God's Financial System Operates by Biblical Principles

One of the greatest discoveries I have ever made was that the Bible is not merely a book of inspirational
stories; it is God's rulebook. Throughout Scripture, God established spiritual laws and principles that govern every area of life, including finances. Just as the law of sowing and reaping governs agriculture, God's financial principles govern increase, provision, preservation, and abundance.

For years, I misunderstood these principles. Like many sincere believers, I participated in the traditional religious practice of sowing "financial seeds," believing that if I gave enough money into religious settings, I would eventually receive an extraordinary financial breakthrough to eliminate my debts. Yet despite my sincerity, the results I hoped for never materialized.

Everything changed when I stopped viewing the Bible merely as a devotional book and began reading it as God's Rule Book. Then I discovered a principle repeated throughout Scripture that I had largely overlooked: God's extraordinary promises of financial provision are consistently connected to how we treat the poor.

"Through knowledge shall the just be delivered." (Proverbs 11:9)

Knowledge of God's principles changed my life.

Blessed Is the One Who Considers the Poor

Perhaps no passage summarizes God's heart toward the poor more beautifully than Psalm 41.

"Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble. The LORD will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth... The LORD will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing..." (Psalm 41:1-3)

Notice the promises attached to one biblical principle:

• Deliverance in trouble
• Divine preservation
• Long life
• Blessing upon the earth
• Strength in times of weakness

These are supernatural returns that God Himself promises to those who thoughtfully care for those in need.

Proverbs Repeatedly Connects Giving to Prosperity

The book of Proverbs reinforces this principle over and over again.

"He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again." (Proverbs 19:17)

Imagine that. Scripture says giving to the poor is literally making a loan to God, and God promises to repay it.

"There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth... The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself." (Proverbs 11:24-25)

Generosity, according to God's economy, does not diminish wealth. It becomes a pathway for increase.

"He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack..." (Proverbs 28:27)

Notice the clarity of this promise. Scripture does not say he might not lack. It simply states, "He that giveth unto the poor shall not lack."

"He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoureth him hath mercy on the poor." (Proverbs 14:31)

"Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard." (Proverbs 21:13)

These verses reveal that our treatment of the poor directly affects our relationship with God.

When You Give to the Poor, You Give to Christ

Jesus removed every doubt concerning how He views acts of compassion. In Matthew 25:31-40, Jesus describes the final judgment and repeatedly says:

"I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink... I was a stranger, and ye took me in." (Matthew 25:35)

The righteous ask, "Lord, when saw we thee...?" Jesus answers:

"Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." (Matthew 25:40)

This is one of Scripture's most remarkable teachings. Jesus identifies Himself with those in need. Every act of kindness toward the hungry, the poor, the sick, or the forgotten is viewed by Christ as an act done personally to Him. Giving to the poor is therefore not merely charity; it is an expression of love and obedience toward Christ Himself.

My Personal Testimony

When I finally understood these biblical principles, my entire approach to finances changed. I stopped chasing financial miracles through traditions that I believed would produce wealth simply because I had given what was called a "financial seed." Instead, I began asking a different question: "What are God's financial rules?"

As I consistently applied those rules, especially the repeated biblical instruction to care for the poor, I watched God transform my financial life. Today, I am completely debt-free. The life that I once prayed for gradually became my reality, not because I discovered a secret formula, but because I learned to live according to God's written principles.

Now my greatest desire is not merely to accumulate resources but to multiply them so they can be invested into the lives of people who can do absolutely nothing for me in return. That is the kind of giving Scripture repeatedly honors.

The Protocol That Governs Biblical Giving

The Apostle Paul summarizes God's principles of giving in 2 Corinthians 9:6-10. First, he establishes the law of sowing and reaping:

"He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully." (2 Corinthians 9:6)

Next, he explains the attitude that must accompany giving:

"Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver." (2 Corinthians 9:7)

Giving should never be manipulated, forced, or driven by guilt. It should flow willingly from a heart that trusts God. Paul then reveals God's promise:

"God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye... may abound to every good work." (2 Corinthians 9:8)

Finally, Paul connects God's blessing directly with generosity toward the poor, quoting Psalm 112:

"He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor; his righteousness remaineth for ever." (2 Corinthians 9:9)

He concludes:

"Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness." (2 Corinthians 9:10)

Notice God's order. He provides seed. The believer sows according to His principles. God then multiplies what has been sown. The increase is not merely for personal consumption but to continue producing righteousness through generosity.

Conclusion

Scripture consistently teaches that God's financial system is governed by principles rather than wishful thinking. From Psalm 41 to Proverbs, from the teachings of Jesus to the writings of Paul, one truth is repeated again and again: God has a special concern for the poor, and He attaches extraordinary promises to those who compassionately care for them.

This does not mean every gift made in every context is without value, nor does it eliminate other biblical expressions of generosity. Rather, it highlights a principle Scripture repeatedly emphasizes: caring for those in genuine need occupies a unique place in God's heart and carries promises stated plainly in His Word.

If we desire God's blessing, provision, and increase, we must build our lives upon the biblical rules He has already revealed. When we align ourselves with His principles, we position ourselves to experience His faithfulness, not because we have manipulated God, but because we have chosen to walk in obedience to His Word.

The Bible is not merely a book to be admired.
It is God's rulebook.
And when His rules are practiced, His promises are experienced.

Pastor Kevin L A. Ewing
www.kevinlaewing.com
www.kevinlaewing.blogspot.com
ewinglakevin@icloud.com

 

Matthew 7:22-23 is one of the most sobering passages in Scripture, because it reveals that religious
activity, spiritual gifts, and even miraculous works are not the same as knowing Jesus Christ. Jesus warns that some people will outwardly appear to be successful ministers or believers, yet have never entered into a genuine saving relationship with Him.

"On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'" (Matthew 7:22-23, ESV)

The Context of Matthew 7

Jesus concludes the Sermon on the Mount by contrasting:

• Two gates (Matthew 7:13-14)
• Two trees (Matthew 7:15-20)
• Two builders (Matthew 7:24-27)

The central question is not merely whether someone is religious, but whether they truly belong to Christ. Just before verses 22-23, Jesus says:

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father..." (Matthew 7:21, ESV)

These individuals even call Him "Lord," acknowledging His authority, yet their profession is not matched by a genuine relationship or obedient faith.

Verse 22: Impressive Spiritual Accomplishments

Notice what these people claim: "We prophesied in Your name." "We cast out demons in Your name." "We did many mighty works in Your name." These are extraordinary ministries.

Jesus does not immediately deny that these things happened. Instead, He addresses something far deeper: the absence of a relationship with Him. This teaches an important biblical truth: God may use a person as an instrument without that person belonging to Him. Examples include:

• Balaam (Numbers 22-24), who spoke true prophecy yet loved unrighteous gain.
• Judas Iscariot, who was sent out with the other disciples and participated in ministry (Matthew 10:1-8), yet ultimately betrayed Christ.
• King Saul, upon whom the Spirit came for a time (1 Samuel 10:10), but whose heart became hardened.

The Greek of Matthew 7:23

Let's examine the key expressions.

"Οὐδέποτε" (Oudepote)

This means:

• Never
• At no time
• Absolutely never

Jesus is not saying, "I knew you once." Nor is He saying, "I used to have a relationship with you." He says, "At no point did I know you." This is one of the strongest negations in Greek.

"ἔγνων" (egnōn)

This is the aorist form of γινώσκω (ginōskō). While ginōskō can simply mean "to know," throughout Scripture it often refers to a personal, intimate, covenant relationship, not merely intellectual awareness. Examples include:

• "Adam knew (ginōskō) Eve his wife..." (Genesis 4:1, Septuagint)
• "I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me." (John 10:14, ESV)

Jesus obviously knows every human being in the sense of omniscience. Therefore, when He says, "I never knew you," He cannot mean, "I never knew you existed." Rather, He means, "You never belonged to Me. We never shared a covenant relationship. You were never one of My sheep."

"ἀποχωρεῖτε ἀπ᾽ ἐμοῦ"

This means "depart from Me." The verb apochōreō carries the sense of:

• Go away
• Withdraw
• Leave My presence

This is the language of final judgment.

"οἱ ἐργαζόμενοι τὴν ἀνομίαν"

Literally, "those working lawlessness." The present participle describes an ongoing pattern of life. Their lives were characterized by lawlessness, despite their religious accomplishments.

"I Never Knew You" Versus "I Once Knew You"

This phrase is important because it differs from saying, "I knew you once, but not anymore." Jesus deliberately says, "I never knew you." This indicates that these individuals were never in a saving relationship with Christ, despite their outward ministry.

Now, here is where it all comes together. The Apostle Paul wrote:

"Gifts and calling of God are without repentance." (Romans 11:29)

In other words, they are irrevocable and do not require one to accept the free gift of salvation to be active in their gifts and callings. In its immediate context, Paul is speaking about God's covenant purposes for Israel. God does not revoke His promises to His covenant people.

However, the principle also helps explain an important truth: receiving gifts or a calling from God is not the same as living in fellowship with Christ. Throughout Scripture, people may receive divine enablement or be entrusted with roles, yet fail to remain faithful. Here are a few examples of that:

• Saul was anointed king but later rebelled.
• Balaam prophesied accurately but opposed God's ways.
• Judas ministered alongside the apostles but did not truly belong to Christ.

Therefore, spiritual gifts are not the evidence of salvation. The New Testament consistently teaches that the evidence of genuine faith includes:

• Love for Christ (John 14:15)
• Obedience to His commands (1 John 2:3-6)
• The fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)
• Perseverance in faith (Colossians 1:21-23)

A person may possess remarkable abilities, preach powerfully, or even be used by God in ministry, yet those things alone do not prove a saving relationship with Christ.

The Difference Between Gifts and Relationship

Matthew 7 highlights a crucial distinction. Spiritual gifts refer to the abilities that God bestows upon a person. A relationship with Christ, conversely, revolves around how that person is connected to Him.

One can possess gifts without spiritual maturity. The Church at Corinth illustrates this well. They were richly gifted (1 Corinthians 1:7), yet struggled with division, immorality, and pride.

Again, Jesus never says, "I never saw your miracles." Instead, He said, "I never knew you." The issue is not ministry success but covenant relationship.

So here is the true test. The Bible points to several marks of genuine discipleship:

• Jesus' sheep hear His voice and follow Him (John 10:27-28).
• Those who abide in Christ bear lasting fruit (John 15:4-8).
• Those who love Him keep His commandments (John 14:21).
• Faith works through love (Galatians 5:6).

Miracles may attract attention, but they are not the foundation of assurance. The foundation is being united to Christ by faith, transformed by the Holy Spirit, and walking in obedience to Him.

Matthew 7:22-23 is therefore not a warning against spiritual gifts themselves. Rather, it warns against substituting ministry for intimacy, gifts for godliness, or outward works for a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ. As Jesus makes clear, on the day of judgment the decisive question will not be merely what we did in His name, but whether we truly belonged to Him and lived as those who knew Him and were known by Him.

Pastor Kevin L.A Ewing
www.kevinlaewing.com
www.kevinlaewing.blogspot.com

ewinglakevin@icloud.com 

Who Interprets Dreams: Man or God?

Dreams have always played a significant role throughout the Bible. God has used dreams at various times
to warn, instruct, reveal future events, and communicate His purposes to His servants. However, not every dream originates from God. Some dreams arise from the natural mind, while others may have deceptive spiritual influences behind them. Therefore, the greatest challenge for every believer is not merely having dreams, but correctly discerning their source and receiving the proper interpretation.

One of the most important questions a Christian should ask is: who gives the interpretation of dreams, man or God? The Bible gives a clear answer.

God Alone Gives the Interpretation of Dreams

Throughout Scripture, faithful servants of God consistently acknowledged that the interpretation of dreams belongs to God and not to human wisdom.

When Pharaoh's chief cupbearer and chief baker were troubled by their dreams, Joseph said:

"Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell me them, I pray you." (Genesis 40:8)

Years later, when Pharaoh dreamed troubling dreams concerning the future of Egypt, Joseph again refused to take personal credit. Instead, he humbled himself before God, saying:

"It is not in me: God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace." (Genesis 41:16)

Likewise, when King Nebuchadnezzar demanded both his dream and its interpretation, Daniel acknowledged that no human being possessed such wisdom:

"But there is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets, and maketh known to the king Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the latter days." (Daniel 2:28)

Daniel made it clear that the revelation was not because he was wiser than other men:

"But as for me, this secret is not revealed to me for any wisdom that I have more than any living." (Daniel 2:30)

These passages establish an important biblical principle: man may explain what God reveals, but God alone gives the true interpretation. Without God's revelation, dream interpretation becomes human opinion rather than divine truth.

The Importance of Testing the Spirit Behind Every Dream

Not every dream carries a message from God. The Apostle John commands believers:

"Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world." (1 John 4:1)

Although John is primarily addressing spiritual teaching and prophetic influence, the principle applies whenever someone believes they have received a spiritual communication. Every spiritual experience, including dreams that seem spiritually significant, must be tested rather than accepted automatically.

Dreams can produce fear, excitement, confusion, or false hope. Christians must seek the Holy Spirit's guidance before concluding that a dream is from God.

Knowing the Spirit of Truth and the Spirit of Error

John continues by explaining how believers distinguish truth from deception:

"We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error." (1 John 4:6)

Every genuine revelation from God will agree with God's Word and with the testimony of Christ. The Spirit of Truth always glorifies Jesus Christ, produces righteousness, and leads believers toward obedience. The spirit of error produces confusion, deception, fear, contradiction, false doctrine, and rebellion against God's revealed truth.

Therefore, dream interpretation must never contradict Scripture. If an interpretation violates God's written Word, it did not originate from the Holy Spirit.

Satan Can Produce Deceptive Dreams

The Bible warns believers that Satan often disguises himself to deceive. Paul writes:

"And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness." (2 Corinthians 11:14-15)

This principle teaches that appearances alone cannot be trusted. Just as Satan may disguise himself as an angel of light, he and his agents may seek to deceive by appearing as familiar or trusted figures. For this reason, believers should not assume that every comforting or emotionally powerful dream comes from God simply because it features someone recognizable or appears peaceful. This is why discernment is essential.

My Personal Testimony

Over the years, I have experienced numerous dreams involving deceased relatives and friends. Initially, such dreams could easily be misunderstood as genuine visits or messages from those who had passed away. However, as I grew in my understanding of Scripture, I came to recognize that these dreams were deceptive and relatively easy to interpret because they violated clear biblical principles concerning the dead.

God expressly forbids attempting to communicate with the dead:

"...or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer." (Deuteronomy 18:11)

A necromancer is a practitioner of black magic who claims to communicate with the spirits of the dead to divine the future, or who uses supernatural forces to reanimate corpses. The Word is derived from the Greek nekros (dead) and manteia (divination).

Scripture also teaches that the dead no longer participate in the affairs of the living:

"For the living know that they shall die: but the dead know not any thing... also their love, and their hatred, and their envy, is now perished." (Ecclesiastes 9:5-6)

Furthermore, Jesus' account of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) shows that a great gulf is fixed between the living and the dead, preventing them from returning to communicate with those on earth.

Because these passages establish spiritual laws regarding the condition of the dead, I concluded that such dreams could not have been genuine communications from deceased loved ones. Instead, they represented deception that had to be rejected rather than embraced.

This experience reinforced an important biblical truth: every dream must be interpreted in the light of Scripture rather than emotion or personal desire.

The Holy Spirit Leads Believers Into All Truth

Ultimately, dream interpretation should never depend upon human wisdom alone. Jesus promised that believers would receive the guidance of the Holy Spirit:

"Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth." (John 16:13)

Jesus also declared:

"Even the Spirit of truth... he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you." (John 14:17)

The Holy Spirit never contradicts the written Word of God, because He is the One who inspired it (2 Peter 1:20-21). His ministry is to glorify Christ, reveal truth, and protect believers from deception. When we surrender ourselves to His leadership, He grants discernment, wisdom, and understanding concerning spiritual matters, including dreams.

Conclusion

The Bible leaves no doubt that dream interpretation belongs to God. Joseph confessed it, Daniel confirmed it, and Scripture consistently affirms that divine revelation comes from God rather than human intellect.

At the same time, believers are commanded to test the spirits (1 John 4:1), distinguish the Spirit of Truth from the spirit of error (1 John 4:6), and recognize that Satan disguises himself as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14-15). Every dream must be evaluated against the authority of God's Word.

My own experiences with dreams involving deceased relatives and friends strengthened this conviction. Rather than accepting those dreams at face value, Scripture provided the standard by which they could be tested. God's Word made it clear that communication with the dead is forbidden and inconsistent with His revealed truth. This illustrates the importance of allowing the Bible, not feelings, appearances, or human speculation, to govern the interpretation of spiritual experiences.

Christians should neither fear dreams nor attempt to interpret them with their limited understanding of the principles concerning dreams. Instead, they should seek the Lord in prayer, rely upon the Scriptures, and trust the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth, to lead them into all truth.

Pastor Kevin L. A Ewing
www.kevinlaewing.com
www.kevinlaewing.blogspot.com
ewinglakevin@icloud.com

What the Enemy Meant for Evil: Joseph's Pit, Prison, and Palace

"What the enemy intends for destruction, God can transform into preparation."

There are seasons in life when it seems as though God has forgotten His children. Doors close without explanation. Relationships are broken. Injustice appears to prevail, and years pass without understanding why God would allow such painful experiences.

Yet throughout Scripture, God reveals a profound truth: He often prepares His servants in hidden places before He promotes them to public places. No biblical example illustrates this truth more clearly than the life of Joseph.

The Pit: Betrayal by Family

Joseph was Jacob's beloved son, and from an early age, God revealed through dreams that he would one day be elevated above his brothers (Genesis 37:5-11). Instead of rejoicing, his brothers became consumed with jealousy. They stripped him of his special coat, threw him into a pit, and sold him as a slave to traders traveling to Egypt (Genesis 37:23-28). To their father, they made it appear that Joseph had been killed by a wild animal (Genesis 37:31-35).

From a human perspective, Joseph's dreams seemed destroyed.

Potiphar's House: Faithfulness Despite Injustice

In Egypt, Joseph was purchased by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh. Although he had every reason to become bitter, Joseph remained faithful to God. The Lord blessed the work of his hands, and he eventually became overseer of Potiphar's household (Genesis 39:1-6).

Then another injustice occurred.

Potiphar's wife repeatedly tried to seduce Joseph, but he refused, saying:

"How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9)

When Joseph fled from temptation, she falsely accused him of assault. Without a fair hearing, Joseph was thrown into prison (Genesis 39:7-20).

Again, his circumstances seemed to move farther away from God's promises.

Prison: Forgotten but Not Forsaken

Yet even in prison, "the LORD was with Joseph" (Genesis 39:21). God gave him favor with the prison keeper, and Joseph was entrusted with responsibility over the other prisoners (Genesis 39:22-23). Instead of wasting his suffering, Joseph continued serving faithfully.

While imprisoned, Joseph interpreted the dreams of Pharaoh's chief cupbearer and chief baker, giving glory to God by declaring:

"Do not interpretations belong to God?" (Genesis 40:8)

Exactly as Joseph said, the cupbearer was restored, and the baker was executed (Genesis 40:20-22). Yet the restored cupbearer forgot Joseph, leaving him in prison for two more years (Genesis 40:23; 41:1).

Even then, God had not forgotten him.

The Palace: Promoted in a Single Day

When Pharaoh dreamed troubling dreams that none of Egypt's wise men could interpret, the cupbearer finally remembered Joseph (Genesis 41:9-13). Joseph was brought before Pharaoh, and once again he pointed away from himself:

"It is not in me: God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace." (Genesis 41:16)

Joseph interpreted Pharaoh's dreams as seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine (Genesis 41:25-32). He also proposed a wise plan to preserve food during the years of plenty.

Recognizing that God's wisdom was upon Joseph, Pharaoh elevated him from prisoner to governor over all Egypt in a single day:

"See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt." (Genesis 41:41)

What Every Season Taught Joseph

Joseph's promotion was not accidental.

• The pit taught him humility.
• Slavery taught him service.
• Potiphar's house taught him leadership.
• Temptation taught him integrity.
• Prison taught him patience.
• The dreams taught him to depend on God.

Every painful season became preparation for the position God had already planned.

Forgiveness After Betrayal

Years later, Joseph's brothers came to Egypt seeking food during the famine. They stood before the brother they had betrayed, not recognizing him (Genesis 42). Joseph had the authority to punish them, imprison them, or even seek revenge.

Instead, after revealing his identity, he spoke words that continue to comfort believers today:

"But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive." (Genesis 50:20)

Joseph saw beyond the betrayal. He understood that although his brothers were responsible for their actions, God had been working sovereignly through every trial to position him to preserve many lives, including the very family that had wronged him.

Joseph chose forgiveness because he saw God's hand behind the pain. His story reminds us that our greatest disappointments may become God's greatest appointments.

My Own Season of Preparation

As I reflect upon my own life, I see a similar lesson.

Earlier in my life, I became involved with two ladies at separate periods who, unbeknownst to me, practiced witchcraft and placed love spells upon me with the intention of ultimately destroying my life. At the time, I did not understand what was happening. I only knew that I was living through confusion, spiritual oppression, deep depression, emotional pain, unexplained fear, and circumstances that I could not explain.

Looking back, I now see those years differently.

While I do not believe God authored evil, I believe He remained sovereign throughout the entire ordeal. Just as He never abandoned Joseph in the pit, the prison, or the palace, I know for certain He never abandoned me.

Rather than allowing bitterness to take root, I have chosen not to hate those ladies. Instead, I see that even those painful experiences have become part of my preparation.

• They awakened me to spiritual realities.
• They drove me deeper into the Scriptures.
• They increased my dependence upon God.
• They gave me compassion for people who feel trapped, confused, or spiritually oppressed, like I once was.

Most importantly, they prepared me for a ministry of helping others find freedom through the truth of God's Word and embracing the reality of the spiritual realm. Jesus said:

"And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:32)

Today, my desire is not to magnify darkness but to magnify the power of God to deliver, heal, restore, and redeem. Just as Joseph used his God-given wisdom to preserve lives during a famine, I pray that God will use my experiences to point others toward the freedom, hope, and victory found in Jesus Christ.

Joseph's life teaches us that promotion is not merely receiving a higher position; it is becoming the kind of person who can faithfully carry greater responsibility. Before God entrusts His servants with influence, He often develops their character through hardship.

The pit was not Joseph's destination.
The prison was not Joseph's destiny.
Both were classrooms where God prepared him for the palace.

May we remember that when we cannot understand our circumstances, we can still trust the One who is writing our story. If we remain faithful, God can use even the darkest chapters of our lives to accomplish His purposes and bless others.

For the God who prepared Joseph is the same God who continues to prepare His servants today.

Pastor Kevin L.A Ewing
www.kevinlaewing.com
www.kevinlaewing.blogspot.com
ewinglakevin@icloud.com

Starve the Source: How to Actually Disarm Your Enemies

The best way to end anything is to starve its source of existence. To the average person, this may sound strange or ineffective. However, viewed holistically from an everyday-life perspective, it all makes sense. If you remove a fish from water, it dies. If we remove oxygen from a fire, it dies. If we remove fuel from an engine, it dies. And if we deprive a person of food, they will eventually die. Whenever we cease to fuel the existence of anything, the basic and natural laws dictate that it must die.

The Bible, which most of you may know I refer to as the rule book, is littered with principles that will bring certain situations to an end, or at a minimum, frustrate their efforts. While these principles may initially seem to place the practitioner at a disadvantage, they establish a path to victory and a more peaceful life.

The Command Behind Matthew 5:44

To better illustrate my point, I'd like to invite everyone to focus on Matthew 5:44:

"But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you." (Matthew 5:44)

On the surface, this biblical principle for handling our enemies may seem to ask us to be a doormat for them, offering no resistance or pushback to their attacks. This is usually the view when emotions and hurt are involved.

However, if we view the Scripture above with wisdom and set our emotions aside, it will begin to make sense, leading us to approach situations with a long-term goal rather than a temporary fix that will eventually cause the issue to resurface. Going back to my initial point: the best way to end anything is to starve its source of existence. In Matthew 5:44, Jesus is advising us not to retaliate when challenged by our enemies. In fact, He's commanding us to do the opposite of what our enemies are doing to us. While this may appear to be a weak move on the surface, taking the opposite position, or refusing to retaliate, is a subtle and effective way of disabling your enemy.

How This Strategy Actually Works

You might wonder how this method actually works. It's important to realize that your enemy often hopes you'll respond, because every retaliatory reply they get from you gives them more ammunition. They expect you to react so they can keep testing you. In truth, your responses show them that their actions are getting to you. By replying, you're giving them the satisfaction they're looking for, which only encourages their foolishness.

Here is a more visual way to look at it. Let's say your enemy is fire, and you are water. When your enemy curses you (fire), the way you extinguish their fire is by blessing them (water). If they are mean to you, you show them kindness. Even if it doesn't seem to be working, keep doing the opposite, or don't respond at all. Eventually, they will become frustrated and back off.

Supporting Scriptures

Let us look at some supporting scriptures to further prove my point:

"Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not." (Romans 12:14)

"Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord." (Romans 12:19)

"But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you." (Luke 6:27-28, ESV)

"Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing." (1 Peter 3:9, ESV)

"To the contrary, 'if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.' Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." (Romans 12:20-21, ESV)

"If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink, for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you." (Proverbs 25:21-22, ESV)

"When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly." (1 Peter 2:23, ESV)

"And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil." (Luke 6:34-35, ESV)

"And we labor, working with our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we entreat. We have become, and are still, like the scum of the world, the refuse of all things." (1 Corinthians 4:12-13, ESV)

"If you meet your enemy's ox or his donkey going astray, you shall bring it back to him. If you see the donkey of one who hates you lying down under its burden, you shall refrain from leaving him with it; you shall rescue it with him." (Exodus 23:4-5, ESV)

"Do not say, 'I will do to him as he has done to me; I will pay the man back for what he has done.'" (Proverbs 24:29, ESV)

"Do not say, 'I will repay evil'; wait for the Lord, and he will deliver you." (Proverbs 20:22, ESV)

"Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all." (Romans 12:17, ESV)

"Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles, lest the LORD see it and be displeased, and turn away his anger from him. Fret not yourself because of evildoers, and be not envious of the wicked." (Proverbs 24:17-19, ESV)

"See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone." (1 Thessalonians 5:15, ESV)

As you have read, the Bible is filled with principles and rules to extinguish the flames of our enemies. The common denominator for those who adhere to Scripture is that we do not fuel the fires of our enemies. We must not do so, nor allow anyone to encourage us to do so, because we would be in direct violation of the Scriptures.

Again, as I said before, the best way to end anything is to starve its source. Stop feeding your enemy's attacks. If you want your enemies to stop, either stop responding to them or respond according to the Word of God. As believers in Jesus Christ, we are to uphold the rules of Scripture rather than our emotions.

Kevin L A Ewing
ewinglakevin@icloud.com
kevinlaewing.blogspot.com
www.kevinlaewing.com

Signs a Nation Is Under Witchcraft

Demonic influences will disrupt the divine order, replacing it with spiritual deception and manipulation, ultimately resulting in hardship in every area of life for that country. Although the Bible does not offer a specific checklist, it provides a contextual perspective on political leaders resorting to occult powers to gain power and the consequences that follow for the people of that country. Below is a summary of key indicators of a nation that has been spiritually enslaved due to witchcraft.

Deception as a Tool of Governance

The core of witchcraft is often defined as anything that leads a people astray through deception, causing a nation to "err," or go out of alignment with truth.

Manipulation, Intimidation, and Domination

These three traits, often called the "three-fold cord" of witchcraft, frequently replace genuine leadership. When a nation's systems rely on fear and lies to gain control, or coercive authority to silence dissent, it is viewed as operating in rebellion against God.

Widespread Rebellion and Stubbornness

Scripture explicitly links rebellion to witchcraft:

"For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft." (1 Samuel 15:23)

A nation characterized by persistent, stubborn defiance of moral or spiritual laws is often seen as being under this influence.

Spiritual Blindness and Heavy Atmospheres

A "bewitched" nation may experience a loss of spiritual discernment, where theology and intellectualism replace revelation. This often manifests as a spiritually heavy atmosphere, in which common practices and traditions carry an underlying sense of control.

Presence of Occult Strongholds

In regions or nations under such influence, these areas may also see high rates of unexplained mental illness, along with suicide.

Erosion of Truth and Rise of Deception

A nation under this influence frequently experiences a loss of truth, where lies, false prophecy, and deception are welcomed, and righteousness is actively opposed. There is always a proliferation of false prophets in a nation under witchcraft attacks.

The Future Generation

It is without a doubt that in a nation under spiritual oppression, the younger population will be severely attacked or indoctrinated by evil at a young age, through things like child abuse and trauma. This sets the stage for the child to mature into resentment, rejection, and bitterness. If they are blessed enough to escape this, the next stage will be mental illness, such as anxiety attacks, depression, and severe confusion, which will ultimately lead to rebellion and culminate in suicide.

Unnatural Division and Strife

Intense, unexplainable, and persistent social, political, and familial strife, leading to a complete breakdown of unity.

Colonialism and Imperialism

Scripture stands as clear evidence that when a nation is under witchcraft powers, foreigners will rise to great prominence and dominate, while the natives sit and watch helplessly as they're overrun in their own country (Deuteronomy 28:33, 43-44).

Inversion of Values

A culture where good is considered bad and bad is considered good, where a man can identify as a woman and a woman can identify as a man, accompanied by widespread moral decay and apathy.

Untimely Deaths

One of the most common signs of a nation under occult powers is an increase in deaths, particularly untimely deaths. This happens because political leaders make blood sacrifices to evil altars in exchange for votes and ultimately win the position they're vying for. A clear example is King Manasseh of Israel. He abandoned the God of Israel to serve idols (2 Kings 21:21). His decision as a political leader resulted in much bloodshed in the land (2 Kings 21:16).

Corruption Among Political and Religious Leaders

Scripture clearly shows that what affects the head will eventually impact the body. If a nation's leader has used witchcraft to secure an election, it means evil spirits have been unleashed in the land through blood sacrifices at evil altars. This corruption is not limited to political figures. Ezekiel 8 reveals that religious leaders have also become corrupt. The following scriptures highlight principles on how leadership influences the flow: Psalm 133:1-2, Matthew 26:31, Mark 14:27, and Zechariah 13:7.

If your country is approaching general elections, please pray for its stability and leadership. I also recommend praying for your family, asking for a spiritual shield of protection around them, especially to guard against untimely deaths caused by the increasing use of witchcraft in pursuit of political power.

Pastor Kevin L A Ewing
ewinglakevin@icloud.com
kevinlaewing.blogspot.com
www.kevinlaewing.com

Life Is Not Unfair—It Is Honest

Most people hate the realities life hands them. What is even more interesting is that many chronically complain about the unfairness of life while completely ignoring the fact that they are often the primary
contributors to the very outcomes they consider unfair.

So, what is this reality of life?

To understand the reality of life, we must first unlearn what it is not. Throughout history, people have repeated the familiar phrase, "Life is unfair." While this statement may offer temporary comfort, it often becomes a convenient way to shift accountability and responsibility away from ourselves. It allows us to blame circumstances rather than examine the choices, habits, relationships, and mindsets that continue to produce the same undesirable results.

The truth is that life is not primarily about fairness or unfairness. It is about cause and effect. Life continually reflects back to us the consequences of what we consistently think, tolerate, practice, defend, and repeat. Unfortunately, many refuse to accept this reality. Instead, they continue surrounding themselves with the same people, following the same unproductive advice, making the same decisions, and maintaining the same destructive habits—only to wonder why the results never change.

Life is remarkably honest. It simply returns what we continually invest into it.

What you tolerate today becomes your normal tomorrow. What you repeatedly practice eventually becomes your reality. What you continually defend will often become your destiny. If you desire different results, you must first change the ingredients that are producing your current ones. Results do not change by wishing for them; they change when the factors that create them are changed.

As 2026 approaches, ask yourself an honest question:

Will you continue carrying the same attitudes, the same unhealthy relationships, the same reluctance to change, the same unforgiveness, the same disappointments, and the same destructive patterns that produced the frustrations of 2025?

If so, why should you expect a different outcome?

Perhaps what you have called unfairness is actually truth confronting you. Truth is showing you that the changes you long to see in your circumstances must first begin within you. Lasting transformation has always been born from accountability, personal responsibility, and the courage to change.

Albert Einstein is widely credited with saying, "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." Whether or not those were his exact words, the principle remains profoundly true.

Life is not inherently unfair.

Life is honest.

It faithfully reflects the seeds we sow, the decisions we make, the company we keep, and the standards we accept. When we change those things, life begins to produce different outcomes.

The question is not whether life has been unfair to you.

The real question is:

What are you willing to change so that your future no longer resembles your past?

Pastor Kevin L. A. Ewing
ewinglakevin@icloud.com
kevinlaewing.blogspot.com
www.kevinlaewing.com

 

How to Test the Spirits

 One of the first realities we must recognize as followers of Jesus Christ is that our priorities and focus
must shift from the physical to the spiritual. The reason is simple: our assessments and judgments should be governed by spiritual discernment rather than by what is merely presented to our natural eyes. As believers, we are called to look beyond the surface and discern the root of a matter instead of being deceived by its outward appearance.

The Apostle Paul emphasized this truth in his letter to the Church at Ephesus:

"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." (Ephesians 6:12)

This verse makes it clear that the Christian's true conflict is not with people but with unseen spiritual forces that oppose God's purposes. Paul describes an organized kingdom of darkness made up of principalities, powers, rulers of darkness, and spiritual wickedness operating in the unseen realm. Because our battle is spiritual, God has provided spiritual armor, instructing believers to "put on the whole armor of God" so that we may stand against the schemes of the devil.

Understanding this truth provides the proper foundation for the Apostle John's instruction:

"Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world." (1 John 4:1)

How Do We Test the Spirits?

According to Scripture, believers must approach every person, teaching, behavior, doctrine, experience, or spiritual manifestation from a biblical perspective rather than from emotion or natural observation. The first step is to examine the fruit that is consistently being produced. Once the fruit is identified, it must be compared with the teachings of Scripture to determine whether it agrees with the character and nature of God.

For example, consider a person who continually lies. The observable fruit is consistent deception. According to Ephesians 6:12, however, our battle is not against flesh and blood. Therefore, while the individual is responsible for his or her actions, the believer is instructed to recognize a spiritual dimension behind persistent sinful behavior. Scripture illustrates this reality by referring to a lying spirit in 1 Kings 22:21-23. The objective is not to hate the individual but to discern the spiritual influence operating behind the consistent fruit being produced.

This is why biblical knowledge is absolutely essential. A believer cannot properly test the spirits without using the Scriptures as the ultimate standard of truth. Personal opinions, emotions, traditions, popularity, religious experiences, or ecclesiastical titles can never replace the authority of God's Word.

Consistency Reveals the Source

Consistency is another essential principle in spiritual discernment. Spirits are consistent because they consistently express their nature. A lying spirit continually produces deception. A jealous spirit continually produces jealousy. A spirit of division continually produces strife. Likewise, the Spirit of God consistently produces righteousness, truth, holiness, conviction, love, peace, and obedience to God's Word.

As it relates to human beings, spiritual influences seek expression through the heart and mind. Over time, a person who continually yields to those influences begins to consistently manifest their characteristics. The individual may not even recognize the spiritual source of what is being expressed, yet the fruit eventually reveals the root.

Jesus taught this very principle in Matthew 7:16-20:

"Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them." (Matthew 7:16-20)

Jesus was teaching that the true nature or source of anything is ultimately revealed by what it consistently produces. Fruit exposes the root. A tree cannot continually produce fruit that contradicts its nature. The same principle applies to spiritual discernment. A spirit that is from God will agree with the truth of Scripture, exalt Jesus Christ, produce godly character, and bear righteous fruit. Conversely, a spirit that consistently promotes deception, rebellion, immorality, false doctrine, or anything contrary to God's Word cannot be from God, regardless of how convincing, charismatic, intelligent, influential, or supernatural it may appear.

The Bible Is the Standard by Which All Things Are Tested

To "test the spirits" means evaluating every teaching against the clear and unchanging truths of Scripture. Every doctrine preached from a pulpit, every message shared online, every revelation, prophecy, dream, vision, miracle, or supernatural experience must be measured by the written Word of God. The Apostle Paul reinforced this responsibility when he wrote:

"Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." (1 Thessalonians 5:21)

Notice that Paul did not tell believers to accept everything they heard simply because it appeared spiritual or was spoken by a respected individual. Instead, he instructed the Church to test everything and hold on to only what could withstand biblical examination.

The Berean Example

The Bereans provide one of the greatest biblical examples of this principle. Although the Apostle Paul himself preached to them, they did not blindly accept his teaching simply because of his reputation or apostolic authority. Instead, Luke records:

"These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so." (Acts 17:11)

Remarkably, the Holy Spirit commended the Bereans not for doubting Paul but for verifying his teaching through the Scriptures. This demonstrates an important biblical principle: no preacher, prophet, Apostle, teacher, pastor, bishop, or spiritual leader is above the authority of God's Word. If the Bereans searched the Scriptures daily to verify the teaching of the Apostle Paul, how much more should believers today examine every teaching they hear?

Likewise, all spiritual encounters, whether natural or supernatural, must be examined in light of God's Word. We live in a time when many claim divine authority while introducing teachings, revelations, visions, dreams, prophecies, and miraculous experiences that extend beyond or even contradict Scripture. The Bible commands believers not to accept such claims blindly, but to examine them carefully. Satan is capable of deception, and Scripture repeatedly warns that false prophets, false teachers, and false apostles will arise.

Therefore, the believer's confidence should never rest upon signs, wonders, personalities, titles, popularity, or emotional experiences. Our confidence must rest upon the unchanging truth of God's written Word. The written Word of God remains the final authority in every matter of faith and practice. It is the believer's measuring rod, the standard by which truth is separated from error, and the only infallible guide for discerning whether a spirit is truly from God.

Conclusion

To "test the spirits" is to compare every teaching, doctrine, prophecy, vision, dream, miracle, spiritual manifestation, and personal experience with the Scriptures. It is to judge the fruit, discern the root, and allow the Bible, not emotions, personalities, traditions, or supernatural experiences, to render the final verdict.

A spiritually mature believer does not believe everything that appears supernatural. Rather, a spiritually mature believer submits everything to the authority of God's Word.

The Bereans searched the Scriptures.
Paul commanded believers to test all things.
John instructed believers to test the spirits.
Jesus taught that fruit reveals the root.

Together, these passages establish one unmistakable truth: the Bible is God's final authority for discerning truth from error.

Pastor Kevin L. A. Ewing
ewinglakevin@icloud.com
kevinlaewing.blogspot.com
www.kevinlaewing.com

"Life Is Happening for You, Not to You: What Joseph's Story Teaches About Divine Preparation"

 

"Understanding That Life Is Happening for You, Not to You"

"He sent a man before them, even Joseph, who was sold for a servant: whose feet they hurt with fetters: he was laid in iron: until the time that his word came: the word of the LORD tried him." (Psalm 105:17-19)

God tests and prepares His servants before fulfilling the destiny He has spoken over their lives.

If someone had asked me twenty years ago, "Do you see yourself becoming a pastor?" I would have confidently answered, "Absolutely not."

Yet today, as I look back over my life, I clearly see the invisible hand of God directing every step of my journey. What once seemed like random disappointments, painful setbacks, unanswered questions, and unexpected detours were, in reality, divine preparations leading me to a place I never imagined I would be.

One of the greatest lessons I have learned is this: God often prepares us for a destiny we never planned for ourselves.

The Bible tells the remarkable story of Joseph, one of Jacob's twelve sons (Genesis 37-50). As a young man, Joseph received dreams from God that revealed he would one day become a great leader. However, while those dreams showed him where he was going, they never revealed how he would get there.

Joseph's dreams never mentioned betrayal.
They never mentioned slavery.
They never mentioned false accusations.
They never mentioned prison.

Nor did they reveal the loneliness, humiliation, confusion, and years of waiting that would precede his promotion.

This is often how God works. Sometimes God gives us a glimpse of our future, not to explain every detail, but to give us enough hope to endure the difficult seasons that lie ahead. Those moments of encouragement become the fuel that keeps us moving forward when life becomes exhausting, confusing, frustrating, and even embarrassing.

Looking back, we eventually realize that every stage of the journey was preparing us for what we would become.

Betrayal by His Brothers

Joseph's preparation began with his brothers' jealousy. Because their father favored Joseph, his brothers hated him. Their hatred became so intense that they plotted to kill him before eventually selling him into slavery in Egypt (Genesis 37:18-28).

What seemed like the end of Joseph's life was actually the beginning of God's plan.

Faithfulness in Potiphar's House

Potiphar purchased Joseph, an Egyptian officer, and made him overseer of his household (Genesis 39:1-6). His integrity, diligence, and excellent spirit caused him to prosper so greatly that the Bible says Potiphar entrusted everything he owned to Joseph. Scripture tells us that Potiphar "knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat" (Genesis 39:6).

Joseph's faithfulness during obscurity prepared him for leadership.

Then came another unexpected trial.

Potiphar's wife falsely accused Joseph after he refused her immoral advances. Although Joseph had done what was right before God, he was imprisoned for a crime he never committed (Genesis 39:7-20).

Prison: Another Classroom

Yet even prison became another classroom in God's preparation. The keeper of the prison recognized Joseph's character and entrusted him with overseeing the other prisoners (Genesis 39:21-23). Once again, adversity became an opportunity for God to develop leadership, wisdom, patience, and faithfulness within him.

While imprisoned, Joseph interpreted the dreams of Pharaoh's chief butler and baker (Genesis 40). At the time, those interpretations seemed to benefit someone else more than Joseph himself.

Years later, however, that very gift would open the door to Pharaoh's palace.

From Prison to the Palace

When Pharaoh dreamed troubling dreams that none of Egypt's wise men could interpret, Joseph was remembered, summoned from prison, and stood before the nation's most powerful ruler (Genesis 41). By faithfully using the gift God had given him, Joseph was elevated from a prison cell to become governor over all Egypt.

Notice what Joseph never had access to during the process: an explanation. He never saw the betrayal coming. He never knew prison would lead to a palace. He simply stayed faithful in Potiphar's house, faithful in prison, and faithful with the gift God had given him. God connected the dots that Joseph could not connect for himself.

This is the same truth I have come to embrace about my own life. Twenty years ago I could not have explained how the disappointments, delays, and detours I walked through would prepare me to shepherd others. I only understood the process in reverse, the same way Joseph did when he stood before his brothers and said, "Ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good" (Genesis 50:20).

Life is not happening to you. It is happening for you. The betrayal, the delay, the waiting room, and the prison seasons are not proof that God has forgotten you. They are the classroom where He is forming you for a calling you may not yet see.

If you are in a season that feels like Joseph's pit, Potiphar's house, or the prison, do not despise it. Stay faithful where you are. God is not wasting your process. He is preparing your palace.

Pastor Kevin L A Ewing
ewinglakevin@icloud.com
kevinlaewing.blogspot.com
www.kevinlaewing.com

 

Dream Symbols That Reveal Destiny

 

Understanding the Biblical Significance of Roads, Paths, and Journeys in Dreams

Throughout Scripture, God occasionally communicated through dreams to reveal His plans, provide
warnings, offer guidance, or disclose future events (Genesis 37; Daniel 2; Matthew 2:12-13; Acts 2:17). While not every dream originates from God, there are times when dreams can provide spiritual insight into areas that deserve our prayerful attention.

One of the most common symbols people report dreaming about is a road, path, street, or highway.

 

Have you recently dreamed of traveling on a particular road?

Was the road smooth or rough?

Was it straight, winding, hilly, mountainous, or filled with obstacles?

Did it end abruptly in a dead end?

Was it bright and easy to see, or dark and confusing?

These details may be significant.

Roads Often Represent Life's Journey

Throughout the Bible, the words road, way, and path frequently symbolize the direction of a person's life and spiritual journey.

The condition of the road in a dream may reflect your present circumstances, the direction your life is taking, or areas that require prayer and discernment.

For example:

• A rough or difficult road may reflect a season of hardship, testing, or opposition.

• A road filled with obstacles or barriers may symbolize difficulties preventing progress toward your goals.

• A dead-end road may suggest that your present direction requires reconsideration.

• A bright, well-lit road may indicate clarity, understanding, and divine direction.

• A dark road may symbolize uncertainty, hidden dangers, or areas where additional wisdom is needed.

Such dreams should encourage us to seek God for understanding rather than producing fear.

Dreams Reveal What Requires Prayer

One principle I have observed throughout Scripture is that God often reveals spiritual matters before they become visible in the natural world.

For this reason, when a dream highlights a recurring problem, obstacle, or warning, it should motivate us to pray rather than panic.

Likewise, when God reveals encouragement, direction, or promise in a dream, we should respond by praying in agreement with His will.

As believers, our confidence should always rest in God rather than in dreams themselves.

The Word of God Is Our Greatest Guide

While dreams may sometimes provide insight, the Word of God remains our primary source of truth and direction.

David declared:

"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."
(Psalm 119:105)

Without God's Word, we walk in spiritual darkness. His Word illuminates our path, exposes deception, and guides us toward His purpose for our lives.

Every dream must ultimately be tested against the Scriptures.

Common Dream Symbols

Hills and Mountains

Dreams involving steep hills or mountains may symbolize significant challenges, perseverance, or difficult seasons that require faith and endurance.

Bright or Dark Roads

A bright road may suggest clarity, revelation, and confidence in God's direction.

A dark road may indicate uncertainty, lack of understanding, or the need to seek God's wisdom before making important decisions.

Walking with Someone

Walking beside someone while remaining separated may symbolize disagreement, differing directions, or a relationship lacking unity.

Walking together in harmony may represent agreement, partnership, shared purpose, and unity.

As Amos 3:3 asks:

"Can two walk together, except they be agreed?"

Vehicles and Collisions

Dreams involving vehicles often symbolize movement, direction, responsibility, or life's journey.

A collision may represent conflict, unexpected confrontation, or an interruption to one's plans.

If another vehicle strikes yours from behind, it may suggest that something from your past or something taking place without your knowledge deserves prayerful attention.

Animals Chasing You

Some people dream of being pursued by aggressive animals such as dogs or cats.

Depending upon the context of the dream, this may represent fear, conflict, opposition, or spiritual attack. Because dream symbolism varies according to the dream's overall message, it is wise to seek God's wisdom rather than assuming every symbol carries the same meaning.

How Should We Respond to Dreams?

Whenever you experience a troubling dream, your first response should always be prayer.

Ask God for wisdom.

Ask Him whether the dream requires action or simply intercession.

James 1:5 reminds us:

"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."

If you believe God has given you encouragement or direction through a dream, pray that His perfect will would be fulfilled in your life.

If the dream appears to be a warning, pray against every plan of the enemy and commit your life to God's protection and guidance.

Remember, God has not given us dreams to produce fear but to draw us closer to Him.

Scriptures for Prayer and Meditation

Psalm 27:11

"Teach me thy way, O LORD, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies."

Psalm 16:11

"Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."

Proverbs 1:15

"My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path."

Proverbs 4:14

"Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men."

Proverbs 4:18

"But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day."

Jeremiah 6:16

"Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein..."

A Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being my Shepherd and Guide. Lead me in the path You have ordained for my life. Let Your Word continually be a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Give me wisdom to discern every dream according to Your truth. If You reveal areas requiring prayer, give me the grace to respond in faith and obedience. Protect me from deception, direct my steps, remove every obstacle that opposes Your perfect will, and establish me in the destiny You have prepared for me. In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

May these teachings encourage you to seek God with greater confidence, study His Word diligently, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth.

Please continue to keep me in your prayers.

Kevin L. A. Ewing

ewinglakevin@icloud.com

kevinlaewing.blogspot.com

www.kevinlaewing.com