Christian Searchlight

  THE FRUIT OF FORGIVENESS IS RECONCILIATION: The dictionary’s definition of reconciliation is as follows, “The act of causing two people or groups to become friendly again after an argument or disagreement.  In relation to our disconnect to God, we find our sin nature is the problem. • We were born with a sin nature which causes us to sin.  • Sin separates us from God. • The penalty for sin is eternal death. • But God’s love for us was so powerful that He gave His own Son’s life to pay for our sin, so that we can have forgiveness. • God’s love bought our forgiveness. • Forgiveness made possible our reconciliation with God. 30 Romans 5:10-12(NIV) For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (N...

  KEEP MAKING PROGRESS “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” (Psalm 23: 4) That is the Focal Scripture of Streams of Joy Devotional today. Our Focal Scripture speaks of when the psalmist alluded to walking through the valley of the shadow of death. It is said that in bible times, when shepherds took their sheep through the valleys, it was often a dark place with marauders and wild animals lying in wait to steal or harm the sheep. So in the valley of the shadow of death, it was all dark, with marauders and wild animals and all, but the psalmist kept walking through it and making progress. Friend, it may be all dark around you, but you will make progress. The situation of things in your nation may be negative and unfavourable, but you will keep making progress. There may be people waiting to pull you down but you will keep making progress. There may be people plotting your down...

  *_The Power of Open Communication in Marriage_* In any relationship, communication is essential for understanding and connection. This is especially true in marriage, where spouses are called to love and support one another. While it's tempting to assume that our partners can read our minds, the truth is that open and honest communication is vital for a healthy and thriving relationship. In marriage, it is crucial to communicate our emotions and thoughts to our spouse. We cannot expect our partners to know what we are feeling or thinking unless we openly share with them. While God is omniscient and knows the depths of our hearts, He encourages us to pour out our souls before Him, to express our joys, sorrows, and concerns. This act of sharing with God builds intimacy and trust in our relationship with Him. Likewise, in our marriages, we are called to create an environment of vulnerability and openness. The apostle Paul exhorts believers in Ephesians 4:15 to *speak the truth in lo...

  *_Walking in Wisdom: The Power of Godly Relationships_* In our world today, there is a prevailing attitude of doing whatever one wants and pursuing personal desires without considering the consequences or seeking God's guidance. This worldly mindset promotes self-centeredness and independence from God, leading many astray. As Christians, we are called to live differently and make wise choices, including who we associate with and call friends. The Bible warns us about the dangers of embracing the ways of the world and following our own desires without discernment. Proverbs 13:20 reminds us, *"He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed."* We are encouraged to surround ourselves with godly influences and seek relationships that align with God's principles. Additionally, James 4:4 cautions us against becoming friends with the world, stating, *"Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is e...