I recently completed a Bible study in 1 Samuel 15. However, I was somewhat disturbed because God seemed harsh when dealing with King Saul. My concern was, "Would God deal with me or my loved ones this way?"

Then, God lovingly reminded me that He looks at the heart and not the outward manner of a person. Though, we all struggle with sin, when we truly repent and choose to turn from it, He is ALWAYS faithful to forgive us... However, when we "practice" sin by making it our norm or lifestyle, then, He pronounces judgement.

So, the truth of the matter is, SINCE God loves, THEREFORE He disciplines. Much like any parent, correction and discipline is meant to get our attention so we can correct our errors and don't have to experience harsher consequences for our wrongdoings. (Proverbs 3:11-12)

I'm so thankful for a Father that loves me enough to say "NO", so that later He can say, "Yes, well done!"
How about you?

Many Blessings,

Naifa White

Without a compass we can easily go astray. Even as Christians, if we lose sight of God's will, we can easily veer off course into dangerous territory. So, if you've been pursuing God but recently experienced silence or a long "lull",  Just stop!
1 - Recalibrate your internal compass before proceeding.
 (Pray and ask God for wisdom).
2 - Wait, listen and then receive your direction from the Lord. (Don't fall into the temptation of figuring out life alone).

"The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in Him."  (Psalm 37:23 NIV)
(Don't attempt to lead God....Let HIM lead you!

P.S. Often God's silence is a result of our disobedience. Perhaps, He has already told you to do something. However, you haven't quite gotten around to doing it yet. (God's silence has a way of getting our attention.)
Additionally, God's silence may be confirmation that He's working out the details of your life. If you've been praying according to the principles and promises of God's word (the Bible), just hold on. Your answer IS coming. Anything worth having takes time!

No matter what your situation, just know that, "If God is for you, who can be against you?" (Romans 8:31 NIV).

Many Blessings,
 
Naifa White 

If you have a loved one that you've been praying for (praying that they would come to know the Lord), let me encourage you. Don't be angry with them. Don't be impatient with them and most of all, don't judge them because we've all walked that path before- that path where we have to acknowledge our own weaknesses and shortcomings and our need for God.

Know this: God has already planted seeds, God was already watered those seeds, and now it's just time to wait and let those seeds of truth grow and develop into faith. Don't rush it!!... Let God do it in His timing because when they are ripe (ripe for the picking); when they get to that place where they are desperate for God, You will not be able to...Hell will not be able to hold them back from pursuing God! So, just know that whatever God has started...He WILL bring it to completion. (Philippians 1:6)

Be blessed!!

Naifa