Friday, November 10, 2023

Stolen Money, Stolen Marriage, Stolen Motivation: Understanding the Consequences of Rebellion

In today's world, many individuals find themselves facing the devastating consequences of stolen money, stolen marriage, and stolen motivation. The enemy has cunningly devised ways to steal from those who consider themselves the heads of households, the leaders, and the providers. This article based on one of my audios on nmenterprise7.com aims to shed light on how these thefts occur and the role that rebellion plays in allowing the enemy to gain the upper hand. Through personal experiences and reflections, we will explore the importance of heeding God's wisdom and avoiding the pitfalls of rebellion.

The Theft of Money, Motivation, and Marriage

Reflecting on personal challenges and trials, I have experienced various forms of theft in my life. There were times when I felt that my money, motivation, and even my marriage were stolen from me. It is in these moments of loss and despair that we often find the motivation to reflect on our actions and decisions. We realize that our rebellion, our stubbornness, and our lack of understanding have led us down a destructive path.

The Role of Rebellion in Stolen Blessings

Rebellion is the key factor that allows the enemy to steal from us. Whether it is the rebellion of a husband neglecting his responsibilities, a boyfriend stepping in to take care of a neglected partner, or the rebellion of a person refusing to listen to wise counsel, the enemy finds an opportunity to exploit our weaknesses. We must understand that we cannot outsmart an almighty God or those who serve Him. Our rebellion only leads to our own downfall.

The Consequences of Rebellion

When we rebel against God's guidance and wisdom, we open ourselves up to the enemy's attacks. The consequences of rebellion can manifest in various ways, such as financial loss, marital strife, and a lack of motivation. We see this in the example of men who become distracted by worldly pursuits, neglecting their responsibilities at home. The result is often strained relationships, financial difficulties, and a loss of motivation to fulfill their obligations.

The Warning Signs

God warns us of the impending consequences of rebellion. He sees our rebellious hearts and the negative impact it has on our lives. He warns us through various means, such as the dissatisfaction we feel, the strained relationships, and the loss of blessings. We must pay attention to these warning signs and take them as an opportunity to reflect on our actions and make necessary changes.

The Rebellion of Nations

Rebellion is not limited to individuals; it can also manifest on a national scale. Just as God warned the Israelites of the consequences of their rebellion, He warns nations as well. When a nation turns away from God and embraces rebellion, calamities and destruction follow. We see this in the example of nations that abandon God's principles and embrace detestable idols. The consequences are devastating, affecting both the innocent and the guilty.

 The Call to Repentance

In the face of rebellion and its consequences, God calls us to repentance. He urges us to turn away from our rebellious ways and seek His guidance and wisdom. Repentance is not a one-time event but a continuous process of turning from sin and aligning ourselves with God's will. It is through repentance that we find healing, restoration, and a renewed sense of purpose.

The Promise of Vengeance and Justice

God promises to avenge His people and repay those who hate Him. He sees the injustices committed against His servants and will bring justice in due time. The enemy may appear to triumph temporarily, but God's justice will prevail. He will hold the rebellious accountable for their actions and bring about their downfall. We can take comfort in knowing that God is just and will not allow rebellion to go unpunished!

The consequences of rebellion are far-reaching and can result in the theft of money, marriage, and motivation. It is crucial that we heed God's warnings and avoid the pitfalls of rebellion. We must recognize the signs of rebellion in our lives and take steps to repent and re-align ourselves with God's will. By doing so, we can avoid the devastating consequences and experience the blessings and restoration that come from walking in obedience to God. Let us choose wisdom over rebellion and embrace the path that leads to true fulfillment and peace. 

See Nicholl McGuire's nonfiction book that shares valuable insight on recognizing your enemy and rising above his wicked schemes. A must-have for those in spiritual warfare especially within the church! Available here: Nicholl McGuire Books

Tuesday, August 1, 2023

Researching Facts and Fiction: A Guide for Christians in the Age of Mass Media by Nicholl McGuire

 With the rise of technology and the abundance of accessible information, it has become increasingly important for Christians to be able to distinguish between fact and fiction. With mass media sources spreading false information on a daily basis, it is more critical than ever before that we learn how to properly research truth from falsehoods in Christian news stories.

The first step to researching facts and fiction is to identify the source of the information. Many times, news sources will have an agenda or bias that can lead to inaccurate reporting. It is important to look into the background of reporters, editors, and organizations behind the story in order to gain a better understanding of where they are coming from and what their motivations may be.

Another useful tool for researching truth is to read multiple sources. This will allow you to compare and contrast the different perspectives on a given topic, giving you a better overall picture of the issue. Additionally, it is important to consider the context in which the story is being presented; for example, some stories may be written with an intention of stirring up controversy or creating sensationalism.

Finally, it's important to be aware of the potential for bias in Christian media. Many times, stories will be presented with a specific religious perspective, and it is necessary to take this into account when researching facts from fiction.

By following these steps, Christians can ensure that they are accurately understanding the news stories that are presented to them. By doing so, we can make sure that we are making educated decisions and not being mislead by false information.

Social media can also be a powerful source for discovering the truth about Christian news stories. In an age where rumors and conspiracy theories spread like wildfire, it is often helpful to see what others are saying about a particular story. This can give you an invaluable insight into how different people view the same story and can help in determining the accuracy of the source.

When researching facts from fiction, Christians should take the time to properly evaluate news stories before passing judgment. By utilizing the resources available and being mindful of potential biases, we can make sure that we are better informed about the world around us. With careful consideration and attention to detail, it is possible to discern truth from falsehoods when reviewing mass media information in Christian news.

Ultimately, it’s important to remember that we are all responsible for researching and examining facts before passing judgement on any given story. With care and caution, Christians can ensure that they are accurately understanding the news stories presented to them and making informed decisions based on accurate information. 

Check out Know Your Enemy: The Christians Critic by Nicholl McGuire available on Amazon.com

Monday, July 3, 2023

In the Age of Censorship, How Christians Can Spread the Gospel Effectively

The advancement of technology has brought significant changes in the way we interact and communicate with each other. However, as social media platforms grow in popularity, censorship seems to be on the rise, particularly against Christians. Many believers have expressed concerns about their message being flagged, banned, or censored, and as a result, they have been forced to find new ways of communicating the gospel. In today's post, we will discuss several creative ways that Christians can use to share their faith with the world, get funding to start a nonprofit, and what to do if your group is being censored or banned. Additionally, we will explore biblical scriptures about the last days in the book of Revelation.

Creative Ways to Share Your Faith

In a world that's socially connected, Christians have unlimited opportunities to share the gospel with the world creatively. One effective approach is through social media, as we have several platforms to reach out to potential followers. However, creating visual content such as videos, infographics, or memes to accompany the text post can make the message more appealing and engaging. Additionally, hosting webinars, podcasts, and Facebook Live sessions are other great ways to share the gospel. Ultimately, whatever method you choose, remember to be authentic, relatable, and always back up your message with scripture.

Getting Funding to Start a Nonprofit

Starting a nonprofit for the gospel ministry requires financial support and commitment, which may seem daunting for many. However, fundraising has never been easier than it is now, thanks to technology. Online platforms such as GoFundMe, Kickstarter, or IndieGoGo provide easy-to-use fundraising tools that allow you to share your story with potential donors and receive support from your community. Moreover, grant proposals, partnership organizations, and crowdfunding are also great options to consider when starting your nonprofit.

What To Do When You Discover your Group is Being Flagged, Banned or Censored

Censorship is a growing concern and an unfortunate reality that many Christians face when attempting to share their faith. When you discover that your group is being flagged, banned, or blocked, it's essential to first consider why it's happening. Is it due to offensive or inappropriate content, or is it because of your religious beliefs? If it's the latter, consider changing your approach or platform. Use your church or local newspapers to spread your message or connect with other organizations with similar goals. Also, make sure to document the censorship and appeal the decision if possible.

Biblical Scriptures about the Last Days in the Book of Revelation

Lastly, the book of Revelation speaks of a time when the gospel message will be met with resistance and persecution. Revelation 13:17-18, for example, speaks of a time when people will not be allowed to buy or sell unless they have the mark of the beast. Christians will likely face challenges in sharing the gospel, but their perseverance will be rewarded. Revelation 2:10 encourages believers to remain faithful even in the face of persecution and death, promising a crown of life to those who do so.

In conclusion, censorship is a growing concern for Christians worldwide, but it should not deter us from sharing the gospel. We must be creative and innovative in finding ways to share our faith, and getting funding to start a nonprofit is not as daunting as it seems. Always remember to document any censorship and appeal the decisions whenever necessary. Lastly, biblical scriptures remind us of the impending challenges that come with sharing the gospel, but our faith will guide us and help us overcome whatever obstacles we may encounter.

Check out more helpful information on this blog and keep the faith!

Monday, June 12, 2023

Husband Turned Enemy: On Confronting a Cheater - spiritual perspective

People love to post the beautiful moments of their lives on Facebook and other social media platforms, but the reality is for some couples, those smiling faces that have withstood the hands of time, have experienced their share of pain. A suffering that most don't share with anyone publicly, infidelity. In the fictional story based on true events, you will read what one woman did when she found out her husband had been cheating.  

Living in a quaint little town, a married couple named Sarah and David had been married for over a decade and were known as a strong and loving couple in their online and offline Facebook community. Sarah was a compassionate and devoted wife, while David was an ambitious and hardworking husband. Sarah posted many photos of the couples smiling faces. She even shared what they both bought one another each Valentine's Day and wedding anniversary completing each post with heart emoji's and hashtags celebrating marital love and devotion. However, their seemingly perfect life was about to take an unexpected turn that those heartwarming photographs did not show.

One sunny afternoon, Sarah received an anonymous letter in her mailbox. Curiosity piqued, she opened it and was stunned by its contents. The letter detailed David's affair with a woman named Rebecca and the shocking revelation that she was pregnant with his child.

Shattered and heartbroken, Sarah couldn't believe what she had just discovered. She felt a whirlwind of emotions, ranging from anger and betrayal to profound sadness. As a woman of faith, Sarah turned to the Bible for guidance on how to handle this devastating situation.

According to biblical principles, confronting a dishonest person involves first seeking the truth and understanding the gravity of the situation. Sarah decided to gather concrete evidence before confronting David. She reached out to a trusted friend who knew Rebecca and discreetly sought more information to validate the claims made in the letter.

Once she had obtained enough evidence, Sarah prepared herself for a difficult conversation with David. She knew that approaching the situation with a heart full of anger would not be constructive. Instead, she decided to follow the biblical teachings of forgiveness, grace, and love.

In the book of Matthew, Jesus taught about the importance of addressing conflicts within a marriage. Sarah decided to speak with David in private, away from distractions and with an open heart. She wanted to give him a chance to explain himself and express his remorse.

When the time came, Sarah gently confronted David, expressing her knowledge of his affair and the existence of the unborn child. She emphasized the pain and broken trust she felt but also conveyed her desire for resolution and restoration. Sarah reminded David of the biblical commandment to remain faithful to one's spouse and the consequences of straying from that commitment.

At this point, it's important to note that biblical principles allow for divorce in cases of adultery, as Jesus mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew. However, divorce should never be taken lightly or as the first solution. Sarah understood that reconciliation was an ideal outcome, provided David was truly remorseful and willing to take steps to rebuild trust.

In the weeks that followed, Sarah and David sought counseling from their church and received guidance from a trusted pastor. They engaged in open and honest communication, expressing their emotions, and working towards healing their marriage. David genuinely repented and took responsibility for his actions, proving his commitment to rebuilding their relationship.

It was a long and challenging journey, but Sarah's faith and adherence to biblical principles guided her throughout. Over time, their marriage began to heal, and they discovered a newfound depth of love and trust that surpassed their previous bond.

Sarah's experience taught her the power of forgiveness, the importance of seeking truth, and the value of relying on biblical principles to navigate difficult situations. Through it all, she remained steadfast in her faith, allowing it to guide her decisions and ultimately restore her marriage.

Remember, this is a fictional story, and the guidance provided is based on fictional characters and their circumstances. In real-life situations, seeking the advice of trusted religious leaders, legal counsel and relationship counselors can be valuable in addressing such challenges. It is our hope, here at FaceYour Foe, that one doesn't have to obtain a divorce; however, in instances of emotional and/or physical abuse due to the myriad of emotions that come with adultery, it is an option. God hates divorce, but he also tells us in his word, our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. Allow God to guide you through this difficult time. Pray for wisdom, direction, strength, love, and a renewed mind, body and spirit to receive peace of mind and clarity.

God bless. 

Friday, May 26, 2023

The Truth Will Hurt - Your Enemy will Attack Your Mind, Protect Your Mental Health

When I wrote Know Your Enemy The Christian's Critic, I felt the need to disempower the enemy, the one who may have once been a friendly sparring partner trained to get you ready for battle, but unfortunately turned into your worst enemy!

This enemy could be family, friend, neighbor or stranger, but either way, we don't want any parts of someone who sets traps for us or repeatedly lets us down by saying or doing abusive things. However, before we discover that we have an enemy, the writing is on the wall (early warning signs), but do we pay attention?

When I first noticed the signs not just with one but a few "enemies" it started with a change in personality. The smiles and laughs began to slowly fade away, the demands for my time and energy began to increase at times aggressively, and I found myself having what I call unnecessary disagreements a little more than usual. The causes seemed insignificant. I asked myself, "What is going on?" What was happening? Why was their true colors starting to show now? Disheartened by all that I was learning about them, my soul became heavy and I soon discovered I was at war with friends turned foes. 

When they know you are aware of who they really are, there will be trouble, your enemy is going to find a way to attack you with his or her insulting behaviors; therefore, causing you to reflect on your own behaviors to stir up guilty feelings in their attempt to get you to bend to their will or acquiesce. However, we don't do that when it is clear from our interactions and those who have witnessed how we have behaved around the enemy to accept any form of disrespect or abuse, we speak up! When you don't do that, you will find yourself replaying what you should have done, how you should have stood up for yourself...you begin to play all sorts of thoughts in your mind; therefore allowing your mind to be swept by the litany of reasons why this person should get the pass and keep on abusing you without suffering any consequences.

"He was having a bad day. I don't know what I have done to hurt them. I know I don't deserve these abuses, but I've done some things in the past and maybe this is  deserved. He said he was sorry. She said it would never happen again. Maybe I'm the crazy one." Slowly your self-esteem is being chipped away at and eventually you will conform. Your fighting and standing up for yourself is worthless once your enemy is in your head. It all sounds like a bunch of noise while your feet and hands continue to do for your enemy. Your mouth still tells the world this person is important in your life even though you don't mean much to him or her.

The day you make up in your mind to stop taking verbal and/or physical abuse from someone is the day you take back your power and protect your mind from further harm. It's not enough to seek help of a therapist if you refuse to take the necessary steps to disempower the one who is hurting you rather than enabling him or her to continue to harm.

Sometimes the victim will take the verbal insults, but stand up for everyone else. Why? He or she feels empowered when helping others, but what good is that when you can't help yourself? We see many victims on the Internet posing like they are free from all of their positive posts, but the truth is when they are operating in the real world, they are broken mentally, physically, spiritually, sexually, and financially. They come to the Internet for a little picking me up and then back to their miserable worlds with their mental health further disturbed by their abusers.

So the truth, whatever truth you or someone else needs to get off their chest, must be said to the one who is hurting you. There will be more pain and suffering to come, but it's worth it when we are trying to get free from a toxic person. May this truth and the one you think about concerning your self and your situation put you on a path toward freedom!

Nicholl McGuire is the blog owner and the author of Know Your Enemy the Christian's Critic, Face Your Foe, Laboring to Love an Abusive Mate, Tell Me Mother You're Sorry and other books.

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