While attending church services, I wondered if I was doing enough to serve God. Setting aside my self-judgment as a sinner, I genuinely thought that He might not notice me. As a hypocrite, I am only fooling myself. I dislike some people’s behavior and tend to stereotype them. Unmercifully and unforgiving, without any understanding of the person, I put them in a box with the rest of those I had labeled as people to distrust. If I don’t like you, I don’t want to be around you. I can’t fake it. Where did my understanding go? What happened to my knowledge of the gifts from the Holy Spirit?
Every day, we face struggles that often go unnoticed. The truth is that the enemy targets our most vulnerable feelings—like doubt, fear, and insecurity. It's essential to equip ourselves daily with the power of the Word, protect our faith, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. We also have wonderful resources given to us by the Spirit—wisdom, knowledge, counsel, understanding, courage, piety, and reverence for the Lord. When we embrace these, along with the fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control, we can walk the path of life with confidence and hope.
My problem is a futile attempt at rushing God. When will the abuse of power by politicians come to an end? It stops the necessary benefits for the survival of all Americans, wages war on immigrants and other countries, creates laws benefiting the wealthy and accepting bribes, protects pedophiles and lawbreakers, and uses religion as a façade. It makes me frustrated, more than angry. Frustrated that the American people aren’t doing anything about it. The illusion of peace deceives us while all the time, politicians are promoting hate and division in their quest to make America great again. It’s disgusting and pathetic. Meanwhile, I’m praying to God to make things right now. In the process, I question whether I have been forgiven of my past sins to be a faithful follower of God.
Health insurance rates are rising, which can feel frustrating. It’s understandable to wonder about the agreements that might be behind these increases, especially when families are struggling to make ends meet. Creating more employment opportunities with fair pay could truly make a difference, helping more people find affordable housing and live with dignity. These hopes are close to my heart. I also pray that leaders across communities—clergy, law enforcement, judges, pharmaceutical companies, and immigration officials—seek wise guidance to make thoughtful and compassionate choices.
How can I truly connect with the God I serve if I keep pressing Him for the kind of righteous judgment I want, according to my own timing? It's natural to feel uncertain about my faith at times, but I want to grow in confidence and self-worth. I realize that expecting an answer becomes easier when I am striving to be obedient and sincere in my walk with Him. Do I need to face the enemy’s lie that I don’t have enough or that God won’t do anything about it? Or will I believe God’s truth that I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living? As always, the choice is mine. I believe in God, not man, and God will meet my needs. Heavenly Father, forgive me for my doubt and lack of faith. Please help me to strengthen it.
