The painful gift of revelation

I had been praying for the Holy Spirit to reveal the true nature of those around me—those who smile to my face but secretly betray me. At some point, I forgot about these prayers. Then, something happened—an intense, unexpected situation that completely shook me. I was taken aback, confused, and overwhelmed by how this person’s true character was exposed so suddenly.

The next day, during my prayer and devotion, I reached the part of my prayer where I had been asking for revelation. At that moment, I felt a nudge in my spirit, and suddenly, everything made sense. The shocking event wasn’t just a coincidence; it was an answered prayer—though painful and difficult to bear.

This experience reminded me that when we ask God for clarity, He delivers, even if the truth is hard to accept.

Dangers of being an intercessor

Being an intercessor, someone who prays on behalf of others, can bring many spiritual and emotional challenges. Here are some dangers associated with this role:

1. **Emotional Burden**: Intercessors often carry the weight of others' struggles and pain, which can lead to emotional exhaustion and burnout.

2. **Spiritual Warfare**: Engaging in intercession can attract spiritual opposition and attacks, as it involves confronting powers and principalities.

3. **Isolation**: Intercessors may feel isolated in their calling, as not everyone may understand or support their role, leading to feelings of loneliness.

4. **Disillusionment**: When prayers seem unanswered or results are not as expected, intercessors can experience disappointment and doubt.

5. **Over-identification**: There’s a risk of becoming too enmeshed in the issues of those for whom one is praying, potentially neglecting one's own spiritual health.

6. **Misunderstanding of Role**: Others may misinterpret the intercessor’s role, expecting them to fix problems rather than support through prayer, leading to unrealistic expectations.

7. **Neglecting Personal Needs**: In focusing on others, intercessors might neglect their own spiritual and physical needs, which can hinder their ability to effectively pray and support others.

To navigate these challenges, intercessors need to maintain a healthy balance, seek support, and engage in self-care alongside their intercessory duties.

Are we living in the end times?

Whether we are living in the "end times" is a subject of much debate, interpretation, and speculation among theologians, religious leaders, and individuals. Biblically, the "end times" refer to the period leading up to the second coming of Christ, marked by specific signs and events described in Scripture.

Here are some points to consider:

Signs of the End Times in the Bible

Jesus described several indicators in passages like Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21:

1. Wars and rumors of wars: Global conflicts and political unrest (Matthew 24:6-7).
2. Natural disasters: Earthquakes, famines, and pestilences in various places (Matthew 24:7).
3. Moral decay: Increasing lawlessness, selfishness, and a lack of love (2 Timothy 3:1-5).
4. False prophets and deception: Many claiming to be the Messiah or preaching false doctrines (Matthew 24:11).
5. Persecution of believers: Hatred and persecution of Christians (Matthew 24:9).
6. The Gospel preached worldwide: The message of Christ reaching all nations before the end comes (Matthew 24:14).

Many of these signs seem evident today—wars, pandemics, natural disasters, and societal turmoil. However, similar events have occurred throughout history, such as during the Black Death, World Wars, or other catastrophic periods.

While these events align with biblical signs, Jesus also said, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Matthew 24:36). This emphasizes that humans cannot definitively predict the timing of the end.

Are We in the End Times?

Some interpret current events—escalating global conflicts, climate change, pandemics, and moral decline—as evidence that we are approaching the end times. Others view these as recurring cycles of human history, not necessarily signaling the final days.

Ultimately, the Bible encourages believers to:

1. Stay spiritually prepared: Live faithfully and focus on Christ, regardless of when the end comes (Matthew 25:13).
2. Avoid fear and speculation: While the signs may seem alarming, Jesus repeatedly tells His followers not to be afraid (John 14:1).
3. Spread hope and faith: Use uncertain times to share the Gospel and emphasize God’s love and sovereignty.

Whether or not we are in the end times, the call remains the same: to live a life of faith, love, and readiness for Christ’s return. What are your thoughts? Do you feel current events resonate with biblical prophecies?

Let’s Talk About the Silence During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is often celebrated as a beautiful journey, but for many, it’s also a time of quiet isolation. It’s shocking how, during this transformative and vulnerable period, friends and family can go completely silent. The visits don’t happen. The calls to check in are rare. The genuine support you expect simply isn’t there.

But the real surprise comes after the baby arrives. Suddenly, everyone is eager. They demand to visit, they want pictures of the baby, and they act as though they were there for you all along. It’s heartbreaking to see how the focus shifts entirely to the baby, with little thought for the mother who endured the sleepless nights, the physical changes, and the emotional rollercoaster of pregnancy alone.

It’s not just about the absence of visits or calls—it’s the message it sends. It’s as though the mother only matters when there’s a baby in her arms, not when she’s carrying life within her.

If you know someone who’s expecting, take a moment to reach out. A simple, “How are you feeling?” or “Can I drop by for a chat?” can mean the world. Pregnancy isn’t just about preparing for the baby—it’s about nurturing and supporting the person bringing that life into the world.

To the mothers reading this: You are seen, you are valued, and your journey matters. Whether the world shows up for you or not, remember your strength is unmatched.

Let’s start doing better—supporting not just the baby but the person who makes it all possible.

Bitten by the serpent I fed: betrayal of the hand that helped chapter 6: When kindness is rewarded with betraya: The Cost of Opening Our Home"

Welcoming Regina into our home was a decision driven by compassion and hope. She had been struggling, her dreams of continuing school crushed by her parents' refusal to support her after failing a subject twice. Her despair was evident, and I believed giving her a fresh start in our home, where she could help care for baby Emma, would be the support she needed to rebuild her life.

Regina was treated no differently than Ethan's own children. She enjoyed the same privileges: food, clothing, outings, and all the comforts of family life. I hoped this would show her love, stability, and a sense of belonging. Yet, from the very beginning, I sensed something was amiss. Despite the love and opportunities extended to her, Regina lacked gratitude and respect. Her attitude toward Ethan was often dismissive, her behavior toward the family cold and self-serving.

Her lack of respect extended to the household itself. One day, the backlight of our television burnt out—a costly repair that we could hardly afford at the time. Though it wasn’t entirely clear how it happened, Regina’s careless attitude toward our home and possessions made it easy to suspect her involvement. It didn’t end there. She also broke the soap holder in the bathroom, an unnecessary and avoidable inconvenience that further reflected her lack of care. It was clear she had no appreciation for the sacrifices we made to accommodate her.

She pretended to care for Emma, but her actions betrayed her true nature. When no one was around, the baby’s cries were met with harsh words, cruel glares, and neglect. My heart shatters at the thought of my innocent child enduring such treatment. But God’s hand was over Emma, shielding her from the darkness in Regina’s heart. Emma, a child of light, thrived despite Regina’s malice.

Regina’s presence in the house became a burden. She shirked responsibilities, faked illnesses, and refused to help with household chores. Instead, she indulged herself, spending her days glued to the TV or her phone. She would shout at Ethan’s son, monopolize the television, and act as though she ran the household. She made no effort to learn the dynamics of our family, instead prioritizing her desires over everyone else's.

A small yet deliberate act that showed her selfishness was how she ensured she always ate the pap cooked the previous night—knowing full well that Ethan preferred it for breakfast. It was these little actions, done with full knowledge of how they would inconvenience or hurt others, that revealed her character. Regina often raised her voice during arguments, even those that didn’t concern her, inserting herself into disagreements with a defiance that was disrespectful and disruptive.

Her lack of respect for boundaries was glaring—wearing inappropriate clothing in Ethan’s presence, asking for endless favors, and envying every kindness Ethan showed me. It was as though she wished to step into my life, to take my place.

Her heart was ugly, filled with jealousy, laziness, and deceit. She used our generosity as a stepping stone, her only motivation being financial gain to return to school. She had no intention of building a meaningful bond with Emma or the rest of the family. The spy cam revealed the depth of her betrayal: the disgust she harbored toward my child and the false persona she displayed. It was clear she had no love for us, only a desire to exploit our kindness for her own benefit.

Looking back, I sacrificed so much—our family’s peace, freedom, and happiness—to uplift someone who never appreciated it. I trusted her with my most precious treasure, my baby, and she betrayed that trust in ways I cannot forgive. Regina's betrayal is yet another painful lesson that not everyone you help will value your kindness.

But even in this heartbreak, I find strength. Emma remains a beacon of light, untouched by the shadows Regina tried to cast. And though I grieve the betrayal, I remind myself that love and kindness are not wasted—they define who I am, even when others fail to reciprocate.

The Burden of Unaddressed Issues in Our Lives

We live in a world that often seems ruthless, where the complexities of human experience are frequently brushed aside. Many individuals recognise the underlying problems that permeate both personal and societal realms, yet they choose to carry on as if everything is in order. This dissonance creates a façade that can be difficult to penetrate, leaving unresolved issues to fester beneath the surface.

The tendency to ignore significant matters stems from various factors, including fear of confrontation, societal pressures, and a desire for comfort. When individuals prioritise maintaining appearances over addressing uncomfortable truths, they inadvertently contribute to a cycle of emotional burden. This pattern not only affects personal well-being but also strains relationships, as the weight of unspoken grievances lingers in the air, unacknowledged and unresolved.

Forgiveness and the ability to move on become challenging when we are burdened by subjects left untouched. The human experience is inherently complex; we carry our past with us, and unaddressed issues can shape our daily lives in profound ways. The reluctance to confront these matters often leads to a sense of isolation and disconnection, as individuals struggle with feelings of frustration and helplessness.

To break this cycle, it is essential to foster environments where open communication is encouraged. Creating safe spaces for dialogue allows individuals to express their feelings and concerns without fear of judgement. It requires vulnerability and courage to confront difficult topics, but the potential for healing and growth is invaluable. By addressing the issues that weigh heavily on our hearts and minds, we can begin to release the burdens we carry, ultimately leading to stronger connections and a more harmonious existence.

In conclusion, while we may live in a world that often turns a blind eye to pressing issues, we have the power to change this narrative. By embracing open discussions and confronting the challenges we face, we can pave the way for understanding, forgiveness, and a brighter future.

Bitten by the Serpent I Fed: Betrayal of the Hand That Helped Chapter 4: Shadows of Misfortune

In the months that followed, it was as if a dark cloud had settled over Ethan, hovering above him, casting shadows on everything he tried to accomplish. His business, once a growing source of pride, began to falter. Deals slipped through his fingers, contracts vanished, and clients he once counted on disappeared without explanation. Each day felt like a battle he couldn’t win, and no matter how hard he worked, his efforts seemed cursed to fail.

The strain took its toll. At home, Ethan’s spirit was dimmed, his once lively eyes now dull and defeated. He carried an air of frustration and bitterness, a weight that seemed to follow him from room to room, settling over our home like a thick, oppressive fog. He tried looking for jobs, reaching out to old contacts, scouring listings, but everywhere he turned, doors closed in his face. The world he had once known, the future he had envisioned, seemed to crumble before him.

I watched, heartbroken, as he slipped further into despair. It was as if he were caught in quicksand, sinking deeper with every struggle. Ethan became a shadow of the man I had married—a man whose laughter had once filled our home, whose optimism had been a beacon in my life. Now, he was silent, withdrawn, his spirit fractured.

And then, there was the baby. Emma had always been sensitive to the energies around her. From the moment she was born, there was a light in her, a purity that seemed to see past facades and into the heart of those around her. But lately, when Ethan reached out to hold her, she would turn away, her tiny face contorting as if she sensed something dark around him. At first, he brushed it off, but the rejections began to pile up, each one cutting him deeper. The pain in his eyes was unmistakable, but no matter how he tried, Emma would not let him close.

Ethan didn’t understand what was happening, but I did. The air around him had changed. There was something clinging to him, something heavy and dark. I felt it every time I was near him, and I knew that this wasn’t a normal run of bad luck. This was something else, something evil. And I had no doubt who was behind it.

Evelyn.

I didn’t know how she did it, but I could feel her influence, like a whisper in the wind, a chill that settled over everything Ethan touched. She had found a way to curse him, to bind his life in chains, ensuring that he would fail, that he would be a burden rather than a blessing. She had set out to break him, and, in doing so, to break us.

One day, as he drove home from another fruitless job interview, it happened. A car came out of nowhere, hurtling towards him at breakneck speed. He slammed on the brakes, heart racing, but there was no way he could avoid it. In those final moments, he saw his life flash before his eyes, a glimpse of everything he stood to lose, everyone he would leave behind. But then, something inexplicable happened. The car swerved, as if guided by an invisible hand, missing him by mere inches.

Ethan pulled over to the side of the road, hands trembling, his breath coming in short, sharp gasps. He knew, in that moment, that he had been spared. By all accounts, he should have been crushed in that collision, his life taken in an instant. But there was something greater at work—a force of protection that had shielded him from the darkness that sought to claim him.

That night, he came home, shaken and silent. He looked at me, his eyes filled with a mix of fear and vulnerability that I had never seen before. "I should have died today," he whispered, his voice barely audible. "I don’t know how I’m still here."

I took his hand, holding it tightly, feeling the weight of his words settle between us. I knew that the battle we were facing was not just a test of our resilience but a fight for our very souls. We couldn’t keep pretending that this was something we could handle on our own. The forces against us were too strong, too insidious.

"Ethan," I said softly, "we need to pray."

He looked at me, his expression blank. "What do you mean?"

"I mean every night. Together. We need to pray, to ask for God’s protection, for strength. This… whatever is happening to us… it’s not just bad luck. There’s something evil here, something that wants to destroy us."

He was silent, his gaze drifting to Emma, asleep in her crib, her small face serene and untouched by the turmoil that had overtaken our lives. After a long moment, he nodded. "Okay," he whispered. "Let’s pray."

And so, every night, as the world around us fell into silence, we knelt together in our bedroom, hands clasped, voices quiet but resolute. We prayed for protection, for guidance, for strength to face the darkness that surrounded us. We prayed for our family, for our marriage, for the light to overcome the shadows that threatened to consume us.

It wasn’t easy. There were nights when Ethan’s faith wavered, when he questioned whether any of this would make a difference. But each time, I reminded him of the accident, of the miracle that had spared his life. "You’re still here for a reason," I told him, my voice steady. "God isn’t finished with you yet."

Slowly, as the days turned into weeks, I began to see a change in him. The darkness that had clung to him started to fade, the despair that had weighed him down lifting bit by bit. He began to smile again, to laugh, to find joy in the small moments. And Emma… she no longer turned away when he held her. She would reach out, her tiny fingers curling around his, her eyes filled with the same light that had once been his.

I knew that we weren’t free of Evelyn’s influence. I knew that she would continue to try, that she would seek new ways to break us, to poison the bond we shared. But for the first time, I felt a glimmer of hope. We were not alone in this fight. We had each other, and we had faith. And with that, we had everything we needed to face whatever came next.