Paul. Before he became a follower of Christ, Paul thought he was righteous because of his strict adherence to religious laws. But after encountering Jesus, he realized that all his efforts were worthless without God’s grace. In Philippians 3:7-8, Paul says, “But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.”

Why Being Poor in Spirit Is the Key to Blessing

Jesus’ statement that the poor in spirit are blessed because “theirs is the kingdom of heaven” is incredibly profound. When we recognize our need for God and surrender to Him, we open ourselves to the fullness of His kingdom. This means we experience His love, peace, joy, and eternal life. It’s in our emptiness that God’s fullness is revealed.

Being poor in spirit is the starting point of a relationship with God. It’s the doorway to His kingdom and the foundation for the other Beatitudes. When we humble ourselves before God, He lifts us up and gives us more than we could ever ask or imagine.

Living a Life That Is Poor in Spirit

So, how can we cultivate a heart that is poor in spirit? Here are a few practical steps:

* Daily Dependence on God: Begin each day by acknowledging your need for God. Pray for His guidance, strength, and wisdom in everything you do.
* Humility in Action: Choose to serve others rather than seeking to be served. Look for opportunities to put others’ needs before your own, reflecting Christ’s humility.
*Seek God’s Presence: Spend time in God’s Word and in prayer. Let His truth shape your heart and mind, reminding you of your dependence on Him.*
*Confess Your Need: Regularly confess to God that you need Him. Be honest about your struggles, and ask Him to help you in your areas of weakness.

Conclusion: The Riches of God’s Kingdom Await

As we begin this journey through the Beatitudes, remember that being poor in spirit is the foundation for living a blessed life. It’s the key that unlocks the treasures of God’s kingdom. When we come to God with humility and a recognition of our need for Him, He meets us with His abundant grace and pours out blessings that go beyond anything this world can offer.

Join us next week as we continue exploring the Beatitudes, diving into what it means to mourn and be comforted by God. Let’s grow together in our understanding of these powerful teachings from Jesus.

Confiden Africab-Amnerican wnab wearinf stylisg glasses and an updo with text I know wgi=hose I am

Embrace Your God-Given Identity: Walking in Confidence and Courage

August 23, 2024 / Erica / 0 Comments

In a world that often defines us by our achievements, appearances, or social status, it’s easy to lose sight of our true selves. We can get caught up in meeting others’ expectations, forgetting our real identity and our connection to a higher power. Remember, courage stems from knowing who you are and who you belong to. Embrace your identity in Christ for the confidence only He can provide.

Discovering Your Identity in Christ:

You are a daughter of the Most High God, created in His image, fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).
Your worth is not determined by the world but by your Creator.
Ephesians 2:10 highlights that you are God’s masterpiece, designed in Christ Jesus for good deeds.
Your identity lies in God’s view of you, not in others’ opinions.

Understanding Your Connection:

Belonging to Christ transforms your perspective and purpose.
You are part of His divine plan, secured in His unwavering love (Romans 8:38-39).
This realization should fill you with peace and courage, knowing the Almighty supports you.

Walking Confidently:

With this understanding, confidently face life’s challenges.
Your foundation is firm, allowing you to be strong and brave (Joshua 1:9) because the Lord is by your side.
Your identity in Christ liberates you from seeking validation elsewhere, enabling you to live boldly.

Practical Steps to Embrace Your Identity:

Start each day affirming your identity in Christ (1 Peter 2:9).
Engage in prayer and meditation to align your self-perception with God’s view.
Surround yourself with a supportive community emphasizing your identity in Christ.
Combat doubts with God’s truth, rejecting past definitions and focusing on His love and grace.

Embrace Your Identity Today:

Your courage stems from your identity in Christ, not your circumstances.
Draw strength from Him to navigate life’s challenges (Philippians 4:13).

Let this truth guide you to live a life honoring God, embracing your identity and divine confidence for joy and peace.

Are You a Christian or Just Going Along With The Culture?

August 21, 2024 / Erica / 0 Comments

In the modern world, individuals often feel pulled in various directions. Christian women, in particular, may struggle to balance their faith with the cultural influences surrounding them, especially when these influences are linked to their ethnicity. This inner conflict raises a crucial question: Are we authentically living out our Christian beliefs, or are we allowing our cultural background to dictate our thoughts and actions?

The Influence of Culture

Our cultural identity plays a significant role in shaping who we are. While our diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, and cultural encounters are essential aspects of our identity, they should be viewed in the context of our primary identity as followers of Christ. Although our earthly identities remain, they are unified under the authority of Christ, as highlighted in Galatians 3:28 (ESV).

Steadfast Faith

Being a Christian entails aligning our decisions, behaviors, and beliefs with the teachings of Scripture rather than conforming to societal norms. Despite the cultural pressures to adhere to certain standards, Romans 12:2 (ESV) reminds us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds through God’s Word, enabling us to discern His will.

Ethnicity and the Gospel

While our ethnicity and culture can serve as avenues to share the gospel and exhibit Christ’s love, our allegiance to God’s truth must always take precedence. Jesus emphasized the importance of prioritizing Him above all else, even familial and cultural ties.

Reflecting Christ’s Love

In a world divided by cultural and ethnic boundaries, Christian women have a compelling opportunity to embody Christ’s unity and love. By placing Christ at the center of our lives and allowing our faith to guide our actions, we can navigate the complexities of cultural identity while remaining faithful to our Christian calling.

Embracing Biblical Principles

As Christian women, it is essential to align our beliefs and actions with the teachings of Scripture rather than conforming to societal or ethnic expectations. Our identity in Christ should shape our perspectives on all aspects of life. Surrounding ourselves with a supportive church community and godly friendships can provide invaluable encouragement in upholding our faith in a world that may challenge it.

Do you have questions or thoughts on living out your faith in today’s society? Share your insights in the comments below, and let’s explore these topics together!

Beautiful African-American woman looking into a mirror, holding a Bible as she recites biblical affirmations

Anchoring Our Affirmations in God’s Word: Embracing Biblical Encouragement

August 19, 2024 / Erica / 0 Comments

In today’s society, affirmations are often highlighted as a means to boost self-confidence, claim blessings, or bring about breakthroughs. Social media is filled with messages centered on self-empowerment, self-love, and pursuing personal desires. However, for Christian women, the standard is different – rooted not in personal strength or desires but in the constant truth of God’s Word.

Why Biblical Affirmations Hold Significance

When biblical affirmations are based on Scripture, they serve as a potent tool to refresh our minds and align our hearts with God’s intentions. Romans 12:2 reminds us, “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.” Our thoughts influence our actions, and by focusing on affirmations that mirror biblical truths, we allow God’s Word to transform us from the inside out.

Secular affirmations often emphasize self – what we can achieve, how we can shape our own destiny, or what we deserve. While these statements may sound empowering, they can lead us away from relying on God and toward prioritizing our desires over His will. In contrast, biblical affirmations remind us of God’s nature, His deeds, and how we are called to live in response to His love and grace.

Ten Biblical Affirmations to Strengthen Your Relationship with God

To realign our hearts and minds with God’s truth, here are ten affirmations rooted in Scripture. These affirmations aim to encourage consistent study of the Bible, obedience to God’s commands, and trust in His promises:

I am dedicated to storing God’s Word in my heart to avoid sinning against Him. (Psalm 119:11)
I pursue God’s wisdom and understanding through daily study of His Word. (Proverbs 2:6)
I am undergoing transformation through the renewal of my mind by God’s truth. (Romans 12:2)
I trust in the Lord with all my heart and lean not on my own understanding. (Proverbs 3:5)
I follow God’s commands, knowing His path leads to life. (Deuteronomy 30:16)
I am equipped for every good work through Scripture study. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
I delight in God’s Word and meditate on it day and night. (Psalm 1:2)
I put on the full armor of God, standing firm in His truth. (Ephesians 6:11)
I seek first the kingdom of God, trusting Him to meet all my needs. (Matthew 6:33)
I live by faith, grounded in God’s promises. (2 Corinthians 5:7)

Living Out Biblical Affirmations

Affirmations are declarations of faith that go beyond mere words, shaping our daily lives. By speaking these biblical truths over ourselves, we invite the Holy Spirit to work within us, renewing our minds and guiding our actions.

To embody these affirmations:

Begin your day with Scripture. Start each morning by reading a Bible passage and reflecting on one of these affirmations. Write it down, meditate on it, and ask God to help you live it out throughout the day.
Memorize key verses. Commit to memory the Scriptures behind these affirmations to resist temptation and stay grounded in truth.
Pray through the affirmations. Turn each affirmation into a prayer, asking God to make these truths a reality in your life.
Share with others. Spread these affirmations to your friends, family, and church community. Consider initiating a Bible study or discussion group focused on applying biblical affirmations to daily life.

In a culture that often champions self-centered affirmations, let us differentiate ourselves by anchoring our thoughts and declarations in the truth of God’s Word. Through this, our lives will increasingly reflect His glory, guiding others to witness the beauty of a life lived in obedience to our Creator.

Remember, as we strive to deepen our walk with Christ, it is vital to stay connected to a local church, seek counsel from godly mentors, and engage with a community of believers who will support us on our faith journey.

Seeing through the Storm: How Love, Faith, and Family Sustain Us

August 16, 2024 / Erica / 0 Comments

Life has brought my family through trials that seemed insurmountable. Twelve years ago, my husband suffered a stroke, and since that day, his health has been an ongoing battle. From the stroke to the LVAD implant and even the loss of his right leg, each step has brought new challenges. Yet, through it all, our love has endured, deeply anchored in our faith in God.

As a blended family, the complexity of our situation is multiplied. Raising three boys while managing my husband’s health and maintaining a full-time job has been overwhelming at times. Yet, these moments of exhaustion and uncertainty have become the very moments where God’s grace shines the brightest. The verse, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9), has been a lifeline, reminding me that in my weakest moments, God’s strength is perfected.

Blending a family is never easy, but when you add chronic illness and financial strain, the difficulty intensifies. It requires a level of grace, patience, and trust in God that I never knew I possessed. Over time, I’ve learned to lean on the Lord more than ever, holding fast to the promise that “for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). Even when I couldn’t see the way forward, I trusted that God was guiding us, step by step.

In 2022, I participated in a monologue show and spoke about our journey—how we’ve faced these trials together, and how our love and faith have sustained us through the darkest days. This is not just the story of our marriage; it’s the story of our family’s resilience. We’ve chosen to view life through the lens of faith, finding beauty and hope even in the hardest moments. The verse “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer” (Romans 12:12) has been our guide, helping us remain hopeful, patient, and prayerful through every trial.

Looking back, I can see how these trials have strengthened our love and our faith. Each challenge has brought us closer together, teaching us to rely on each other and on God in ways we never imagined. We’ve discovered that life doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful and that even in the midst of pain, there is joy to be found. The words of James encourage us to “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness” (James 1:2-3). These verses have taught us to find joy in every situation, knowing that God is at work in our lives.

If you’re facing your own storms, whether in a blended family or any other challenging situation, I hope our story encourages you. Remember, you are not alone. Love is powerful, but it is our faith that gives us the strength to endure and the grace to thrive, even when life doesn’t go as planned. Keep looking through those rose-colored glasses—not out of denial, but out of a deep trust that “the LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).

Have you faced similar challenges in your marriage or family? How has your faith helped you navigate tough times? I’d love to hear your story in the comments below. Let’s encourage one another as we continue this journey together.

The Essentials of Our Faith: Understanding What We Believe

August 14, 2024 / Erica / 0 Comments

Whether you’re just starting out on your faith journey, curious about what it all means, or looking to deepen your understanding, getting a grasp on the basics of Christianity is key. Christianity isn’t just a religion; it’s a life-giving relationship with God through Jesus Christ, impacting every part of who we are and how we live. In this post, we’re diving into the core beliefs that form the bedrock of our faith.

1. God: Our Creator and Sustainer

Our faith journey begins with God, the Creator of everything seen and unseen. We believe in one God who is eternal, all-powerful, and all-knowing—revealing Himself as Father, Son (Jesus Christ), and Holy Spirit. This beautiful mystery of the Trinity is central to our understanding of who God is.

God is not only holy and just, but He’s also deeply loving and merciful, longing for a relationship with each one of us. The Bible, our sacred guide, unveils God’s character, His mighty works, and His perfect will for our lives.

2. Humanity: Made in God’s Image, But Fallen

Scripture tells us that we are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), set apart from all creation to reflect His glory and to be in relationship with Him. But humanity took a detour through disobedience, starting with Adam and Eve (Genesis 3). This choice brought sin, separation from God, and a broken world.

Each of us has inherited this fallen nature, making us prone to wander from God’s path. Romans 3:23 reminds us that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” This sin doesn’t just affect us temporarily; it has eternal consequences.

3. Jesus Christ: Our Savior

At the heart of our faith is Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer. Jesus, the Son of God, became fully human while remaining fully divine. He lived a perfect life, shared the good news of God’s kingdom, worked miracles, and reached out with compassion to those in need.

The most pivotal moment in history was Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. He took on the punishment we deserved, dying in our place. Romans 5:8 declares, “But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Three days later, Jesus rose from the dead, conquering sin and death once and for all. His resurrection proves He is indeed the Son of God, and through faith in Him, we are offered forgiveness and eternal life.

4. Salvation: A Gift of Grace

Salvation is not something we can earn—it’s a precious gift from God, given by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:8-9 tells us, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”

To accept this gift, we must turn away from sin and trust in Jesus as our Lord and Savior. This means believing that Jesus is who He says He is—the Son of God—and that His death and resurrection provide the only way to be reconciled to God. When we place our faith in Jesus, we are “born again” (John 3:3), made new in Him (2 Corinthians 5:17).

5. The Holy Spirit: Our Comforter and Guide

When we come to faith in Christ, the Holy Spirit takes up residence within us. The Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, plays a vital role in our lives, guiding us in truth, convicting us of sin, and empowering us to live according to God’s will.

The Spirit also produces fruit in our lives—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Through the Holy Spirit, we’re equipped to grow in our faith and to serve others with the love of Christ.

6. The Church: The Body of Christ

The Church is not just a place we go; it’s who we are—a living, breathing community of believers in Jesus Christ, united across time and space. The Bible calls us the “Body of Christ” (1 Corinthians 12:27), with each of us playing a unique and essential role.

We gather as the Church for worship, prayer, teaching, fellowship, and the sacraments, such as baptism and communion. Through the Church, we find strength, encouragement, and support as we grow in our faith and live out our calling.

7. The Christian Life: Walking with Jesus

To be a Christian isn’t just to believe; it’s to follow Jesus in every part of our lives. This means daily surrendering to His lordship, loving God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and loving our neighbor as ourselves (Mark 12:30-31).

We’re called to share the good news, serve others, pursue justice, and live lives that reflect God’s holiness. Walking with Jesus is a journey, one that transforms us from the inside out.

Conclusion

Christianity is all about a life-changing relationship with God through Jesus Christ. It’s grounded in the truths of God’s Word and empowered by the Holy Spirit. At its core, our faith is about recognizing our need for a Savior, receiving the gift of salvation through Jesus, and living a life that honors God.

If you’re exploring Christianity or seeking to grow in your faith, we encourage you to dive into the Bible, connect with a community of believers, and surround yourself with godly friends who can walk with you on this journey.

Got questions or want to dig deeper? Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments below!