July 2022 - Psalms of Sarah

Godly Living Posts / Quotes

Forgiveness: A Four-Step Path After a Relationship Ends

July 29, 2022 - By Sarah Luma

Darkness cannot dispel darkness; only light has that power. Unforgiving corrodes the heart of its holder. While it’s unpredictable whether someone may inflict pain upon you, your response after being hurt can be your choice. The most constructive response is forgiveness.

Persisting in an emotionally unforgiving state following a separation from a husband, fiancé, or family members is akin to leading a dual existence. It entails fixating on past wounds while inhabiting the current moment, and this endeavor holds no value. Each day arrives with its own divine grace; fretting over the past or the future yields no genuine healing.

Amazingly, our forgiveness from God is tangled in the forgiveness we generously give to others who have hurt us. Matthew 6:14-15, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins”.

All of us have encountered hurtful relationships at some point, yet forgiveness is a conscious decision to halt the inner strife that nurtures bitterness. Imperfection is universal, extending to both you and me. Pardoning a former partner is a mature Christian attribute that can be achieved through the following actions.

1. Choose forgiveness every day

Each day, and often multiple times a day, individuals may intentionally or unintentionally cause us pain. However, Jesus advises us to embrace a forgiving mindset towards everyone.

It is our duty to have a constant merciful and forgiving heart towards people who have hurt us, just like God does for us every time we disobey Him. (Daniel 9:9)

It is ungodly to hold unforgiveness in our hearts towards others. Micah 7:18 “who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy.”

So watch yourselves. “If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them. Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying ‘I repent,’ you must forgive them.” Luke 17:3-4

Strangely, forgiveness is supposed to be given unmeasurably. Matthew 18: 21-22 “Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times? “Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”

We have the debt to forgive everyone

There are cases where the person doesn’t repent, at least not to your knowledge; forgive them.

Forgiveness doesn’t always mean the relationship will be repaired, but it means you free yourself from the bondage of that hurt and can still relate kindly with that person.

When I was hurt by a broken marriage relationship, I disconnected the person from all social media and contacts. I even relocated to another city and avoided him altogether. For a few months, I wept profusely daily, but I healed only after I started praying for him. I organized a face-to-face meeting years later. After this talk, I noticed all the hatred and bitterness had left my heart. We did not reunite, but I am glad I told him outrightly that I forgave him, and he was open to telling me why he acted that way.

2. Give forgiveness by praying for the person who hurt you

As Christians, praying is a vital part of our relationship with God, but when we are harbouring unforgiveness, God cannot hear our prayers.

And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” Mark 11:25

You can never hate someone whom you pray for. Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you”.

True forgiveness implies refusing to curse or hate that person who hurt you but deciding to bless and help and be kind to them when and if you can.

“Get rid of all bitterness, passion, and anger. No more shouting or insults, no more hateful feelings of any sort. Instead, be kind and tender-hearted to one another, and forgive one another, as God has forgiven you through Christ”. Ephesians 4:31-32

How does healing come?

Lasting healing from the pain of the past can only come through prayers. Whether your ex admits his wrongs or not, pray for yourself and for him. “So then, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you will be healed. The prayer of a good person has a powerful effect”. James 5:16

As surprising as it may seem, we ought to, like Jesus, pray for forgiveness and wish the best for the person who hurt us. This sometimes means assuming they are ignorant even though you know they might have deliberately hurt you. Jesus said, “Forgive them, Father! They don’t know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34

The hurtful situation will not change whether we forgive the person or not. On the contrary, like Stephen, forgiveness is a generous prayer we are obliged to make as true Christians despite the circumstances. Acts 7:59-60 “While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he had said this, he fell asleep.”

3. Choose forgiveness without condemnation.

It is easy to despise the person who hurt you, but it is ungodly to judge and condemn them.

Luke 6:37 “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven”.

I recall rejecting any hateful and bitter thoughts about my ex every time they popped up in my mind. Firstly, I read forgiveness scriptures and invested hours reading the Bible and gospel books and watching gospel messages on how to deal with unforgiveness from a Godly perspective. Later on, I wrote sticky notes on forgiveness and pasted them on places I could often see, like on my laptop and bathroom wall. Finally, I prayed for him every time I felt that anger to curse him.

4. Decide to be mature

Forgiveness is only for mature Christians.

As much as your ex’s actions could have been hurtful, it takes two to tangle. There is a possibility being humans as we all are, you contributed in a tiny way, both knowingly and unknowingly. Therefore, forgiveness is taking responsibility for your own actions and refusing to blame the person entirely for the breakup of the relationship.

I affirmed I had fully healed and forgiven him when I narrated my experience to others and did not weep profusely. Also, when I spoke to him and did not feel any animosity or resentment. I noticed all the revengeful and hateful emotions were gone whenever I chatted with him as a friend. Keeping friendly communication with boundaries properly defined is what I did for a few years until I noticed he considered me a mistress. I had to break the communication on all my social media platforms not because we were enemies, but because I knew it was right for him to focus on his new wife. Truthfully, I can never refuse to greet him if we meet again physically someday, but I clearly told him the reason for my distance.

Forgiving them doesn’t mean they will reciprocate, but do it for your freedom to maintain a peaceful relationship with God.

We need to be generous in forgiving those who mistreated us on a consistent basis, even as we pray for them. The best way is to decide not to be vengeful or harbor negative emotions towards them.

The Bible has a list of forgiveness verses, which I recommend you invest time meditating on.

Finally, because our Christian journey is an endless process, you can find more faith-building encouragements here.

Continue Reading
Godly Living Posts / Quotes

Exploring 4 Uncommon Facets of the Virtue of Patience

July 17, 2022 - By Sarah Luma
Do you consider patience a virtue from God? Some people say, “I am naturally a patient person.” Others say, “I have had to learn to be patient over the years.” How is this for you?

Is patience a virtue that can be developed based on time? Or does it come based on our experiences, or is it an innate personality trait?

Whichever way you define it, nobody can claim that they have not had more than one situation in their lives where they had to be patient. For some, it has been a promotion at their job, or others are waiting for a future business partner.

God demonstrated patience throughout scripture, and He still does now. We deserve punishment for our daily mistakes, but he is patient not to punish us. What a patient God! Romans 2:4 Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?

Examples of patience

We see in Gen 29:20 as Jacob’s patience made him serve seven years to get Rachel. Those years seemed like only a few days to him because of his love for her.

A typical example is when farmers plant their seeds, they automatically expect the harvest. They don’t go back to the ground daily to dig and see if the seed is growing. They water it frequently and anticipate that God will make the seeds grow.

All trees require years to grow. Once a mango seed is planted, it sprouts in a week or two. But, it takes an additional year to reach 3 to 4 feet tall. Farmers will transplant the trees out to a growing field at this stage. After this process, it takes mango trees 2-4years to start bearing fruits.

Those years will sound long for a generation that desires instant results. People hunger to satisfy themselves these days as fast as possible. Fast food is preferred over cooked nutritious food. Microwaved food and instant hot water meals are choices over home-cooked meals, just to name a few.

According to Bible teacher Joyce Meyer “Patience is not just waiting, but how you behave while you are waiting.”

What is God’s patience?

Patience is a fruit of the spirit that grows only under trial. This is a virtue that grows with time and requires self-discipline. It applies to every aspect of our lives. Rom 12:12,” Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

“For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what is promised.” Heb 10:36. Everybody needs to learn how to be patient or endurant. This is because life has stages; we must scale through each level with caution and diligence.

No matter what you do, if you do it with patience, your reward is obvious. This is the promise in Gal 6:9, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

How can you be patient?

We can choose to be patient by abiding by the word of God. Below are some points to identify and evaluate yourself to know if you are a patient.
- When you are utterly patient, it will be easy to forgive people who hurt you, and it will prevent you from bearing grudges and hate. As Paul puts it in Eph 4:2, “ Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” Having a patient heart makes you more tolerant and shows how deeply you love others.
God is patient
- God’s patience is displayed in several verses throughout the Bible. In it, Prophet Nahum said in Nahum 1:3, “The LORD is slow to anger but great in power;…” Patience is a fruit of love. It is not hypocritical to say, the more loving you are with people, the easier it will be to become patient with them. True love births patience, as seen in 1Corin 13:4, “Love is patient, love is kind…”.
- God’s love is what restrains him from punishing us. Nehemiah 9:17 They refused to listen and failed to remember the miracles you performed among them. They became stiff-necked and, in their rebellion appointed a leader in order to return to their slavery. But you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love. Therefore you did not desert them.
- When we fully grow the virtue of patience, resolving our inevitable conflicts with people becomes straightforward. Prov 15:18 explains the consequences impatience can have on a disagreement as opposed to being patient. “A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.”
- Patience is also evident in how hopeful we are. The aspiration you have while waiting for God to do something in your life is patience. Based on Roms 8: 24-25, “For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.”
Where can we get patience?

That intense expectancy in our hearts that God will do what His word says He will do demonstrates our patient character and how we trust Him. (Ps 5:3).

It is God’s nature to be patient, as we see in Ps 103:8. The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love”. Every time you treat someone with patience, you display one of the attributes of God.

Every Christian has God’s kind of patience in their spirit. However, we have to desire and develop it deliberately. And, by extension, show us just as God has shown us.

Patience is not a feeling but a virtue.

Why should we be patient?

We all need Christ-like patience. It always makes us merciful to people, especially those who have hurt us.

“But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life.” 1 Tim 1:16.

In everything we do, we have to be patient. Sometimes, God responds to patience in prayer. “I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry.” Ps 40:1.

In conclusion, I encourage you to build a life full of perseverance and endurance.

Read more encouraging articles here.
Continue Reading
Travel

Ho Chi Minh City: 3 Compelling Reasons to Visit Vietnam’s Vibrant Metropolis

July 15, 2022 - By Sarah Luma

Venturing into vibrant Vietnam, a prominent tourist destination in Southeast Asia, led me to the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City. Despite my inability to witness ancient ruins, stunning beaches, and captivating landscapes, this city teems with attractions. From traces of French colonial influence to locals who still speak French, the blend of history and modernity is fascinating.

Navigating the city’s lively streets, whether by motorbike, car, or foot, introduced me to its welcoming spirit. Amidst the traffic hustle, the former Saigon resonated with warmth. Friendly faces greeted me, eager for conversation despite language barriers. English not being prevalent posed a challenge, yet the positive energy prevailed. And let’s not forget the sunny weather, a delightful bonus.

Although my stay was brief, Ho Chi Minh City left me content. Its unique charm, combined with the warm interactions, ensured a memorable experience. With the intention of returning, I departed, enriched by the moments shared in this remarkable urban expanse.

Museum visit

With a deep-rooted curiosity about the history of every land I explore, my journey led me to the doors of the Ho Chi Minh Museum in Ho Chi Minh City. Nestled within an old edifice, this museum serves as a repository of the past, particularly the echoes of colonial dominion, notably the era of French colonial rule.

As I wandered through its halls, each section unveiled a tale of the country’s colonialist past. Ancient artifacts bearing French inscriptions stood juxtaposed with Vietnamese descriptions, a testament to the bygone era’s intricate fusion. The museum, established in 1987, resides within a venerable structure that once belonged to a wealthy Chinese man, Hua Bon Hoa, acclaimed as Saigon’s wealthiest citizen in the early 20th century.

What truly caught my eye were the well-preserved vintage aircraft on display, harking back to a time long past. Their meticulous maintenance and vibrant paintwork added to the museum’s immersive atmosphere. The enchanting courtyard, adorned with fragrant herbs, blossoming flowers, and lush trees, provided a serene juxtaposition to the historical narrative being recounted.

Situated along 97A Pho Duc Chinh in District 1, this museum holds a treasure trove of approximately 21,000 artifacts. A haven for enthusiasts of art and history alike, it promises an immersive experience for individuals of all ages. The museum presents a miniature glimpse into the past, inviting both adults and children to traverse through time.

For those sharing my inquisitiveness about the history of former Saigon, I wholeheartedly advocate for a visit to this museum. It stands as a captivating window into an era bygone, beckoning the curious-minded to uncover the rich tapestry of the city’s past.

Ho Chi Minh Arts

Navigating the bustling market, my eyes danced over a myriad of decorative trinkets, each vying for my attention. The vibrant hues and intricate designs held me captive, as I pondered over the perfect souvenir to capture the essence of my visit.

Friendly Vietnamese vendors, a mix of helpful and persuasive, guided my shopping journey. Some locked eyes with curiosity, leaving me immersed in choices. After a mental tussle, I settled on a wallet. Its exquisite design and thread stitches caught my eye, and the foam interior made it both light and fluffy. A picture of a hardworking Vietnamese farmer adorned it, speaking volumes to me. While I tried on the traditional hat, I knew it was a memory to cherish, not an everyday accessory.

The market echoed with a symphony of creativity, boasting shoes, clothes, jewelry, and more. The allure of Vietnamese culture beckoned, with prices more inviting than those in South Korea. The temptation to embrace Vietnamese artistry was irresistible. Did I succumb? One can guess the answer.

Sarah and friends at a Ho Chi Minh City restaurant

Artistry wasn’t confined to the market; it flourished throughout the city. Quaint decorations adorned restaurants, each piece a burst of color and brightness. Mesmerized, I felt compelled to touch and understand their intricate craftsmanship, discovering that some were ingeniously crafted from recycled materials.

Among the city’s charms, the concept of dining under trees enchanted me. A natural respite from the sun’s warmth, it was a delightful way to savor a meal. Ho Chi Minh City had so much more to offer, leaving me yearning to explore further. My wish to uncover its hidden gems lingered, a testament to the captivating allure of this vibrant destination.

Eat delicious Vietnamese food

Due to my selective tastes, I encountered a culinary challenge in embracing Vietnamese cuisine. While not particularly spicy, the noodle soups didn’t resonate with me. Amidst the array of traditional dishes at restaurants, I sampled a few, like Phở Cuốn and Bột Chiên. However, my preference leaned toward simpler options like beef and rice. Cautious of the unfamiliar, I refrained from dishes I couldn’t identify, even though I observed the presence of raw vegetables and herbs in some Vietnamese meals.

A surprising culinary delight awaited me during dinner at a restaurant – a plain fish soup and rice. This unexpected gem was served to me at the university cafeteria, where I had the honor of attending a law conference at the University of Economics and Law.

Curiosity piqued my interest in comparing legal systems, prompting engaging conversations with Vietnamese law graduate students. Their warm reception and inquisitive nature led to a barrage of questions exchanged in our short but insightful interactions. While time constraints limited the depth of our chats, the campus tour provided a glimpse into Vietnam’s educational landscape.

Though my time was fleeting, I left with a sense of anticipation to explore Hanoi in the future. I invite you to share your experiences in either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. For the adventure-minded, the journey is a perpetual voyage of discovery.

There are 10 Best Museums In Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, that you could visit.

Click here to find out what you can do in Cambodia, Thailand, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Cameroon, Malaysia, and Ghana.

Continue Reading
Travel

Phnom Penh: A Captivating Tour Through Cambodia’s Heart

July 8, 2022 - By Sarah Luma

Explore the captivating beauty of the Kingdom of Cambodia through this vivid description. Unveil its stunning landscapes, coastal allure, and the warmth of its people. Embark on an exploration of Phnom Penh, the lively capital of Cambodia, known for its riverside charm and delectable seafood offerings. Discover the allure of this vibrant city through this enticing article.

Whether you’re drawn by its landscapes, cuisine, or cultural experiences, Cambodia offers a diverse range of activities. Join a journey that led to unforgettable stopovers, enriched by personal interactions and discovery.

1. Support children at an NGO like the Water of Life Phnom Penh

The Water of Life (WOL) is a registered Non-Governmental organization through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cambodia. It provides education, medical assistance, life skills, and weekly Christian discipleship.

Randy Fleming is the Director. He is assisted by Cambodian leaders Rith Sang, TongChou Chiu, and Channa Bo. The ministry centre in Phnom Penh is home to young men between the ages of 14- 25 who need assistance in life and resources to complete their education.

Adjacent to this, a house awaits college-age girls, providing not only education but also essential life skills. As an integral facet of the Water of Life initiative, the Children of Hope Home embraces around 20 children aged 1 to 13.

This nurturing haven orchestrates numerous activities, fostering growth and offering a caring residence. Witnessing their happiness and sharing moments of connection was truly heart-warming.

2. Phnom Penh street view

The architecture of the houses left me in awe. The streets of this enchanting capital city boasted a well-planned layout, offering ample space for movement.

Whether basking in the day’s sunlight or the city’s twinkling night lights, the panoramic views from rooftop cafés and restaurants were truly invigorating.

Noteworthy concrete monuments graced city junctions and highways, adding to the urban landscape. My admiration grew for the intricate craftsmanship displayed in traditional houses and temples, a testament to the Cambodian people’s deep religious devotion.

3. Learn Cambodian history at the UN Khmer Rouge Tribunal

Cambodia has undergone a remarkable transformation since the harrowing genocide perpetrated by Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge regime between 1975 and 1979. The tragic loss of more than 3 million Cambodian lives continues to cast a shadow, leaving a poignant memory for countless individuals.

While the wounds and grief remain, a resilient spirit has emerged, propelling the nation towards positive renewal and reconstruction.

As I walked down the hallway into several offices at the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia, I was shocked to see our big the establishment is. The depths of human cruelty left me utterly shocked. Amidst my brief work visit, officials from the centre divulged the grim past of Cambodia, shedding light on the reasons behind the establishment of the tribunal.

Learning about the profound repercussions of the genocide left me disheartened.

Conversely, stories of healing and the imprisonment of some of the perpetrators offered a glimmer of hope. Nevertheless, comprehending the enduring grief still borne by some families proved a poignant challenge.

The court is not open for everyone in the public on random tours. I think you have to book an appointment. I suggest inquiring from the security at the gate. If international law is your major, or you just want to understand the history of Cambodia, this is a must-see place. My notes came to live and I understood genocide in another way.

I applaud the Cambodian people for rising up from the ashes.

4. Visit the glittering Royal Palace

Nestled within the heart of Phnom Penh, an enchanting sight awaited me: the resplendent Royal Palace, adorned with its captivating radiance.

The palace’s strategic placement beside the road took me by surprise, a glittering gem easily accessible to all. Astonishingly, the King himself resides there, a fact that prohibited tourism within the premises.

Nonetheless, the allure of its architectural marvel and lush gardens remained, even from a distance. Witnessing the palace’s ethereal nighttime glow left me with a profound sense of satisfaction.

5. Shop at the vibrant market

A journey to a new country is incomplete without a visit to its bustling markets. While some gravitate toward malls, I find immense joy in exploring local markets. For me, it’s more than just shopping – it’s a means to connect with the local culture. The vibrant array of artistic crafts and colorful items captivated me, showcasing the creative essence of the people. Notably, the image of the royal palace emerged as a renowned motif for numerous souvenirs.

Amidst the treasures, I encountered a delightful challenge: choosing what to bring home. Remarkably, the markets catered to every taste, whether it was clothing or home decor. The markets became a haven of options, ensuring that every traveller found something meaningful to take back as a cherished memory.

6. Use local transportation modes around Phnom Penh city

As is common in most capital cities, rush hours in the city were marked by bustling traffic jams. Despite this, certain areas still maintained a degree of mobility. A fascinating sight unfolded as numerous bike riders skilfully navigated alongside cars, each adorned with protective helmets.

The proficiency with which everyone manoeuvred their bikes was remarkable. A truly astonishing scene awaited me at the university car park – over a hundred motorbikes stood in rows.

Evidently, it was customary for students to commute to and from campus on their bikes, showcasing the incredible convenience of this mode of transportation.

On the other hand, if you don’t like the sound of the bikes, you could use a tuk-tuk. This is an auto-rickshaw. The distinctive three-wheeled, open-air vehicles known as tuk-tuks have become a noteworthy and increasingly popular mode of transportation. What caught my attention was the variety among them – some tuk-tuks were adorned with fabric coverings, providing shade from the sun’s rays.

I observed that several were equipped with blinds, creating a cozy and secure environment inside, safeguarding passengers from potential pickpockets. Additionally, the artistic allure of tuk-tuks shone through in their vibrant paintwork.

Moreover, these vehicles proved to be a cost-effective alternative to taxis, offering a unique and accessible way to navigate the city.

7. Have lunch at the Le Seoul Korean restaurant

Embarking on a culinary journey, I had the pleasure of dining at “Le Seoul Korean Restaurant” in Phnom Penh. This establishment seamlessly melds Korean cuisine with the Cambodian dining scene, creating a unique and unforgettable gastronomic experience.

As I indulged in a delightful experience, I savored a fusion of flavors by enjoying both fruits and food at a Korean restaurant in Cambodia. This culinary exploration offered a delightful blend of cultures, enhancing my dining adventure in this captivating city.

The design on the fruits, especially the guavas, was appetizing.

I visited this place in 2018, so, I suggest you google search their website before going there. There are hundreds of reviews about them.

Law and Development Conferences

Apart from touring the city, the main reason for my trip with my Law and Development Law School schoolmates was to participate in conferences. Under the patronage of some of Handong International Law School‘s refined Law Professors, I learned about the Cambodian legal system. Our first conference was at the National University of Management.

Engaging with the vibrant Cambodian student community was a highlight as they warmly welcomed and interacted with us. Their curiosity about studying in Korea sparked insightful conversations, where some shared their career aspirations and academic experiences.

Another distinctive event was the Cambodian Lawyer’s Forum, hosted at the Legal Documentation Center. While comprehending Khmer and the intricacies of their legal systems posed a challenge, I found immense value in gaining insights into their legal framework.

Phnom Penh’s array of activities offers something for everyone, and you’re sure to stumble upon more exciting experiences. Feel free to share your own adventures and discoveries in the comments below. I eagerly look forward to returning to this enchanting Kingdom in the future.

If you like travelling like me, you could check out some activities I did in other countries below.

National history museum of Ethiopia

Three historical sites to visit in Yaounde, Cameroon

Continue Reading
Godly Living Posts / Quotes

Trust God: Two Simple 24/7 Methods

July 5, 2022 - By Sarah Luma

Nowadays, trusting manufacturers is a norm, but we need to trust God – our creator more. Everyone, whether knowingly or unknowingly, expects the TV manufacturers to sell their televisions with a manual describing how they should be used. Similarly, we all know, that the manual has clear directions on how to properly set up channels on the television.

In fact, there have been legal cases if the manufacturer sold a product without a manual. It has become customary for all manufacturers to produce explicit manuals, not solely as a way to protect themselves from being liable against legal claims that might come up, but as a guide to reduce the stress of the consumers and to get positive recommendations.

However, it is not uncommon these days, because people want instant gratification and immediate results. Sadly, only a handful of people spend a good amount of time reading the manuals of the products they buy before using them. We can all admit we sometimes read the manual only if we were unsuccessful in trying to use our own brains.

Also, subconsciously or consciously, those who read the manual before using the product, completely trust the manufacturer’s directions, and they always expect that the TV will function just as the guidelines stipulate.

What does it mean to trust God?

It simply means we will not know and understand everything, but we believe he has a perfect plan.

Trusting God is like playing a puzzle. We will figure only one piece at a time.

In exceptional cases, these people have had to contact the manufacturer when they needed clarification on a specific term in the manual. It is also the reason that manufacturers will always include their contact information in the manual. They want to ensure their customers have obtained maximum satisfaction.

Is it fair to say only the manufacturer of the product knows exactly how the product was made, and he is the only one who can explain clearly how it should be used? We will definitely agree with this.

Could this article be a promotion for manufacturers?- absolutely not. It is a clear description of how we honor God and His word (Bible). This explains our attitude towards God and how we neglect his designed plan for our lives.

If trusting human manufacturers for our earthly products, how much more should we trust God, our divine manufacturer?

God is our manufacturer

God is the creator of all human beings as seen in Genesis 1:1 and Him alone knows who and what is on earth. His kingdom is in heaven, but he created the earth for the man – us (Psalms 115:16).

Do you know just as God told Jeremiah in chapter 1:5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations”, He is saying the same to you?

This automatically implies we cannot do life on our own. We will certainly fail if we don’t obey the scriptures and have absolute trust in God. He is our creator, so we must stick with him.

He clearly said through Solomon in Prov 3:5-6, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your path”. This is the only way to do life purposefully.

We need God every day, all the time, every time, and any time.

If we can feed ourselves with the word of God daily before making major decisions, there is no way we can go wrong in God’s purpose and plan for our lives. Here are the ways you can trust God.

1. Make a daily habit of studying the Bible

Just as we depend on the manual to explain how to set up that new refrigerator, we have to reverentially fear and absolutely trust God’s word in the Bible to show us how to accomplish our purpose in life.

God and His word are one. (John 1:1). It is impossible to know His will for your life without studying His word.

We can invest time with full attention and devotion to study it. We do this after asking the help of the Holy Spirit to interpret the mind of God to us. God speaks and guides our lives via the Bible.

This could sometimes imply reading a single verse/chapter for a week. It doesn’t always have to be a Bible plan or devotional, but both are great options too. To add, it is not about setting a calendar to finish the Bible in a year. Equally, it becomes literature or a history book if read without the Holy Spirit.

Everything you need in life is there. If we search and meditate consistently before making that decision, we will assuredly have a solution. Sometimes it will mean looking through the life of Jesus or analyzing the lives of the Prophets/Apostles.

2. To Believe and trust God is an absolute duty

Similar to our expectation that the phone will work just as the producer wrote in the manual, believing is the conviction that what God has said will come to pass.

There is no scripture in the Bible where God requested us to trust other people or ourselves and or the universe as some people say these days. “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God” Psalm 20:7.

Trusting God absolutely means we have nothing else or human that we depend on.

We cannot do life peacefully by trusting our parents, spouses, friends, and colleagues just to name a few. Total trust in God is that individual decision to obey God no matter what you feel or what others think.

Prov 28:26 says “Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe.” We are not permitted to trust even ourselves.

What should we not trust?

We are not equally supposed to be trusting our possessions, social status, or achievements. This is evident in Prov 11:28 “Those who trust in their riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf”.

We can always run to God every time we are unsuccessful, but we can also trust Him completely, so we don’t become unsuccessful. Like David highlighted in Psalms 56:3, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you”. Trusting God has to be a deliberate lifestyle.

Finally, Paul added in Romans 15: 13, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit”.

Obviously, this strong assurance comes after you have invested time in the word. I encourage you to have true joy and peace by visiting the Bible. This is the key to fulfilling your purpose. Frequently study the word of God and belief in God’s power through the Holy Spirit.

If you want more scriptural articles, here are a few of my favorite

Bible verses about unbelief

Bible verses about hearing from God

Continue Reading