Showing posts with label delighting in God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label delighting in God. Show all posts

Saturday, May 30, 2026

The Danger of Worldliness Creeping into The Church

 One of the saddest things I see today is how much the church has allowed the world to influence it. Instead of being different from the world, many churches seem determined to look, act, and think just like it. The Bible calls Christians to be a light in the darkness, but too often our light has become dim because we are trying so hard to fit in.

God’s Word tells us, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Yet many Christians have become comfortable with things that God’s Word clearly warns against. We see compromise where there should be conviction. We see entertainment replacing discipleship. We see popularity becoming more important than holiness.

As Christians, we have a responsibility to represent Christ well. Sadly, many people outside the church see Christians as hypocrites. They hear us talk about love, honesty, and faith, but then they watch some "believers" live no differently than the world around them. When our actions don’t match our words, it damages our witness.

I believe this is one reason many non-Christians are not interested in becoming Christians. They look at the church and wonder, “Why should I join something that doesn’t seem any different from what I already have?” They see fighting, gossip, pride, compromise, and division. Instead of seeing Jesus reflected in His followers, they often see people who claim Christ but do not live like Him.

The answer is not for the church to become more like the world. The answer is for the church to become more like Christ. We need Christians who are committed to prayer, faithful to God’s Word, and willing to stand for truth even when it is unpopular. We need believers who love others sincerely and live out their faith every day.

The world does not need a church that imitates it. The world needs a church that points people to Jesus. It needs believers whose lives demonstrate the transforming power of the gospel. When we truly live for Christ, people will see that there is something different about us—not because we are better than anyone else, but because Christ is changing us from the inside out.

My prayer is that Christians everywhere will examine their own hearts and ask God to help them live faithfully. Revival does not begin with the world. Revival begins with God’s people humbling themselves before Him and returning to His ways.

2 Chronicles 7:14 

“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”

May we be known not for looking like the world, but for looking like Jesus.

1 Peter 2:9

“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:”

Monday, May 18, 2026

Don't Drift...

 

Don’t Drift

Jesus calls His followers to abide in Him, bear fruit, and continually grow in faith and obedience (John 15:4-5). The Christian life is one of ongoing transformation, where our thoughts, actions, and desires become more like Christ’s. This process doesn’t happen by accident—it requires daily surrender, intentional choices, and time in God’s Word.


When we stop pursuing God’s presence, we don’t just “pause” our progress. Our spiritual sensitivity starts to dull, and worldly influences quietly begin shaping our hearts. Just like a plant that stops receiving water and sunlight will wither, a believer who neglects spiritual nourishment will weaken.


The Bible warns us against drifting away (Hebrews 2:1). Drifting is subtle—it doesn’t have to require rebellion, only neglect. One small compromise leads to a dull conscience. Before long, we find ourselves in a place we never intended to be.


Satan doesn’t always tempt with big, obvious sins—sometimes his tactic is simply distraction. If the enemy can keep us too busy, too tired, or too entertained to seek the Lord, we’re already losing ground.


Paul said, “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14). Notice he didn’t say “I coast toward the mark.” The Christian race requires effort, discipline, and focus.

Think of your faith like climbing a hill—if you stop moving upward, you will begin sliding down. The Holy Spirit equips and strengthens us, but we must choose to walk with Him daily. There is no neutral ground in the church of God—you’re either growing closer to Him or drifting further away.

GROWTH IN GOD HAPPENS WHEN WE:

  • Stay rooted in Scripture — God’s Word is our daily bread (Matthew 4:4).

  • Live a life of prayer — Prayer keeps our hearts aligned with His will.

  • Obey promptly — Small acts of obedience build spiritual momentum.

  • Stay in fellowship — Other believers help us stay accountable and encouraged.

So, don’t settle for “good enough.” Keep pressing forward, keep your heart tender toward the Lord, and remember: a life of continual growth is the safest place for your soul.


Friday, May 8, 2026

A lot of churches stop growing...

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THERE ARE
so many people
who can’t seem to grow in their home church.

And truth be told, a lot of churches stop growing—so naturally, the people in them do too.

But when you stop growing,
you start slipping away.

HERE’S THE TRUTH:
Your growth was never meant
to depend solely on your church.

The Bible says,
“Study to shew thyself approved
unto God, a workman that needeth
not to be ashamed, rightly dividing
the word of truth.”
(2 TIMOTHY 2:15, KJV)

Your pastor and your church are meant to help you grow, but they aren’t supposed to be your only source. Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights aren’t enough to sustain your spiritual life. That’s why so many people become churchgoers rather than true followers of Christ—because growth takes personal effort.

You have to make Jesus your priority—above everything else. He must come first before anything and anyone.

SO START SEEKING HIM DAILY:
♥ Pray when you wake up.
♥ Pray throughout your day.
♥ Pray before you go to bed.
And don’t forget to study your Bible on your own.

Remember, there are false teachers out there. If you’re not rooted in God’s Word, you won’t be able to tell when something is being preached from the flesh instead of from the truth.

Spiritual growth isn’t about church attendance—it’s about personal relationship.
It’s about letting Jesus lead you, teach you, and transform you from the inside out.

www.BreanaGailPope.BlogSpot.com


 

Thursday, April 16, 2026

A post to the saved and unsaved

This is a post for everyone, whether you already know Jesus or you don’t know Him yet.


Life moves quickly, and it’s easy to get caught up in everyday things, but eternity is real. The Bible teaches there are only two paths: life with God or separation from Him. Because of Jesus we can have eternal life. Read John 3:16.


Jesus came, died for our sins, and rose again so we could be forgiven and have eternal life. That gift is available to anyone, but it’s more than just saying you believe. It’s a real relationship with Him that changes your heart, your desires, and the way you live.


For those who don’t know Him yet, He is ready to receive you with open arms. Why are you waiting? Nothing in this world is worth missing eternity with Him.


And for those who do know Him, keep growing in Him. Seek Him daily, stay in His Word, and let your life reflect Him. Don’t become comfortable or stagnant, draw closer to Him and let Him continue to change you.


I’m sharing this because I care. Eternity matters, and I want us all to be together in Heaven.


With love and prayers,  

Breana

Feel free to take a screenshot if you’d like to share this with someone.

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Monday, October 6, 2025

Growing as a Christian takes personal effort

There are so many people who can’t 

seem to grow in their home church.

And truth be told, a lot of churches stop growing—so naturally, the people in them do too.


But when you stop growing, you start slipping away.


Here’s the truth: your growth was never meant to depend solely on your church.


The Bible says, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15, KJV)


Your pastor and your church are meant to help you grow, but they aren’t supposed to be your only source. Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights aren’t enough to sustain your spiritual life. That’s why so many people become churchgoers rather than true followers of Christ—because growth takes personal effort.


You have to make Jesus your priority—above everything else. He must come first before anything and anyone.


So start seeking Him daily:

Pray when you wake up.

Pray throughout your day.

Pray before you go to bed.

And don’t forget to study your Bible on your own.


Remember, there are false teachers out there. If you’re not rooted in God’s Word, you won’t be able to tell when something is being preached from the flesh instead of from the truth.


Spiritual growth isn’t about church attendance—it’s about personal relationship.

It’s about letting Jesus lead you, teach you, and transform you from the inside out.

Sunday, September 21, 2025

God Is Waking Up Our Nation

Sometimes it feels like the world is upside down. Darkness is loud. Lies are celebrated. And standing for truth can feel lonely. There are moments when I think, am I the only one who sees it? Am I the only one holding on to God’s Word?


But then—I look around. I see people rising up. I see voices speaking truth with courage. I see God stirring hearts. And I’m reminded: I am not alone, and neither are you.

God Is Still on the Throne

No matter what is happening around us, no matter what headlines shout or leaders declare, God has not stepped off His throne. He rules and reigns in righteousness. His plans will stand. “The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all” (Psalm 103:19, KJB).


When the world seems chaotic, we can take comfort in knowing that nothing surprises Him. He is sovereign, He is faithful, and He will have His way.

A Great Awakening

Across this nation, people are waking up. The lies of the enemy are being exposed. Hearts are hungry for truth again. Families are standing firm in faith. Churches are crying out in prayer. The Holy Spirit is moving, and His light is shining brighter than the darkness.


It's about God calling His people back to Himself. It’s about repentance, revival, and returning to the only foundation that cannot be shaken: Jesus Christ.


We Are Not Alone

The enemy loves to whisper, “You’re the only one left. You’re standing alone.” But that’s a lie. Just like Elijah discovered when he thought he was the last prophet of God (1 Kings 19), the Lord has preserved many who will not bow to Baal. Today, too, there are countless believers across this land who are standing strong.

Every time we lift our voices in praise, every time we share truth, every time we shine light in dark places—we are part of God’s great work in this generation.


Praise God

So let’s not lose heart. God is moving. He is shaking what can be shaken so that only what is eternal will remain. He is waking up His people. He is waking up our nation. And He will finish what He started.

Let’s lift our eyes to Him and declare with confidence: Praise God—He is still on the throne!

Thursday, September 11, 2025

My mini prayer binder




I just wanted to show you my mini prayer binder that I got set up a couple days ago. 

I have sections in it for...

  • Repeated Prayers
  • Answered Prayers
  • Prayer Request 
  • Daily Prayers
  • Prayer List
Repeated prayers is the section where I pray these things over and over. I claim them in Jesus' name.

Answered Prayers is a section where I move prayer requests to when God answers.

The Daily Prayers section is for me to write prayers daily in.

A prayer list is a list of people to pray for.

I love my mini prayer binder SO much!

I bought the binder and the filler paper from amazon. It's nice to have beside my Bible. 

Monday, September 8, 2025

Are You Looking Through Denominational Glasses?

Reading the Bible Without Denominational Lenses

One of the most important questions every believer must ask is this: Am I letting Scripture speak for itself, or am I filtering it through the lens of my denomination?

Many Christians grow up within a church tradition—Baptist, Pentecostal, Methodist, or any other—and naturally adopt the doctrines taught within that group. But if you were to sit down and read the entire Bible, cover to cover, without any outside influence, would you come to the same conclusions as they did?

Scripture as the Final Authority

The Bible makes it clear that the Word of God is the standard for truth. The apostle Paul wrote:

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”

(2 Timothy 3:16, KJB)


Notice—profitable for doctrine. Every belief, teaching, and practice must be backed up by Scripture. If a doctrine cannot stand firmly on the Word of God, it cannot be true, no matter how many people believe it or how long it has been taught.

The Danger of Denominational Glasses

When we read the Bible through denominational “glasses,” we often end up confirming what we were already taught rather than discovering what God actually says. This is dangerous, because it can blind us to the full truth of Scripture.


For example, some highlight certain verses while ignoring others that may not fit their system. The result? Doctrines built more on tradition than on the plain reading of the Word.


Taking the Bible at Its Word

Imagine approaching the Bible with fresh eyes—no preconceived denominational framework, no church manual beside you, just the Scriptures themselves. Would you still conclude exactly what your denomination teaches? Or would you discover truths that challenge long-held assumptions?

Jesus Himself warned about this very issue:

“Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.”

(Matthew 15:6, KJB)


Tradition must always give way to truth. The question is not, Does my denomination teach this? but rather, Does the Bible teach this?

A Call to Honest Reading

As believers, we are called to test everything against God’s Word. That means being willing to lay aside denominational loyalty if Scripture shows us something different. The Bereans were commended because they “searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so” (Acts 17:11, KJB).

Will we do the same?

Final Thought

The Word of God is living, powerful, and sufficient. If your beliefs cannot stand on the foundation of Scripture alone, then it’s time to re-examine them. Don’t let denominational bias cloud the truth. Open the Bible, read it for yourself, and let God’s Word speak plainly.


Monday, September 1, 2025

Outreaching in Your Own Circle: Building Community Where You Are

For a long time, I prayed that God would give me new friendships. I wanted to meet new people, have new connections, and branch out into different circles. But one day, my mom gently reminded me of something that completely changed my perspective: “Cherish and build the friendships God has already given you.”

That was a heart check for me. I realized I had been overlooking the people right in front of me—the family, friends, neighbors, and community God had already placed in my life.


Wanting to Do Something for the Lord

Like many Christians, I had a deep desire to do something big for God. I wanted to help people, serve the Lord, and make a difference. A lot of people think that, that means we have to go far away—into ministry, overseas missions, or outreach programs to people I didn’t even know.

But the truth is, ministry starts at home. It starts with the people around you right now. You don’t have to travel across the world to make an eternal difference—you can shine Christ’s light in your own neighborhood, school, workplace, or church community.


The Need Is Here and Now

We sometimes think that “real” outreach means preaching to strangers, traveling to distant places, or doing something dramatic. While those are important and valuable, we also desperately need Christians who will be faithful to love, serve, and invest in their communities right here at home.

Your neighbors, classmates, coworkers, and even your own family need encouragement, truth, and hope. And often, the most powerful witness isn’t in a sermon—it’s in simple acts of kindness, consistency, and love.


Ten Practical Ways to Outreach in Your Community

Here are ten simple, practical ideas to start reaching out right where you are:

  1. Invite a friend to coffee or lunch – Take time to truly listen and encourage them.

  2. Start a Bible study in your home – Even with just a few people, God can use it mightily.

  3. Volunteer locally – Serve at a food pantry, community center, or homeless shelter.

  4. Check on your neighbors – A kind word, baked goods, or even mowing a lawn can open doors for friendship.

  5. Send encouraging notes or texts – A simple message can lift someone’s day more than you know.

  6. Offer prayer – Ask people in your circle how you can pray for them and follow up.

  7. Support local families in need – Help with meals, babysitting, or financial needs when God provides the opportunity. “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.” – Romans 12:10

  8. Host a fellowship night – Open your home for games, food, and laughter. Relationships grow through time together.

  9. Get involved in your church outreach team – Even small commitments can have big impacts.

  10. Live out your faith daily – Be kind, patient, and Christlike in everyday interactions. People notice authenticity. “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.” – Matthew 5:14


Closing Thoughts

You don’t have to wait for new friendships or faraway mission fields to make a difference. God has already placed people in your life who need His love, and He has chosen you to be the vessel to share it.

Outreach doesn’t always look like standing on a stage or traveling overseas. Sometimes, it looks like sitting at a kitchen table, delivering a meal, or simply listening when someone needs to talk.

Start where you are. Cherish the circle you already have. 

God put you there for a reason.

Saturday, August 30, 2025

What to Blog About When You Don’t Know What to Blog About: Ideas for Christian Bloggers

Every blogger has faced it—that blank screen, that blinking cursor, that quiet thought: “What do I even write about today?” It happens to all of us. But as a Christian blogger, you have a well that never runs dry: God’s Word and His work in your life. When you’re not sure what to blog about, here are some Spirit-led directions that can spark meaningful posts.

1. Share a Scripture Reflection

God’s Word is alive and powerful (Hebrews 4:12). Choose a verse or passage that has been speaking to you lately and share how it applies to your life. A simple devotional thought can bless someone else who needs that exact encouragement.

Example topics:

  • What Proverbs teaches about daily wisdom

  • A verse that comforted you during a trial

  • Lessons from the Psalms about worship

2. Testimony and Personal Story

Your readers connect with your story. Share how God has been faithful in your life—big or small moments. A testimony reminds others that God is still at work today.

Example topics:

  • A recent answered prayer

  • A challenge where you saw God’s hand at work

  • A personal struggle and how God gave strength

3. Practical Christian Living

Many readers are looking for guidance on how to live out their faith in everyday life. Write posts that bring biblical truth into daily routines.

Example topics:

  • How to keep God at the center of your busy day

  • Habits for growing in prayer

  • Ways to encourage a struggling friend in Christ

4. Book or Sermon Reviews

Share what you’ve been reading or listening to. Write a review of a Christian book, podcast, or sermon series. Highlight what inspired you and how it applies to faith.

Example topics:

  • Lessons from a recent sermon at church

  • A Christian book that deepened your prayer life

  • Favorite hymns or worship songs and their messages

5. Encouragement for Specific Seasons

Different seasons of life bring different challenges. Write posts that speak to those unique situations with biblical encouragement.

Example topics:

  • Trusting God in times of waiting

  • Finding peace in uncertain times

  • Gratitude in every season

6. Topical Bible Studies

Pick a theme—love, forgiveness, patience, prayer—and gather Scriptures that teach on it. This not only helps you grow but also provides your readers with a ready-made Bible study.

Example topics:

  • What the Bible says about forgiveness

  • God’s promises about fear and anxiety

  • Understanding God’s love through Scripture

7. Answer Questions Christians Ask

Think about questions you or your friends often wonder about. Writing posts that answer those questions can help many readers who are quietly searching.

Example topics:

  • How do I know God’s will for my life?

  • Why does God allow suffering?

  • What does it mean to “pray without ceasing”?


Final Thought

When you don’t know what to blog about, remember: you don’t have to invent content. You just need to share what God is teaching you, what He has already said in His Word, and how His truth meets life’s everyday moments. Blogging isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about pointing people back to the One who does.



Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Showing Kindness Even If Relationships Become One-Sided

Dear readers, today I want to talk about: Friendship

Friendships are one of God’s sweetest gifts. He created us for fellowship—for connection, encouragement, and love. 

But sometimes, friendships don’t turn out the way we hoped. Some relationships begin to feel heavy, especially when they become one-sided.

It can be wearying to always be the one reaching out, checking in, and carrying the weight of the relationship, while the other person hardly makes an effort. That kind of imbalance can leave us hurt and drained. God never intended friendships to feel like a burden. They are meant to be a source of mutual joy and strength.

When that balance is lost, it can be painful. It hurts when a close friendship fades or changes.  Sometimes friendships are only meant for a season, and letting go is part of His plan.

In those moments, our first instinct may be to close the door completely. But even in our hurt, God calls us to love. Jesus said, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you… and pray for them which despitefully use you” (Matthew 5:44). If we’re asked to love even those who stand against us, how much more should we show grace toward friends who may have drifted away?

Showing kindness doesn’t mean forcing closeness. It simply means keeping our hearts soft—choosing forgiveness instead of bitterness, and compassion instead of resentment. That small act of love may be the very glimpse of Christ someone needs to see.

It’s okay to guard our hearts. It’s okay to step back from unhealthy dynamics. But as we do, we can still pray for those friends, encourage them when our paths cross, and leave the door of kindness open. God can use even those quiet gestures in ways we don’t see.

At the same time, we are called to pursue life-giving friendships that draw us closer to Him: “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend” (Proverbs 27:17). These are the friendships that strengthen our faith and bring joy to our hearts.

And here is the hope we hold onto: when God allows one friendship to fade, He also prepares new ones. 

If you feel weary from one-sided relationships or saddened by closed doors, rest assured—God is still at work. Trust Him. Let go where you need to. And look ahead with hope, knowing He is preparing deeper, Christ-centered friendships and new opportunities to bless your life.

A Poem on Friendship

Friendship is a gift from above,
A treasure wrapped in grace and love.
God made our hearts for fellowship sweet,
For laughter, for comfort, for souls to meet.

But not every bond will stay the same,
Some fade like embers, lose their flame.
When love feels heavy, one-sided, untrue,
The heart grows weary, the spirit bruised.

God never meant for friends to drain,
But to lift each other through joy and pain.
Like bridges meeting in the middle,
Strong on both sides, not one left brittle.

And when the balance slips away,
It hurts to see close ties decay.
Yet seasons change by Heaven’s hand,
Each chapter part of God’s great plan.

In hurt, we’re tempted to close the door,
To guard our hearts and love no more.
But Christ has shown a better way—
To bless, forgive, and gently pray.

For kindness doesn’t force the near,
It softens hearts and makes love clear.
A prayer, a smile, a gentle word,
May be the gospel someone has heard.

So guard your heart, but keep it kind,
Let bitterness not cloud your mind.
Step back with wisdom, yet don’t despise,
For God sees deeper than our eyes.

Seek friends who sharpen, who lift you higher,
Who stir your faith and fan the fire.
“Iron sharpeneth iron,” says the Word,
A bond that reflects the voice of the Lord.

And here’s the hope when friendships part:
God’s still at work within your heart.
For every door that He may close,
A brighter path ahead He shows.

So trust His hand, release the past,
The sweetest friendships are those that last.
Christ-centered, strong, and heaven-blessed,
In His great love, your soul finds rest.


Why I'm Only Reading Books That Take Four Hours or Less

This year, I've made a decision that might sound strange to some readers: I'm mostly going to read books that would take four hours ...