Tag: faith

Impact of Absent Fathers on Our Perception of God

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts1 Comment

Our relationship with our earthly fathers can profoundly shape our understanding of God. For many, an absent father leaves a void that influences how they perceive divine love and authority. This blog explores the intricate connections between fatherhood and faith, offering insights into healing and transformation.

Understanding the Void

An absent father can create a distorted image of what a father should be—one of protection, provision, and unconditional love. This absence often leads to emotional and spiritual barriers, making it challenging for individuals to trust in God’s love and presence. As discussed in our podcast, these wounds can manifest in feelings of abandonment and mistrust.

Faith as a Healing Path

Faith offers a path to healing these deep-seated wounds. By understanding that God is a perfect father, unlike any earthly one, individuals can begin to rebuild their perception of divine love. Scriptures such as Psalm 68:5, which describe God as a father to the fatherless, provide comfort and a new perspective on God’s unwavering care.

Breaking Generational Patterns

A father’s absence can perpetuate generational patterns of mistrust and fear. However, breaking these cycles is possible through intentional healing and faith-building practices. Engaging in community support, counseling, and mentorship can help overcome the negative impacts of an absent father.

Moving Forward with Hope

Healing from the impact of an absent father is a journey that requires patience and self-reflection. By embracing faith and understanding God’s unconditional love, individuals can find peace and purpose beyond their past experiences. This journey not only transforms personal faith but also sets a new standard for future generations.

The absence of a father can leave lasting scars, but healing is possible. By finding faith and understanding the true nature of divine love, individuals can overcome these wounds and live a life filled with hope and joy. Remember, your story doesn’t end with pain—it’s just the beginning of a new chapter.

Subscribe Now: Join us on this journey of healing and faith. Subscribe to our podcast for more inspiring stories and insights. Click on the image below to view our Father’s Day Episode. We hope you had a great one!

Memorial Day: Reflection, Family, and Faith

On By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

This weekend, many of us will gather with family and friends, grateful for the pause and the unofficial start of summer. There will be laughter, shared meals, and the simple joy of togetherness. But as we embrace these moments of peace, it’s essential to hold space for the profound reason we are given this day: to remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms.

Memorial Day is a day of solemn remembrance. It’s a day to honor those who laid down their lives in service to our nation. For many, this is not a day of celebration but one of quiet reflection, of visiting cemeteries, and of honoring the empty chair at the family table. It’s a powerful reminder that our peace was purchased at a great price.

At The Rising Muse, we believe in the convergence of faith, mental health, family, and personal growth. On Memorial Day, these pillars of our community are poignantly intertwined.

Faith in Sorrow

For families of the fallen, faith can be both a sanctuary and a struggle. The loss of a loved one can test the very foundations of what we believe. Yet, it is often in these moments of profound grief that faith can offer a glimmer of hope—a belief in a peace that surpasses all understanding and a reunion beyond this life. This Memorial Day, let us hold in our hearts the Gold Star Families, who walk a journey of faith and resilience that most of us will never know. Let us pray for their comfort and their strength.

The Weight of Remembrance and Our Mental Health

Grief is a heavy burden, and for military families, it is a unique and often lifelong journey. The quiet respect we show on Memorial Day is a testament to our collective acknowledgment of their loss. It is a way of saying, “Your loved one is not forgotten. Their sacrifice matters.”

Honoring this day with intention is also an act of communal mental well-being. It allows us to connect with a sense of gratitude and to understand the cost of the freedoms we often take for granted. By taking a moment for silent reflection or by participating in a memorial service, we create a space for collective healing and remembrance.

The Enduring Strength of Family

The families of our fallen heroes are a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit. They carry on the legacy of their loved ones through their own lives of service, courage, and love. They are a vital part of our national family, and on this day, we have a sacred duty to remember them, to support them, and to honor the sacrifices they have also made.

Personal Growth Through Remembrance

How do we live a life that is worthy of such a great sacrifice? This is perhaps the most profound question Memorial Day asks of us. It calls us to a higher purpose in our own lives. It challenges us to be better citizens, kinder neighbors, and more engaged members of our communities.

Let this Memorial Day be a catalyst for your personal growth. Reflect on the freedoms you have and consider how you can use them to make a positive impact. Perhaps it’s by volunteering, by having meaningful conversations with your children about the cost of freedom, or by simply living with a greater sense of purpose and gratitude.

This Memorial Day, as you gather with your loved ones, we invite you to join us at The Rising Muse in a moment of quiet reflection. Let us remember the fallen, honor their families, and commit to living lives that are a testament to their enduring sacrifice.

May we never forget.

Faith, Family & Thought-Provoking Conversations

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In this powerful episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we dive into two intriguing incidents that have sparked deep conversations in the faith community. With thought-provoking insights, Naty and Veda break down some recent incidents regarding Paula White and Marvin Sapp, challenging perspectives and asking the tough questions many are thinking but few are saying.

How do faith, culture, and controversy intersect? What lessons can we take away from these moments? And most importantly, where do we go from here? If you’ve ever questioned the narratives shaping modern spirituality, this episode is for you.

Join us for a candid and unfiltered discussion that will leave you reflecting long after the episode ends.

🎧 Hit play and be part of the conversation now!

#MentalHealth #ThrivePodcast #CriticalThinking #ChristianCulture #DeepConversations

Finding Purpose Through the Storm

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

What if every trial, every storm, and every heartbreak in your life led you toward something greater? What if the pain you’ve endured wasn’t meant to break you but to prepare you for your purpose?

In our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we sit down with the incredible Bambi Makowski—a mother, grandmother, storyteller, and author whose journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From overcoming personal trauma to impacting lives one door at a time, Bambi’s testimony is a powerful reminder that faith can turn brokenness into beauty.

🚪 Knocking on Doors, Changing Lives
Bambi shares how her years working with Nielsen TV Ratings and the Census Bureau taught her the power of human connection. Each door she knocked on held a different story—some heartbreaking, some inspiring, but all life-changing. Through these encounters, she learned to see people beyond their circumstances and embrace the beauty in every journey.

💔 From Trauma to Triumph
Bambi opens up about the darkest moments of her life when she felt unseen and unheard. But she also reveals the incredible ways that God stepped in, time and time again, transforming her pain into purpose. Her story is raw, unfiltered, and filled with moments that will leave you speechless.

🙏 Faith, Healing, and the Power of Sharing Your Story
In this episode, we discuss why sharing our stories is essential for healing, how God never wastes our pain, and why embracing our scars can lead to true freedom. Bambi reminds us that our past does not define us—God does.

Bambi is a mother of six, grandmother to thirteen—and counting!—a passionate storyteller, and an author of two published books with more on the way. Her journey hasn’t been easy, but through every trial, she’s found purpose and hope. You can reach her on her website Healing Through Stories.

🔥 You Don’t Want to Miss This!
This conversation is one of the most powerful we’ve had on the podcast. It’s real. It’s vulnerable. It’s inspiring. If you’ve ever questioned your worth, struggled with trauma, or wondered if God has a purpose for your pain—this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!

Let us know your thoughts! What part of Bambi’s story resonated with you the most? Drop a comment or send us a message—we’d love to hear from you!

Praying Over Tithes and the Importance of Offering Beyond Tithes

On By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

Tithing and offering are powerful acts of worship that connect us to God’s provision and blessings. While tithing is a biblical principle, giving offerings above the tithe is an act of faith and generosity that brings even greater spiritual and material rewards. However, before we give, we must pray over our tithes and offerings, seeking God’s guidance, blessing, and purpose.

Tithing—giving 10% of our income—was established in the Old Testament as a way for God’s people to honor Him and support His work. In Malachi 3:10, God challenges His people to test Him in tithing:

“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”

Before giving our tithes, we should pray for:

  • A Grateful Heart – Acknowledge that everything we have comes from God (1 Chronicles 29:14).
  • Faith and Trust – Believe that God will supply all our needs (Philippians 4:19).
  • Blessings Over the Church and Its Mission – Pray that the resources will be used wisely for God’s kingdom.

When we pray over our tithe, we are not only obeying God’s command but also aligning our hearts with His will, trusting in His provision, and sowing into His kingdom with faith.

Offering: Giving Beyond the Tithe

While tithing is the foundation, the offering is an act of deeper generosity. Offerings are free-will gifts given beyond the tithe as an expression of love, gratitude, and faith in God. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul encourages believers to give with a cheerful heart:

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Offerings are important because:

  • They Reflect the Condition of Our Heart – Giving generously shows our love for God and others (Luke 6:38).
  • They Unlock Greater Blessings – God promises to multiply what we sow (2 Corinthians 9:6-8).
  • They Support the Needs of the Church and Others – Offerings help missions, outreach programs, and those in need (Proverbs 19:17).

Giving beyond the tithe is an act of faith that says, “God, I trust You not just with 10%, but with everything I have.” When we give sacrificially, God honors our faith and provides abundantly.

Biblical Examples of Generous Giving

The Widow’s Offering

In Mark 12:41-44, Jesus praised a widow who gave two small coins, which was all she had. While others gave from their abundance, she gave sacrificially. This demonstrates that the value of an offering is not in its amount but in the heart behind it.

“Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”

The Early Church’s Generosity

In Acts 2:44-45, the early Christians shared everything they had, ensuring no one was in need. Their selflessness strengthened the church and glorified God.

“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.”

Praying Over Your Offerings

When giving an offering, it is important to pray for:

  • God’s Direction – Ask God how much to give and where to sow.
  • A Generous and Cheerful Heart – Pray against a spirit of reluctance or fear.
  • Multiplication of Your Seed – Believe that God will bless and increase what you sow.
  • Impact of Your Giving – Pray that your offering will bring transformation in people’s lives.

God’s Promises for Givers

Abundant Provision

In Luke 6:38, Jesus assures that giving leads to receiving:

“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

Prosperity and Overflow

In Proverbs 3:9-10, we are reminded that honoring God with our wealth leads to abundance:

“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”

Conclusion

Both tithes and offerings are acts of worship, trust, and obedience. Praying over our giving ensures that our hearts are in the right place and that we align with God’s will. As we tithe faithfully and give offerings generously, we invite God’s blessings into our lives and participate in His greater purpose.

May we always give with joy, faith, and expectation, knowing that God is our ultimate provider. Amen!

Finding God in Your Setbacks: Preparation for Growth

On By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

Life often presents us with setbacks—moments when our plans unravel, our dreams seem distant, and our hearts ache with disappointment. In these challenging times, finding solace in faith can offer profound comfort and guide us toward unexpected growth. It is in these setbacks that we often find God’s hand at work, preparing us for greater things.

Embracing Setbacks as Divine Preparation

Setbacks are not merely obstacles but opportunities for spiritual transformation. They test our resilience, deepen our trust in God, and refine our character. As the apostle James wrote:

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:2-3, NIV)

This perspective challenges us to see setbacks not as moments of despair but as chances to strengthen our faith and endurance. God uses these trials to prepare us for His purpose, shaping us into vessels capable of carrying His light in the darkest of times.

Trusting in God’s Sovereignty

Amid setbacks, it is natural to question God’s plan. Yet, Scripture reassures us of His sovereignty and unwavering love:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV)

Even when our circumstances seem bleak, trusting in God’s promises allows us to find peace and hope. His plans for us transcend our understanding, guiding us toward growth and fulfillment beyond our present struggles.

Seeking Spiritual Growth Through Adversity

Every setback offers an invitation to deepen our relationship with God. It is through adversity that we discover His strength within us:

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9, NIV)

In moments of weakness, God’s grace sustains us, empowering us to overcome challenges and emerge stronger in faith. These experiences mold us into vessels of His grace, equipped to share His love with others who may be walking through similar trials.

Finding Purpose in Pain

While setbacks may seem senseless, God works all things for our good:

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28, NIV)

Even in our deepest pain, God is at work, crafting beauty from ashes and preparing us for His divine purpose. Our setbacks become part of a greater narrative of redemption and restoration, showcasing God’s faithfulness through every trial.

Conclusion

Finding God in your setbacks is not about denying pain or dismissing challenges. It is a journey of faith where we learn to trust in His timing, His wisdom, and His unfailing love. As we navigate life’s uncertainties, let us embrace setbacks as opportunities for spiritual growth, knowing that through them, God prepares us to shine His light and love in a world that desperately needs it.

“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.” (1 Peter 5:10, NIV)

In every setback, may you find the seeds of growth, the presence of God, and the promise of His enduring grace.

When the World Feels Unstable, How Do We Thrive?

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Life is unpredictable; right now, it feels like we’re all riding a wave of uncertainty. In our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we take off the script and get real—no filters, no outlines, just raw conversation about the struggles many face today. We’re calling it Thrive Raw because sometimes, we just need to speak from the heart.

From massive job layoffs to skyrocketing grocery prices to the weight of mental health struggles—these are more than just headlines. They’re real-life battles people are fighting every single day. In this episode, we unpack the emotions, the fears, and the faith it takes to move forward when life throws the unexpected our way.

So, what do you do when your security is shaken? How do you hold on when it feels like you’re losing everything? More importantly, where is God in all of this? We’re diving deep into these questions and offering encouragement, real talk, and most of all, hope.

✨ Why you need to listen:
✔️ Raw, unfiltered conversation about the struggles happening right now.
✔️ Faith-centered encouragement for anyone feeling lost or overwhelmed.
✔️ Practical advice on how to move forward, find purpose, and rebuild.
✔️ A heartfelt message about the value of your life, no matter your circumstances.

If you or someone you love has been affected by job loss, financial uncertainty, or feelings of hopelessness, we want you to know that you are not alone. Join us for this powerful episode, and let’s navigate these storms together.

🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!
🔗 Click here for new episode

Let’s keep thriving—together.

#FaithOverFear, #KeepThriving, #MentalHealthMatters, #HopeInHardTimes, #JobLossSupport, , #FaithAndMentalHealth, #OvercomingStruggles, , , #FindingPurpose, #LeanOnGod

Embracing Change with Faith and Understanding: Introducing Rising Muse on Substack

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts, Writing HappeningsLeave a comment

In these times of rapid change and shifting social landscapes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of transformation happening all around us. Whether you find yourself aligned with these shifts or feeling a sense of unease, one truth remains clear: we are living in a period of profound transition.

Change, by its very nature, can be unsettling. It challenges long-held beliefs and forces us to re-evaluate the very fabric of our society. For those who are struggling with the pace of change, know that your feelings are valid. It is perfectly natural to feel apprehensive, confused, or even frustrated when faced with uncertainty.

At the same time, for those who embrace these changes, it is crucial to extend compassion and understanding to those who may see the world differently. Every individual is on their own journey of understanding, shaped by unique experiences and perspectives. Engaging in respectful dialogue, listening with an open heart, and seeking common ground can help bridge divides and foster a more inclusive and empathetic society.

The Bible provides wisdom for navigating such times: “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” (Philippians 4:5). This verse encourages us to approach others with kindness, patience, and understanding, recognizing that everyone is working through their own beliefs and challenges.

In the spirit of fostering meaningful conversations and exploring these complex issues, we are thrilled to introduce The Rising Muse on Substack! Our new platform will serve as a space to delve deeper into topics of faith, family, and mental health—areas that are essential to navigating today’s world with grace and wisdom.

At The Rising Muse, we believe that through open dialogue, shared experiences, and faith-centered discussions, we can find strength and clarity in times of uncertainty. Our goal is to create a community where we can learn, grow, and support one another as we embrace the changes that life presents.

We invite you to be part of this journey by subscribing to our Substack, engaging with our content, and joining in on the conversations that matter. Your support enables us to continue building a space for thought-provoking discussions and spiritual growth. Together, let’s walk this path with faith, understanding, and a commitment to kindness.

Subscribe today and be a part of The Rising Muse—where faith meets change, and understanding leads to transformation. See you there!

The Difference Between a Foothold and a Stronghold: How We Get It Twisted

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts1 Comment

In our walk with Christ, it is essential to discern the spiritual realities of footholds and strongholds. Both terms appear in Christian teachings about spiritual warfare, but they differ in significance and impact. Understanding these differences can help us guard our hearts and stand firm in faith.

What Is a Foothold?

A foothold is a small opening or opportunity that we allow the enemy to exploit. It might be an unresolved emotion, a lingering sin, or even a pattern of negative thinking. The Apostle Paul warns us about this in Ephesians 4:26-27: “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.”

A foothold begins as a seemingly minor issue. It can be something as subtle as resentment, fear, or unchecked pride. However, if left unaddressed, a foothold can grow into something more dangerous.

What Is a Stronghold?

A stronghold is a deeply entrenched pattern of thinking or behavior that opposes God’s truth. It is a spiritual fortress where the enemy has gained significant control. The Bible speaks of strongholds in 2 Corinthians 10:4-5: “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

While a foothold is an opportunity, a stronghold is a well-established position. It takes intentional effort, prayer, and the truth of God’s Word to tear it down.

How We Can Be Fooled?

The enemy often disguises footholds as harmless or justified actions. For instance, holding onto a grudge may feel warranted, but it opens the door for bitterness. Over time, that bitterness can grow into a stronghold of unforgiveness, affecting relationships and our ability to fully experience God’s grace.

The deception lies in the gradual progression. A foothold doesn’t seem threatening at first. It’s only when it has evolved into a stronghold that we realize the extent of the damage. This is why Scripture urges us to stay vigilant and guard our hearts (Proverbs 4:23).

Guarding Against Footholds and Strongholds

  1. Stay Rooted in the Word: Regularly read and meditate on Scripture to recognize lies and replace them with God’s truth.
  2. Pray Without Ceasing: Bring your struggles, emotions, and thoughts to God. Prayer equips us with discernment and strength.
  3. Practice Forgiveness: Let go of offenses quickly. Holding onto anger or hurt gives the enemy an opportunity to work.
  4. Seek Accountability: Surround yourself with godly mentors and friends who can lovingly correct and encourage you.

By identifying footholds early and relying on God’s power, we can prevent them from becoming strongholds. Remember the promise in James 4:7: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

Living in the World but Not of It: A Call to Reflect Christ

On By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In recent times, many Christians have been led to believe that we are called to impose our beliefs on the world by force, forgetting a fundamental truth of our faith: we are in this world, but we are not of it. This misunderstanding has led to behaviors and attitudes that run contrary to the teachings of Jesus. It’s like asking hotel management to remodel the room we’re renting temporarily. We’ve forgotten that this world is not our permanent home. As believers, our mission is not to change the world by worldly means but to point others to Christ so that their hearts can be transformed.

Jesus’ words in John 17:14-16 remind us of our place: “I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.” Our calling is to live as ambassadors of Christ, reflecting His love, grace, and truth while remembering that hatred, division, and force are tools of the enemy, who seeks to kill, deceive, and destroy (John 10:10).

The Mission We’ve Forgotten

The Great Commission calls us to make disciples, not to coerce others into belief. Jesus commands in Matthew 28:19-20, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” This mission requires patience, humility, and love. It’s not about forcing others to conform to our standards but about lovingly pointing them to the truth found in God’s Word.

Some have even gone so far as to attempt to manufacture events to hasten Jesus’ return. This is not only an act of pride but also selfishness. In Matthew 24:36, Jesus said, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” It is not our place to decide when Christ will return. Our focus should remain on the mission He has given us. If we truly love others as ourselves (Matthew 22:39), we will desire their salvation as much as we desired our own. Remember, someone shared the Gospel with us when we were lost. Let us not give up on others who have yet to know the truth.

Jesus Was Not a Political Figure

Many Christians today seem to forget that Jesus did not come to establish a political kingdom. He didn’t seek to change the laws of Rome or Jerusalem. Instead, He came to reveal the kingdom of heaven and to transform hearts. When we focus on imposing our beliefs through political or social power, we lose sight of the example Christ set for us.

In John 18:36, Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.” This statement underscores the spiritual nature of His mission. Our task is not to make this world our home but to invite others to prepare for the kingdom of heaven.

Reflecting Christ’s Love

When we are unkind to those who are different from us, we’re not acting like Jesus. Loving the sinner while rejecting the sin is the delicate balance we’re called to maintain. Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 provide a clear picture of what Christlike love looks like: “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.”

Sadly, many unbelievers are turned away from Christ and His church not solely because of deception but because of the behavior of Christians that fails to reflect Christ. As John 13:34-35 says, “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.” Love, not force, is the mark of true discipleship.

Staying Focused on Our Calling

As followers of Christ, our job is not to participate in the ways of the world but to preach the Word of God so that more people can be saved. Romans 12:2 reminds us, “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.” We cannot transform hearts—only God can do that. But we can live in a way that reflects His love, inviting others to experience His grace and truth.

The enemy seeks to sow division and hatred, but we are called to be instruments of peace. Let us remember our true mission: to share the Gospel, love others as Christ loves us, and reflect the kingdom of heaven in all we do. In doing so, we honor God and fulfill the purpose He has set before us.