Author: Pastor Kris Belfils

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Life Is Better Together – Why We Need Each Other

We were created for community! God’s design for His people is that we live, grow, and serve together. In “Life Is Better Together,” we’ll explore why biblical fellowship matters and how we find joy, strength, healing, and purpose when we choose connectedness over isolation.

Friends, have you ever found yourself feeling like you had to go it alone, that your burdens were yours and yours alone to bear? Our world often says, “Make it on your own!” But the Bible proclaims a radically different message: we need each other!

Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV)
And let us consider how we may 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…

Today, we’ll see that God designed us to live in community. We will look at why this matters, explore what stands in our way, and discover practical steps to build the kind of shared spiritual life that Christ intended.

I. Created for Community

From the very beginning, God’s design has been rooted in relationship. In Genesis, after creating Adam, God looked upon him and declared:

The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” (Genesis 2:18 NIV)

Imagine this: Adam dwelled in paradise with God, surrounded by beauty and peace. Yet, God Himself determined something was missing—relationship. Adam needed someone with whom to share the journey.

A. God’s Design
God is relational. Even before creation, Father, Son, and Spirit shared eternal fellowship—perfect unity. We are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27 NIV), which means we’re created for meaningful connection, too.

B. Isolation was Never God’s Intention
God remedies Adam’s aloneness with Eve. Out of that first couple comes the family, and from family comes community. The very foundation of life as God designed it is relationship.

C. We Reflect God Best Together
Love, by definition, requires another person. You can’t demonstrate kindness, forgiveness, or grace when you’re alone. It’s in community that we learn to love sacrificially—to forgive, to encourage, to spur each other on.

Have you ever tried clapping with one hand? It just doesn’t work. But bring two hands together—and suddenly you have applause, rhythm, and music. That’s what happens when God’s people come together.

II. The Call to Spur One Another On

Let’s look again at our key passage:
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds…

A. Biblical Model
The word “spur” is strong. It means to prod, motivate, to stir up! The Christian walk is not a spectator sport, but a group hike. We push and pull each other to keep moving forward in faith.

B. Growth Happens in Relationships
Think about it. Iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17 NIV).

New King James Version
As iron sharpens iron,
So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.

When we come alongside others, we help each other grow:
– Accountability—someone to ask how we’re really doing.
– Encouragement—someone to cheer us on when we falter.
– Learning—wisdom is passed from one generation to another.

C. Meeting Together is Essential
…not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another (Hebrews 10:25 NIV).

Being together isn’t optional for followers of Jesus. It’s the difference between coal staying hot in a fire or cooling when alone.

Picture a fireplace—when the logs are stacked together, they create a blazing fire. Separate them, and each one smolders out. Community keeps our faith burning bright.

III. Encouragement and Support in the Christian Journey

Let’s be honest: life isn’t always easy.
…encouraging one another (Hebrews 10:25 NIV).

A. Everyone Faces Struggles and Doubts
From job losses to family challenges, from health scares to personal crises—none of us is immune. Even the strongest saints need a neighbor to lean on.

B. Your Presence Matters
Do you know the Greek word for []“encourage” (parakaleo)? It literally means “to come alongside.” God puts us in each other’s lives for a reason. You might be the answer to someone’s prayer for hope today!

C. The Church as a Place of Strength
The early church understood this. (42) They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. (44) All the believers were together and had everything in common… (Acts 2:42, 44 NIV).

Church should be a spiritual hospital, a training camp, and a family reunion all rolled into one.

I once heard of a family who went through a crisis. Their faith community rallied—meals delivered, prayers prayed, shoulders offered to cry on. Years later, the family testified, “We saw Jesus in our friends’ faces.”

IV. Barriers to Community – And How to Overcome Them

If community is so wonderful, why don’t we all just jump in? The truth is, many things stand in the way.

A. Busyness
Let’s face it: schedules fill up fast. We start prioritizing soccer games, Netflix binges, or work projects—and gathering with others gets squeezed out.

Q: What are you prioritizing over connection with your church family?

B. Past Hurts
Maybe you’ve been burned before. It’s tempting to pull away when community wounds us. But God calls us to risk again—to trust that with His help, healing is possible.

C. Cultural Pull Toward Individualism
We celebrate “self-made” people. But Christian maturity isn’t developed in isolation. Paul reminds us:
Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. (1 Corinthians 12:12 NIV).

D. Intentional Commitment
…not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing… (Hebrews 10:25 NIV).
To build relationship, we must show up—again and again. It takes intentionality.

I heard someone say, “I don’t need to go to church to be a Christian!” That may be true—just like you don’t need to go home to be married. But if you stay away too long… things get cold real fast!

V. Practical Ways to Live This Out

A. Prioritize Gathering
Make worship, small groups, and gatherings a regular part of your schedule. Don’t let other priorities crowd this out.

B. Encourage Each Week
Look for someone to bless—send a note, make a call, pray for someone specifically this week.

C. Get Involved
Serving alongside others forms deep bonds. Whether it’s ushering, teaching, cooking, or visiting—the more you serve, the more connected you become!

D. Pray for God’s Eyes
Ask, “God, show me who needs encouragement, and help me to see them through your eyes.” Then take a step.

Think of community as a garden. It takes planting, watering, weeding, and patience. But the harvest is worth it.

  • Who has made a difference in your life?
  • Who might God want you to encourage this week?
  • Are you willing to push past comfort, busyness, or hurt, to step into the fullness of Christian community?

God’s vision for us is not just to believe, but to belong. To be His family, loving and supporting one another.

Call to Action:
This week, take one tangible step—reach out to someone, commit to regular gathering. Be the answer to the “why” behind “we need each other.”

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, help us see one another as gifts. Give us courage to gather, grace to forgive, and eyes to notice the lonely and struggling among us. Knit us together into a community that shows the love of Christ to a watching world. Amen.

Your Sister In Christ,

Pastor Kris Belfils

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Trusting God In Relationships: Abide In Christ

Read John 15:1–17 (NKJV)  

Have you ever tried assembling IKEA furniture without looking at the instruction manual? You look at the picture on the box, think, “I’ve got this,” and start piecing it together. But a few screws later, you realize something’s off. You step back, and the table you thought was perfect is wobbling, uneven, and just wrong. And worst of all — you have pieces left over!

Relationships often feel the same. We think we can navigate them through instinct, advice from friends, social media tips, or even past experience. But when conflict arises or things get shaky, we realize — maybe we’ve missed some critical instructions. Why? Because we weren’t designed to lead our relationships alone. God wants to lead our relationships — starting with our relationship with Jesus.

In John 15, Jesus gives us a powerful picture of what it means to depend on Him especially in the context of relationships. This passage isn’t just about staying spiritually connected — it’s about how staying connected to Jesus transforms the way we love, forgive, serve, and relate to one another.

Let’s explore three key truths from John 15:1–17 to understand how to trust God in our relationships — and how to let Him take the lead.

I. ABIDE IN CHRIST: RELATIONSHIPS FLOURISH WHEN ROOTED IN JESUS  

John 15:1 NKJV

Verse 1 – “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.”

Jesus uses a beautiful and intentional metaphor. He calls Himself the “true vine” — the source of life, nourishment, and sustenance. The branches? You and me. The vinedresser is God the Father — ever tending, pruning, and cultivating good fruit in us.

This kind of imagery is central to understanding relationships. Think of it: A branch disconnected from the vine withers. Without nourishment from the source, it becomes brittle and fruitless. The same is true of relationships that are disconnected from Christ. (Break a dried branch in front of the people)

Verse 4 – “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself… neither can you, unless you abide in Me.”

We don’t just visit Jesus on Sundays. We make our home in Him. To “abide” means to remain, to dwell, to linger — not to occasionally visit.

Try forgiving someone without abiding in Jesus, and you might forgive them once, maybe twice. But abide in Jesus, and His Spirit produces fruit like patience, kindness, and long-suffering (Galatians 5:22–23).

Eph 4:32 NKJV

And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.

Verse 5 –  “Without Me you can do nothing.”

That’s a bold claim. Not “a few things,” but nothing. Zero spiritual fruit is possible apart from Jesus. Your romantic, family, or friendship connections may function apart from Christ — but they will never truly flourish. It is Christ who causes fruit to grow.

(v8) “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.”

God delights when your relationships bear fruit — not just success or happiness — but love, service, patience, joy, and peace. That fruit displays His character to the world.

Application:

– Is Christ the foundation of your relationships?

– Are you spending consistent, abiding time with Him?

– Before you reach for your phone to text, swipe, or respond — have you reached for Jesus lately?

Abiding isn’t passive — it’s proximity. That daily connection with Jesus isn’t just for spiritual growth; it’s the power center for relational health.

II. WALK IN OBEDIENCE: LET GOD’S LOVE DIRECT YOUR RELATIONSHIPS  

John 15:9 NKJV

“As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love.”

Jesus invites us deeper. Don’t just abide in Him — abide in His love. The same eternal love that the Father has for the Son is now offered to us. This is unchanging, secure, divine love.

But how do we abide in that love?

(v10) “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love…”

Obedience is not a burden — it’s the posture of those who trust God. Obedience keeps us aligned with His love. Think of a parent giving safety instructions to their child — Obedience is not restriction, it’s protection.

(v12) “This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.”

Jesus raises the standard. “Love one another,” yes — but not just any way. “As I have loved you.”

How did Jesus love?

– He sacrificed.

– He forgave.

– He got low and washed feet.

– He called out truth — in love.

This kind of love isn’t mood-based. It’s obedience-based.

(v13) “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.”

Jesus showed us the highest expression of love — sacrificial love. And what’s remarkable is that He modeled this love before we deserved it (Romans 5:8).

Romans 5:8 NKJV

But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

A couple once came to counseling, bitter and ready to break up. “I just don’t love her anymore,” the husband said. The counselor said, “Then love her.” He was confused, and replied, “But I don’t feel anything!” The counselor said, “Who said love was a feeling? It’s a command. Start serving her, praying for her, communicating with her. Obey Jesus — and let the feelings follow.”

Weeks later, their marriage began to heal — not because of emotion, but because of obedience.

Application:

– Who are you struggling to love right now?

– Who are you waiting to change before you act in love?

– Are you obeying Jesus’ commandment or living off convenience?

Obedience leads to freedom. Why? Because God’s commands aren’t chains — they’re train tracks. They get you moving in the right direction.

 III. FRIENDSHIP WITH JESUS: THE RELATIONAL MODEL FOR ALL OTHERS  

 John 15:15 NKJV

“No longer do I call you servants… but I have called you friends.”

Stop and let that sink in. The God of heaven — the Holy One, Ruler, Creator — calls you friend. Not simply followers. Not just disciples. Friends. This is relationship, access, intimacy, and delight.

This transforms how we approach relationships:  

– We don’t need to chase approval when we are already accepted by Jesus.  

– We aren’t starved for validation when we are loved as friends of Christ.  

– We aren’t slaves to past rejection when we are called friends by the One who never fails.

(v16) “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit…”

Even more — we were chosen. His love was not reactive; it was sovereign — initiated by Him. That’s the love you can build your friendships and marriage on.

Friendship with Jesus re-centers how we approach others. We no longer relate from a place of scarcity — but security.

(v17) “These things I command you, that you love one another.”

He circles back again. Love. Always love. Because when He leads, this becomes our lifestyle.

Joke: One little boy said to his friend, “I love you just like Jesus said.” His buddy replied, “Thanks! Wait — does that mean you’re gonna die for me?” He said, “No, but I’ll let you have my last slice of pizza!” Real friendships cost something, but they’re worth it.

Application:

– Trust God’s friendship as your anchor.

– Let Jesus’ love quiet your fear of rejection.

– Let your identity as His friend shape every other relationship you have.

Let’s revisit verse 11 again.

(V11) “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.”

Joy. That’s the outcome of abiding, obeying, and trusting in His love.

We don’t need to lead our relationships blindly, painfully, or selfishly. We have a God who gives us instruction, walks with us, and shapes us into people who live — and love — like Jesus.

Recap/Call To Action:  

  • Abide in Christ — because He is the source of all fruitfulness.  Abide – Don’t try to love others without Jesus. Start your day abiding in Him, listening to His Word, surrendering your strengths and struggles.
  • Walk in obedience — because love isn’t a feeling, it’s a command.  Make the hard choice to love even when it’s inconvenient or undeserved. Sacrifice your comfort to love someone for the sake of Christ.
  • Embrace friendship with Jesus — because He sets the standard for all other relationships. When you live from the acceptance of Jesus’ friendship, you can love from victory instead of for validation.

God wants to lead your relationships — not just repair them, but rewire them. Let the true Vine be your first and forever connection.

Kindly bow your heads and close your eyes.

Maybe you have never asked Jesus in your heart as Lord and Savior. He is the best relationship you could ever have. If that is you and you want Him as a friend, raise your hand. We need Him in our lives. There is no one like Him. He can be your best friend if you ask Him to be.

Closing Prayer:

Repeat after me: Lord Jesus, I ask you to come into my life. Be Lord of my life. Please be my best friend. Thank you for your forgiveness. Thank you for being my Savior.

Father, thank You for being the Vinedresser who never gives up on us. Jesus, help us abide in You — moment by moment. Teach us to obey You, even when it hurts. Thank You for calling us Your friends. May our relationships bear much fruit and bring You honor. In Your name we pray, amen.

Your Sister In Christ,

Pastor Kris Belfils

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Faith Through The Fire!

When the Fire Comes

Have you ever faced a season so challenging, so hot with pressure, so overwhelming that it felt like you were walking through fire?

Let me start with a story. Several years ago, wildfires ravaged vast areas in California. One elderly couple, returning to the charred remains of what was once their home, walked through the ash and debris with heavy hearts. But amid the total devastation, they found something remarkable—an old, fire-baked ceramic plaque still sitting on the fireplace. It read, “God is faithful.”

And He is.

You see, the fires of life—those spiritual, emotional, financial, or physical trials—threaten to consume us. But they also reveal to us something invaluable: God is not absent in the fire. In fact, God is there like He has always promised.

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.” (Isaiah 43:2 NKJV)

Notice it doesn’t say IF you pass through deep waters—it says WHEN. Every believer must walk through difficulty. But here’s the promise: you won’t walk through it alone.

Let’s explore four truths about trusting God through the trials we face.

I. God’s Promise: He Is With Us in Trials

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you…” (Isaiah 43:2 NKJV)  

“The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.” (Psalm 34:18 NKJV)

Let’s be real—when you’re in the middle of hardship, you may feel like God’s a million miles away. But that feeling is not the fact.

According to Isaiah and Psalms, God is not distant in our trials—He is near. In fact, He’s often more evident during our suffering than in our smooth sailing.

Think about your own life. When did you feel you grew closest to God? It wasn’t when everything was easy. It was when everything seemed to fall apart—and you found He was holding everything together.

The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego comes to mind. Thrown into the fiery furnace because they wouldn’t bow to an idol, they should have perished. But what did King Nebuchadnezzar see?

He said, “Did we not cast three men bound into the fire? But I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.” (Daniel 3:24–25 NKJV)

In the fire, they met Jesus.

Think about that. The fire that was meant to destroy them became the place where they encountered the very presence of God.

Let that sink in. The place designed to burn you down might just be the place where God shows up and walks with you.

II. God Shapes Our Faith in the Fire

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.” (James 1:2–3 NKJV)  

Let me make a confession—my first reaction in trials is rarely joy. I doubt I’m alone. But James says we are to count it all joy when we fall into trials?

Why? Because God is not just protecting us—He’s perfecting us.

“…that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory…” (1 Peter 1:7 NKJV)

Think about gold. It’s purified through fire. Gold doesn’t fear the fire—it needs it. The fire doesn’t change the gold—it reveals it.

Your faith is the same. Trials don’t create your faith; they show the quality of your faith. And in fire, impurities rise to the surface—fear, doubt, pride—and God refines us.

A quote from A.W. Tozer puts it this way:  

“It is doubtful whether God can bless a man greatly until He has hurt him deeply.”  

That sounds harsh, doesn’t it? But what Tozer is getting at is the truth that deeply tested faith becomes deeply rooted trust.

Sometimes we pray, “Lord, make me more like You.” But then we freak out when fiery trials come. Scripture assures us: the fire is doing just that—it’s shaping us.

What if we stopped seeing fire as punishment and started seeing it as preparation?

III. God Has Purpose in Every Trial

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28 NKJV)  

I know it’s hard to hear when you’re in pain, but it’s true: God has a purpose for your trial.

Romans 8:28 reminds us that all things—yes, even the bad ones—are ingredients in God’s mixing bowl to bring about good.

“But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold.” (Job 23:10 NKJV)

Not all things are good. Cancer isn’t good. Divorce isn’t good. Abuse isn’t good. But our God is a Redeemer. He can take broken pieces and create something beautiful.

Job understood this at a gut level. After losing his children, his health, his wealth, and even the support of his wife and friends, Job declared—

 “He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold.” (Job 23:10 NKJV)

Imagine watching someone make a cake. Would you want to taste a raw egg by itself? Probably not. What about a spoonful of flour? Gross, right? But when the ingredients are mixed together and placed in the oven—they become something sweet.

Your life is the same. God is mixing the good, the bad, the ugly—and yes, the heat is necessary—to produce something that will nourish others and glorify Him. We have to realize life isn’t always about us. Our lives can minister to others. 

He is not a careless chef. He is the Master Baker. Trust the hands you’re in.

IV. Responding to Trials with Trust

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5 NKJV)  

So… how do we respond when life gets hard? Do we panic, try to fix everything, control people, stay up all night, overthink? Or do we lean in to trust?

Trusting is hard when we don’t understand. But Scripture tells us—we’re not meant to understand; we’re meant to believe.

It doesn’t say, “Understand all His ways.” It says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart…”  (Proverbs 3:5 NKJV)

Did you know that the first thing swimmers are told when drowning is to stop flailing? The struggle makes them sink faster. But the moment they stop fighting and learn to float—it saves them.

Maybe that’s a word for someone today. Stop flailing. Be still.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10 NKJV)

Stillness doesn’t mean pretending it doesn’t hurt. Stillness means we choose surrender. We say, “God, even when I don’t see a way—I know You are the Way.”

Let your trials draw you closer, not harden your heart. Trust the God who walks beside you.

Faith That Endures the Fire

Let’s return to where we started:

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you… the rivers shall not overflow you.” (Isaiah 43:2 NKJV)

No matter what fire you’ve walked through—or are walking through now—you are not walking alone. He is with you.

Not only that, but you are being shaped, refined, and renewed.

And if you wonder whether God really sees you, listen to what He says just one verse earlier:

“But now, thus says the LORD… ‘Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine.’” (Isaiah 43:1 NKJV)

You are His. That’s your identity. That’s your security. And that’s where your faith can stand—even through the fire.

Call to Action

If you’re in a fire today—don’t walk through it alone.

Let the fire forge faith. Let it refine your hope. Let it bring you deeper into the presence of the One who never leaves your side.

Closing Prayer

Father,  

Thank You that fires don’t intimidate You. In fact, You move right into the center of them with us. For every broken heart, every wounded soul, every uncertain step—we ask for Your comfort, Your presence, and Your refining work. Teach us to trust You. Let our faith deepen as we walk through the fire—knowing You walk right beside us. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

Your Sister in Christ,

Pastor Kris Belfils

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Waiting Well: Trusting God in Delay

Isaiah 40:31 NKJV

“But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.”

I. Introduction: The Challenge of Delay

If you’ve ever had to stand in a long DMV line, wait for a table when you’re starving, or sat in traffic with your gas light on, then I can tell—you already know the agony of waiting.

Let’s be real. Waiting is not something we’re naturally good at. We live in a culture of Amazon Prime, microwave meals, and Wi-Fi that better not buffer for more than one second. 

We want things now. 

We want our healing now. 

Our breakthrough now. 

Our spouse now. 

Our promotion now. 

But here’s the truth: God’s timeline is not our timeline, and His ways are not our ways.

Have you ever prayed for something only to wait…and wait…and wait some more?

We find ourselves asking, “God, why are You taking so long?” Or maybe, “God, have You forgotten about me?” But I want to encourage you today with this truth: Waiting is not wasting. When we wait in faith, we grow in strength. God often does His deepest work in us during the delay.

Let’s let Isaiah 40:31 serve as our foundation for this message: “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength…” (Isaiah 40:31 NKJV)

There is promise in the pause. There is purpose in the delay. God does some of His deepest work in the waiting. But there is also a right way to wait—waiting well.

II. Waiting Is Not Passive – It’s Active Faith

Waiting on God doesn’t mean sitting back in despair or folding our arms in bitterness. Waiting, in a biblical sense, is about moving forward with trust and expectation that God is doing something—even when we can’t see it.

Psalm 27:14 NKJV

“Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!”

David, the man after God’s own heart, reminds us that waiting is an act of courage. It doesn’t look passive—it looks brave. So what does active waiting actually look like?

A. Active Waiting Involves:

I. Prayerful Expectation  

We don’t wait in silence; we wait in prayer. Not just pleading, but listening. Not just asking for outcomes, but inviting God’s perspective.

Colossians 4:2 NKJV

“Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving.”

Prayer changes us. It realigns our hearts with God’s heart. In prayer, we move from “God change my situation” to “God change me.”

2. Obedience in the Present  

Waiting well means staying faithful to what God has last told you. Maybe God called you to serve, to stay, or to give—and you haven’t seen fruit yet. Obedience is the plow that tills the soil of blessing. Sometimes the next step comes after continued obedience in the current one.

3. Cultivating Trust Over Time  

Trust isn’t built in seconds; it’s forged over long seasons. To wait well means you let go of control and surrender the timeline to God.

Let me ask you: Are you waiting with frustration or with faith? Because waiting with faith is what activates strength in the spirit.

III. God’s Timing Is Perfect

God’s clock operates on a sovereign schedule. Sometimes we feel late. Other times we feel like God is late. But hear me: God may be slow by human standards, but He is never late by heavenly design.

God observes from a divine aerial view, while we only see what’s ten feet ahead.

Isaiah 30:18 (NIV) 

“Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!” 

There’s a blessing in the waiting, not because we love the delay, but because we learn to trust the One who holds time in His hands.

A. God’s Delays Are Often for Our Development

I. To Refine Our Character  

Have you ever noticed that some of the strongest people you know have also gone through some of the longest waits?

James 1:3 NKJV 

“Knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.”

Waiting reveals what’s in us. It reveals our idols, our impulses, and our priorities. But it also builds spiritual muscle—patience, humility, perseverance.

2. To Prepare Circumstances

God isn’t just working in you; He’s working around you. That delay may mean He’s preparing a person, a place, or a purpose behind the scenes. What you call a “setback” may actually be a set up.

Think of a symphony. Every instrument must come in at just the right moment. If any section starts too early, it ruins the beauty. God is composing a masterpiece in your life, and He will cue your moment at the perfect time.

B. Delay Is Never Denial

Habakkuk 2:3 NKJV

“For the vision is yet for an appointed time…though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come…”

God has not said “no”—He has said “not yet.” And if God gave you the dream, you better believe He’ll bring it to fulfillment.

IV. Promise of Strength and Renewal in the Wait

There’s a beautiful truth tucked inside Isaiah 40:31. The word “renew” doesn’t just mean restore. In Hebrew, it implies exchange. When we wait, we exchange our weakness for His strength.

Let that sink in.

When we’re exhausted, anxious, and tired of waiting, God doesn’t just pat us on the back—He gives us His strength.

A. Levels of Strength in Isaiah 40:31:

I. “Mount up with wings like eagles” – Supernatural breakthroughs  

This is the moment when God moves suddenly and you soar. These are the divine accelerations.

2. “Run and not be weary” – Sustained momentum  

We don’t always get the mountaintop, but God gives us grace to endure the race.

3. “Walk and not faint” – Daily faithfulness in the mundane  

Sometimes the miracle is just making it through another Monday with your peace intact. Faithfulness isn’t always flashy—it’s consistent.

And all three aspects of strength come not before the wait, but through the wait.

V. How to Wait Well

So what can we do right now to make sure we’re waiting well?

A. Be Anchored in Word and Worship

Get in your Bible. Find Scriptures that speak to God’s promises and speak them over your circumstances. Did you know that our Worship shifts atmospheres. Even in silence, your song becomes a weapon.

B. Build Community Support

Waiting can feel isolating. The enemy loves to whisper lies when you’re alone. Surround yourself with people who remind you of God’s faithfulness. Find a Life Group. Stay connected. That’s why coming to church is so important.

C. Watch for God’s Hand in the Small Things

Sometimes we miss God because we’re expecting Him to shout, but often times He comes in a whisper. It’s in the text from a friend, the song on the radio, or the sunrise you didn’t deserve to see.

Elijah waited for a dramatic display—and God didn’t come in fire, wind, or earthquake. He came in a still small voice (1 Kings 19:11-12). Sometimes the whisper is the wonder.

VI. Conclusion: The Reward of Those Who Wait

Let’s land the plane right where we started:

Isaiah 40:31 NKJV

“But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength…”

Waiting doesn’t have to deplete you—it can deepen you. Waiting doesn’t mean punishment—it points to preparation. And waiting doesn’t mean you’re forgotten—it means you’re being formed.

What if the waiting is where the blessing begins? May we be a church that doesn’t just wait… but waits well.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 NKJV

“He has made everything beautiful in its time.”

There is beauty in divine timing. I encourage you to lean into the wait with faith. It’s not wasted time; it’s a sacred space where God molds your heart, sharpens your purpose, and strengthens your spirit. The door will open in His perfect timing. Let us choose to wait well. 

Your Sister In Christ,

Pastor Kris Belfils

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Trusting God In Every Season – When The Way Isn’t Clear

Have you ever driven through heavy fog? The kind of fog where turning on your high beams only makes it harder to see? You grip the steering wheel a little tighter, slow down, maybe even lean forward as if that will somehow help you keep your eyes on the road. In those moments, your headlights don’t show you five miles ahead—but they’re enough to show you what’s immediately in front of you. Each foot forward reveals the next.

Life can feel a lot like that—foggy, uncertain, hard to navigate. And in those seasons, you don’t need the full five-mile view. You need the assurance that the next step is lit. God doesn’t promise to show us the whole journey, but He promises His presence in every step. As we open the Word today, God wants to remind us that when the way isn’t clear—His Word is.

I. God’s Word Brings Clarity in Confusion

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105 NKJV)

This verse doesn’t say God’s word is a sun to my whole journey. It says it’s a lamp to my feet. A lamp doesn’t flood the entire forest with light—it only helps you see enough not to trip over what’s immediately in front of you.

God’s Word won’t always spell out the five-year plan or tell you where every turn is going, but it will anchor your next step. Like a lantern on a dark trail, Scripture helps guide us—one obedient moment at a time.

Remember the Israelites in the wilderness? They didn’t receive a GPS with a predefined route from Egypt to Canaan. What they got was just enough direction for each day. 

“And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, so as to go by day and night.” (Exodus 13:21 NKJV)

God gave daily direction—not the itinerary. And He does the same with us. So when confusion rattles your heart and the road ahead looks dim—don’t panic. Don’t demand the five-year plan. Trust His light for the next faithful step.

We will never know the joy of true freedom until we understand we cannot take a single step without His help.

What is the one “next step” God has clearly shown you—even if you don’t yet see why?

II. Fear and Faith Cannot Share the Same Space

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7 NKJV)

Faith does not require full sight—it requires steady trust. But uncertainty can be a breeding ground for fear. Fear says, “What if God doesn’t show up?” Faith says, “God already has, and He will again.”

You can’t simultaneously give your heart to fear and to faith. One has to quiet the other. When we trust God in the unknowns, we’re not denying reality—we’re leaning into a greater one. 

Trust doesn’t eliminate questions, but it tells us who holds the answers.

Peter walked on water toward Jesus. As long as his gaze stayed fixed on Christ, the waves didn’t matter. But as soon as his focus shifted to fear, he began to sink (Matthew 14:30). The storm didn’t change—only his focus did.

Corrie Ten Boom once said, “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.”

What voices are louder in your life right now—fear’s whispers or faith’s promises?

Speak God’s Word into what you fear. Don’t let fear have the final word.

III. Remember What God Has Done

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” (Psalm 103:2 NKJV)

When you’re unsure of the present, recall the past.

God has a track record in your life—and it’s good. But trouble has a way of giving us spiritual amnesia. That’s why Scripture repeatedly reminds us: don’t forget.

In the Old Testament, the Israelites were instructed to build altars of remembrance—markers of moments when God intervened, provided, protected, or delivered.

Imagine flipping through a photo album of moments when God was faithful to you. Maybe it was the job He provided, the healing you experienced, the unexpected peace during grief. When you remember those moments, it changes your outlook. Even if you can’t see the next step, you know who’s led every previous one.

Start a spiritual journal. Write down answered prayers, moments of provision, hard seasons where God sustained you. These become landmarks of faith when you feel lost in the fog.

IV. Seek God, Not Just Answers

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV)

Can we be honest? Most of our prayers in uncertainty sound like, “Lord, tell me what to DO.” But God is often saying, “Come close and know who I AM.” God is more interested in us knowing Him than in us knowing the plan!

Sometimes, God’s direction isn’t about the answer—it’s about intimacy. He doesn’t just want to give instructions; He wants to be with you in the questions.

When Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, and Martha was busy working, Jesus said Mary had chosen the good part (Luke 10:42). Mary wasn’t seeking solutions. She was seeking proximity, closeness, and getting to know Jesus, And that was the better choice.

Set aside time not just for seeking answers but for worship, prayer, fasting, and listening. Your most powerful prayer during an unclear season might simply be: “Lord, align my heart with Yours.”

Ask yourself, “Am I more concerned with what God wants me to do—or who He is shaping me to become?”

V. Obedience Today Prepares the Way for Tomorrow

“If you love Me, keep My commandments.” (John 14:15 NKJV)

Sometimes the clearest path into an unclear future is simple obedience today.

If you’re waiting to know what comes next, ask: What has God already asked of me that I haven’t yet done?

Obedience doesn’t require full clarity. It requires full surrender.

-Noah didn’t know when the rain was coming. He just knew he had to build the ark (Genesis 6:22). 

-Abraham didn’t know where he was going—he just knew God said “Go” (Hebrews 11:8). 

Scripture is filled with people who embraced a foggy future because they trusted the One sending them.

Think of how a GPS works. It doesn’t give you every instruction at once. It waits—sometimes until the very last second—to give the next command. Why? Because if it told you too early, you might forget. It gives you what you need exactly when you need it.

God’s guidance is often the same. He isn’t withholding; He’s timing.

What step of obedience have I delayed because I’m waiting for more clarity?

Conclusion: The Light for the Next Step

The still, quiet voice of God speaks best in the unknown.

When the path is unclear, choose the lamp. When the answers are hidden, trust the Guide. God may not show you the full map, but He promises never to leave your side.

Our job is not to guess the distance, but to walk obediently, step by step, one step at a time, in the light He provides. His word is a lamp. His Spirit is a comforter. His history is trustworthy.

So, when the way isn’t clear—hold onto what is:  

– God is with you.  

– God is for you.  

– God’s Word is enough for your next step.

Be the kind of person who says: “I don’t see the whole road, but I trust the One holding the lamp.”

Prayer  

“Lord, when I cannot see the full path, help me to trust the light You’ve given me. Let Your Word continue to guide my next step, and may I follow You with faithful obedience even in the uncertainty. May I choose faith over fear, Your presence over answers, and obedience over delay. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Your Sister In Christ,

Pastor Kris Belfils

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Fear Not: Trusting God In Uncertain Times

Let me start with a little confession—I am not a big fan of roller coasters. One time, on a youth group trip, I got talked into riding one of those sky-high looping monsters. As we were slowly climbing to the top—click, click, click—I could feel fear creeping in. My stomach was in knots. My mind raced. And despite being surrounded by friends, I felt utterly ALONE in that moment. Ever been there?

Now, roller coasters are one thing—but life has its own terrifying heights: job loss, doctor reports, broken relationships, financial uncertainty, or global crises. Fear, in all its forms, is one of the most universal human experiences. And yet, over and over again, Scripture tells us, “Do not be afraid.” In fact, it’s one of the most repeated commands in the Bible. One theologian said, “Fear not” appears in the Bible 365 times—one for every day of the year.

But here’s the tension: How do we “fear not” when we live in a world filled with things that seem fear-worthy?

Today, we’re going to walk word by word through Isaiah 41:10 and discover how to move from fear to faith—how to live grounded, even in uncertain times. If you have your Bibles or Bible apps, would you turn with me to Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)?

Isaiah 41:10 (NLT) —  

“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”  

I. God’s Command: “Don’t Be Afraid”  

Isaiah 41:10a – “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you…”

I want you to notice something powerful: “Don’t be afraid” is not a soft suggestion—it’s a direct command from the Almighty God. This isn’t a pep talk. It’s a command wrapped in a promise.

Why does God command us not to fear? Because He knows how easily our hearts drift into fear, especially when we feel alone, uncertain, or overwhelmed.

Fear feeds on isolation. It tells us lies like “You’re by yourself in this,” or “No one understands,” or “You’re in too deep.” And this is where God counters that lie:

“Don’t be afraid, FOR I AM WITH YOU.” 

The presence of God is the antidote to the power of fear.

King David knew this well. In Psalm 23:4 (NLT), he writes:  

“Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.”

Not if I walk through the valley—but when.  

Fear is not about circumstances—it’s about focus. []Are we focused on the darkness of the valley, or the presence of the Shepherd?

God never promised we wouldn’t have valleys—He promised we wouldn’t walk through them alone.

Let’s pause and reflect: What valley are you walking through right now? Does fear have a grip on your heart? Have you forgotten who is walking with you?

II. God’s Identity: “I Am Your God”  

Isaiah 41:10b – “Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God…” Some translations state “Dismayed.”

Discouragement is the natural next step after fear has taken root. When we fear long enough, we start to lose hope. We become emotionally drained. Spiritually depleted.

But God inserts a personal declaration right here:  

“I am YOUR God.”

He is not just a God. He is not just the God of Abraham or Moses or the prophets. He says to YOU: “I AM YOUR GOD.”

This personal belonging reminds us that our identity is not rooted in our problems—it’s rooted in God’s promises.

Jeremiah 32:27 (NLT) reminds us who is speaking here.  

“I am the Lord, the God of all the peoples of the world. Is anything too hard for me?”

Let that sink in. The Creator of the cosmos—the One who spoke galaxies into existence—says, “I am your God.” And then He asks, “Is anything too hard for me?”

Let me tell you about a woman named Maria who was diagnosed with cancer. At first, fear rushed in like a flood. But one of the things she clung to was this truth: “I am your God.” She said, “If this God carried Daniel through the lion’s den, and carried Paul through prison, He can carry me through chemo.” Her faith can remind all of us that our God is not distant and impersonal—He is close and relentlessly personal.

So let’s ask ourselves honestly: Who or what have we allowed to become our god in difficulty? Anxiety? Control? Our own efforts?  

God is saying, “Put your trust in Me—I am YOUR God.”

III. God’s Provision: Strength, Help, and Support  

Isaiah 41:10c – “I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”

This verse moves from command to identity to provision. It’s not just “Don’t be afraid” and “I’m God”—but it’s this: “I am WITH you and I’m WORKING for you.”

Let’s break down these three divine assurances.

a. “I will strengthen you”  

This isn’t just physical strength—it’s emotional resilience, spiritual energy, courage to take another step.

In 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NLT), Jesus tells Paul:  

“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.”  

So Paul responds, “So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9b NLT)

God gives you boldness in the moments you feel most broken.

b. “I will help you”  

This promise is active. God is not passive. He doesn’t sit on the sidelines of your life.

Psalm 46:1 (NLT) says:  

“God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.”

Always ready. Not sometimes. Not maybe. Not if you earn it. Always.

c. “I will hold you up with my victorious right hand”  

This is not just about surviving the storm—it’s about overcoming it with His strength.

Romans 8:37 (NLT) declares:  

“No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.”

God is not offering you just a hand-up—He’s offering His victorious right hand. The same hand that raised Jesus from death is the hand holding you.

Conclusion: Will We Trust…?

Fear is real. We’ve all felt its icy grip.

But here’s the hope: God is greater than our fears.

• His presence extinguishes fear.

– His identity strengthens courage.

– His provision guarantees victory.

So here’s the question:  

Will we choose fear, or will we trust the One who commands us, “Fear not”?

Let me finish with a beautiful call from Isaiah 43:1 (NLT):  

“But now, O Jacob, listen to the Lord who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, ‘Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine.’”

You are not abandoned. You are ransomed. You are named. You are His.

• Invitation to Trust

Right now, I want you to take a moment in God’s presence. With open hands and bowed heads, identify where fear has taken root in your life.

Is it your health? Your future? Your marriage? A dream that feels dead?

Then hear God’s whisper to your heart today:  

Isaiah 41:10 –

“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will hold you up.”

Let’s respond to that promise. Let’s lean into His presence instead of our panic.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word today. Thank You for reminding us that You are greater than fear. For every heart that’s burdened today, would You lift it? For every weary soul—would You strengthen? For every discouraged person—would You hold them up with Your victorious right hand? We choose to trust You… not our fears. You are our God. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Kris Belfils

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Door Of Hope

People need hope. I believe we will walk into those low places with people who need Jesus, offering them the entrance to the door of hope whose name is Jesus Christ. As a Christian, we have the answer to all the world’s problems and we should be sharing it to all we meet.

Joel 3:14 

“Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision.”

There will be multitudes who need hope. They will make a decision to come to Christ and live passionately for Him. There will be people who are haunted by their past, cannot cope with the present, and have no hope for their future.

Today, people have put their hope in so many things and all of them have failed them. They are looking for the real deal. They want to see genuine people expressing living hope. They are attracted to that.

What Jesus did on the cross is everything. He died so that we might live. But He didn’t stay in the grave, No, He is risen. He is alive! It gives us hope for tomorrow.

Hope is the sustainer of life. It’s the motivator to action. It’s the promise of tomorrow. What each one of us needs more of is hope. What our country and world needs is hope.

What is hope? Often we use the word hope as a form of wish. “I hope it doesn’t rain tomorrow.” “I hope the Seahawks or Bulldogs win their next game.” However, hope in the Bible, has quite a different meaning.

Hope in the Bible is a “confident expectation of a divinely provided future.”

Biblical hope is a confidence and expectation that God has provided for a good future for you. This morning God wants to fill every person here with hope that God has a great future planned for you.

The opposite of hope is despair or hopelessness. We see examples of despair and hopelessness all around us.

”Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that.

Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.”

Martin Luther King Jr.

I would like to add to this quote;

“Despair cannot drive out despair: only HOPE can do that.” 

Pastor Kris Belfils 

How many times do we try to drive out our own despair with more despair? This will never bring encouragement.

The word despair means: “A state in which all hope is lost or absent, The feeling that everything is wrong and nothing will turn out well, abandon hope; give up hope; lose heart. Other terms:  Discouragement, disheartenment, dismay, hopelessness, pessimism, resignation, surrender.”

This happens to many people everyday. When a tragedy occurs or our expectations have not been met, we can fall into despair easily. We can fall into despair just by thinking wrong thoughts about our self and others.

There are really only two things you can have in life: 

1. Despair

2. Hope

Hope in the dictionary means: “A general feeling that some desire will be fulfilled, grounds for feeling hopeful about the future, Someone, or something on which expectations are centered.”

Having hope is so essential to surviving in life. If we lose hope, we have lost the race.

Despair and hopelessness drives people to harm themselves or others in many ways. Hopelessness leads people to try to escape life’s despair through different kinds of addictions. Despair about your future saps the joy from life when it comes to our future.

This is what the world is experiencing today. They have no hope. Some tried to put their hope in the Government or financial institutes, some in their education, some in what they buy or wear. All these things will leave you hopeless.

Psalms 42:11

“Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God.”

This verse is telling us to put our hope in God and to praise Him for saving us from our trouble.

What are you thinking? Are you thinking despairing thoughts? Then you will be filled with despair! Despair and discouragement are dead end roads. They lead to no where!They don’t get anything done.

Discouragement leads to despair, despair leads to feelings of anxiety and hopelessness, hopelessness leads to depression and suicidal thoughts, and suicidal thoughts leads down a path of total darkness.

If you are feeling despair, don’t jump to Satan’s illusions. Remind yourself that you are valuable and God has a plan for your life. Tell yourself that your current condition is not permanent. It will pass. Tell yourself you can stand in the midst of all the bad. Also distinguish the difference of something that is truth about you or your situation, or just a lie or illusion the enemy is trying to sabotage you with.

In the natural, darkness always makes us scared, but sunshine and light make us feel safe and happy. The doom and gloom go away instantly when light is put on the subject.

Light is the only thing that can drive out darkness. We sometimes wallow in self-pity or focus on the negative, thinking you will feel better, and the dark cloud will lift. This will never happen. Darkness cannot drive out darkness, and despair cannot drive out despair.

We have to guard against darkness in our hearts and minds. The best way is to focus on, and bring in the light.

Psalm 36:9 (NKJV)

“For with You is the fountain of life; In Your light we see light.”

John 12:46 (NKJV)

“I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness.”

1 Thess 5:5 (NKJV)

“You are all sons of light and sons of the day. We are not of the night nor of darkness.”

John 1:5 (NKJV)

“This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all.”

Isaiah 60:1

“Arise, shine; For your light has come! and the glory of the LORD is risen upon you. For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and deep darkness the people; But the LORD will arise over you, and His glory will will be seen upon you. The Gentiles shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising.”

We have to set our minds on new things, and what God is capable of doing. We have to turn our thoughts from the bad and purposely set our thoughts on the good.

Jesus said this about our light:

Matthew 5:14 – 16 (NKJV)

“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Now let us take a look at Psalm 146 and see what the LORD is doing in our lives, which brings us much hope:

Psalm 146 (NKJV)

“PRAISE the LORD! (Hallelujah) Praise the LORD, O my soul! While I live I will praise the LORD; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being. Do not put your trust (hope) in princes, Nor in a son of man, in whom there is no help. His spirt departs, he returns to his earth; In that very day his plans perish. Happy is he who has the God of Jacob for his help, Whose hope is in the LORD his God, Who made heaven and earth, The sea, and all that is in them; Who keeps truth forever, Who executes justice for the oppressed, Who gives food to the hungry. The LORD gives freedom to the prisoners. The LORD opens the eyes of the blind; The LORD raises those who are bowed down; The LORD loves the righteous. The LORD watches over the strangers; He relieves the fatherless and widow; But the way of the wicked He turns upside down. The LORD shall reign forever – Your God, O Zion, to all generations. Praise the LORD!

To overcome Hopelessness we need to remind ourself 

who the LORD is in our life:

(Based on Psalm 146)

Praise the LORD! (Ps. 146:1 – 2)

Do not put your hope in princes or in man as they will perish (146:3 – 4)

Put your hope in the LORD – it will make you happy (Ps. 146:5)

The LORD made the heaven and the earth, the sea and all that is in them (Ps. 146:6)

The LORD is the keeper of truth forever (Ps. 146:6)

The LORD executes justice for the oppressed (146:7)

The LORD gives food to the hungry (146:7)

The LORD gives freedom to the prisoners (146:7)

The LORD watches over the strangers (146:8)

The LORD opens the eyes of the blind (146:8)

The LORD raises those who are bowed down (146:8)

The LORD loves the righteous (146:8)

The LORD watches over the strangers (146:9)

The LORD relieves the fatherless and widow (146:9)

The LORD turns the way of the wicked upside down (146:9)

The LORD shall reign forever, to all generations (146:10)

Psalm 27:14  (God’s Word)

“Wait with hope for the LORD. Be strong, and let your heart be courageous.

Yes, wait with hope for the LORD.”

We have to wait with hope for God. We have to be courageous and strong in our waiting. The word; “wait” was a bad four letter word to me. I hated waiting. Waiting made me feel I did something wrong. It made me feel I wasn’t ready. But, this is not why we have to wait at times. Waiting helps us to mature in Christ. Waiting burns out the impatience in us. Waiting is better then rushing into something without God’s wisdom and direction.

Human nature gives up easily when we pray and don’t see our prayers answered. We pray once, and no answer, so we give up, or think it is not God’s will. We have to be persistent in our prayers and in faith. God is looking for people who have their hope in Him and don’t give up when they don’t see an answer to their prayer.

A great example of praying and not giving up is Elijah. I am sure Elijah waited with hope as he prayed to God for rain to come.

Read 1 Kings 18:41 – 46

Elijah could have given up after the first time praying for rain and then sending his servant to go up mount Carmel to see if any clouds were forming. Elijah’s hope was in God and he believed God would come through. Again and again Elijah prayed without any answer to his prayer. He pressed in and continued to pray.

Elijah persevered and kept praying and believing God would come through. He was relentless! He didn’t stop praying until God gave him a sign. It was in a form of a cloud the size of a man’s hand. It was all he needed to move on in his life. God gives little clouds to spark hope in our hearts that He is working and bringing the answer.

We can learn from this great man of God. We too need to keep praying without giving up. We too need to believe God will answer in spite of our circumstances or what we see or don’t see happening.

The hope is knowing God is faithful! What He did before He will do again. He used men and women in the Bible to bring about His agenda and His Kingdom. He wants to use us too.

Hebrews 11:1

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”

Faith in action requires a time of waiting. The word “Hope” is interchanged with the word wait in the Bible. HOPE: Is the place between praying and answered prayer!

It can seem like God didn’t hear us or holds his answer from us.

Where can we get the hope that we need in life? …….Our hope comes from Jesus.

Matthew 12:21 (NIV)

“In his name the nations will put their hope.”

Some people put their hope in wrong things and they are disappointed. But everyone who puts their hope in Jesus will never be disappointed.

Hope for the multitudes to give them a door of hope in trying times!

Hope is the only thing that stands against fear. Having hope propels you to keep trying in the middle of your fears. This is the action or active part of hope. Hope helps us to stay focused. If we don’t have hope, we will fall into our fears and doubts and give up.

Let Hope arise in you today! The Hope of Jesus Christ is powerful. No one can take that away from you. Hope sustains you. Hope keeps you.

You might be living in a hard situation right now. It might seem hopeless, but remind yourself Who is living inside of you! Jesus, the conqueror of death! Jesus, the giver of new life and new beginnings!

Door of Hope

Hosea 2:15

“I will give her her vineyards from there, and the Valley of Achor as a door of hope; She shall sing there, as in the days of her youth, as in the day when she came up from the land of Egypt.” 

This verse is for all who are facing trouble right now, be it financial trouble, family trouble, physical trouble. I don’t care what trouble you have, maybe emotional trouble? God will give you hope in the middle of your troubles.

“Her” is basically Israel, but can refer to all of us as God’s people today. “I will give her…” we are the bride of Christ! We are so blessed. We can be called “him” and “her;” the bride of Christ.

“I will give her her vineyards from there, and the Valley of Achor as a door of hope; she shall sing there, as in the days of her youth, as in the day when she came up from the land of Egypt.”

What a wonderful prophecy. Now, see the words, “door of hope?” In Hebrew; Pethach tiqvah. There is a Jewish Anthem entitled; “The Hope.” HATIKVAH it is sung to remember that as long as deep in the heart a Jewish soul yearns and looks to Zion our hope will not be lost.

Hope doesn’t mean; “I hope things will happen.” No, hope means it will happen. What you dream and believe in God will happen. God will meet the desires of your heart. God says, “Have hope!” Man says, “Don’t raise your hope.” God says, “Raise your hopes as high as the throne of God, hallelujah! Amen!” You have a God. Those other people who say, “Don’t raise your hope.” They don’t have a god. You have a God of grace, of goodness, of mercy!

Do you know where He puts this door of hope? Do you know where to find the door of hope? God says there’s no temptation, no testings, no trials that has come on you that God will not give you the strength, and will find the way of escape. There is a door in every test! There is a door. Where do you find this door of hope? In the Valley of Achor! What is the Valley of Achor? Listen this is a word for all of you!

The word Achor means: trouble in Hebrew (Strongs Hebrew and Greek Dictionary).

It means trouble! Wow, in your valley of trouble. When you are in trouble you don’t feel like you are on the mountain, no, you are in the valley. You may say, “Pastor Kris I have all these bills looming. I feel crushed.” God says, “In your valley of trouble I will open to you a door of hope!” “Pastor Kris, you don’t understand. The Doctors have given me some bad news.” You are going through a valley now and God is going to put the door of hope before you. And every time you open this door you step into life more abundantly (John 10:10). You will find pasture. God puts a door there.

Listen, don’t open other doors that man tries to put there. The Door is Jesus. When you open the Door you will find life, and life more abundantly!

So what trouble are you going through right now? God is putting right now, in your valley, a Door of hope. His name is Jesus, and what do you do with a door? Open it. Jesus says, “I stand at the door and knock. If any man hear my voice and opens the door, I will come in.” Once He comes in your sickness goes out! Once He comes in your lack goes out! Once He comes in, peace in the house. And by the way people forget that Jesus says, “I knock at the door” in Revelation 3:20. It is not written for sinners. It is written for the church. Okay, but He invites you to open the door. He will not break down the door. The door of grace has only one knob and it is not out side, the knob is inside. Jesus can only knock, you have to open the door and say, “Lord Jesus, come into my trouble, come into my mess. Lord, I don’t know what to do, my hands are off.” Then Jesus will say, “Come you will find pasture and life more abundant has come.”

Zacheous opened his door and said, “Come in,” and Jesus said, “Salvation has come to this house!” Hallelujah! Amen! Let’s do that right now!

Your Sister,

Pastor Kris Belfils

Entrapped By Offense
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Entrapped By Offense

Matthew 24:3
“Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?”

How many believe we are living in the last days? We see wars, bad economy, natural disasters, people turning away from each other, so much hatred everywhere you go.

Matthew 24:6 – 8
“And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.”

Dropping down to verse 10…

Matthew 24:10 (NKJV)
“And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another.”

Have you ever been betrayed? Have you ever betrayed someone?
Have you hated someone for something they did to you?
Have you been mistreated?
Are you holding onto a grudge and have become bitter over an event and the people surrounding it?

You may be offended and don’t even know it.

Again…
Matthew 24:10 (NKJV)
“And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another.”

Many = much, largely, abundant, great, plenteous, majority, at least 51% will take offense. Over 51% will betray one another and hate one another.

There is a progression:
Offended, wounded, hurt person will eventually put up walls and betray.

Being offended is a trap from the enemy to put you in bondage and bring division. We can be entrapped by an offense and not even know it. That is the reality of be offended. We don’t see how it is affecting us, our family, our church, and everything that is connected with us.

Proverbs 18:19
“An offended brother is harder to reach than a fortified [strong] city, and quarrels [contentions] are like the bars of a fortress [castle].”

A strong city has walls for protection. They were built to keep out those people that you believed were against you.

This is exactly what an offended person does, they begin to build walls to protect themselves.
The New Testament calls these walls Strongholds.”

2 Cor. 10:3 – 5
“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for the pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments (Imaginations or reasonings) and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.”

They are thought processes or reasonings developed deep within our soul and are contrary to the will or Word of God.

The Word of God is always congruent to the nature of God. The nature of God is love.

The word of God is always to give, to give, to give.

An offended person builds up walls to protect, protect, protect.

They think, “I’ve been hurt and I don’t want to get hurt again!” This sets them up for betrayal.

A lot of us really don’t understand what betrayal means as we look at the extreme cases of it like Benedict Arnold or Judas.

Betrayal is when a person seeks his own benefit or protection at the expense of one he has a relationship with.

Betrayal is the ultimate abandonment of a relationship.

Betrayal, if not dealt with will ultimately lead to hatred.

Hatred is the absence of love or they are “loveless.”

Then Deception. The offended heart is the breeding ground of Deception.

Deception is deceiving – a person who thinks they are really right, turns out to be really wrong. (The devil makes the wrong look right and the right look wrong.) He knows how to present false information looking like the truth.

Matthew 24:11 (NKJV)
“Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many.”

When we become deceived we are like a false prophet. False prophets are
wolves in sheep’s clothing – notice wolves in sheep’s clothing not shepherds clothing. Many times they are sitting in the pews.

Wolves travel in packs to isolate a sheep from the herd. There is protection for sheep staying in a herd.

Proverbs 18:1 (HCSB)
“One who isolates himself pursues [selfish] desires; he rebels against all sound judgment.”

Where does the isolation occur? In the thinking process – you can still be a member of a church but the isolation happens in our hearts and makes you a perfect candidate for deception……

Matthew 24:12 (NKJV)
“And because of lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.”

The word Lawlessness in the Greek is “anomia” which is translated, “Law unto yourself”. It is what you want to do. King James Version uses the word “Inequity,” which is sin. It is action that is against God’s Word and law. It is being selfish and doing things your own way. You make the rules. You decide what is right or wrong. This thinking will lead you astray always!

Looking at Matthew 24:12 again, “And because of lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold.”
Again, the word “Many” means over 51%. The love here is translated in the Greek “Agape.” The love that is placed in a Christian’s heart. 51% or more will be offended in the last days. We need to beware of this. We need to guard against this.

The person who can offend you the deepest is the person closest to you. Why is that? Our expectations are higher on them.

We set ourselves up by having expectations. Not expectations of God, as that is good to have, but of man, which is always bad to have.

When we put our expectations in man we will be disappointed every time.

2 Categories of Offense:

  1. Those who have genuinely been mistreated.
  2. Those who think they’ve been mistreated (Often the case).

If you have been mistreated do you have the right to be offended?

A person who is offended is a person who’s forgotten what they’ve been forgiven of!

Holding unto an offense is un-forgiveness.

If you want to walk with God you don’t have a right to be offended.

Matthew 18:21 – 35 (NKJV)
“Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. Therefore the kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. And when he had begun to settle accounts, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. But as he was not able to pay, his master commanded that he be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and that payment be made. The servant therefore fell down before him, saying, ‘Master, have patience with me, and I will pay you all.’ Then the master of that servant was moved with compassion, released him, and forgave him the debt. But that servant went out and found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii; and he laid hands on him and took him by the throat, saying, ‘Pay me what you owe!’ So his fellow servant fell down at his feet and begged him, saying, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you all.’ And he would not, but went and threw him into prison till he should pay the debt. So when his fellow servants saw what had been done, they were very grieved, and came and told their master all that had been done. then his master, after he had called him, said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you begged me. Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, just as I had pity on you?’ And his master was angry, and delivered him to the torturers until he should pay all that was due to him. “So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses.”

70 x 7 = 490 (All in one day – Luke 17:4). We would have to sin once every three minutes as long as we don’t go to sleep in that 24 hour period.

10,000 talents = $5 Billion (Un-payable debt)
100 Denari = $10,000 (possibly a 1/3 of a year’s salary today)

Who are we to decide we won’t forgive some little offense compared to God forgiving us of all the wrong we have done. It doesn’t compare.

A person who doesn’t forgive is a person who forgot what they were forgiven of. What have you been forgiven of?
Christians think of “sin” as: Murder, adultery, stealing
Christians say they have “weaknesses”: un-forgiveness, slander, gossip, strife

Proverbs 6:16- 19 (NKJV)
“These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him:
A proud look,
A lying tongue,
Hands that shed innocent blood,
A heart that devises wicked plans,
Feet that are swift in running to evil,
A false witness who speaks lies,
And one who sows discord among brethren.“

Some translations state: “a person that stirs up conflict or trouble in the community or among the brothers.”

These are things the Lord hates! The last is an abomination – one who sows discord among brethren… this is a Christian who sows seeds of discord, not an outsider.
Discord means: “Lack of concord or harmony between persons. Disagreement, difference of opinion, strife; dispute; war.”

Abomination means: anything greatly disliked or abhorred, Loathing, a vile, shameful, or detestable action.

This is what we do when we stir up strife in church. When we go and talk to others in a negative tone about someone else at work. This is gossip. This is a lying tongue! This is judging one another.

Have you done this?
Have you heard other people do this lately?
What do you do when you hear it?
We should STOP it right away! Don’t allow the sin to manifest even bigger by staying silent while someone talks bad about another person. Do you know by just listening to it you have committed the sin as well. Remember with the same judgement you give it will be measured back to you.

Matthew 7:1 – 2
“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”

We categorize sin, God doesn’t.
Sin is sin.
If it doesn’t please God, don’t do it!!!

If we treat gossip like we treat murder we will be free. Treat it as a “weakness” and you will be bound to it.

We deserve to burn in the same hell as Hitler is burning in. That is our just punishment.

Were you a nice person and got saved? That’s why it is hard for you to give mercy.

Going back to the wicked servant:

Matthew 18:35 (HCSB)
“So My heavenly Father will also do to you if each of you does not forgive his brother from his heart.”

-Are you too proud to admit you are offended?
-Is your fire dying?
-Are you going to church because it is the thing to do?
-Has your love for God and man grown cold?
-Have you lost your desire to worship?

You might say, “I have forgiven them! I have prayed over this.”

Yet when you see the other person you get critical and you feel a twinge in your heart. You start rehashing all the wrong this person has done in your mind. This is not a person who is over an offense. Stop trying to deny the obvious. You are still OFFENDED!

Acts 24:16 (ASB)
“Herein I also exercise myself to have a conscience void of offense toward God and men always.”

And in the Amplified Bible it reads:

Acts 24:16 (Amplified Bible)
“Therefore I always exercise and discipline myself [mortifying my body, deadening my carnal affections, bodily appetites, and worldly desires, endeavoring in all respects] to have a clear (unshaken, blameless) conscience, void of offense toward God and toward men.”

We need to EXERCISE and DISCIPLINE ourselves not to get offended.

-Are you out of shape spiritually?
-Are you reading God’s word? (not just for school or a ritual – but is it feeding your spirit?)
-Are you spending time with God?
-Are you pushing into God?

If you are not doing these things then spiritually you are weak.

How do we exercise or overcome an offense?

Matthew 5:44 (NKJV)
“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you”

Pray for those who mistreats, abuses, and misuses you.

DAVID knew what it was like to be mistreated…

Psalm 35:11 – 12 (GNT)
“Evil people testify against me and accuse me of crimes I know nothing about. They pay me back evil for good, and I sink in despair.”

Do you ever feel like that? Treated unjustly and falsely accused?
Are People speaking lies about you and spreading gossip?

Just wait and God will get them, RIGHT?! Read on…

Psalm 35:13 – 14 (GNT)
“But when they were sick, I dressed in mourning; I deprived myself of food; I prayed with my head bowed low, as I would pray for a friend or a brother. I went around bent over in mourning, as one who mourns for his mother.”

Pray for that person who offended you like what you want God to do in you, your friends, or a family member’s life.

Pray what is truth, not what feels good to the flesh.

Go to the one who hurt you, not pointing out what they did wrong, but with words of reconciliation and kindness.

What if the person doesn’t want to forgive you or they don’t admit their part or what they did wrong? What if they are offended by you and don’t want to forgive? We can, through prayer and intercession (standing in the gap), accomplish the same healing without them.

Parent passed away – you can’t go to them and reconcile.
Someone who is unreachable – you can’t go to them and reconcile.

Allow God to heal your wounds and the wounds you have caused knowing He sees and has the healing power to overcome anything in our lives if we just yield it to Him.

The Holy Spirit can be your best counselor!

But when we can, we need to go to our brother or sister and create an atmosphere of goodness that’s going to help him say, “I am sorry!” Kind, reconciling words! Maybe even give them a nice gift with no strings attached. It is a true jester that you really care about this person and want to forgive.

The love of God He has given us can flow from us, as we receive it, to the one who has offended us.

Love covers a multitude of sins.

Choose to love instead of hate. Hatred turns into bitterness and bitterness is revenge unfulfilled!

Luke 17:1 (NKJV)
“Then He said to the disciples, “It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come!”

In other words, if you breath air you will have the opportunity to be offended.

What you do with the offense will determine your future. Either you will become stronger or bitter.

2 Tim. 2:25 – 26 (NKJV)
“In humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.”

God has so much blessings ready to pour out to us. Sin separates us from His blessings. Being offended turns off God’s goodness in our lives.

You have to remember 2 wrongs don’t make a right. If someone has hurt you and you put up walls, have un-forgiveness in your heart, and hatred it doesn’t make the wrong situation right. It makes it even worse.

The sin of offense doesn’t justify how badly you’ve been treated.

Wounds will happen. “Offenses will come…” (Luke 14:30). People will hurt us. What will be our reaction?

Don’t let pride keep you from being set free.

Are you ready to run to God with this offense and ask forgiveness?

Are you tired of carrying around this burden/bondage as long as you have been?

Prayer, repeat after me:
Father in Heaven, thank you for speaking to me through your servant. I’ve realized I’ve sinned against you by holding onto un-forgiveness. 2 wrongs don’t make a right. Yes, what was done to me was wrong. But, that doesn’t justify my sin of offense. So today I repent of my sin of offense. I ask you to cleanse me with the blood of Jesus. Father from my heart I forgive _____ (whisper their names – Dad, mom, friend, brother, sister, co-worker) Say this, “I completely release you. You owe me nothing. Nothing! I release and forgive you in the presence of God. In Jesus Name.

Ok, now I want to pray for you:

Lord God, I ask you to draw near to these people. I break the chains. I pull up the roots of bitterness now. I uproot resentment. I uproot un-forgiveness from their life, from their home. And now Lord, in it’s place poor in your love I pray, and your Holy presence. I speak freedom to your life and to your household my brother and my sister in Jesus name, Amen.

Now, let’s give Him praise!
Your Sister in Christ,

Pastor Kris Belfils

http://www.krisbelfils.com
http://www.krisbelfils.wordpress.com

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It’s not About Trump!

So many people think it is about Trump and how “bad” he is. I disagree on both of those counts. I want to tell you it is not about Trump. It has nothing to do with him or Biden in this election…. say what? Hang on now and allow me to explain. It is about destroying the Conservative voice. It is about how mainstream media, social media, those in the Democrat Party, Liberals, who are head bent to destroy the conservatives. It was happening before Trump and Biden, and it will continue after. Liberals hate conservatives. Why? Because we speak TRUTH!  They hate our country and want world governance. But, there is good news! God is setting them up to be destroyed! You might say, “Aren’t you a Christian?  I thought you were a Pastor, how can you say such mean things?” First of all, I’ve heard worse coming from liberals towards me. But there is good news for the upright! I came across these verses a few days ago in my quiet time with God and this is what it says:

Psalm 92:6 – 9 NASB “A senseless man has no knowledge, Nor does a stupid man understand this: That when the wicked sprouted up like grass And all who did iniquity flourished, it was only that they might be destroyed forevermore.”

Wow, that’s in the BIBLE? Yes, it is. Here’s another;

Psalm 68:1 – 3 NKJV “Let God arise, Let His enemies be scattered; Let those also who hate Him flee before Him. As smoke is driven away, So drive them away; As wax melts before the fire, So let the wicked perish at the presence of God. But let the righteous be glad; Let them rejoice before God; Yes, Let them rejoice exceedingly.”

“As wax melts before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God. Immediately I remember the movie of Indiana Jones and the Ark of the Covenant. Remember the scene when they open the Ark and at first it looks lovely, then it is evil and swarms through everyone looking and they melt like wax? What a visual!

” ….. Let His enemies be scattered…” Are you seeing a pattern here? God’s enemies will be scattered. You might ask, Kris, when will all this happen? When all the “rocks” are turned over and all the insects go running! When in court, Trump and his lawyers start turning over all the “rocks” from the election that have been thrown by the liberals trying their best to cover up the biggest scandal of our lifetime, to cheat their way into power. When will it happen? When God says, … ENOUGH! God only allows sin, wrong doing, and iniquity to last a season and says, enough! That time is NOW!

“How can you say that Kris? You are speaking evil towards others and Christians are suppose to be loving and kind!” Listen, these are not my words, but God’s. Second, they have brought this all on themselves. It has nothing to do with what I say. Look at this verse:

Psalm 94:23 NKJV “He (God) has brought on them their own iniquity, and shall cut them off (destroy) in their own wickedness; The LORD our God shall cut them off.”

The more they try to cover this iniquity up  the more they are causing destruction in their own lives. Can you see it? I sure can! 

Remember the good news Saints, the upright in heart, the righteous ones, you and I, be glad! Rejoice before God exceedingly! God will rescue us!!! There is hope! There is always hope!!!

Your sister in Christ,

Kris Belfils

krisbelfils.com

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A Prophetic Word God gave me concerning the election.

Prophetic Word God gave me today (November 6, 2020):

I was cleaning and reorganizing my basement earlier today. I have a weekly Worship Team practice at my home every Thursday night. I wanted to make my basement more usable and welcoming for practice. There was clutter of boxes, instruments, husbands tools computer stuff, cables, big acoustic drum set, 2 couches, boxes of books and so much more. As I looked at the mess, I knew I had a plan for an outcome I wanted and would have, it just seemed overwhelming at the moment. The plan began to unfold even more as I cleared the mess. The Holy Spirit said, “Just as you have a plan in the middle of all of this chaos in your basement, I have a plan in the middle of all the election chaos.” The more I cleaned, the messier it seemed to get. I had to remove all the “junk” I didn’t need or it was broken and no longer worked. Things I really didn’t want to part with, or that I thought I needed. Some things I wanted to get rid of a long time ago. All to have a better worship and practice environment. I had to throw some of the clutter in the garbage. Some of the clutter stunk! I even had to throw away an old chair of my grandmothers as it was broken and worn down. I never used it. It just meant something to me because it was my grandmothers. As I moved things out, it exposed a lot of dirt. Dirt and dust I couldn’t see when all the clutter was there. I even found things I thought I lost. It took some time to clean and clear things all up but when it was done, I had so much more room and no clutter. I believe and declare this will be the same for Trump as they go to court and present their cases of voter fraud. It looks messy right now. It can look like they have won, but God has a plan! He knows the outcome! I just need to rest in Him and not in my flesh.