The Power of Words: Spreading Love, Not Fear

On September 13, 2023September 10, 2023 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In our journey as ambassadors of Christ, we often find ourselves in situations where our words hold immense power. We’ve all been there, uttering statements in the heat of the moment that we later regret. But as representatives of Christ, it is our duty to ensure that our words are guided by the spirit, not dominated by the flesh.

One concerning trend we see today is people telling others that they are destined for hell simply because of a difference in opinion or belief. It’s essential to recognize that no human possesses the authority to determine another person’s eternal fate. When we pass such judgment, we are essentially laying stumbling blocks on our own path.

The reality is, none of us can fully comprehend another person’s journey with Christ. Rather than assuming that our unkind words will act as a wake-up call, we should consider the potential harm they may inflict on someone’s spiritual path. Feeling judged and shamed by others is not our role as followers of Christ; it’s the Holy Spirit’s job to guide us when we stray.

Some individuals might hide behind the notion of “telling the truth in love.” However, it’s crucial to scrutinize our motives when sharing our beliefs. Are we genuinely concerned for the other person’s soul, or are we seeking to feel superior to them? Are our words driven by love or condemnation? Examining our hearts for our true intentions is essential.

As Christians, our primary calling is to spread the good news of Christ. Threatening someone with the prospect of hell is not good news. Our words and actions can either draw people closer to Christ or push them away from the gospel. It’s disheartening to hear non-believers say, “If being like you is what it means to be a Christian, I’d rather go to hell.” Such a statement should serve as a wake-up call, a reminder that we may not be reflecting Jesus as we are called to do.

We must remember that the core message of Christianity is one of love, redemption, and salvation. It’s about extending a hand of grace, not casting stones of judgment. Our role as ambassadors of Christ is to demonstrate love, compassion, and understanding to those around us, regardless of their beliefs or opinions.

In conclusion, let us strive to be vigilant in ensuring that our words and actions align with the teachings of Christ. We must refrain from pronouncing judgment upon others and instead focus on spreading the message of love, hope, and redemption. After all, our purpose is to bring people to Christ, not repel them from the gospel. In this way, we can reflect Jesus in the way He has called us to, shining His light and love in a world that desperately needs it.

My book, The Road Home, speaks about how sometimes we forget where we came from once we start our journey with Christ and forget to extend grace to others.

Until next time, Be Blessed

Finding Life Balance

On September 6, 2023 By Naty MatosIn ArticlesLeave a comment

After looking into the things that deplete us in our post yesterday, I wanted to talk about finding balance in life. From a Christian perspective, the pursuit of balance is not merely a secular concept but also a spiritual imperative. The Bible offers valuable guidance on how to find equilibrium in our lives while remaining true to our faith.

Prioritizing Faith and Relationship with God

At the core of Christian living is the relationship between individuals and God. Finding balance begins by prioritizing your faith and nurturing your connection with the Creator. Regular prayer, reading of Scripture, and participation in spiritual practices such as attending church services, fellowship with other believers, and worship can help you establish a strong foundation.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) reminds us: “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.” This verse emphasizes the importance of relying on God for guidance in every aspect of our lives, which is crucial in achieving balance.

Balancing Work and Rest

In our modern world, work often consumes a significant portion of our time and energy. While it’s essential to work diligently, Christians are also encouraged to find a balance by observing the Sabbath, a day of rest, reflection, and worship. The Sabbath is a reminder of God’s command to rest, as He rested on the seventh day of creation.

Exodus 20:8-10 (NIV) states: “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God.” By setting aside a day for rest, we honor God’s design for our well-being and remind ourselves that life is not solely about work and achievement.

Cultivating Healthy Relationships

Balancing our relationships with family, friends, and the broader community is another crucial aspect of Christian life. The Bible emphasizes the importance of love, forgiveness, and compassion in our interactions with others. In doing so, we maintain harmony in our relationships and reduce the stress that can arise from conflicts and misunderstandings.

Colossians 3:13-14 (NIV) instructs us: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” These verses emphasize the need for forgiveness and love as foundational principles for maintaining healthy relationships.

Pursuing Physical and Mental Well-being

Taking care of our physical and mental health is essential in achieving balance. Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and we are called to steward them well. This means maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and seeking mental and emotional well-being through prayer, meditation, and seeking professional help when needed.

Finding balance in life from a Christian perspective involves prioritizing faith, work, rest, relationships, and self-care. By following the guidance of the Bible and drawing strength from our relationship with God, we can navigate life’s challenges while maintaining a sense of equilibrium. Remember that balance is not about achieving perfection but about seeking God’s guidance and living in alignment with His will as we journey through this earthly life.

I found this program, that could help you find balance in your life. If this is something that you’re struggling with, I invite you to check it out, by clicking on the banner below.

As always, be blessed.

The Weight of Lethargy: How It Affects Our Spiritual Life

On September 5, 2023 By Naty MatosIn Articles, Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

In our fast-paced world, where the demands of daily life often leave us drained and depleted, it’s not uncommon to experience bouts of lethargy. Lethargy, defined as a state of tiredness or lack of energy, can have a profound impact on various aspects of our lives, including our physical and emotional well-being. However, one aspect that is often overlooked is its effect on our spiritual life. We will explore how lethargy can affect our spiritual journey and offer strategies to combat its negative influence.

The Connection Between Lethargy and Spirituality

Hindered Meditation and Reflection Lethargy can hinder our ability to engage in meditation and reflection, two essential practices for nurturing our spiritual selves. When we lack energy and motivation, it becomes challenging to sit quietly, clear our minds, and connect with our inner selves. Our minds may wander aimlessly, making it difficult to find inner peace and spiritual insight.
Weakened Sense of Purpose Spirituality often revolves around a sense of purpose and meaning in life. Lethargy can dull this sense, leaving us feeling adrift and disconnected from our spiritual path. When we lack energy, it’s easy to become complacent and lose sight of our spiritual goals, leading to a sense of spiritual stagnation.
Reduced Empathy and Compassion A vibrant spiritual life often involves feelings of empathy and compassion toward others. Lethargy, however, can make us more self-centered and less inclined to reach out and help those in need. This can weaken our connection to our fellow human beings and hinder our spiritual growth.

Strategies to Combat Lethargy and Nourish the Spirit

Prioritize Self-Care To counter the effects of lethargy on our spiritual life, we must prioritize self-care. This includes getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity. Taking care of our physical well-being can provide the energy and vitality needed for spiritual practices. Always remember that taking care of ourselves is not selfishness, we can’t take care of others until we take care of ourselves.
Establish a Routine Creating a daily routine that includes time for prayer, bible reading and meditation can help us overcome lethargy. Consistency is key in maintaining a strong spiritual connection, and a routine can provide the structure needed to stay on track.
Seek Inspiration Engage in activities that inspire and uplift your spirit. Reading spiritual texts, attending church services or events, or spending time with like-minded individuals can provide motivation and counter the effects of lethargy.
Practice Gratitude Cultivating a sense of gratitude for the small blessings in life can help shift our focus away from lethargy and toward a more positive outlook. Gratitude practices can open our hearts and nurture our spiritual well-being.

Lethargy is a common challenge in our modern lives, and its effects on our spiritual well-being should not be underestimated. However, by recognizing the connection between lethargy and spirituality and taking proactive steps to combat it, we can nourish our spirit and continue on our spiritual journey with renewed energy and purpose. Through self-care, routine, inspiration, gratitude, and mindfulness, we can transcend the weight of lethargy and experience the profound benefits of a vibrant spiritual life.

Be blessed!

Labor of love

On September 4, 2023September 3, 2023 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Have you ever thought, how no matter what job you have you’re doing a service onto others?

On a day like this we honor those that are contributing to society. The reality is that there are many ways to provide that contribution. We only think of work or labor as a typical job, but there are many unsung heroes who give time, energy, and effort to our society.

No matter what cog in the machine you play. If you work taking phone calls, lifting boxes in a warehouse, raising children at home, or volunteering your time for others you are providing labor to our society; and with your labor and sacrifice you are bringing value.

As a person of faith, I think every act of labor is an act of worship. If you believe in a higher power, you should consider even the most mundane task to be an offering. It’s hard to see sometimes, but it should feel our hearts with gratitude when we get the opportunity to serve. In one way or another we’re all serving.

The bible tells us on Colossians 3:23 (“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men”)

When we look at our labor as a sacrifice of love for those who we serve and those whom we love, the burden gets lighter. We understand that our actions have a higher purpose than the report we’re writing, the food we’re cooking or the floor we’re cleaning.

Today we celebrate the fruits of our labor. The hard work we have been entrusted and the reward beyond finances that a well-done job does to our soul.

Happy Labor Day!

A moment at a time

On August 31, 2023August 31, 2023 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Are you having a rough day today? I know we’re all going through something. Don’t allow anyone to minimize how you feel. Yes, sometimes looking around and realizing that there’s people around us whose misfortune looks a lot more severe helps us put our problems in perspective. That doesn’t make your problems any less real or important.

Phrases like:

Those words, even if you believe them, do not bring immediate comfort to your anxiety. You think, how can I see that it will be ok, when I can’t get past right now. The great thing about faith and history is that they can reframe our anxiety.

Stop to think, when have you been in a similar situation and how it was resolved. Did God come through for you? I’m sure he did. Because even when the answer to your prayer may have been “No”, with time you have come to realize that it was best for you. Faith is the ability to trust what we don’t see. Are you able?

Amid storms, it’s hard some time to step out of the boat and walk on water. It’s sometimes even hard to breathe.

Let me tell you a story of something that happened to me some years ago. I honestly can’t remember why I was anxious that day. I had a lot going on, but I do know how I got through that day and made it.

There’s a portion of the extended serenity prayer that says: “Living one day at a time, enjoying one moment at a time”. That day I focused on that verse. I remember I was on my way to work when I became overwhelmed with anxiety due to whatever circumstances I was dealing with. I told myself that there was nothing I could do while sitting in my car. I decided to focus on driving.

Photo by Aayush Srivastava on Pexels.com

It was the morning rush, so you can imagine the amount of traffic I was facing. Sometimes when my anxiety levels are very high, I can’t even listen to music; any noise annoys me. In other occasions, is the opposite, I start playing music and sing very loud. I don’t care if I’m ridiculously dancing. It gets the anxiety kicked out. This particular morning was one of those where noises were not part of the plan. Focusing on traffic was not going to help, but there was nowhere to go. So, I focused on my surroundings.

How many times have you driven down a road without noticing things? We’re going so far and focused on our destination that we miss a lot of what’s around us. That day I saw businesses that I didn’t know where on my commute. I noticed trees and trash on the highway. I wondered, how and when that trash would be picked up? By the time I made it to work, I hadn’t resolved a thing, but I could think more clearly. I have also gained insight into things I hadn’t noticed before.

So, if you’re having the kind of day where you can’t get past the next five minutes, DONT. Don’t think about what is going to happen five minutes from now. Focus on what’s immediately in front of you. After that, focus on what’s immediately in front of you at that time. Do tasks one at a time. You may think that you’re slowing down, but the reality is that you’re accomplishing something that you were not doing at all, while paralyzed with anxiety.

Take a breath, what haven’t you noticed around you. It may or may not have the answer to your problem, but it could give you a new perspective.

Photo by Jean van der Meulen on Pexels.com

Want to share with us your moment of stress or ways in which you have battled your own moments of anxiety. Feel free to comment below.

If you want to do so privately, feel free to email me at @therisingmuse

Blessings!

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Simplicity

On June 27, 2016June 26, 2016 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts2 Comments

Last summer I had to move. My 9-5 was relocating, my lease was becoming not affordable and I just needed a change. Before I moved into that apartment, I use to live in a town house. I had to get rid of a lot of things coming from a town house to a 2-bedroom apartment. This time I decided to move into a 1-bedroom apartment. I made that decision purposely. Again, I had to get rid of a lot of stuff. Guess what? I still have a lot of stuff.

The reason for the downsize was that I wanted live a simple life. I still look at houses in real estate websites that are gorgeous. At the end I always asked myself, who’s going to clean all that?

As time goes by, I’ve been trying to prioritize my life. What’s the point of having my closets filled with things that I never use? What’s the point of having all these things around to have more to clean? In return I can have more time for more important things. I can have more time to write, to read, to exercise, to pray and most important to rest.

Luke 16:13 “No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”

When our focus is in getting more stuff and not in our live purpose, we are practicing a way of idolatry.

I haven’t just worked on simplifying my surroundings. I’m working on simplifying every aspect of my life. My schedule, the things I eat, the company I keep. Life is complicated enough without us trying to do more than what we’re called to do.

Simplifying our life will help us have more time for more important thing, and probably more resources to accomplish our goals.

The Lord has not asked us to hoard treasures on earth, but to store them in heaven. Now I’m sure that none of the treasures that he was talking about can be found at your preferred department store or at the mall. That scripture in Matthew also says that where our treasures are, so is our heart. It’s our heart in the things that the world craves or in the simple things the Lord has created for us.

Is out lifestyle living by: Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

Have a great week!

Today is the End of the World

On April 6, 2016 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Today there’s a group of people waiting for the Apocalypse to come. They were not told the hour, but as I write this at 1 EOW pm EST, it hasn’t happened. They’ve been told this in many occasions and when it doesn’t happen, the response is that they were not worthy of Jesus’ return, therefore he didn’t come. You may laugh at their believes, but if we’re not careful, we can all be in a situation following false doctrines and/or prophets.

I’ve always been curious about how cults work. Cults are not always a result of poverty or ignorance; you see educated and well off people joining these groups. They blindly follow a leader that tells them that they’re a messenger from God. Who doesn’t want to follow God? Therefore they believe what they are being told and follow blindly.

I grew up in church, but was never one to read the bible. I was taught that the man at the pulpit was chosen from God to shepherd his people, therefore I believed that what he said was true and that what he said came from God. Of course, everything he said he had a quote and a scripture to attach to it. I’m not saying that I was mislead in church. I just know that once I started studying the bible myself I was able to separate the truth or lack of truth of what God was saying to me or about me.

Where am I going with this? Sometimes because someone has a leadership position we trust in what they say. This is very true for believers, were they idolize their pastors, ministers’ u other leaders just because they are “men or women of God” and don’t stop to question some of the things that are being said. Let me clarify that I’m not denying that pastors, ministers and religious leaders have a high calling; they do deserve respect and honor. However the key here is “men and women”. They are still human, they still can make mistakes and they too can fall from grace.

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I was watching one of my real life crime shows the other night and it was about a pastor who killed his wife, but then was telling several women from his church that it was God’s will for them to be intimate with him as a way to supply his needs since he now didn’t have a wife.Some of these women were married to their husbands. Three or four women struggled with it, but then gave in, including the deceased wife’s mother. Yes, his mother in law.

I’ve also been reading about this group waiting for today’s apocalypse. Here’s what I learned. Part of their routine is to read the bible everyday. I couldn’t understand if they were reading the bible, how this “prophet” has them believing all these things and doing things that they do that are against the word of God. Everyone who has left the cult has said the same thing, that they were following “The Prophet” and not God.

We are responsible to study the word and contrast what we are being told with the word of God. The Word is the authority, not who is reading it to you! bible

It is not my job to judge what these man or women did. I do feel it is my responsibility to alert all my fellow Christians that if what someone asks you to do does not match with what the Word of God says, it doesn’t come from God. These are not the only cases where religious leaders have taken advantage of their position and the vulnerability of their parishioners. It has not only been with intimate relations, but with financial transactions, abuse and instances of power. “It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.” Psalm 118:8

In the bible we are warned about false prophets (These are just a few):

Jeremiah 14:14 ”Then the LORD said to me, “The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I have not sent them or appointed them or spoken to them. They are prophesying to you false visions, divinations, idolatries and the delusions of their own minds.”
Lamentations 2:14 “The visions of your prophets were false and worthless; they did not expose your sin to ward off your captivity. The oracles they gave you were false and misleading”
Matthew 7:15 “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves”
Mark 13:22 “For false Christ’s and false prophets will appear and perform signs and miracles to deceive the elect—if that were possible”

We should have a trusting relationship with our religious leaders, but our relationship with God should supersede that. God has a plan, and only one. His word is unchangeable, he has not changed his mind about his plan, and we’re the ones that veer from it. Therefore I urge you, when in doubt, go to the source.

In my journey with Christ, I have not found a single issue not being addressed in the bible; no matter how big or how small. If what anyone and I mean anyone requests of you goes against the Word of God, once again, it doesn’t come from God and you should remove yourself from that situation. 1 John 4:1 “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” Like John says here… “Test the spirits”, go to the word of God, pray for your own revelation and don’t move until your spirit is at peace and in accordance with the Holy Spirit.

Be safe!

Where’s my blessing?

On March 28, 2016 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

Yesterday we celebrated the ultimate demonstration of Love. God in the flesh died for blessings our sins, but didn’t stay dead, but conquered the grave to provide us with salvation and a new life. There are times when you don’t feel like you are living that life. You see others succeeding around you and here you are, serving the Lord and not getting what you believe to be rightfully yours.

I was reading the passage of Genesis 27:1-45. This is the story where Isaac is dying and tells Esau to make him dinner and he will bless him. Jacob and his mother plot against Esau, trick Isaac who ends up giving Jacob the blessing. Once the truth comes out, Esau feels defeated. The blessing was given to his brother and now he’s empty handed. His father tells him that now he can’t give him anything. Esau gets bitter and angry against his brother, but it was because he didn’t listen.

See, many times we’re in Esau’s position. We think about job that we want or the relationship that we’ve been in; suddenly they’re yanked out of our hands and we get bitter. It was ours we say. We’ve been faithful and working so hard. Why did my blessing go away?

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This is what we hear, “You will live away from the richness of the earth, and away from the dew of the heaven above. You will live by your sword, and you will serve your brother…” Everything was taken from us, now we have nothing but slavery to our pain and the yoke of seeing someone else enjoy what we believed to be ours. Here’s what I’m encouraging you to do today…keep reading!

See the next verse says,

“But when you decide to break free, you will shake his yoke from your neck”

In other words, you don’t have to live one single second in bondage. If you choose to break free right now, you will never be under that yoke, because you decided to break free. New mercies are waiting for you every day, and your blessings are intact. That what you thought was yours and stolen will be given to you tenfold, but only once you break free from the yoke of your brother. When you break the jealousy, the envy, the anger and unforgiveness, you will be set free.

This is your day beloved. Maybe it’s you who need a resurrection.

Looking at our true selves

On January 26, 2016 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational Thoughts1 Comment

I have the blessing of being part of two worlds that although to the naked eye are very distant from each other, they are quite similar. I have a job, a normal 9-5 and I also have a ministry life which is what I call my full time job.

Before I started in ministry, I longed for the days were I would have the opportunity to dedicate more time to the work for the kingdom. I still have desire to give even more than what I’m already giving. To be quite honest, it was not what I expected.

At work, I had the challenges anyone has: having to submit to authority, following rules and policies, taking care of those around you, develop relationships, following the chain of command, knowing that with higher titles came more responsibility. Also the understanding that all those underneath you wouldn’t understand your decisions because they didn’t have all the information or the bigger picture while on the other hand I disagreed with the decisions made above me. Wait, was that work or church? Exactly!

I used to complain a lot every time there was a challenge at work. A dear friend of mine perfected told me every time, “God is using these experiences to create skills in you for your life in ministry” I thought she was totally crazy. In my mind, church is the place where I learn to deal with the world. I was wrong and she was right.

See, this is why as Christians we get criticized all the time. Christianity is viewed with rose colored glasses and the expectations of those who claim to be following Jesus are quite high even amongst ourselves. We get called hypocrites all the time, which may not be far from the truth. Why? Because we put a mask on our faces trying to live up to those expectations instead of the actual life that God intended for us. We even hold each other to those higher expectations, that God didn’t place on us. God knows that we’re not perfect, who are we trying to fool?

As I became part of ministry and started growing in responsibilities, I realized my friend had been right all along. The way I managed up or down in my corporate life were the same skills I had to use at the church. Why the surprise? We need to realize that WE are the people in the church. Yes, the teacher at your child’s school, your doctor, your boss, your neighbor, the gal who served your fries on a drive thru, the one who lost the patience with you on a customer service call and of course, there’s you and me. Why would I or anyone expect a different behavior? Aren’t we all a work in progress?

God's plan Christians are people who recognize that there’s a higher power that knows better than them. People who realize that following Jesus their lives can change and they can find a love never experienced before. We are made perfect through The Word of God, not ourselves, so less be honest about where we are in our journey. That’s the way our testimony will give Glory to God.

When two people are in love and they feel that they are “perfect for each other” they get married (for the most part) They may be perfect for each other, but even those who have been married to the love of their lives will tell you that it wasn’t always easy. There were disagreements, tears, challenges and a lot of work to do.

In our relationship with Christ, the same happens. We come with preconceived notions of how life should be lived according to those around us. As we grow in our personal relationship with Christ, we realize that some of the things we thought were right, may be wrong. We also learn that the way we are used to manage things is different, so the battle between flesh and spirit starts bringing those tears, disagreements, challenges, changes, disappointments and letting us know that there’s a lot of work to do in us.

The more transparent we are, the better the process goes.

We are not perfect people; neither are our leaders. As Christians we’re all pursuing to do God’s will, but sometimes we miss the mark. Let’s take off the mask of perfection, let’s be transparent. Let’s show this world why life in Christ is worth living. It is because in spite of our imperfections we found perfect love, because we found hope in a hopeless world and joy within our tears.

In Christ,

Practicing humility

On April 6, 2015March 27, 2015 By Naty MatosIn Inspirational ThoughtsLeave a comment

humility In Romans 12: 14-16 we get a lesson on how to be with others regardless of how they treat us.

¹⁴Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. ¹⁵Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. ¹⁶Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.^[c] Do not be conceited.

When we read this we know in our gut that is no easy task. We tell others what we know. We repeat the right words practice like a chant, but in the actual day to day is a different story. Be honest with yourself, how loving and blissful are you in your commute? How forgiving with that parent that yelled at your kid at the game.

Living in harmony is everyone’s wish. But when that neighbor’s visitor always parks in front of your house, or their dog eats your most precious flowers, you’re not really in a blessing mode. Still, God calls you to be.

The words, “we are all created equal” is not true at the end of the day. We are all unique and different. Our society has decided on how we are to be categorized. We are not created equal but to God we are all of same value. Think about this: a quarter is 25 cents, 5 nickels are also 25 cents; not equal but of same value. So when we meet other people that society has categorized as lower than us because they haven’t have access to the things that we have financially, emotionally, education or spiritually, don’t look at them as less but treat them with respect. Know that their value is the same as yours and that you are in their lives to be of service.

humility-and-mind-up-jan-2013-10-638 Believe it, at the end of the day, you will learn that you are more blessed by them than whatever you were able to do for them.