Categories
Apostolic Writings Discussions Prophets and Writings Torah

Renamed, reclaimed, restored: A Messianic journey of identity and purpose (Genesis 35–36; Isaiah 43; Matthew 11)

In this study, we explored how God calls us by name, transforming our identity from who we were to who He wants us to be. Through passages in Genesis, Isaiah, and Matthew, we see God’s covenant invitation to find rest in the leadership of Messiah Yeshua (Christ Jesus). Just as God renamed Jacob as Israel, we’re called to shed our old nature and embrace a new identity, taking on Yeshua’s light yoke of divine purpose and instruction, and experiencing true spiritual rest.

Categories
Apostolic Writings Appointments With God Discussions Pentecost/Shavuot

Spiritual viticulture: What Pentecost teaches us about thriving in God’s vineyard

Shavuot (Pentecost) isn’t just a harvest festival. This study explores its profound spiritual lessons about harvest and growth. Just like Wine Country grapevines need careful tending, so too our spiritual life requires intentional connection with God. This Festival of First Fruits remind us that everything is a gift, not our own achievement. Through challenges and Heaven’s empowerment by the Word (Yeshua, or Jesus) and the Spirit, we’re transformed from disconnected branches to fruitful participants in God’s redemptive work. It’s about gratitude, resilience and being part of something much larger than ourselves — Heaven’s harvest of the Earth.

Categories
Apostolic Writings Discussions Prophets and Writings Torah

Transformed by struggle: God’s refining process (Genesis 32; James 1; Obadiah)

This study explores spiritual growth through struggle, using biblical examples like Jacob’s wrestling with the divine messenger and apostle James’ instructions for encountering and conquering difficulties in life. The key themes include trusting God during trials, maintaining faith amid challenges, and understanding that struggles refine our character. These passages highlight how believers in Yeshua (Jesus) the Messiah are transformed through perseverance, seeking wisdom and clinging to God’s promises, ultimately preparing for the fullness of redemption.

Categories
Apostolic Writings Discussions Torah

Purity from the inside out: Heaven provides the Way (James 4; Genesis 32)

Ya’akov’s flight away from his father-in-law in Genesis 31-32 and Israel’s exodus from Mitzraim (Egypt) foreshadow the work of Messiah Yeshua (Christ Jesus). This study examines James 4 and related passages to see God’s consistent plan of transformation, drawing near to believers and calling them to holiness. The New Covenant’s promise of internal change, includes God’s writing His Torah on hearts. The Word and the Spirit enable believers to live as a “kingdom of priests” dedicated to Heaven’s purposes.

Categories
Apostolic Writings Discussions Life With God Prayer Prophets and Writings

Transforming pain: The Hannah principle (1Samuel 1–2)

Hannah’s prayers in 1Samuel 1–2 teach us about honest heart-wrenching grief, persistent faith and surrender to Heaven’s will. In this study, we also explored the parable by Yeshua (Jesus) of the persistent widow in Luke 18, James 5’s instruction on prayer for the sick, and John 11’s account of Yeshua’s weeping at Lazarus’ tomb. We discussed how Hannah’s desperate plea for a child mirrors humanity’s need for redemption, emphasizing community support, authentic prayer and hope in God’s ultimate plan of resurrection and restoration.

Categories
Apostolic Writings Discussions Torah

No place too hidden: God’s all-present mercy (Genesis 28; Ephesians 5)

Jacob’s ladder vision in Genesis 28:10-17 shows how God sees everything and desires closeness with us. Using passages from Psalms, Jeremiah, Isaiah and Ephesians, this study unpacked how nothing escapes God’s sight. The key message? God isn’t just watching to judge, but wants to connect with us. The Messiah bridges Heaven and Earth, transforming us from who we were to who He wants us to be.

Categories
Apostolic Writings Discussions Torah

Spiritual freedom: How to let go of grudges before they destroy you (Genesis 27; Genesis 4; Leviticus 19)

This study explores the destructive power of resentment by examining Esau’s grudge against Jacob (Genesis 27) and Cain’s anger toward Abel (Genesis 4). Unchecked emotions can lead to hatred and potential violence. However, God’s Word (particularly, the Golden Rule) offers a transformative path: choose love over vengeance, seek reconciliation and allow God’s Spirit to heal wounds. By mastering our impulses and embracing forgiveness, we can break cycles of bitterness and experience divine restoration.