HAROLD MAWELA

  ## What You Respect, You Will Attract **Scripture: Proverbs 22:11 (ESV) - "He who loves purity of heart, and whose speech is gracious, will have the king as his friend." **5 Key Points:** 1. **Our Inner Focus Shapes Our Reality:** What we value and esteem in our hearts will naturally draw towards us. If we respect honesty, we are more likely to encounter honest people.  2. **Respecting Others Attracts Their Respect:** When we treat others with respect, even if they differ from us, we show a depth of character that commands respect in return. 3. **Respect for God Brings His Blessing:** A reverent heart that acknowledges God's authority and goodness attracts His favor and guidance. 4. **Respecting Your Own Worth Attracts Opportunities:** When we believe in our own potential and value, we open ourselves to opportunities that align with our talents and aspirations. 5. **Respecting Others' Boundaries Builds Trust:** Acknowledging the limits and preferences of others f...

Nurturing Lasting Friendships Scripture: Proverbs 17:17 - "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity." 1. Friendships require maintenance and effort. 2. Superficial friendships may fade away with changing circumstances. 3. True friends stand the test of time and distance. 4. Thoughtfulness and generosity are key in maintaining lasting friendships. 5. Taking initiative in staying connected shows true friendship. Action Plan: - Reach out to a long-distance friend today to show them you care and value the relationship. Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the gift of friendship. Help me to nurture and maintain the friendships that bring joy and support into my life. Guide me in showing thoughtfulness and generosity towards my friends, and grant me the strength to take the initiative in keeping these connections alive. Amen. My story I have always prided myself on being a friendly and sociable person, able to make connections easily with those around m...

Finding Your Dream Home in God's Kingdom Scripture: John 14:2 - "In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?" 1. Our ultimate dream home is not found in this world, but in God's eternal kingdom. 2. God has prepared a special place for each one of us, with rooms beyond our imagination. 3. As pilgrims in this world, we are reminded that our true home is with God. 4. While we may desire bigger or better homes on earth, God's promise surpasses all earthly possessions. 5. May we find comfort and joy in knowing that our ultimate dream home is waiting for us in God's kingdom. Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for preparing a special place for us in your eternal kingdom. Help us to remember that our true home is with you, and may we find peace in knowing that your promise surpasses all earthly desires. Amen. My story   I do have a dream house in mind, a beautiful and spacious home with a large gard...

  Heading: Resting in God's Faithfulness Scripture: Psalm 36:5 - "Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies." 1. God's faithfulness is limitless, extending beyond our comprehension. 2. We can find peace and security in knowing that God's faithfulness never fails. 3. In times of uncertainty, we can lean on God's unwavering faithfulness as our rock. 4. God's faithfulness is a beacon of hope in times of trouble and a reason to give thanks in times of joy. 5. Let us cultivate a deeper trust in God's faithfulness through prayer, worship, and studying His Word. Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your steadfast faithfulness that never wavers. May we find rest and assurance in your unchanging love and promises. Help us to trust in your faithfulness more each day and to share your love with those around us. In Jesus' name, Amen. My story  When I look back on my life, I see a series of moments where God's faithfulness was e...

  God's Perfect Timing Scripture: "But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day." - 2 Peter 3:8 1. Trust in God's timing, for He knows what is best for us. 2. Be patient and have faith that God's plan will unfold in His perfect timing. 3. Surrender your desires and plans to God, allowing Him to lead the way. 4. Remember that delays are not denials, and God's timing is always right on schedule. 5. Be content in every season, knowing that God is working all things for your good. Dear Lord, help us to trust in Your perfect timing and to have faith that Your plan for our lives is greater than we can imagine. May we surrender our desires to You and patiently wait for Your timing to unfold. Amen. My story  As I reflect on my life, I am reminded of the countless times that God's timing has played a significant role in shaping my story. From the seemingly small moments to the life...

Heading: Embracing the Unknown, Walking with the One Known Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." 1. Remember God's faithfulness in the past: Reflect on how God has seen you through difficult times before, and trust that He will do so again. 2. Seek his guidance through prayer and scripture: Stay connected to God through prayer and reading His Word to find comfort and direction in times of uncertainty. 3. Surrender control and trust in His plan: Let go of the need to control every situation and trust that God has a plan for your life, even when you can't see it. 4. Lean on your faith community for support: Surround yourself with other believers who can encourage you and pray for you during uncertain times. 5. Be patient and wait on the Lord: God's timing may not align with our own, but trusting in His perfect timing will bring ...

Embracing the Role of a Servant in God's Kingdom Scripture: Matthew 20:28 - "Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." 1. The role of a servant in God's kingdom is not a stepping stone, but a permanent position of honor. 2. Jesus himself was a servant and calls us to follow in his footsteps. 3. Serving others is a way to show love and humility, reflecting the character of Christ. 4. Embracing the role of a servant allows us to experience the joy and fulfillment of serving others selflessly. 5. Seek to understand God's kingdom and the importance of serving in it, rather than seeking promotion or recognition. Dear Lord, help us to embrace the role of a servant in your kingdom with humility and joy. May we follow the example of Jesus in serving others selflessly and with love. Amen.   My story As I sat pondering these words, a sense of conviction washed over me. I realized that my perspective on servan...

Perceiving Conviction for Sin: Analyzing Behavior and Moral Repugnance Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 - "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." 1. Analyze your behavior in light of God's word - compare your actions to what is being taught in the Bible. 2. Pay attention to any sense of moral repugnance - sometimes the Holy Spirit may convict you of sin in a way that is beyond human understanding. 3. Remember that God speaks in many ways - through scripture, through the still small voice within you, and through other means. 4. Allow the Spirit to intercede for you - when you are unsure of how to proceed, trust in the Holy Spirit to make intercession for you. 5. Seek approval through scripture and the Holy Spirit - study and listen for guidance in all things. Dear God, help us to be sensitive to your conviction for sin in our lives....

Trusting in God Amidst Suffering Scripture: "And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you." - 1 Peter 5:10 1. Suffering is a natural part of life, but in the midst of it, God promises restoration and strength for those who trust in Him. 2. The Bible teaches that suffering can refine our character and draw us closer to God, ultimately producing perseverance and faith. 3. The early church leaders embraced suffering for Christ's sake, viewing it as a privilege rather than a burden. 4. While we may not understand God's ways in the midst of suffering, we can trust in His goodness and sovereignty over our lives. 5. Through prayer and dependence on God, we can find peace and hope in the midst of trials and tribulations. Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to trust in Your promises of provision, blessing, and protection even in the midst of sufferi...

Studying the Word of God: Gaining Understanding and Avoiding Confusion Scripture: "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 1. Approach the Word of God with humility and a desire to learn, rather than trying to prove a preconceived idea or agenda. 2. Seek guidance from the Holy Spirit as you study, asking for discernment and wisdom to understand the deeper meanings behind the text. 3. Compare scripture with scripture, allowing the Bible to interpret itself and prevent misinterpretation. 4. Avoid cherry-picking verses to fit your beliefs and instead, examine the passage within the context of the entire Bible. 5. Trust in the consistency and truth of God's Word, knowing that it reflects His unchanging character and will never lead you astray. Prayer: Heavenly Father, guide us as we study your Word, granting us wisdom and insight to comprehend its truths. Help us to approach scrip...

Seek and You Shall Find: Overcoming Skepticism with Faith Scripture: Matthew 7:7 - "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you." 1. Skepticism is a prevalent mindset in our age, but unbelief should not be considered normal. 2. When faced with skeptical crowds, Jesus marveled at their unbelief, showing that faith is the true abnormality. 3. Seeking purely materialistic explanations may lead to false truths, but seeking the Kingdom of God will reveal the true nature of reality. 4. By seeking God first, we can see His handiwork and involvement in our lives, leading to a deeper faith and understanding. 5. Walking in a continually unfolding revelation of God allows us to overcome skepticism and find true faith in Him. Dear Lord, help us to overcome skepticism and unbelief by seeking You first in all things. Give us the faith to see Your handiwork in our lives and guide us in our journey to seek and find You. Amen. My story   I gr...

Living by God's Kingdom Principles in Finances Scripture: Isaiah 55:2 - "Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy?" 1. Evaluate your spending habits - Reflect on whether your purchases align with God's values. 2. Find contentment in simplicity - Seek joy in the simple pleasures and blessings in life. 3. Give generously and wisely - Share your resources with others and support causes close to God's heart. 4. Avoid materialistic temptations - Resist the urge to seek fulfillment in material possessions. 5. Trust in God's provision - Believe that God will provide for your needs as you prioritize His kingdom in your finances. Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to align my spending with the values of your kingdom. Guide me to use my resources wisely and generously to honor you. Amen. My story   I used to be someone who thought that money could buy happiness. I was always on the hunt for the latest gadgets,...

Overcoming Fear with Faith in God Scripture: Psalm 56:3 - When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. 1. Fear is a natural human emotion but can lead to sin if we let it control us. 2. Trusting in God's promises helps us overcome fear and move forward in faith. 3. Making decisions out of fear can hinder us from experiencing the abundant life God has for us. 4. God's love and care for us are the foundation of our confidence to face the unknown future. 5. Trusting in God's guidance and provision leads to a life of peace and fulfillment. Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to turn to you in times of fear and uncertainty. Strengthen our faith in your love and protection so that we may walk confidently in the path you have set before us. Amen. My story  As I sat reading these words, a wave of fear washed over me. What if I had been living in fear without even realizing it? What if I had been holding myself back from the blessings and abundance that God had in store for me because of m...

The Essence of True Worship Scripture: 1 Samuel 15:22 - But Samuel replied: “Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams." 1. Worship extends beyond music to include obedience and adoration. 2. Leading a holy life is the most profound act of worship. 3. Obedience to God is valued more than religious rituals or sacrifices. 4. Take time to reflect on how you can live a life that honors and pleases God. 5. Offer God the gift of a broken and contrite heart in humble worship. Prayer: Almighty God, teach us the true meaning of worship. May we offer you not just songs, but lives filled with obedience, adoration, and holiness. Help us to prioritize obeying you above all else and to present our broken and contrite hearts as offerings of true worship. Amen. My story   The word 'worship' brings to mind for me a deep sense of connection with God, a feeling of awe an...

Receiving Complete Healing and Abundance in Christ Scripture: Matthew 9:35 - "Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness." 1. Seek healing through the atonement of Jesus Christ, knowing it is available to you. 2. Look beyond physical healing to find a life of abundance and fulfillment in Christ. 3. Approach God with your needs and receive His healing touch in all areas of your life. 4. Remain in God's presence through prayer and fellowship to allow His work to continue in you. 5. Trust in God's perfect plan and timing for your complete healing and fulfillment. Heavenly Father, thank you for the healing and abundance we find in Jesus Christ. Help us to bring our needs before you, seeking not only physical healing but also spiritual wholeness. May we remain in your presence, allowing you to complete the good work you have started in us. Amen. My story Growin...

Communion with God in Prayer Scripture: Psalm 17:6 "I call on you, my God, for you will answer me; turn your ear to me and hear my prayer." 1. Bring your petitions to God with confidence, knowing that He hears and answers prayer. 2. Don't rush through your prayer time; take the time to listen for God's voice and direction. 3. Allow God to bring His concerns to your attention and pray accordingly. 4. Seek for alignment with God's will in your prayers, and trust in His perfect plan. 5. Continually seek communion with God through prayer, not just seeking answers but seeking His presence and guidance. Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the privilege of prayer and the assurance that You hear and answer. Help me to remain in Your presence, listening for Your voice and aligning my prayers with Your will. Amen. My story I had always been a spiritual person, seeking a deeper connection with God through prayer and meditation. I found solace and peace in communing with Him,...

Taking Captive Every Thought: How to Combat Unwelcome Intrusive Thoughts Scripture: "We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." - 2 Corinthians 10:5 1. Recognize the intruder: Identify the unwelcome thoughts or distractions that are plaguing your mind. 2. Exercise your authority: Remember that you have the power and authority to take every thought captive in obedience to Christ. 3. Command your thoughts: Speak out loud against the unwanted thoughts and declare that they have no place in your mind. 4. Meditate on positive things: Fill your mind with thoughts that are pure, lovely, and holy, in order to combat the negative intrusions. 5. Embrace the mind of Christ: Strive to think and meditate on the things that align with Christ's teachings and principles. Prayer: Lord, help me to recognize and take captive every thought that is not in alignment with your wil...

  Empathy and Compassion: Feeling the Pain of Others Scripture: 1 Peter 3:8 - "Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble." 1. Feeling the pain of others is a sign of empathy and compassion. 2. It allows us to connect with others on a deeper level and show them love and support. 3. Not feeling pain at the suffering of others can lead to apathy and a lack of understanding. 4. Developing empathy and compassion can help us grow closer to God and reflect His love to those around us. 5. When we feel the pain of others, we are more motivated to take action and help alleviate their suffering. Dear God, help us to develop empathy and compassion for those around us. May we feel the pain of others as if it were our own and be moved to act with love and kindness. Amen. My story I have always been someone who feels deeply. From a young age, I have experienced my fair share of physical pain through injuries and afflictions. Each time...

Walking in Righteousness: Surround Yourself with Godly Company Scripture: "Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners." - 1 Corinthians 15:33 1. Choose your friends wisely. The company you keep can greatly influence your thoughts, actions, and character. 2. Strive to surround yourself with like-minded individuals who will encourage you in your faith journey. 3. Be cautious of forming close bonds with those whose beliefs and values do not align with yours. 4. Seek out friends who share your love for God and are committed to following His teachings. 5. Trust in God to bring the right people into your life who will uplift and support you on your spiritual walk. Prayer: Heavenly Father, guide me in choosing godly companions who will lead me closer to You. Help me to discern those who will honor and respect my faith, and grant me the wisdom to cultivate relationships that reflect Your love and grace. Amen. My story   In my personal story, I have learned that surroun...

Embracing the Joy of Work Scripture: "By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread until you return to the ground..." - Genesis 3:19 (NRSV) 1. Work is not a curse, but a blessing in disguise. It allows us to fulfill our purpose and contribute to society. 2. Many long for the opportunity to work and provide for themselves and their families. Let us be grateful for the jobs we have. 3. Work is more than just a means of earning a living. It allows us to grow, learn, and develop our skills. 4. When we approach work with the right attitude, we can find joy and fulfillment in our daily tasks. 5. Let us remember that our work can be a form of worship, honoring God with the abilities and opportunities He has given us. Prayer: Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of work and the ability to contribute to the world around us. Help us to see the joy and purpose in our daily tasks, and may we always work with a spirit of gratitude and dedication. Amen. My story Work has always been a part o...

Divine Mandate: Loving Your Enemies Scripture: Matthew 5:44 - But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. 1. Acknowledge Enemies: Recognize that enemies may come in different forms, including those who oppose your beliefs. 2. Practice Acceptance: Be generous in accepting others, regardless of differences or conflicting views. 3. Avoid Judgment: Refrain from judging the intentions of those who may act as enemies towards you. 4. Extend Grace: Remember God's grace towards you and extend the same grace to your enemies. 5. Reflect Christ: Represent Christ by showing love, forgiveness, and compassion towards your enemies. Heavenly Father, grant me the strength and wisdom to love my enemies as You have commanded. Help me to show grace and forgiveness, and to be a beacon of Your love in a world that may oppose Your truth. May my actions lead others to You. Amen. My story Growing up, I was raised in a Christian household where the teachings of love and forgivenes...