HAROLD MAWELA

Living a Life of Service: Serving Others in Love Scripture: 2 Thessalonians 3:10 - "For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: 'The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.'" 1. Service is a foundational principle of the Christian faith, modeled by Jesus Christ Himself. 2. Serving others is not just about earning a living, but about fulfilling our purpose and calling as followers of Christ. 3. Every act of service, no matter how small, has the potential to glorify God and impact the lives of those around us. 4. When we serve others selflessly, we demonstrate the love of Christ and reflect His character to the world. 5. Let us commit to living a life of service, guided by the example of Jesus and motivated by love for our neighbors. Prayer: Heavenly Father, remind us of the value of serving others in love, not for our own gain but for the glory of Your name. Help us to imitate Christ in all that we do, showing kindness and compassion to those in need. Ma...

Living by Biblical Principles: Seeking Guidance in Every Decision Scripture: Proverbs 3:6 - "In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." 1. Pray for guidance in every decision, big or small. 2. Study the Word of God daily to deepen your understanding of Biblical principles. 3. Seek wise counsel from fellow believers who can offer Biblical perspective. 4. Trust in God's plan for your life, even when the path is unclear. 5. Practice humility and obedience in following God's Word in all aspects of your life. Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for providing us with your Word as a guide for our lives. Help us to seek your wisdom and guidance in every decision we make, so that we may live according to your Biblical principles. Amen. My Story As I grappled with the decision of how to live my life by Biblical principles, I found myself facing numerous daily choices that didn't seem to have a clear answer in the pages of Scripture. How was I suppo...

Transformation through Prayer: How Prayer Changes You Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 1. Prayer aligns your heart with God's will, transforming fear and doubt into trust and faith. 2. Prayer humbles you, reminding you of your dependence on God's grace and guidance. 3. Prayer shifts your focus from self-centered desires to God's greater purpose for your life. 4. Prayer connects you with the power of God's promises, strengthening your faith and resolve. 5. Prayer changes your perspective, allowing you to see challenges as opportunities for growth and deeper intimacy with God. Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of prayer that not only changes our circumstances but also transforms us from within. Help us to approach you with reverence, ...

Heading: Overcoming Spiritual Dryness Through Examination and Abiding in God Scripture: Lamentations 3:40 - Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord. 1. Be intentional about examining your spiritual life regularly. Reflect on your thoughts, actions, and attitudes towards God. 2. Ask God to search your heart and reveal any areas of sin or disobedience that may be hindering your relationship with Him. 3. Stay committed to daily prayer and reading the Bible. Make time to seek God and listen for His voice. 4. Surround yourself with a community of believers who can offer support and encouragement during times of spiritual dryness. 5. Remember that abiding in God requires effort and intentionality. Stay rooted in His word and seek His presence daily. Prayer: Dear God, help me to be honest with myself and with You as I examine my spiritual life. Show me any areas of weakness or sin that I need to confess and surrender to You. Help me to abide in You daily and to dr...

Building Spiritual Strength Scripture: Romans 5:3-4 - "Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." 1. Just as physical strength grows through exertion against resistance, spiritual strength grows through challenges and adversity. 2. It is important to actively seek out opportunities to build your faith and understanding by facing spiritual resistance. 3. Do not be discouraged by obstacles or trials in your spiritual journey; they are essential for your growth and development. 4. Embrace the challenges that come your way, knowing that they will ultimately lead to a deeper faith and stronger relationship with God. 5. Trust in God's guidance and strength as you face spiritual resistance, knowing that He is with you every step of the way. Dear God, help us to embrace the challenges and obstacles that come our way in our spiritual journey. Give us the strength and courage...

Harnessing Personal Influence for God's Kingdom Scripture: Matthew 5:16 - "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." 1. Your personal influence is a powerful tool in spreading the message of the gospel. 2. Authentic relationships and conversations can have a deeper impact than mass advertising. 3. Be intentional about sharing your faith with those you know personally. 4. Use your influence to bring hope, love, and truth to others. 5. Trust in God's guidance as you navigate using your personal influence for His Kingdom. Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of personal influence. Help me to use this gift wisely and for Your glory. Guide me in spreading Your message of love and salvation to those around me through my words and actions. Amen. My Story As I navigate through my day, I am bombarded by carefully crafted advertisements, social media campaigns, and other media influences that seek to sway m...

Renew Your Mind in Christ's Truth Scripture: Ephesians 4:22-24 - "You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." 1. Embrace the gospel as the ultimate truth that transforms your perspective. 2. Surrender your old ways of thinking and allow God's word to renew your mind. 3. Resist the temptation to fit the gospel into your previous understanding. 4. Conform yourself to the superior truth of the gospel, aligning your life with God's will. 5. Daily pick up your cross, lay down your old life, and follow Christ faithfully. Lord, help me to let go of my old ways of thinking and open my heart and mind to Your transformative truth. Guide me in conforming myself to Your will and direction. May I walk in obedience, picking up my cross daily, and following Y...

Unseen Service: The Reward Scripture: Hebrews 6:10 - "God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them." 1. Our service to God may not always be recognized or rewarded by society, but God sees and values every act of service we do for Him. 2. While earthly fields may have awards and recognition for success, serving in the Kingdom of God often goes unseen and unrewarded by human standards. 3. God assures us that He sees our work and the love we show Him by helping His people, and He will not forget our efforts. 4. The reward for our service may not come in the form of material possessions or public acclaim, but it brings eternal blessings and fulfillment. 5. Let us remain faithful and patient in our service to God, trusting that He sees and will reward us according to His perfect justice. Prayer: Father, thank you for valuing and remembering the work and love we show in serving you and helpi...

Unrequited Love: A Reflection on Love and Likeness Scripture: "We love because he first loved us." - 1 John 4:19 1. Love is a powerful force that can be both fulfilling and painful. 2. Loving others deeply does not always guarantee that love will be reciprocated in the same way. 3. Despite the possibility of not receiving the same amount of love in return, continue to love unconditionally. 4. When others fully embrace and receive our love, it can transform them and deepen their ability to love in return. 5. Trust in God's love for us as the foundation of our own ability to love others selflessly. Prayer:  Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of love that you have poured into our hearts. Help us to love others without expecting anything in return, knowing that your love is more than enough to sustain us. May we continue to show love and kindness to all, mirroring your love for us. Amen. My story I am a wanderer of the heart, a soul bound by the threads of love that weav...

The Importance of Genuine Character in Achieving Greatness Scripture: Proverbs 20:7 - "The righteous lead blameless lives; blessed are their children after them." 1. Contrary to fictional stories, true achievement is rooted in genuine character. 2. Rebellious loners who break rules may achieve temporary success, but lasting greatness requires integrity. 3. Surround yourself with people of strong character who inspire you to be better. 4. Cultivate virtues such as honesty, humility, and perseverance to achieve meaningful success. 5. Trust in God's plan and allow Him to mold your character for His purposes. Prayer: Heavenly Father, guide us to build our character on the foundation of Your truth and righteousness. Help us to seek greatness not in rebellion, but in faithfulness and integrity. May our achievements bring glory to Your name. Amen. My story I have always been drawn to stories of rebellious loners who make up their own rules and ultimately achieve greatness. Wheth...

  Overcoming Mountains: The Power of Faith Scripture: Matthew 17:20 - He replied, "Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." 1. Trust in the power of faith: Just as a tiny seed can grow into a mighty tree, your faith can move mountains in your life. 2. Stand firm in your beliefs: Like the plant breaking through the rock, stay steadfast in your convictions and beliefs, knowing that you can overcome any obstacle. 3. Keep your focus on God: By keeping your eyes on God, you can find the strength and courage to face even the most daunting challenges. 4. Embrace the force of life: Allow the force of life and God's presence to work through you, transforming obstacles into opportunities for growth. 5. Believe in the impossible: With God, all things are possible. Have faith that you can overcome any mountain...

Seeking the Approval of God Above All Else   Scripture: John 15:19 - "If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you."  1. Not everyone will like you, and that's okay.  2. Focus on pleasing God rather than seeking the approval of others.  3. The opinions of those who love and support you hold more weight than those of strangers.  4. Strive to align your actions and choices with God's will, rather than seeking the approval of the world.  5. Remember that the Father's love and approval are what truly matter in the end.  Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to prioritize seeking your approval above all else. May we find fulfillment and contentment in knowing that we are loved by you, and that your opinion of us is what truly matters. Amen. My story I have always known that not everyone will like me, and that is okay. I have come to accept that...

Giving Wisely and Generously: A Biblical Perspective Scripture: "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." - 2 Corinthians 9:7 1. Give with a joyful heart, knowing that God blesses those who are generous. 2. Seek guidance from God and His word on how much to give and where to give. 3. Give without expecting anything in return, trusting that God will reward you in His own way. 4. Give out of love and compassion for those in need, not out of obligation. 5. Remember that true value lies in giving selflessly and making a positive impact in the lives of others. Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to be wise and generous in our giving, following Your guidance and showing love to those in need. May we give cheerfully and without expectation, knowing that You bless those who give selflessly. Amen. My story I have always been someone who values my money and tries to make sure I am getting the...

Miracles in the Ordinary: Recognizing God's Hand in Everyday Life Scripture: "For nothing will be impossible with God." - Luke 1:37 1. Divine Timing: Recognize the perfect timing of events in your life that align with God's plan. 2. Unexpected Blessings: Appreciate the small blessings that are often overlooked but are evidence of God's goodness. 3. Unexplainable Favor: Experience moments where circumstances align in your favor, defying logic and explanation. 4. Answered Prayers: Acknowledge when prayers are answered in ways that surpass your expectations. 5. Faith Building: Allow these instances to strengthen your faith and trust in God's providence. Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the miracles you work in our lives, both big and small. Help us to recognize your hand in the everyday events that lead to blessings and growth in our faith. Amen. My story   I have experienced many moments in my life that I can only describe as miraculous. One in particular stands ...

  God's Protection in Times of Danger Scripture: Psalm 91:7-11 - A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. If you say, "The Lord is my refuge," and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. 1. God promises to protect us from harm, even in the midst of danger. 2. By making God our refuge and dwelling place, we invite His protection over our lives. 3. The angels of the Lord are assigned to watch over us and guard us from harm. 4. It is important to remain aware and grateful for God's protection, even when we cannot see it. 5. Trusting in God's promise of protection gives us peace and confidence in times of danger. Dear Lord, thank you for your promise of protection and for assigning angels to watch ove...

Feeling Favored by God: Embracing His Grace and Love Scripture: "For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace." - John 1:16 1. Reflect on the countless blessings and grace God has poured out upon you in your life. 2. Rejoice in the great joy of your salvation and the new life you have in Christ. 3. Recognize that God's favor is upon you not because of anything you have done, but because of His unconditional love for you. 4. Guard your heart against comparison with others, knowing that God's love for each of His children is unique and unchanging. 5. Embrace the feeling of being specially favored by God, knowing that you are deeply loved and cherished by Him. Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your unending grace and love. Help me to embrace the feeling of being favored by you, knowing that it is a reflection of your great love for me. May I never take for granted the blessings you have poured out upon me. Amen. My story Growing up, I always struggled with ...

  Healing Touch: Experiencing the Power of Faith and Virtue in Your Life Scripture: "And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years... came behind me, and touched the border of my garment: and immediately her issue of blood stanched." (Luke 8:43-44) 1. Your faith in God can lead to miraculous healing in your own life. 2. Jesus is the source of healing and virtue for you, and you can access it through your faith. 3. The power of God flows through you to bring healing and restoration to yourself and others. 4. By laying hands on yourself in faith and praying for healing, you can see the manifestation of God's power in your life. 5. As you step out in faith and trust in God's healing touch, you will not only experience physical healing but also grow in spiritual discernment. Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you for the example of the woman with the issue of blood, showing me the power of faith and virtue. Help me to step out in faith and trust in your healing touch in...

  Heading: Choosing Your Attitude Scripture: Proverbs 15:15 - "All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast." 1. Attitude determines your outlook on life - a positive attitude can lead to a more joyful and fulfilling life. 2. Your attitude affects how you interact with others - a positive attitude can lead to stronger relationships and better communication. 3. Choosing a positive attitude can help you overcome challenges and obstacles with resilience and grace. 4. Your attitude is a reflection of your inner thoughts and beliefs - choose to focus on gratitude and optimism. 5. Remember that you have the power to change your attitude at any moment - choose wisely and cultivate a mindset of positivity. Prayer: Dear God, help me to choose a positive attitude in every moment. Guide me to focus on gratitude, optimism, and joy, even in the face of challenges. Thank you for the ability to shape my own mindset and outlook on life. Amen. My st...

  Trusting in God's Promises Scripture: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jeremiah 29:11 1. Have faith in God's plan for your life 2. Trust in His timing, even when it feels uncertain 3. Step out in confidence, knowing that He will guide your path 4. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth 5. Remember that with God by your side, you are capable of anything Dear Lord, grant me the courage to step out in faith, knowing that You are always there to catch me. Help me to trust in Your plan for my life and to spread my wings in confidence, knowing that You have equipped me for the journey ahead. Amen. My story Once upon a time, there was a young man named Peter who had always dreamed of spreading his wings and chasing his dreams. However, fear and doubt held him back, causing him to stay grounded and hesitant to take risks. But one day, Peter met a wise old woman ...

  Following Jesus as His Disciple Scripture: Matthew 28:19-20 "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." 1. High Level of Devotion: Being a disciple involves a deep commitment to following Jesus and living according to His teachings. 2. Modeling Yourself After Jesus: A disciple seeks to emulate the character and actions of Jesus in their own life. 3. Willingness to Change: Being a disciple requires a willingness to change and grow, conforming oneself to the image of Christ. 4. Reproducing Yourself in Others: Discipleship involves not only following Jesus personally, but also sharing the good news and making disciples of others. 5. Commandment to Make Disciples: Jesus commands all believers to go and make disciples, spreading His message of love and salvation to all nations...

  Navigating Challenges with God's Wisdom: Every Problem Is Always A Wisdom Problem Scripture: Proverbs 2:6 - For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. 1. Seek wisdom from God through prayer and reading the Bible. 2. Trust in God's plan and timing, knowing that He is always in control. 3. Surround yourself with wise counsel and seek advice from trusted mentors. 4. Be open to learning from your mistakes and growing from them. 5. Remember that God's wisdom surpasses human understanding, and rely on Him in times of confusion. Dear Lord, I pray for wisdom in every situation I face. Help me to trust in Your guidance and seek Your knowledge in all things. Amen. My story  Once there was a young man named Victor who faced many trials and challenges in his life. He had lost his job, his relationship had ended, and he was struggling to make ends meet. Despite his hardships, Victor held on to his faith and believed that God had a plan for him. One day...