Change Is a Good Thing
Real growth comes when we let God do the changing, not when we try to force it ourselves. His Spirit works in us little by little.
Change Is a Good Thing
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 04 September 2025
“And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
Change can be a funny thing. Some people love it. Others avoid it at all costs. But for those of us who follow Jesus, change is not just a possibility, it is a promise. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 3:18 that as we keep our eyes on Jesus, the Holy Spirit transforms us into His image, from glory to glory.
That means you and I are not meant to stay the same. God has more for us. He wants us to reflect more of His love, His patience, His kindness, and His joy each day. I do not know about you, but I want that. I want to see progress in my life. I want to be more loving tomorrow than I am today. I want to be the kind of person who remains gentle even when life feels rough.
The truth is, there are days when things do not go my way. Days when I feel stretched, tired, or even a little grumpy. Yet it is in those moments that the fruit of the Spirit is tested. Can I still be patient when the queue at the shop is long? Can I still speak kindly when I feel under pressure? Can I still walk in peace when circumstances are anything but peaceful?
The encouraging thing is this: we do not have to change ourselves in our own strength. I used to think I had to try harder, push more, and wrestle my way into becoming a better Christian. All that left me was frustrated. What I have learnt is that God changes me through His grace, not through my striving.
Little by little, the Holy Spirit works in us. He gently shows us areas where He wants to bring transformation. Then, as we surrender those areas to Him, He shapes us. He builds His character into us in ways we could never do on our own. Sometimes we notice big changes. Other times, it is only when we look back that we realise how far He has brought us.
So if you feel like you are still a work in progress, take heart. You are. We all are. And that is the point. God is not finished with you yet. Every season, every challenge, every joy is part of His plan to make you more like Jesus.
Let us welcome change, not fear it. Let us trust the Spirit to work in us from the inside out. And let us remember that every step forward, no matter how small, is moving us from glory to glory.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord, thank You that You love me just as I am, but You also love me too much to leave me that way. Help me to trust You with every area of my life. Shape me into the image of Jesus, little by little, through the power of Your Spirit. Amen.
Living Secure in God’s Approval
You don’t have to live chasing people’s approval. God’s “yes” is enough, and His love makes you secure.
Living Secure in God’s Approval
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 02 September 2025
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him.”
From the moment we’re young, we learn what it feels like to be praised—and what it feels like to be overlooked. Whether it’s at school, at work, or even in church, it’s easy to fall into the trap of seeking approval from people. A compliment lifts us, but a critical word can send us spiralling.
I’ve been there. I’ve felt the pull of wanting to be liked, noticed, and accepted by others. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying encouragement, but when our sense of worth rises and falls on people’s opinions, we’re standing on shaky ground.
The Bible reminds us of something far better: God’s love has been lavished on us. Not given sparingly. Not handed out in small portions depending on how well we perform. Lavished—poured out in abundance. And that love has given us the highest title we could ever have: children of God.
When you know you are fully approved by God, it changes everything. You no longer have to exhaust yourself trying to earn the approval of others. You don’t have to be crushed when someone doesn’t notice your efforts. You can walk in confidence knowing that your Father in heaven sees you, knows you, and delights in you.
I remember a time when I poured my heart into a project and expected certain people to acknowledge it. Their silence hurt. But in that moment, God whispered to my heart, “I saw it. I’m proud of you.” That reminder set me free from the need to be validated by everyone else.
Friend, God’s “yes” over your life is worth more than every human opinion put together. People’s approval is temporary. God’s approval is eternal. Let His voice be the loudest in your life. When you live from His approval instead of for people’s approval, you’ll find rest for your soul and confidence for your journey.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord, thank You that I am loved and approved by You. Help me to rest in Your acceptance and not chase after the approval of others. Let Your “yes” be enough for my heart every day. Amen.
Trading a Critical Spirit for a Grateful Heart
When gratitude fills your heart, criticism loses its grip. God invites us to live with thankful eyes that see His goodness in every season.
Trading a Critical Spirit for a Grateful Heart
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 02 September 2025
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
It’s easy to see what’s wrong. A slow queue at the shop, a friend who didn’t return a call, the one thing that went wrong in an otherwise good day—it all stands out, doesn’t it? If we’re not careful, a habit of noticing faults can grow into a critical spirit, and before long, we find ourselves focusing more on what’s missing than on what’s present.
I’ve had moments where I caught myself grumbling more than giving thanks. It can happen so subtly. We start with a small complaint, but if we feed it, it begins to colour how we see life. Soon, we miss the joy of what God is doing because we’re too busy pointing out what He hasn’t done yet.
But God’s Word gives us a different way: “Give thanks in all circumstances.” That doesn’t mean we have to pretend everything is perfect. It means we choose to look for God’s goodness even when life is far from easy. Gratitude doesn’t ignore reality, but it refuses to let negativity be the loudest voice.
I remember speaking to someone in our church who was going through a tough season. They said something that stayed with me: “I decided to find one thing to thank God for every morning. It didn’t fix my problems overnight, but it changed how I saw them.” That’s the power of gratitude—it shifts our focus from what’s wrong to the God who is always right here with us.
When we trade a critical spirit for a grateful heart, our relationships change too. We become encouragers instead of complainers. We speak life instead of pointing out flaws. And perhaps most importantly, we begin to notice God’s blessings that were there all along.
Friend, maybe today is the day to start that trade. Let’s ask God to pull out any root of criticism and plant a deep, lasting gratitude in our hearts. When we do, we’ll find our joy growing, our peace deepening, and our eyes opening to His goodness in every season.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord, thank You for every blessing You’ve placed in my life. Forgive me for the times I’ve focused more on what’s wrong than on what’s right. Teach me to live with a grateful heart and to see Your goodness even in difficult seasons. Amen.
Overcoming the Fear of Abandonment
Even when people walk away, God never leaves. His presence is your anchor, your comfort, and your constant companion.
Overcoming the Fear of Abandonment
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 01 September 2025
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
The fear of abandonment is a deep wound that can shape the way we see ourselves, others, and even God. It often begins with a painful moment, someone we trusted walked away, a parent was absent, a friend turned their back, or a promise was broken. Those moments leave us wondering, Will everyone eventually leave me?
I’ve met so many people who live with that fear quietly tucked away in their hearts. It can make us overly cautious in relationships, hesitant to trust, or desperate to please others so they won’t walk away. Sometimes, without even realising it, we can start thinking God might leave us too.
But Scripture reminds us of a powerful truth: The Lord himself goes before you and will never leave you nor forsake you. That’s not just a nice thought; it’s a promise from the One who cannot lie. People may leave, seasons may change, but God remains.
I’ve had seasons where I felt alone in the crowd, carrying burdens I didn’t think anyone understood. And in those moments, I found myself whispering, “Lord, are You still here?” Every single time, His presence reassured me: “I’m not going anywhere.”
The beauty of God’s presence is that it’s constant. He doesn’t just check in now and then; He walks with us through every high and low. The God who goes before you also stands beside you and lives within you.
If the fear of abandonment has taken root in your life, I want you to know that you can be free from it. You can build your life on the truth that God will never leave you. And as you do, that truth becomes an anchor in every storm.
Friend, you are not alone. You never have been, and you never will be. Even when it feels like everyone else has stepped away, God’s love steps in and holds you close. Rest in that promise today.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord, thank You that You will never leave me nor forsake me. Heal every place in my heart where I have felt abandoned. Help me to trust in Your constant presence and to live free from the fear of being left. Amen.
Breaking the Chains of Shame
Shame is a heavy burden that keeps us from living in freedom, but Jesus has already unlocked the chains. You can walk in His grace today.
Breaking the Chains of Shame
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 31 August 2025
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Shame is one of the enemy’s favourite tools. It whispers, “You’re not good enough. Remember what you did? That’s who you are.” It clings to our hearts like a shadow, following us into every conversation, every relationship, every quiet moment.
I know what it’s like to feel the weight of shame. Sometimes it comes from mistakes we’ve made. Other times it’s the result of things that were done to us. Either way, it tells us we’re unworthy, and it convinces us that God must see us the same way. But that’s not the truth.
Romans 8:1 tells us plainly, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” No condemnation. That means God is not sitting in heaven pointing the finger at you. If you have given your life to Jesus, He has already taken your guilt and shame on Himself at the cross.
The problem is, we often keep holding on to what God has already forgiven. It’s like sitting in a prison cell with the door wide open, yet refusing to walk out. The chains are already broken, but shame convinces us to stay put.
One of the turning points in my own walk with God was realising that shame doesn’t have to have the last word. Yes, we might remember our past, but in Christ, we are no longer defined by it. God gives us a new name: redeemed, forgiven, child of God.
If you’ve been living under the weight of shame, I want to encourage you today: Jesus didn’t just save you from your sins; He saved you from the shame that comes with them. When He looks at you, He sees the righteousness of Christ, not the stain of your past.
It’s time to step out of that prison cell. You don’t need to explain your way out; you just need to believe the truth of God’s Word. Let His voice be louder than the lies. Walk in the freedom He’s already given you.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord, thank You that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. I lay every memory, every regret, and every weight of shame at Your feet. Help me to see myself the way You see me: clean, forgiven, and free. Amen.
Rooted in Love, Not Rejection
Rejection tries to take root in our hearts, but God’s love is deeper, stronger, and unshakable. Let His truth define your worth.
Rooted in Love, Not Rejection
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 30 August 2025
Rejection is something we all encounter at some point in life. It might come from hurtful words spoken over us, being left out, a broken relationship, or even a season where we feel unnoticed or undervalued. It starts as a small seed, but if left unchecked, it can grow into something much bigger, a deep root that touches every part of our lives.
I’ve learned that whatever you are rooted in will always show up in the fruit you bear. If we are rooted in rejection, that root can produce bitterness, insecurity, anger, or self-pity. It can make us live as though something is wrong with us, even when God’s Word says the opposite. The enemy loves to steal the truth of God’s acceptance from us, replacing it with lies that we are unwanted or unworthy.
But here’s the good news: God’s love can replace every root of rejection. His acceptance is not based on what you’ve done or how others see you. It’s based on who He is and what Jesus has already accomplished on the cross. When Christ dwells in our hearts, when we let His love sink deep into our roots, everything changes.
I think of it like a tree. If the roots are healthy, the tree will bear good fruit. If the roots are damaged or poisoned, the fruit will reflect that. The same is true for us. If we are rooted in abuse, shame, guilt, or the thought that we are never enough, our lives will bear the fruit of that pain. But if we allow God’s love to be our foundation, we can stand strong, secure, and unshaken.
There have been seasons in my life when I felt overlooked or misunderstood. At times, rejection left me doubting my value. But each time I returned to the truth of Scripture, I found my footing again. God reminded me, “You are mine. You are loved. You are chosen.” Over time, I realised that healing doesn’t come from trying harder to be accepted by people. It comes from receiving the love and acceptance I already have in Christ.
Friend, you do not have to stay rooted in rejection. Those roots can be pulled out and replaced with the unshakable truth that you are loved and valued by God. If He could do it for me, He can do it for you too.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord, I thank You that my worth is found in You and not in the opinions of others. Uproot every lie of rejection from my heart, and let Your love take deep root in me. Help me to stand secure in the truth that I am chosen, accepted, and loved by You. Amen.
Grace for the Journey
No matter how long or hard the road, God’s grace gives you the strength to keep going.
Grace for the Journey
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 29 August 2025
“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”
The truth is, we can’t walk God’s path in our own strength. We need His grace – His supernatural power working in us to do what we could never do alone.
When the Israelites walked through the wilderness, they didn’t survive by their own ability. God gave them food every morning, guided them with a cloud by day and fire by night, and kept their clothes from wearing out. That is what grace looks like – daily provision for the journey.
I’ve learned that when I try to push through challenges in my own strength, I quickly grow weary. But when I pause, pray, and lean on God’s grace, I find new strength to take the next step.
Whatever road you’re on, know this – His grace is enough for today. You don’t need to see the whole journey to keep moving forward. Just trust that the One who called you will also carry you.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord, thank You for Your grace that meets me every day. Help me to lean on You instead of my own strength and to trust You to carry me through every step of the journey. Amen.
When the Hard Way Is the Best Way
God doesn’t lead us down the harder path to punish us but to prepare us for His promises.
When the Hard Way Is the Best Way
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 28 August 2025
““For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,”
declares the Lord.”
We often look for the easiest route in life – the one with the least resistance and the fastest results. But in God’s kingdom, the “easy way” is not always the best way.
The Israelites had to walk a difficult road through the wilderness, but it was along that road that they learned who God was. They saw Him provide manna from heaven, water from a rock, and victory over their enemies. The lessons they learned in the wilderness prepared them for the Promised Land.
I’ve seen this in my own life. Some of the most powerful seasons of growth have come in the middle of difficulty. It was in those moments I learned to pray more deeply, worship more passionately, and trust more fully.
If you are on a hard path right now, take heart. God is not wasting your struggle. He is using it to strengthen your faith and prepare you for what’s ahead.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord, thank You for leading me even when the path is hard. Help me to trust that You are working in me through every challenge and shaping me for Your purposes. Amen.
Trusting God When the Road Feels Long
Sometimes God takes us the long way because He’s preparing us for something greater. His way is always the best way.
Trusting God When the Road Feels Long
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 27 August 2025
“When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them on the road through the Philistine country, though that was shorter. For God said, “If they face war, they might change their minds and return to Egypt.””
When God brought the Israelites out of Egypt, He could have led them on a quick, direct path to the Promised Land. Instead, He took them on a longer route through the wilderness. Why? Because He knew they weren’t ready for the battles ahead.
Sometimes God does the same with us. We see the shortcut and think, “That’s the fastest way.” But God sees the dangers we can’t see, and He knows what still needs to grow in us before we face certain challenges.
I can think of times when I’ve asked God for something and felt ready to step into it, only to find the journey took much longer than I expected. Looking back, I realise He was building my faith, shaping my character, and teaching me to lean on Him rather than on my own strength.
Hebrews 4:16 tells us to “approach God’s throne of grace with confidence” so we can find the help we need. That grace is His power working through us to do what we cannot do on our own. When the road feels long and the weight feels heavy, His grace is enough to carry us through.
So, if it feels like God is taking you the long way round, don’t lose heart. His way may not be the easiest, but it is always the best.
Prayer of the Day:
Father, thank You that Your ways are perfect, even when they take longer than I expect. Help me to trust Your timing, lean on Your strength, and keep moving forward with faith. Amen.
Choosing Power Over Pity
Self-pity robs us of strength, but God gives us the power to rise above and live in victory.
Choosing Power Over Pity
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 26 August 2025
“Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.””
Self-pity drains our energy and blinds us to the blessings still around us. It keeps us looking inward at our pain instead of upward to our God. But when we choose God’s joy, we tap into a strength that self-pity can never give.
Nehemiah reminds us that joy, not perfect circumstances, is our strength. That means even in trials, we can stand strong because our hope is rooted in God’s character, not in life going our way.
I’ve seen believers walk through incredible hardship with a smile that confuses the world. It’s not that they’re pretending. It’s that they’ve made a decision to live in God’s joy, and that joy has become their strength.
We can be pitiful or powerful, but not both. Power comes when we trust that God is bigger than the problem, greater than the pain, and faithful to keep His promises.
Today, choose power over pity. Lean into His joy and let it fuel your faith.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord, I choose Your joy over self-pity. Give me the strength to rise above my feelings and trust You in every situation. Fill me with Your peace and hope today. Amen.
Stop Rehearsing the Hurt
The more we replay the pain, the deeper it digs into our hearts. God invites us to change the channel and focus on His healing truth.
Stop Rehearsing the Hurt
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 25 August 2025
“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!”
One of the hardest parts of healing is learning to stop replaying the past over and over again. Every time we relive what happened, we keep the wound open. It’s like picking at a scab; it never gets a chance to heal.
When we’ve been hurt, the enemy wants us to keep rehearsing the offence so that bitterness grows and trust fades. But God calls us to something better. Isaiah reminds us not to dwell on the past because God is doing something new. We cannot step into the new if we keep holding onto the old.
I’ve had moments when I caught myself telling the same painful story to different people, not because I needed advice, but because I wanted sympathy. And yet, each time I told it, I felt more trapped in it. It was only when I started speaking God’s promises over my life instead of my pain that I began to feel free.
The key is this: change the channel. Instead of replaying the hurt, rehearse God’s Word. Declare His truth until it becomes louder than the pain in your heart.
Prayer of the Day:
Father, help me to stop rehearsing the hurt and start declaring Your truth. Fill my heart with Your Word so that I can walk in freedom and peace. Amen.
Letting Go of Self-Pity to Step Into Freedom
Self-pity can keep us stuck longer than the problem itself. Jesus offers freedom, but we must be willing to let go of the past.
Letting Go of Self-Pity to Step Into Freedom
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 24 August 2025
“When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?””
Self-pity is a trap that can keep us bound for years. I know what it feels like to live with that constant “Why me, God?” running through your mind. When life has been unfair or painful, it’s easy to rehearse the hurt and expect others to make it right. But the truth is, people can never fully repay us for what we’ve lost – only God can.
In John 5, Jesus meets a man who had been unwell for thirty-eight years. Instead of immediately healing him, Jesus asks a question: “Do you want to get well?” It’s a strange question on the surface, but it gets to the heart of the matter. Sometimes, without realising it, we hold onto our pain because it has become part of our identity.
Letting go of self-pity means giving up the right to keep blaming others. It means refusing to let bitterness dictate our future. God promises beauty for ashes, but we have to hand Him the ashes first.
I’ve learned that we can be pitiful or powerful, but we cannot be both at the same time. Power comes when we choose to believe that God can write a new chapter for our lives, no matter how long we’ve been stuck in the old one.
If self-pity has been holding you back, make today your turning point. Tell Jesus, “Yes, I want to be made well.” Then take His hand and step into the freedom He offers.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord, I choose to let go of self-pity, blame, and bitterness. I give You the ashes of my past and trust You to bring beauty in their place. Help me to walk forward in Your freedom and not look back. Amen.
Peace in the Middle of the Storm
You can have peace even when life feels chaotic, because Jesus is in the boat with you.
Peace in the Middle of the Storm
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 23 August 2025
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”
Life’s storms come in many forms, such as unexpected bills, health challenges, strained relationships, or sudden loss. Sometimes they hit without warning, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next.
In Mark 4, when the disciples were caught in a fierce storm, they panicked. But Jesus was in the boat, asleep. That wasn’t because He didn’t care, it was because He knew the storm was no match for His power.
The truth is, peace is not the absence of problems; it is the presence of Jesus. You can be surrounded by chaos and still have calm in your heart if your eyes are fixed on Him. I have found that the more I remind myself of God’s promises, the less space I have for fear.
If the waves feel high right now, take courage. Jesus is in your boat. The storm will not sink you because He has the final word.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord Jesus, thank You that You are with me in every storm. Help me to trust Your presence and Your power more than the wind and the waves around me. Fill my heart with Your peace today. Amen.
God’s Timing Is Always Right
We often want answers now, but God sees the full picture. His timing is perfect, even when it feels delayed to us.
God’s Timing Is Always Right
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 22 August 2025
“There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:”
If you are anything like me, waiting is not your favourite thing to do. Whether it’s waiting for an answer to prayer, a breakthrough in your job, or a change in a difficult situation, it can feel like nothing is happening.
But God is never in a hurry and He is never late. Every season of our lives has a purpose, even the seasons that feel like delays. Joseph spent years in prison before stepping into his calling. David was anointed king long before he sat on the throne. In both cases, God was preparing them for the promise.
I remember praying for a particular door to open in ministry years ago. At the time, I couldn’t understand why God wasn’t answering. Years later, when the opportunity came, I realised I was not ready for it back then. God had been shaping me, teaching me, and preparing my heart.
If you feel stuck in a season of waiting, know this: God’s timing is not random. It is precise. You can trust Him to bring the right thing at the right time in the right way.
Prayer of the Day:
Father, thank You that Your timing is perfect. Help me to trust You when I feel impatient. Teach me to rest in the season I am in, knowing You are at work in ways I cannot see. Amen.
When Plans Change, God Is Still at Work
Life doesn’t always go to plan, but God’s plan always works for our good. Even in the setbacks, He is arranging things for our blessing.
When Plans Change, God Is Still at Work
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 21 August 2025
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose.”
We all have days when things simply do not go to plan. The car won’t start. The train is delayed. That meeting you prepared for gets cancelled. In those moments, we have a choice. We can let frustration take over, or we can pause and remember that God is still in control.
Paul makes it clear that he’s not saying all things are good. Some situations are genuinely hard, inconvenient, or painful. But he is saying that God weaves even those things into a bigger picture that is ultimately for our good.
I remember a time when I was running late because of traffic. I was frustrated, checking the clock every few seconds. Later, I found out that something had happened on the route I was supposed to take, and if I had been on time, I could have been caught in the middle of it. In that moment, I realised God might have been protecting me, even through what felt like an annoyance.
Romans 12:16 encourages us to “readily adjust” ourselves. That’s not always easy, but it is freeing. When we stop fighting every disruption, we make space for God to surprise us with unexpected blessings.
So, next time your plans fall apart, try this: take a deep breath, thank God that He sees the whole picture, and believe that He’s working it for your good. You might just find that what felt like a setback was actually setting you up for something better.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord, thank You that nothing in my life is wasted. Help me to trust You when plans change and to believe that You are working all things for my good. Teach me to rest in Your timing and enjoy the moments You give me, even when they are unexpected. Amen.
Standing Your Ground Until the Answer Comes
Prayer is not always answered instantly. Standing your ground means trusting God and holding on until the breakthrough comes.
Standing Your Ground Until the Answer Comes
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 20 August 2025
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”
One of the biggest challenges in prayer is what to do between the “Amen” and the answer. Sometimes God moves instantly. Other times, we find ourselves waiting. And in that waiting, it can be tempting to give up.
Standing your ground in prayer means refusing to let go of God’s promises, even when circumstances seem to shout the opposite. It is not passive waiting; it is active trust. The Bible tells us to “keep on praying.” This persistence is not about trying to twist God’s arm – it is about showing that we trust His timing and His plan.
I remember times in my own life when I prayed for months, even years, before seeing a breakthrough. Looking back, I can see that the waiting shaped me. It deepened my faith and reminded me that God’s timing is always perfect.
If you are waiting for an answer today, do not let discouragement take over. Keep praying. Keep believing. The God who hears your first prayer will honour your faithfulness to stand your ground.
Prayer of the Day:
Father, thank You for hearing every prayer I pray. Help me to stay strong in faith and to hold on until I see Your answer. Give me patience to trust Your timing, and courage to keep standing in prayer. Amen.
Praying in Jesus’ Name – More Than Just Words
Praying in Jesus’ name is not a magic formula. It is stepping into His authority and asking in line with His will and power.
Praying in Jesus’ Name – More Than Just Words
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 19 August 2025
“And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.”
We often end our prayers with the words, “In Jesus’ name, Amen.” But those words are far more than a polite way to close a conversation with God. They are a declaration of whose authority we stand in.
When Jesus told His disciples to pray in His name, He was giving them access to all the authority and power He carried. Praying in His name means we are not coming before the Father in our own strength or worthiness, but in the righteousness of Christ. It is like having a signed document from the King Himself; the power lies not in the paper, but in whose name is written on it.
Praying in Jesus’ name also means praying in alignment with His will. If I ask for something that goes against His Word, I cannot truly claim to be praying in His name. But when I pray for salvation, healing, peace, justice, and provision – things that reflect His heart – I can pray boldly, knowing heaven hears and responds.
Today, let’s remember that when we pray in Jesus’ name, we are invoking the highest authority in heaven and on earth. That name causes darkness to tremble and opens the door for God’s Kingdom to break into our lives.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord Jesus, thank You for giving me the privilege of praying in Your name. Help me to pray in line with Your will, with faith and boldness, knowing that the power is not in me but in You. Let every prayer I pray bring glory to the Father. Amen.
Unlocking Heaven’s Power Through Prayer
Jesus has given us the keys of the Kingdom. Through prayer, we can bind what is wrong and release what is good, bringing heaven’s will to earth.
Unlocking Heaven’s Power Through Prayer
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 18 August 2025
“I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
When Jesus said these words to Peter, He wasn’t just giving a nice metaphor. He was handing over real spiritual authority, authority that belongs to every believer in Him.
We live in a world where we face situations that cannot be fixed by human wisdom alone. Problems in our families, pressures in our workplaces, attacks on our minds – these are not just physical challenges, they have spiritual roots. And here’s the good news: as followers of Jesus, we are not powerless bystanders. We have been given the “keys of the Kingdom.”
Keys open and close things. In the same way, prayer opens the door for God’s will and closes the door to the enemy’s plans. Binding and loosing is simply this: through prayer, we can forbid what heaven forbids and permit what heaven permits.
Think about it – when we pray for someone struggling with addiction, we are binding that destructive power and loosing freedom over their life. When we pray for peace in a home filled with tension, we are binding the spirit of division and loosing the spirit of unity.
This isn’t about shouting louder or using magic words. It’s about standing in faith, knowing that God has given us authority in Jesus’ name. Prayer is not just talking to God; it’s partnering with Him to see His Kingdom come and His will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
So today, take a moment to pray boldly. Use your keys. Bind what is not from God, and loose His goodness over your situation. Heaven is ready to respond.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord Jesus, thank You for giving me the keys of the Kingdom. Help me to use them faithfully. Teach me to pray with confidence, binding every work of the enemy and loosing Your will in my life and in the lives of others. Let Your Kingdom come and Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.
The Beauty of Balance: Don’t Let Busyness Steal Your Joy
When you live in balance; working, worshipping, resting, and enjoying life, your soul finds joy again. Luke 10:40 reminds us not to let busyness steal what matters most.
The Beauty of Balance: Don’t Let Busyness Steal Your Joy
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 17 August 2025
Luke 10:40 (NIV):
"But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, ‘Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!’”
When Serving Becomes Striving
We all know the story of Martha and Mary. Jesus was visiting their home. Mary sat at His feet, listening. Martha was busy serving, preparing, working hard.
But in Luke 10:40, we read that Martha was distracted. Not sinful. Not rebellious. Just distracted. She was doing a good thing, but missing the best thing.
And isn’t that the story of many of our lives? We’re rushing, working, multitasking, always moving, but not always living. We’ve mastered the art of doing, but forgotten the beauty of being.
Balance Isn’t Weakness, It’s Wisdom
Here’s what I’ve learnt as a pastor, husband, and friend: If you want to enjoy life, you must learn to live in balance. Work, worship, play, and rest; they all matter. When one takes over, your soul begins to suffer.
All work with no play? You become joyless.
All worship but no rest? You burn out.
All activity and no margin? You lose peace.
All giving and no receiving? You become dry.
Balance is not about perfection. It’s about rhythms. It’s not about doing everything at once. It’s about knowing what matters in each moment.
A Burnout Wake-Up Call
I remember years ago, someone I looked up to in ministry had to step back because of complete burnout. He was preaching, counselling, leading every day, every evening. He rarely took breaks. He felt guilty for resting. Until one day, his body crashed. His joy was gone. His family felt distant.
That experience taught me something: If the enemy can’t make you sin, he’ll try to make you busy. Busy doing good things, but out of balance.
3 Ways to Find God’s Balance for Your Life
1. Know When to Say ‘Yes’ and When to Say ‘No’
Not every opportunity is a calling. Martha said “yes” to serving, but missed the moment to simply be with Jesus.
Ask the Holy Spirit daily:
“Lord, what’s my assignment today? What do You want me to say no to?”
Boundaries are not unspiritual; they’re essential for joy.
2. Honour the Sabbath Principle
God worked for six days and rested on the seventh, not because He was tired, but to model balance.
We need intentional rest:
Physical rest
Mental rest
Spiritual renewal
Fun and laughter with those we love
Don’t feel guilty for resting. Rest is worship.
3. Enjoy God, Not Just Serve Him
Sometimes we think pleasing God means constant doing. But He delights when we sit at His feet. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know that I am God.”
Yes, serve. But also soak in His presence.
Yes, work. But also worship.
Yes, build. But also breathe.
A Word for the Marthas
If you’re more like Martha, detail-oriented, practical, get-things-done, that’s not wrong. Jesus didn’t rebuke her personality. He corrected her priority.
He said, “Martha, Martha… you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed.” (Luke 10:41–42)
Let the Spirit remind you:
It’s okay to pause.
It’s okay to rest.
It’s okay to say, “I need time with Jesus.”
You’re not being lazy, you’re being wise.
Life is too precious to live constantly overwhelmed. Yes, work hard. Be responsible. Serve diligently. But don’t forget to rest, play, laugh, worship, and breathe.
Jesus didn’t come to give you a full calendar. He came to give you life and life in abundance. (John 10:10)
So today, slow down. Sit at His feet. Simplify your heart. And let Him teach you the beauty of balance.
Look Up, Not In: Worship Changes What Self-Focus Can’t
Self-focus can’t set you free, but worship can. In this blog, discover how you are transformed not by analysing your flaws, but by beholding God’s glory.
Look Up, Not In: Worship Changes What Self-Focus Can’t
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 16 August 2025
Ephesians 6:12 (NIV):
"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
You’re Fighting a Battle You Can’t Win Alone
Ephesians 6:12 is a reminder that our biggest battles aren’t physical, they’re spiritual. Yes, we deal with emotions, habits, struggles, relationships but behind it all, there’s a deeper fight.
It’s not your personality you’re wrestling with. It’s not just your past or your insecurities. It’s a spiritual war. And you’ll never win that war by staring at your flaws. You win by lifting your eyes. By worshipping. By beholding God.
Self-Examination Alone Will Leave You Defeated
Let’s be honest. Many of us spend more time criticising ourselves than actually connecting with God. We replay our mistakes, rehearse our weaknesses, and compare ourselves to others. We try harder. We analyse deeper. And still we feel stuck.
But here’s the truth: You don’t get free by looking at yourself. You get free by looking at Jesus. You are not changed by self-focus. You are changed by Spirit-filled worship and God-centred focus.
Beholding Is What Transforms Us
2 Corinthians 3:18 says,
“And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate (or behold) the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory...”
That’s the key: We are changed as we behold. Not as we try harder. Not as we obsess over what we’re not. But as we worship, as we fix our gaze on Jesus, He changes us.
In worship, the lies lose their voice.
In worship, the shame lifts.
In worship, the enemy flees.
From Condemnation to Confidence
There was a man in our church who constantly felt defeated. Every time he tried to pray, his thoughts would accuse him. He would say, “I’ve failed too many times. I’m not worthy. I’ll never change.”
But one Sunday during worship, he decided to stop trying to fix himself and just lift his hands. He focused on God’s mercy, His love, His holiness. And something broke. Tears flowed. Healing began. He said later, “When I stopped looking at myself and started looking at God, something changed inside me.”
That’s what happens when we behold Him.
3 Truths to Remember in the Battle
1. Worship is a Weapon
You’re not just singing songs, you’re shifting atmospheres. Worship silences the enemy. It confuses hell. It draws heaven near. When you worship, you are reminding your soul who’s in charge. God is greater. He is worthy. And He is with you.
2. Your Identity Is Found in Christ, Not Your Flaws
Yes, we all have weaknesses. But if you’re always magnifying your flaws, you’ll never see your Father clearly.
In Christ, you are:
Forgiven
Loved
Chosen
Empowered
Being transformed
Stop rehearsing what you're not. Start declaring who He is — and let His truth reshape how you see yourself.
3. Looking to God Brings Lasting Change
Change doesn't come from self-hatred. It comes from Holy Spirit transformation. The more you see God for who He is, the more you become who He made you to be. That’s why Psalm 34:5 says, “Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.”
You Can’t Win Spiritual Battles with Human Weapons
Ephesians 6:12 reminds us this is not a flesh-and-blood fight. It’s not just about working harder or managing behaviour. It’s about knowing where to fight from, the place of worship and spiritual focus.
You were never meant to win on your own. God’s power is available. His Spirit is within you. But you’ve got to lift your eyes. You’ve got to look up, not in.
Maybe you've been stuck in a cycle, trying to fix yourself, trying to measure up, trying to feel worthy. But the Holy Spirit is whispering today:
“Stop looking at your flaws. Start looking at Me.”
It’s not about ignoring your issues; it’s about approaching them through the power of worship and the lens of grace.
So next time you feel overwhelmed, don’t just analyse. Don’t just try harder. Worship. Look up. Behold Him. Because the more you behold Jesus, the more you become like Him and the more your past and flaws lose their grip.