This World is Not Our Final Home

We are not meant to find our peace or fulfillment in this broken world. The hurt we experience here is temporary, no matter how deep it feels.

Everywhere we look today, it feels like the world is unraveling. People lash out in anger, friendships are torn apart, and love seems to grow colder by the day. It’s heartbreaking to witness how easily kindness is forgotten and how often relationships are sacrificed over pride, selfishness, or misunderstanding. 

For those who are on the receiving end of pain, betrayal, rejection, or cruelty, it’s natural to feel the urge to fight back, to retaliate, to defend your heart. But God’s Word calls us to something higher. Hebrews 13:14 (NLT) reminds us, “For this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come.” This truth gives us the strength to respond differently. 

We are not meant to find our peace or fulfillment in this broken world. The hurt we experience here is temporary, no matter how deep it feels. Our citizenship is not of this earth; Philippians 3:20 (NLT) declares, “But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior.”

When we remember that heaven is our true home, we gain perspective. The pain others inflict doesn’t define us; it refines us. Every trial becomes an opportunity to draw closer to Christ, to model His grace, and to reflect His light in the darkness. 

So, when you feel like the world is falling apart around you, take heart. God sees your tears. He knows your hurt. And He promises that one day, all wrongs will be made right. Until then, walk in peace, love without fear, and keep your eyes fixed on the home that awaits you, where there will be no more sorrow, no more betrayal, and no more pain. 

Heaven is our final destination. Let’s live each day with that hope in our hearts. 

Related Song: This World Is Falling Apart

For anyone who has been hurt by the players in this world, remember, this world may be harsh, but we have heaven to look forward to. Please click to hear the song and video inspired by Hebrews 13:14 and Philippians 3:20.

Speaking Life: The Power of Words in Shaping Your Day

Each word we release into the world either strengthens a bridge of grace or erects a wall of division.

Scripture Reading
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.— Proverbs 18:21

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.— Ephesians 4:29

Reflection
Our words hold extraordinary power. Every sentence we speak is either a bridge that connects hearts or a wall that divides them. Words can lift someone from despair or push them deeper into darkness. They can heal or wound, encourage or discourage, inspire faith or sow doubt.

I’m 70 years old now, and I still remember the moment I felt like the ugliest person on the planet. I was about nine years old when a lady came to visit one day. Upon seeing me, she smiled and said, “You’re so pretty!” Quickly, another woman in the room said, “Don’t tell her that, or else she’ll believe you.” This woman bent down to me and continued, “Honey, if someone ever says you’re pretty, they are just trying to be nice.” My feelings were hurt, and I swiftly left the room and stayed in my bedroom for the rest of the day.

Growing up, I would stay away from people or make sure my head was down so that people couldn’t get a good look at my face. If I had to be in front of people, I would wear bangs so they wouldn’t be able to see my whole face. My inner critic constantly told me I was not good enough. I had trouble trusting people, and this distrust manifested in deep-seated anxiety over being in public and speaking to people, much more, talking to a crowd.

The words I heard as a child became the foundation for the person I became as an adult: crippled by self-doubt and unable to see my self-worth.

God designed language not merely as a tool for communication but as a vessel for His truth and love. When we speak blessings, we align our hearts with His divine purpose. Life-giving words carry the light of Christ into places where shadows linger. A kind word spoken in love can ignite hope in a weary soul.

Conversely, careless or harsh words can tear down trust and build barriers that separate us from others, as well as from God’s peace within us. That’s why Scripture continually reminds us to be slow to speak and quick to listen. Each word we release into the world either strengthens a bridge of grace or erects a wall of division.

Let us choose to be bridge builders, people who speak with gentleness, encouragement, and truth. Our voices can become instruments of healing that reflect God’s mercy and draw others closer to His heart.

Application
I am grateful to have learned about the benefits of affirmations. Affirmations are powerful and positive statements that we can use to speak to ourselves.

When repeated, they work well, especially when repeated often. They can replace negative feelings with a sense of peace.

Use affirmations to build up your strength and gain the peace you deserve. Speak one uplifting word or sentence over yourself today.

Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Help me to use my words wisely and with love. Guard my tongue so that what I speak builds bridges, not walls. Let my words bring comfort, encouragement, and truth to those who hear them. Fill my heart with Your Spirit so that every conversation reflects Your grace. May my speech be seasoned with kindness, drawing others toward Your light and peace.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Morning Rhythms: Starting the Day with Peace and Purpose

How we start our day often shapes how it will end. When we begin with prayer and thanksgiving, we invite peace, hope, love, and joy to accompany us through every moment.

Have you ever noticed how the way you start your morning sets the tone for the rest of your day?


In this post, I share how beginning each morning with prayer, gratitude, and quiet time with God can transform your outlook and bring calm to even the busiest days.

Scripture Reading

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
— Lamentations 3:22–23 (NIV)

In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.
— Psalm 5:3 (NIV)

Retrospection

Each morning, before my feet touch the floor, I take a few quiet moments to thank the Lord for the gift of a new day, another opportunity to live, to work, and to become more like the person He desires me to be. In those still moments, I lift my family and friends to Him. I offer my business dealings, my plans, and my concerns, asking God to stay at the center of everything I do.

When my time of prayer ends, I move on to the morning routine, which includes showering, drinking coffee, and preparing for the day ahead. Yet, before diving into tasks, I open my Bible. Reading His Word helps me align my thoughts with His will. I reflect on how I can apply His truth to my life so that others might see His light shining through me.

There was a time when I used to start my mornings differently. My first priority was checking emails, returning calls, and jumping into the day’s responsibilities. Only after I had worked through my to-do list did I turn my attention to God. But over time, I noticed a pattern; those days often felt rushed, unsettled, and incomplete.

Eventually, I discovered a profound truth: when I start my day with God, everything else unfolds with greater peace and purpose. Prayer and gratitude at the start of the day lay a foundation for wise decisions and calm perseverance. When I seek His guidance first, His blessings seem to accompany every step thereafter.

Time with God is essential to a life filled with hope and lasting peace. For some, mornings are the perfect time to meet with Him; for others, it may be during a quiet lunch break or in the stillness of the evening. The specific time is not what matters most. What matters is consistency and a heart open to His presence.

Each new morning symbolizes renewal. God’s mercies are fresh every day, and He listens to every word we speak. Knowing that, I want my first words to be to Him, words of gratitude, praise, and surrender.

Developing a habit of spending time with God daily transforms not only our mornings but our entire lives. How we start our day often shapes how it will end. When we begin with prayer and thanksgiving, we invite peace, hope, love, and joy to accompany us through every moment.

Application

Tomorrow morning, begin with five minutes of silence and gratitude. Whisper a simple prayer of thanks, invite God into your day, and let His presence guide every step you take.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of a new morning and the promise of Your unfailing love. Help me to start each day by turning my heart toward You. Teach me to rest in Your peace before the world’s noise begins, and to carry Your presence with me through every task and conversation. May my mornings be filled with gratitude, my days with purpose, and my nights with peace.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Walking Lightly: Simplifying Life to Make Space for God

An uncluttered life makes it easier to hear God’s whisper.

Scripture Reading:
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
— Matthew 6:19–21 (NIV)

“He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.’”
— Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

Retrospection:

There’s an old saying: “Cleanliness is next to godliness.” While it’s not a direct Bible verse, the phrase encourages us to keep our hearts pure and our lives in good order. It is a call to live with integrity and spiritual mindfulness.

If that’s the standard, I’ve always considered myself a “clean” person. But along with that, I’ve also been a busy person. Much of what fills my days involves church work or spiritually centered projects. Still, I’ve never heard anyone say, “Busyness is next to godliness.”

From sunrise to sunset, I often find myself shifting from one task to another, answering messages, helping others, and attending to my home and work. I always make time to begin my day with God, but as the hours pass, my schedule tends to take on a life of its own. Although I view my diligence as a commitment, I’ve learned that constant busyness can blur the line between devotion and distraction.

One turning point came when I volunteered to help a friend with an event. I worked tirelessly, one task led to another, until I realized I had gone twenty-four hours without sleep. My body gave in, and in that exhausted state, I began hallucinating. It was frightening. That experience humbled me and reminded me that, even as I serve others, I must also care for the temple God gave me, my body and spirit.

Since then, I’ve made a conscious effort to slow down. Scaling back my commitments hasn’t been easy, but as I began to simplify, I found something beautiful: clarity. With fewer distractions, I became more aware of God’s presence throughout my day. My prayers deepened, my thoughts quieted, and peace began to fill the spaces where stress once lived.

I no longer schedule time for God; instead, my life revolves around Him. I’ve learned that walking lightly, shedding unnecessary clutter and commitments, opens more room for God to dwell in my heart.

I am happy to have discovered how an uncluttered life makes it easier to hear God’s whisper.

Application:

Choose one area of your life to simplify this week: your time, your space, or your commitments. Ask yourself: What can I release to create more room for God’s peace to settle in my soul?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father,
Teach me to walk lightly and live simply, trusting that You are all I need. Help me release the weight of unnecessary busyness and worldly pursuits that crowd my heart. Fill the quiet spaces of my life with Your peace and presence. May my days flow from a place of stillness, not striving, and may every moment reflect my devotion to You.
In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Forgiveness as Freedom: Releasing What Holds You Back

Forgiveness isn’t about excusing what happened; it’s about freeing your soul to live in God’s peace.

Scripture Reading

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.
— Matthew 6:14–15 (NIV)

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
— Ephesians 4:31–32 (NIV)

These verses remind us that forgiveness isn’t about excusing what someone said or did; it’s about freeing your soul. When we forgive, we release the heavy chains that keep us tied to our pain. Forgiveness doesn’t mean what happened was right; it means you are choosing not to let it control your life any longer.

Introspection

In the past, I’ve written about the importance of forgiving ourselves.

In my article, Forgiving Ourselves: Embracing Who We Are Today, I shared that forgiveness doesn’t mean pretending something didn’t matter. It means releasing the need to keep punishing yourself for something you can’t change.

And in Forgiving Ourselves: Walking in God’s Grace, I remind readers that once you’ve repented and asked God for forgiveness, He has already washed you clean. The Creator of the universe has forgiven you, so why hold yourself hostage any longer?

In my book, Transformation: Metamorphosis of the Soul – Finding Christ’s Love and Faith, I share a personal story of being deeply hurt by someone’s words. What they said pierced my heart and stayed with me for months. I relived their words daily, morning to night, allowing them to define how I saw myself. I became trapped in bitterness and sorrow, replaying the moment over and over until it consumed my peace.

Then one day, God intervened. Through an unexpected turn of events, He brought truth to light. The lies spoken about me were exposed, not by my hand, but through His divine orchestration. Even though I never received an apology, I felt an overwhelming sense of relief. In that moment, God whispered to my heart, “Forgive.”

When I did, the weight lifted. My tears dried. My spirit felt free.

That’s what God’s forgiveness does for us, too. No matter how far we’ve fallen or how deeply we’ve been wounded, when we turn to Him and ask for forgiveness, He cleanses and restores us. His love refreshes us, healing the places that once felt broken beyond repair.

Forgiveness is freedom. When you forgive, you make space for peace, joy, and new beginnings to flourish in your life.

Application

Take a quiet moment today to write down one hurt you’re ready to hand over to God. Pray over it, surrender it fully, and let Him heal your heart.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for showing me the beauty and freedom that come through forgiveness. I release every hurt, every betrayal, and every wound that has weighed me down. Help me to forgive as You have forgiven me, with grace, compassion, and love. Teach me to trust in Your justice and to find peace in Your promises. Heal the broken places in my heart and fill me with the joy that only Your Spirit can bring. Today, I choose to walk in freedom. In Jesus’ holy name, Amen.

Perspective: The Glass, the Case, and the Lesson We Forgot

Perspective. That’s what frames our opinions − whether we lean toward optimism or pessimism, whether we agree or disagree on an issue. Our experiences shape our viewpoints

Scripture Reading
“Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”
— John 7:24 (NKJV)

I attended an event where the speaker projected a simple image onto the screen: a glass of water. Then came the familiar question: “Is the glass half full or half empty?”

Naturally, the audience was divided. Some saw the glass as half full, while others saw it as half empty.

It was a sales motivation conference, and the question was designed to reveal whether we tend to think positively or negatively. I answered, “Half full.” But then I realized something deeper: The question itself is rhetorical. The real answer depends on one key factor: your personal experience with the glass.

Think about it.
If the glass was empty when you first saw it and you poured in water halfway, you’d likely say it’s half full. But if the glass was once full and you poured out half the water, you’d probably say it’s half empty.

Perspective. That’s what frames our opinions − whether we lean toward optimism or pessimism, whether we agree or disagree on an issue. Our experiences shape our viewpoints.

It reminds me of something from debate class. Remember how we learned that every argument has two sides? Later, when I began studying law, my instructor made that lesson come alive. On the very first day, he divided the class into two groups − one to represent the plaintiff and the other, the defendant. We presented our cases and received our grades.

Then came the twist: He switched our roles. The plaintiff’s team now had to argue for the defense, and the defense had to represent the plaintiff. Our success depended on how well we could understand and defend a position we once opposed.

That exercise taught me one of the most valuable lessons of all: truth and understanding often live somewhere between both sides.
(As a side note, I didn’t finish law school − family obligations took precedence − but I still hold deep respect for that noble profession.)

What I want to convey today is this: Before judging others for seeing things differently, pause to consider their perspective. Life shapes each of us uniquely. The person beside you may have walked a path that led them to see the same “glass” in a completely different way.

We learned this lesson back in high school debate class, so how did we grow up and forget it?

Application

Before reacting to someone whose opinion differs from yours, take a moment to ask yourself, What might their experience have been? When we take time to understand the perspective behind a person’s belief, we often find empathy and even wisdom that we might have otherwise missed.

Reflection Question

When was the last time you took a moment to see a situation from someone else’s point of view? How might doing so change the way you respond?

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the reminder that perspective shapes how we see the world and one another. Teach me to listen with compassion and to respond with grace when opinions differ. Help me to remember that understanding begins where judgment ends. May I see others through the lens of love, just as You see me.
Amen.

The Gift of Listening: How Being Present Reflects Christ’s Heart

Listening opens doors. It builds bridges. It communicates respect, and when people feel respected, they are more willing to listen in return.

Friends listening.

Scripture Reading
“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” —James 1:19 (NIV)


“To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.” —Proverbs 18:13 (NIV)

Reflection

Not long ago, I lost a friend because she struggled with the principle of being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. She asked for my opinion on a particular subject, but when my response didn’t align with hers, she quickly interrupted, grew angry, belittled me, and ended the friendship altogether. Her words cut deeply, and the loss stung my heart.

Yet, in God’s mercy, He surrounded me with true friends who offered comfort and encouragement. Through their presence and through His Word, I was reminded that listening is one of the greatest gifts we can give.

Had my friend paused long enough to truly hear me, she might have discovered that we actually shared many common beliefs. Instead, her refusal to listen shut the door to understanding and peace.

James 1:19 reminds us that listening is not a passive act; it’s an intentional act of love. When I listen to others, I try to imagine myself in their shoes rather than rushing to form my response. This shift keeps my heart humble and patient. At times, I even pause and count to ten before speaking, so that my words are thoughtful rather than reactive.

I’ve also learned that when I feel anger rising in a conversation, it often springs from pride or selfishness. God gently teaches me to quiet those impulses and listen fully. Many times, when I allow someone to finish their thought, I discover that we’re not as far apart as I first imagined.

Listening opens doors. It builds bridges. It communicates respect, and when people feel respected, they are more willing to listen in return. Being quick to listen and slow to speak reflects Christ’s heart, a heart of patience, compassion, and love. When we live by this principle, our relationships flourish, and God’s blessings flow.

Application

Practice active listening this week. When someone speaks, resist the urge to interrupt or formulate your reply too quickly. Instead, focus on their words and emotions. Try counting to ten before responding, and ask God to help you hear with both your ears and your heart.

Reflection Question

When was the last time I listened with patience and understanding rather than rushing to respond? How might my relationships change if I practiced being quick to listen and slow to speak?

Prayer

Lord, teach me to listen with Your heart. Help me to slow down, set aside pride, and truly hear the people around me. May my listening reflect Your love and open the way for deeper understanding and peace. Amen.

Choosing Love Over Judgment in Daily Interactions

In today’s world, kindness seems to be losing its place. But Scripture reminds us that love is patient and kind, and judgment belongs only to God.

Scripture Reading
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. – 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. – Matthew 7:1-2

Reflection
In today’s world, kindness seems to be losing its place. Too often, people choose dismissal over understanding, judgment over compassion, and even celebration over someone else’s downfall. But Scripture reminds us that love is patient and kind, and judgment belongs only to God.

My mother once gave me advice that has stayed with me all my life. She said, “If you truly want to live a righteous life, act as if someone were following you with a camera, ready to post your every action on a billboard.” That simple wisdom made me think carefully about my words and actions, considering how they affect others.

I strive to approach life with authenticity and compassion. Whether in business or personal relationships, I seek a win-win outcome and do my best to see things from the other person’s perspective. This doesn’t mean I tolerate harmful behavior, but it does mean I try to see people as human beings worthy of love, just as God sees us.

I am far from perfect, and I thank God for His mercy. When I repent, He forgives and wipes the slate clean. No one on earth is perfect, and no one has the right to belittle or condemn others for their differences. Only God is the Judge. Our role is to love.

Application
The world will always tempt us to react with judgment, anger, or indifference, but as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard. When faced with conflict or differences, pause and consider how your words and actions will reflect God’s love. Choose patience over impatience, compassion over criticism, and understanding over judgment.

When you are tempted to dismiss someone because of their choices, beliefs, or behaviors, remember God sees them, too, and He calls you to love as He loves.

Reflection Question
Am I quicker to judge or to love? How can I show patience, kindness, and understanding in my next interaction with someone who challenges me?

Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for reminding me that love is patient, kind, and free of judgment. Forgive me for the times I have judged others instead of showing Your love. Help me to see people as You see them, with compassion, grace, and truth. Teach me to live with authenticity, choosing words and actions that honor You. May my life reflect Your love so that others are drawn closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“Choose love over judgment, because only God sees the whole story.”

Courage to Be Yourself When the World Pressures You to Conform

Living with integrity may cost us in the short term, but it blesses us in ways the world can never offer. When we refuse to conform to the world and instead let God direct our thinking, we walk in His perfect will.

Scripture Reading

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12:2 (NIV)

Standing Firm in Integrity

In business and in life, it’s easy to feel the pressure to do what everyone else is doing. Sometimes that pressure comes in the form of a subtle nudge: “Just bend the truth a little.” Other times, it’s more direct: “If you don’t cut corners, you’ll fall behind.”

I am a real estate broker, and I remember a time early in my career when I faced a moment when I was urged to smooth over the facts in order to make a transaction move forward more quickly. On the surface, it seemed harmless. No one would get hurt, and no one might even notice. But in my spirit, I felt the weight of that decision. Would I conform to the pattern of the world, or would I stand firm in truth?

I chose integrity. The deal didn’t move as fast as others hoped, but God gave me something much more valuable: peace in my heart and the confidence of knowing I had honored Him. Later, I realized He also strengthened my reputation. Clients knew they could trust me because I was unwilling to compromise, even if it meant moving things along more quickly. Cutting out steps in the process would have meant closing the transaction sooner; however, these missed steps had the potential to be an issue in later years.

That’s the beauty of living God’s way. Integrity may cost us in the short term, but it blesses us in ways the world can never offer. Romans 12:2 reminds us that when we refuse to conform and instead let God direct our thinking, we walk in His perfect will.

Reflection Question

Think of a time when you were tempted to compromise your integrity. How did you respond? Looking back, what do you think God wanted to teach you in that moment?

Practical Application

Today, commit to one action that reflects integrity in your work or personal life. It may be as simple as telling the truth in a difficult situation, keeping your word even when it’s inconvenient, or refusing to take an easy shortcut. Trust that God will honor your obedience and strengthen your witness.

Prayer:
Lord, I don’t want to conform to the ways of this world. Help me to stand firm in truth and integrity, even when it costs me something. Renew my mind so that my choices reflect Your will, and let my life be a testimony of honesty that points others to You. Amen.

Learning to Trust God’s Timing in Seasons of Waiting

God’s timing is not always ours. We may feel abandoned, but the truth is, He is preparing us for what’s ahead. Seasons of silence are not signs of rejection; they are times of preparation and growth.

Scripture Reading
“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” – Isaiah 40:31 (NIV)

“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV)

Reflection
Recently, I found myself walking through some of the lowest valleys of my life. At seventy years old, I thought I would have “found” myself by now; surely my purpose would be clear. Instead, I struggled with silence from heaven and the weight of unanswered questions.

I tried harder, worked longer, and sought to prove myself worthy of God’s attention. But instead of fulfillment, I felt emptier than ever. Then, as if silence weren’t enough, I began to lose loved ones, friendships, income, and even peace of mind. My life felt like it was unraveling thread by thread.

In that place of despair, I cried out one more time. Though I still didn’t hear an answer, God met me where I was. At church, during worship, the pastor prayed over me, and for the first time in a long time, I felt joy breaking through the hollow spaces of my heart. Later, a friend reminded me that this season of loss was preparation. God was not taking from me to punish me; He was making room for where He was leading me.

That reminder brought me back to Scripture: to everything there is a season. When we wait on the Lord, even in silence, He promises to renew our strength and lift us on eagle’s wings.

Application
God’s timing is not always ours. We may feel abandoned, but the truth is, He is preparing us for what’s ahead. Seasons of silence are not signs of rejection; they are times of preparation and growth.

Reflection Question
Have you ever felt like God was silent and doubted His timing? How might God be preparing you in this very season?

Prayer
Father, thank You for reminding me that Your timing is perfect, even when I don’t understand it. Help me trust You in the silence, and strengthen me to wait on You with hope. Renew my spirit so that I may walk faithfully into the season You are preparing for me. Amen.