Tag: Christ

Keeping Faith Grounded

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In the realm of faith, it’s easy to find ourselves admiring and respecting those who hold positions of authority within the church. Pastors, ministers, and leaders guide us, inspire us, and often serve as examples of faith in action. However, as Christians, it’s vital to remember that these individuals, while worthy of respect, are fallible humans just like us. Placing them on pedestals risks turning admiration into idolatry and can lead to profound disappointment when they inevitably stumble.

Scripture repeatedly reminds us to keep our focus on Christ alone. In Psalm 62:5-7, David writes, “Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.” Here, David underscores the unwavering reliability of God as our ultimate source of strength and salvation.

Jesus Himself warned against putting too much trust in human leaders, stating in Matthew 23:9, “And do not call anyone on earth ‘father,’ for you have one Father, and he is in heaven.” This isn’t to diminish the importance of spiritual leaders but to remind us that they are conduits, not the source, of our faith.

When individuals in positions of authority fail morally or ethically, it can shake the foundations of our faith if we’ve placed too much reliance on them. Paul addresses this in 1 Corinthians 3:4-5, where he admonishes against forming factions around human leaders, writing, “For when one says, ‘I follow Paul,’ and another, ‘I follow Apollos,’ are you not mere human beings? What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task.”

The danger of idolizing human leaders within the church becomes painfully apparent when scandal strikes. When a trusted pastor or revered minister falls from grace, it can cause widespread disillusionment and even drive people away from their faith. This underscores the importance of anchoring our faith firmly in Christ rather than in fallible human vessels.

Our relationship with God should never be contingent upon the actions or integrity of those who lead us. Instead, it should be grounded in a personal connection with Jesus Christ, who remains steadfast and unchanging regardless of human frailty. Hebrews 13:8 reaffirms this truth: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

Ultimately, while we should respect and honor those in positions of authority within the church, we must always remember that they are imperfect vessels through which God works. Placing our complete trust in Christ alone guards against the pitfalls of idolatry and ensures that our faith remains steadfast, even in the face of disappointment or betrayal.

In conclusion, let us heed the words of Psalm 118:8, which declares, “It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans.” By keeping our faith firmly rooted in Christ, we find unwavering strength, hope, and salvation that can never be shaken by the failings of mortal men.

Until next time, be blessed

Remember to subscribe to our podcast: Thrive by The Rising Muse

Unveiling the Heart of Christian Homeschooling with Gina

On By Naty MatosIn Thrive, Writing HappeningsLeave a comment

Are you ready to delve into the enriching world of Christian homeschooling? Join us on the latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse as we unveil the heart of this transformative journey with our special guest, Gina Handerhan.

In this captivating conversation, Gina shares her personal experiences and insights as a Christian homeschooling mom, offering glimpses into her day-to-day life and the values that shape her family’s educational journey. From co-op presentations to the inspiration behind her upcoming book, “The House on Maple Street: A Faith and Family Book for Kids,” Gina’s story is sure to inspire and empower listeners.

But what sets Gina’s book apart? It’s more than just a story—it’s a testament to the joys and challenges of homeschooling, infused with faith, family values, and a sense of community. Through relatable characters and heartfelt narratives, “The House on Maple Street” invites readers into a world where love, learning, and faith intersect in beautiful ways.

And here’s the exciting part: Gina’s book is now available for preorder through Kickstarter! By preordering, you’ll be among the first to receive the book, along with exclusive perks and rewards. Don’t miss this opportunity to embark on a journey of faith, family, and homeschooling with Gina’s heartwarming book.

Ready to be inspired? Tune in to Thrive by The Rising Muse, now and discover the heart of Christian homeschooling with Gina. Subscribe today and join us on this empowering journey of faith and learning.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates and insights from Thrive by The Rising Muse. For this episode click here. Together, let’s thrive in faith, family, and education!

Taking Steps on Faith: Keeping Your Eyes on Jesus

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts1 Comment

In the journey of life, there are moments when we feel called to take steps of faith. We know deep down that we’re walking in alignment with God’s will, but amidst the chaos of life, doubts and distractions can easily creep in. It’s in these moments that we must remind ourselves to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus.

Scripture reminds us of a powerful moment when Peter, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, stepped out in faith. When Jesus called him to walk on water, Peter obeyed without hesitation. Initially, he walked confidently towards Jesus, defying the laws of nature. But as he encountered the wind and waves, doubt crept in. He shifted his focus from Jesus to his surroundings and began to sink. (Matthew 14:22-33

How often do we find ourselves in Peter’s shoes? We start off strong, trusting in God’s plan for our lives. But when challenges arise, we lose sight of His presence and become consumed by fear and uncertainty.

The world is full of distractions that can derail our faith journey. Insecurities, comparisons, hardships, and even success can lead us astray if we allow them to take our focus off of Jesus. The enemy’s ultimate goal is to discourage us, to make us doubt God’s promises, and to hinder us from fulfilling our purpose.

But here’s the truth: no matter how far we’ve strayed or how long we’ve been distracted, God is always ready to welcome us back with open arms. His grace is sufficient, and His love is unconditional. All it takes is a willingness to realign our focus and take that next step of faith.

So, I challenge you today: what is keeping you from taking your next step? Is it fear, doubt, or complacency? Whatever it may be, know that you are not alone. God is with you every step of the way, ready to guide you back onto the path He has set before you.

Let today be the day that you recommit yourself to keeping your eyes on Jesus. Trust Him with your journey, knowing that He is faithful to complete the work He has started in you. Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s encourage one another to walk boldly in faith.

Until then, may you be blessed abundantly as you journey onward with Christ by your side.

Celebrating God’s Unconditional Love

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts1 Comment

As the echoes of Easter celebrations begin to fade, it’s imperative to ponder the deeper significance of this joyous occasion. Beyond the chocolate eggs, bunnies, and festive gatherings lies a profound message of hope, redemption, and above all, God’s unconditional love. In a world often characterized by conditional affections and fleeting emotions, Easter serves as a poignant reminder of the unwavering and limitless love that our Creator bestows upon us.

Understanding Unconditional Love:

In our quest for fulfillment, we often seek validation through achievements, relationships, and material possessions. Yet, amidst the chaos of our endeavors, we may overlook the most profound truth: God’s love transcends human comprehension. It is not contingent upon our successes or failures, nor is it diminished by our shortcomings. Instead, it remains steadfast and unchanging, an ever-present beacon of light in the darkest of times.

Scriptural Foundation:

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16 (ESV)

“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8 (ESV)

These verses encapsulate the essence of Easter – a divine sacrifice fueled by immeasurable love. Despite our flaws and imperfections, God chose to reconcile humanity to Himself through the ultimate expression of love: the sacrificial death and glorious resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Embracing God’s Love in our Lives:

In a world fraught with turmoil and uncertainty, embracing God’s unconditional love offers solace and assurance. It serves as a powerful antidote to feelings of inadequacy, fear, and loneliness. When we internalize the depth of God’s love, we find the courage to extend grace to ourselves and others, fostering empathy, forgiveness, and compassion.

As we bask in the afterglow of Easter, let us not relegate the message of God’s unconditional love to a mere seasonal observance. Instead, may we carry its profound truth in our hearts every day, allowing it to permeate every aspect of our lives. In celebrating God’s unwavering love, we discover the true essence of Easter – a celebration of redemption, forgiveness, and the unbreakable bond between the Creator and His beloved creation. So, let us rejoice and be glad, for we are forever cherished and embraced by the limitless love of our Heavenly Father. Amen.

The Interwoven Threads of Passover and Easter

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

He is Risen! Happy Resurrection Day! Happy Easter.

Today we’ll talk about two significant holidays that connect our Jewish roots and our Christian Traditions.

Passover and Easter, two significant religious observances, share a profound historical connection deeply rooted in both Jewish and Christian traditions. At the heart of this connection lies the Last Supper, a pivotal event commemorated by both faiths albeit with different interpretations.

Passover, celebrated by Jews worldwide, commemorates the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt. It is marked by rituals such as the Seder meal, which includes the retelling of the Exodus story and the consumption of symbolic foods like matzo and bitter herbs.

Easter, the principal festival of Christianity, commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is preceded by Holy Week, which begins with Palm Sunday and culminates in Easter Sunday, symbolizing the triumph of life over death.

The Last Supper, shared by Jesus and his disciples, is where the intertwining of Passover and Easter becomes most apparent. According to the Gospels, Jesus and his disciples gathered to celebrate Passover, during which Jesus instituted the sacrament of the Eucharist, symbolizing his body and blood.

For Christians, the Last Supper represents the institution of the Eucharist, a central sacrament of their faith, and foreshadows Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross, followed by his resurrection. Thus, Easter is seen as the fulfillment of Passover, with Jesus becoming the ultimate Passover lamb whose blood brings salvation and liberation from sin.

The connection between Passover and Easter underscores the continuity between Judaism and Christianity, highlighting shared themes of redemption, deliverance, and the promise of new life. It serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of religious heritage that binds these two faiths together, despite their theological differences.

Ultimately, the intertwined narratives of Passover and Easter invite believers to reflect on the enduring significance of liberation, sacrifice, and renewal in their respective traditions. As Jews and Christians around the world observe these sacred occasions, they are united by a shared commitment to faith, remembrance, and hope for a brighter future.

Beyond The Easter Commercialization

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

The commercialization of Easter has become an undeniable reality in our modern society. From colorful eggs to chocolate bunnies, the springtime holiday has often lost its deeper significance amidst the frenzy of consumerism. But do we truly understand the origins and the profound symbolism behind the treats and gifts exchanged during this religious occasion?

One aspect often overlooked is the origin of the Easter bunny. While many attribute its roots to commercialism, historians trace it back to Eostre, the pagan goddess of fertility and spring. According to ancient tales, Eostre transformed a freezing bird into a rabbit, which continued to lay eggs like a bird. This bunny, in gratitude, decorated its eggs—a tradition that has transcended centuries.

Yet, beyond pagan folklore, Easter eggs carry a profound religious connotation. According to Eastern Orthodox tradition, Mary Magdalene, upon witnessing Jesus’ resurrection, held an egg as a symbol of rebirth and the eternal cycle of life. (I’m not sure where this comes from. All the versions of the bible I have say nothing about Mary Magdalene holding and egg. Why would you run to a tomb holding an egg? Doesn’t make sense to me)

The story goes that Emperor Tiberius Caesar dismissed her proclamation, likening the likelihood of Christ’s resurrection to the redness of the egg—a symbol of skepticism that contrasts with the profound truth of the resurrection.

As Christians, it’s crucial to pause and reflect on the essence of this celebration. The resurrection of Jesus Christ stands at the core of our faith—it’s the pivotal moment that defines our redemption and salvation. While the birth of Christ holds its significance, it’s through his resurrection that he transcends from mere man to the Messiah, offering humanity the promise of eternal life.

Amid chocolate indulgence and bunny-themed festivities, it’s imperative to reconnect with the true essence of Resurrection Day. It’s not about forsaking celebration but about refocusing our hearts and minds on the ultimate sacrifice and triumph of Jesus Christ. It’s about instilling in our children the profound truth of salvation, the love that compelled God to send His Son for our sake.

Transitioning from Easter to Resurrection Day may seem like a subtle semantic shift, but it carries profound implications. It’s a declaration that our celebration isn’t merely about eggs and bunnies but about the transformative power of resurrection. It’s a reminder to prioritize the spiritual over the material, the eternal over the ephemeral.

So, as we gather with loved ones this spring, let’s reclaim the true essence of this sacred holiday. Let’s exchange chocolate with gratitude, colored eggs with reverence, and above all, let’s celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Happy Resurrection Day to you and your loved ones!

May the joy of the risen Christ illuminate your hearts and homes, now and forevermore.

Remember, the time is near. Our first episode of Thrive will launch on April 7th, discussing the the stigma of mental health in the faith community. Eventually the podcast will be available in all podcasting platforms, but YouTube and Spotify will have it first as of 7pm. Stay tuned, many good things are coming.

Deepening Our Roots in Faith and Life

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In the ebb and flow of daily life, where the hustle often overshadows our spiritual needs, the “Thrive” podcast stands as a beacon for those seeking to ground themselves in faith. As part of our ongoing promotional campaign, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on how “Thrive” continues to offer guidance, inspiration, and a sense of community for listeners navigating the intersections of Christianity, mental health, parenting, family, and women’s issues. This platform is not just a podcast; it’s a journey towards spiritual enrichment and personal growth.

Nurturing Faith at Home

“Thrive” dives deep into the heart of faith-based parenting, emphasizing the critical role of introducing our children to God’s teachings from an early age. Beyond just the inclusion of faith-related books alongside academic ones, the podcast underscores the importance of living out the tenets of our faith in our daily lives. It’s about setting an example—showing our children the power of prayer, the strength found in turning to God during difficult times, and the impact of a personal relationship with Jesus witnessed through our actions.

Living the Teachings of Jesus

Each episode of “Thrive” is a treasure trove of wisdom on how to embody kindness, forgiveness, and empathy, just as Jesus did. The podcast offers strategies for parents eager to arm their children with Biblical wisdom to face today’s cultural challenges head-on, all while maintaining a foundation built on biblical principles. From engaging in acts of kindness to teaching gratitude and establishing a dialogue about faith within the safety of home, “Thrive” serves as your guide in fostering a nurturing, faith-filled environment.

A Family’s Spiritual Journey

“Thrive” champions the concept of spirituality as a collective journey, encouraging practices such as attending church as a family, engaging in regular prayer, and making Scripture reading a part of daily life. These shared experiences not only strengthen the family bond but also instill profound spiritual truths in children from a young age. Furthermore, the podcast discusses the significance of prayer in parenting, suggesting practical tools like prayer journals to keep families aligned with their faith goals.

Join the “Thrive” Community

As we continue to unfold the layers of integrating faith with the complexities of modern living, “Thrive” invites you to become part of a growing community that seeks to live a life reflective of their faith. This podcast is your companion in navigating the challenges and joys of parenting, mental health, and personal growth through a Christian lens.

Remember Thrive launches on April 7th and will be available on your favorite podcast platform. Take a step towards a life where faith and daily living intertwine seamlessly. Together, let’s embrace the journey of thriving in faith, hope, and love, one episode at a time. You can also subscribe to our Youtube channel, where the video version of Thrive will be housed.

Join us, as we explore the depth of living a spiritually enriched life that not only seeks understanding but also puts faith into action. Let’s not just navigate life; let’s thrive in it, with every story, every teaching, and every conversation guiding us closer to the heart of what it means to live fully in faith.

Until next time, take care and God bless.

The Essence of True Love

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In a world often marred by division and discord, the concept of true love stands as a beacon of hope, offering a transformative power that transcends human understanding. True love, as defined by Christ’s teachings, extends far beyond romantic notions and familial bonds. It is a love that emanates from the very heart of God, urging us to love our neighbors as ourselves.

The foundation of true love lies in the teachings and example set by Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of John 13:34-35, Jesus imparts a profound commandment to his disciples: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.”

Christ’s love goes beyond mere affection; it is sacrificial, unconditional, and boundless. His life serves as a living testament to the transformative power of true love, inviting us to emulate His example in our daily lives.

Loving Your Neighbor as Yourself:

The biblical concept of loving your neighbor as yourself is an extension of the love of Christ. In Matthew 22:39, Jesus declares, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” This commandment challenges us to look beyond our differences and treat others with the same compassion, empathy, and kindness that we desire for ourselves.

True love calls us to break down the barriers that divide us, embracing the diversity of humanity with open hearts and open minds. By embodying the love of Christ, we can create a ripple effect that spreads love, healing, and unity in our communities.

Embracing Unconditional Love:

Unconditional love, a central theme in the teachings of Christ, is the key to true love. In Romans 8:38-39, the Apostle Paul emphasizes the unwavering nature of God’s love: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

As we strive to love our neighbors as ourselves, we must cultivate a love that transcends circumstances, prejudices, and judgments. True love, inspired by Christ, is a force that persists in the face of adversity, fostering unity and understanding.

In a world yearning for authentic connection and harmony, the love of Christ serves as the timeless blueprint for true love. By internalizing His teachings, embracing unconditional love, and extending that love to our neighbors, we can contribute to a society where compassion triumphs over division. As we embark on the journey of living out the love of Christ, let us remember the words of 1 Corinthians 16:14: “Do everything in love.” True love, rooted in the love of Christ, has the power to transform hearts, mend relationships, and create a world where love reigns supreme.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

The Impact of Social Media on Our Christian Witness

On By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

Today, I want to delve into a personal pet peeve—social media. Admittedly, I spend more time on these platforms than I’d like to admit. While they serve as sources of information and entertainment, they can also be breeding grounds for contention. The keyboard warriors who populate these spaces often forget that, despite the virtual barrier, their words impact real people with real feelings.

What irks me most is when fellow believers, driven by fervor or frustration, become ensnared in the web of online negativity. It’s easy to forget that our life testimony can either draw people closer to Christ or push them away. While delivering the right message is essential, the way it’s conveyed matters just as much.

Scripture reminds us in Colossians 4:6 (NIV), “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”

This week, I witnessed a TikTok live session unfold before my eyes, it featured a self-proclaimed believer and minister engaging in a political discourse. Unfortunately, her behavior left much to be desired. Instead of embodying the love and grace of Christ, her words were a torrent of insults and profanities. People commenting how behavior like hers repels them from Christianity is one that pains my heart.

As followers of Christ, we are called to walk in His footsteps. Being real and authentic is crucial, but embodying Christlikeness should be our guiding principle. In the journey of change, respect for those around us becomes the foundation.

Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV) reminds us, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”

Disagreements are inevitable, especially in the vast landscape of social media. However, our response can either foster healthy dialogue or deepen the divide. It’s essential to recognize that not everyone will share our viewpoints. Agreeing to disagree respectfully opens doors to future conversations.

In conclusion, our online behavior shapes our living testimony. This extends beyond our physical interactions into the virtual realm, where anonymity is merely an illusion. As Christians, we are never anonymous to God.

Let’s conduct an honest inventory of our behaviors and reactions, identifying areas where we can enhance our living testimony. This isn’t about putting on a façade but genuinely respecting and loving others, even in the digital mission field.

As we navigate the complexities of social media, may our actions and words reflect the love of Christ, drawing others closer to the Gospel rather than repelling them away.

As always be blessed.

Navigating Uncertainty with Unshakable Faith: A Guide to Finding Peace in Turbulent Times

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts1 Comment

In a world marked by constant change and uncertainty, maintaining a steadfast faith can be a source of comfort and guidance. Whether facing personal challenges, global crises, or the unknown future, embracing faith provides a foundation for stability and hope. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of faith in times of uncertainty, drawing inspiration from timeless scriptures to guide us through the storm

  1. The Anchor of Faith in Stormy Seas:
    In the midst of uncertainty, faith acts as an anchor, grounding us when the waves of doubt and fear threaten to overwhelm. Psalm 46:1 reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Embracing this truth allows us to face uncertain times with resilience and confidence.
  2. Turning Fear into Faith:
    It’s natural to feel fear in uncertain circumstances, but faith transforms fear into an opportunity for trust and reliance on a higher power. As 2 Timothy 1:7 declares, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Letting go of fear enables us to approach challenges with a clear and focused mindset, guided by faith.
  3. Scriptural Guidance for Uncertain Times:
    Explore scriptures that specifically address uncertainty, such as Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” These verses offer practical wisdom for navigating life’s uncertainties with faith as our compass.
  4. Building Resilience Through Prayer and Meditation:
    Engage in the transformative power of prayer and meditation. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Cultivating a habit of prayer provides solace and strength in times of uncertainty.
  5. Community and Shared Faith:
    Joining a faith community fosters a sense of belonging and support. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages us to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” Shared faith strengthens individual convictions and provides a network of encouragement during challenging times.


In times of uncertainty, faith serves as a powerful tool for navigating the unknown with grace and courage. By anchoring ourselves in scriptures, turning fear into faith, and fostering a community of shared beliefs, we can find peace amidst life’s uncertainties. Remember, as Romans 15:13 proclaims, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Embrace faith, and let it be your guide through the storms of uncertainty.

Embarking on the journey to a stronger, more resilient you is a transformative experience that begins with faith and intentional practices. If you’re seeking a practical guide to navigate the uncertainties of life while strengthening your faith, consider diving into “15 Day Challenge to a Stronger You.” Within its pages, you’ll discover a wealth of wisdom, practical exercises, and scripture-based encouragement to guide you on this transformative path. Whether you’re drawn to gratitude exercises, journaling prompts, or meditation challenges, this book offers a roadmap to cultivating a resilient spirit. Take the first step towards a stronger, more faith-filled version of yourself—unlock the potential within and embrace the joy that comes with living a life grounded in purpose and faith. Your journey to a stronger you begins here, and the possibilities are boundless.