Grow Stronger Roots

Finding Strength and Purpose in God’s Plan

Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:28, and Philippians 4:13

In a world filled with uncertainty, trials, and personal struggles, Christians often seek reassurance that God has a purpose for their lives. The Bible provides powerful verses that emphasize God’s sovereignty, His promise to bring good from all circumstances, and the strength available through faith. Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 8:28, and Philippians 4:13 intertwine beautifully, reminding believers that they are not alone and that God’s plan is always unfolding.

God’s Promised Plan – Jeremiah 29:11 (KJV)

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”

This verse speaks to God’s divine intentions for His people. Though originally addressed to the Israelites in exile, the message holds true for Christians today: God has a plan, and it is designed for peace and hope. In times of doubt, this verse reassures believers that life’s struggles do not signify abandonment but rather a path toward God’s greater purpose.

God Works for Our Good – Romans 8:28 (KJV)

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

Romans 8:28 provides deep encouragement for believers who face hardships. While life may present obstacles, God orchestrates everything for good—whether through personal growth, strengthened faith, or unexpected blessings. The requirement, however, is trust: this promise applies to those who love God and align themselves with His purpose.

Strength for Every Challenge – Philippians 4:13 (KJV)

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

Faith isn’t just about trusting God’s plan; it’s also about stepping forward boldly with the strength He provides. Philippians 4:13 reminds believers that regardless of the obstacles ahead, Christ supplies the endurance and courage to navigate them. While this verse is often quoted for motivation, its true meaning lies in contentment—Paul wrote these words while experiencing hardship, showing that reliance on Christ provides inner peace in all circumstances.

The Connection Between These Verses

Together, these scriptures reveal God’s overarching promise to His people:

Jeremiah 29:11 assures us of His purpose and plans for peace.
Romans 8:28 affirms that every experience, even difficulties, can be part of His greater plan.
Philippians 4:13 empowers us to walk through life’s challenges with divine strength.

For today’s Christian, these verses serve as a foundation for faith, trust, and perseverance. When faced with uncertainty, believers can rest in the truth that God is guiding them, working through every circumstance, and providing the strength needed to endure.

Living Out These Promises

To apply these scriptures in daily life:

Trust God’s timing even when plans seem unclear.
Seek His presence in prayer and scripture to gain strength.
Remain steadfast in faith, knowing that every challenge serves a greater purpose.
Step forward confidently, knowing Christ supplies all that is needed.

God’s promises remain unshaken, and when believers embrace these truths, they can move forward with peace, faith, and unwavering confidence in His plan.

For more information and study check out the books from Grow Stronger Roots on Amazon.

Trusting God’s Guidance

Life often presents crossroads, requiring us to choose paths with uncertain outcomes. The Bible provides wisdom for navigating these moments, particularly through Proverbs 3:5-6, Psalm 119:105, and Hebrews 4:12. Together, these scriptures emphasize the importance of trusting in the Lord, allowing His Word to illuminate our way, and recognizing the transformative power of Scripture in guiding our hearts and minds.

Trusting in the Lord – Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

This passage encourages complete reliance on God rather than human logic. By surrendering our plans to Him, we open the door for divine direction, ensuring that our steps align with His will rather than our own limited understanding.

God’s Word as Our Light – Psalm 119:105 (KJV)

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

Psalm 119:105 reinforces that God’s Word provides clarity in times of uncertainty. Just as a lamp illuminates the way in darkness, Scripture reveals truth and wisdom, helping believers walk in faith and righteousness.

The Power of God’s Word – Hebrews 4:12 (KJV)

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

Hebrews 4:12 highlights the dynamic nature of Scripture—it is alive and active, capable of discerning our deepest motives and guiding us toward truth. The Word of God is not merely a collection of teachings but a divine tool that refines and transforms our hearts.

The Connection Between Trust, Guidance, and Transformation

These three verses complement one another beautifully.

Proverbs 3:5-6 teaches us to trust God fully and acknowledge Him in all our ways.
Psalm 119:105 assures us that His Word will illuminate our steps.
Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that Scripture actively shapes and refines us, ensuring that we follow God’s truth with pure intent.

When life feels uncertain, we must seek God’s wisdom in prayer, immerse ourselves in Scripture, and trust in His divine plan. By doing so, we not only receive direction but also experience the transformative power of His Word, leading us to walk in faith and righteousness.

Living Out These Truths

To apply these verses in daily life:

Seek God’s wisdom in prayer.
Study Scripture regularly to illuminate your path.
Allow God’s Word to shape your decisions and thoughts.
Trust in His plan, even when the way forward isn’t clear.

Faith isn’t just about trusting God—it’s also about allowing His Word to work within us. When we embrace both trust and Scripture, we walk confidently, knowing He is leading us toward His perfect purpose.

For more information and study check out the books from Grow Stronger Roots on Amazon.

Also our newest book JUST PUBLISHED on Kindle: Anchored in Faith: A Journey Through Doubt.

Anchored in Faith: A Journey Through Doubt

I have finally completed the next book! It is live on Kindle today-paperback should be ready next week.

Are you struggling with doubt in your faith? You’re not alone. In Anchored in Faith: A Journey Through Doubt, I take readers on an honest and transformative exploration of faith, questioning, and resilience. Through heartfelt storytelling and deep wisdom, I reveal how doubt isn’t the enemy of belief—it’s a vital part of spiritual growth. Whether you’re seeking reassurance, clarity, or a renewed connection with your faith, this book offers a guiding light to help you navigate the storms and find deeper meaning.

Discover the power of faith, even in uncertainty. You can get the Kindle FREE the next few days with Kindle Unlimited or just $3.95 to purchase.

Blind Intervention: Seeing God’s Hand When We Cannot

In the book of Numbers 22, we encounter a remarkable story of Balaam and his donkey, where divine intervention takes place unseen—until God opens the eyes of the one meant to see. This passage provides a powerful lesson about how God’s guidance and protection are often at work, even when we remain spiritually unaware.

The Blindness of Balaam

Balaam, a prophet, was summoned by King Balak of Moab to curse Israel. Though God had clearly instructed him not to go, Balaam insisted and set out on his journey. However, “the angel of the LORD stood in the way for an adversary against him” (Numbers 22:22, KJV), blocking his path with a sword drawn. Balaam, blinded to the spiritual reality before him, continued forward—only to be halted by his donkey.

The Donkey’s Discernment

Unlike Balaam, his donkey saw the danger ahead. Three times, the animal tried to avoid the angel, even crushing Balaam’s foot against a wall in its desperation (Numbers 22:25). Yet, instead of realizing something divine was at work, Balaam became angry and struck the donkey.

At this point, God performed a miracle: “And the LORD opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?” (Numbers 22:28, KJV). A talking donkey was certainly unexpected—but more profound was Balaam’s blindness to the fact that God had been intervening to protect him.

Spiritual Blindness vs. Divine Intervention

Much like Balaam, we often fail to recognize God’s invisible hand guiding our lives. We question delays, obstacles, and closed doors, unaware that God may be protecting us from unseen dangers or redirecting us toward His will.

Even when we are spiritually blind, God continues to intervene:

Through circumstances that seem frustrating but are actually for our protection.
Through people who challenge us, preventing harmful decisions.
Through moments when plans fail, leading us toward better paths.

Just as God opened Balaam’s eyes, sometimes He allows us to see the truth in hindsight. Numbers 22 teaches us that God is at work, even when we cannot see Him.

Are We Paying Attention?

Balaam’s donkey was more spiritually aware than the prophet himself. This begs the question: Are we truly paying attention to the signs God places before us?

Perhaps delays, obstacles, or sudden redirections in our lives are not failures—but divine interventions guiding us toward a greater purpose.

Let us pray for wisdom and discernment, so that unlike Balaam, we recognize God’s intervention before we suffer the consequences of blind decisions.

For further study and learning check out the books from Grow Stronger Roots on Amazon.

Defending Scripture: A Look at The Inerrant Word

The authority and trustworthiness of the Bible have been debated for centuries, with critics questioning its accuracy and believers defending its divine inspiration. The Inerrant Word: Biblical, Historical, Theological, and Pastoral Perspectives, edited by John MacArthur, is a compelling collection of essays that seeks to affirm the complete truthfulness of Scripture.

A Unified Defense of Biblical Inerrancy

This book brings together evangelical pastors, theologians, historians, and biblical scholars to present a robust defense of the Bible’s inerrancy. Contributors include R.C. Sproul, Alistair Begg, Mark Dever, Kevin DeYoung, Sinclair Ferguson, and Albert Mohler, among others.

The essays explore key themes such as:

The Biblical Case for Inerrancy – Examining passages that affirm Scripture’s divine inspiration.
Church History & Inerrancy – How the doctrine of inerrancy has been upheld throughout Christian history.
Theological Responses to Critics – Addressing common objections to the Bible’s reliability.
Pastoral Applications – How inerrancy impacts preaching, teaching, and Christian living.

Why This Book Matters

In a time when skepticism toward Scripture is growing, The Inerrant Word provides a well-researched, theological foundation for defending the Bible’s truth. As MacArthur notes, attacks on Scripture have existed since Genesis 3, when Satan first questioned God’s words:

“Did God actually say…?” (Genesis 3:1, KJV)

This book argues that the full trustworthiness of Scripture must be defended in every generation, ensuring that believers remain confident in God’s Word.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a pastor, theologian, or a believer seeking deeper understanding, The Inerrant Word offers historical, theological, and pastoral insights that reinforce the Bible’s reliability. It stands as a powerful resource for those committed to upholding the authority of Scripture in an increasingly skeptical world.

Understanding Divine Inspiration: The Authority of Scripture

The Bible is often described as divinely inspired, meaning that its authors were guided by God to record His message faithfully. But what does divine inspiration actually mean, and why is it important for Christians today?

What Does the Bible Say About Divine Inspiration?

The concept of divine inspiration is directly stated in Scripture. One of the clearest affirmations comes from the Apostle Paul:

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16, KJV)

This verse teaches that every part of Scripture is God-inspired, making it authoritative in teaching, correcting, and guiding believers toward righteousness.

Another powerful passage comes from Peter, explaining that prophecy does not originate from human will:

“Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” (2 Peter 1:20-21, KJV)

These verses affirm that God directed human authors, ensuring that the message was truly His, rather than simply human wisdom.

How Did Divine Inspiration Work?

Though the Bible was written by human authors, God used their personalities, experiences, and writing styles to convey His truth. This method resulted in a unique combination of divine authority and human expression.

God’s Guidance Over Human Writers – The biblical authors did not simply write their own opinions; they were moved by the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:21).
Preserved Truth Over Time – The Scriptures were recorded in different languages, cultures, and historical settings, yet God ensured their accuracy across generations.
A Unified Message – Despite being written by over 40 authors across 1,500 years, the Bible maintains a consistent message: God’s redemptive plan through Jesus Christ.

The Purpose of Inspiration

God’s divine inspiration of the Bible serves several key purposes:

To reveal truth – Scripture is God’s authoritative revelation, showing humanity who He is and how we should live.
To provide salvation – Through the inspired Word, people learn about salvation through Christ (Romans 10:17).
To guide believers – The Bible serves as a lamp to our feet (Psalm 119:105), directing us toward righteousness.
To correct and teach – God’s Word is profitable for doctrine and instruction (2 Timothy 3:16).

The Bible’s Reliability

Because the Bible is inspired by God, it is seen as trustworthy and without error in its original form. Jesus Himself affirmed its truth and permanence when He declared:

“Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.” (Matthew 24:35, KJV)

Conclusion

The Bible is more than just an ancient text—it is the living, inspired Word of God. Its divine inspiration means it carries authority, truth, and power to change lives. As believers, we can trust that God’s Word is perfect, offering guidance, correction, and wisdom for every aspect of life.

For more information and study check out the books from Grow Stronger Roots on Amazon.

Breaking Barriers: The Profound Encounter at the Well

The story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, recorded in John 4:1-42, is one of the most profound and intimate conversations in the Bible. It highlights themes of grace, redemption, and breaking societal barriers, while also showcasing Jesus’ divine insight and mission to reach the lost.

A Meeting Destined by Grace

As Jesus journeyed through Samaria, He paused at Jacob’s well in Sychar around noon, weary from His travels (John 4:6). A Samaritan woman approached, ready to draw water, unknowingly stepping into a life-changing conversation.

“There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink.” (John 4:7, KJV)

Her initial response was one of shock—Jews and Samaritans were divided by deep historical animosity. Yet Jesus wasn’t bound by societal prejudices. He redirected the conversation to spiritual matters, offering her “living water”—a symbol of eternal life.

“Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.” (John 4:10, KJV)

Revealing the Heart’s Condition

Their exchange deepened as Jesus revealed her past, demonstrating His supernatural knowledge.

“For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.” (John 4:18, KJV)

This revelation stunned the woman, leading her to acknowledge Him as a prophet. Jesus patiently steered the conversation toward true worship, teaching that worship was no longer confined to a physical location, but rather centered in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24).

The Messiah Revealed

The turning point came when Jesus openly declared His identity as the Messiah—a rare and powerful moment.

“Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.” (John 4:26, KJV)

At this moment, His disciples returned, witnessing Him converse with a Samaritan woman—a societal taboo. But the woman left her waterpot behind and ran into the city, boldly proclaiming:

“Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?” (John 4:29, KJV)

A Chain Reaction of Faith

Her testimony sparked an awakening in Sychar—many believed in Jesus because of her word, and even more after personally hearing Him.

“And many more believed because of his own word; And said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.” (John 4:41-42, KJV)

How Was This Conversation Recorded?

One might ask: How did this private conversation become part of the Gospel if no other witnesses were present? Here are a few possible explanations:

Eyewitness Accounts – The Samaritan woman spread the message, possibly sharing the details of the conversation with Jesus’ disciples, who later recorded it.
Divine Inspiration – Christians believe that Scripture was divinely inspired, ensuring that important conversations were accurately included.
Oral Tradition – Biblical accounts were preserved through oral storytelling before they were written down.
Narrative Style – Gospel writers focused on the theological importance rather than strict journalistic reporting, ensuring that the meaning and essence of Jesus’ words were captured.

Why This Encounter Still Matters

This passage remains one of the most powerful testimonies of grace. It demonstrates:

Jesus’ willingness to break barriers—cultural, racial, and gender-related.
Salvation is for everyone, not just the religious elite.
Personal encounters with Jesus lead to transformation, as seen in the woman’s immediate evangelism.

Much like the woman at the well, Jesus meets us in our brokenness and offers living water—a life that never runs dry.

For more information and study check out the books from Grow Stronger Roots on Amazon.

The Great Commission: Jesus’ Final Call to Action (Matthew 28:16-20, KJV)

In Matthew 28:16-20, we find one of the most defining moments in the Christian faith—Jesus’ final command to His disciples before ascending to heaven. These verses, often referred to as The Great Commission, read:

“Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” (Matthew 28:16-20, KJV)

The Weight of Jesus’ Words

This moment comes after Jesus’ resurrection—a time of great awe, hope, and transformation. The disciples had witnessed the greatest miracle in history: Jesus conquering death. Yet, even in their joy, Scripture acknowledges that “some doubted.”

Jesus, aware of their uncertainty, reassures them with a bold declaration: “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” (Matthew 28:18, KJV) This is not just encouragement; it is a statement of absolute divine authority. He is Lord over all creation, and this authority is the foundation of His command to go.

The Call to Make Disciples

Jesus gives a clear and unwavering mission: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations.” (Matthew 28:19, KJV) This wasn’t just a call for the eleven disciples gathered that day—it was a call that echoes through the generations, reaching every believer.

Making disciples goes beyond simply sharing the gospel—it means investing in others, teaching them, and guiding them toward a deeper relationship with Christ. It is a mission that requires both boldness and patience.

Baptism and Teaching

Jesus outlines the two essential practices of discipleship:

Baptizing—a public declaration of faith, an outward symbol of an inward transformation. (“Baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” – Matthew 28:19, KJV)
Teaching—guiding others to understand, embrace, and live out Christ’s teachings. (“Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.” – Matthew 28:20, KJV)

This is not just about converting people—it’s about fostering lifelong discipleship, helping believers walk in faith and obedience.

The Promise of His Presence

Perhaps the most comforting part of Jesus’ commission is His final promise: “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” (Matthew 28:20, KJV)

Jesus doesn’t send us on this mission alone. He assures us of His continual presence, His guidance, and His strength. No matter the challenges, no matter the opposition, He remains with us.

What This Means for Us Today

The Great Commission is not a suggestion—it is a command. It is the heartbeat of the Christian life. Whether through conversations, acts of service, missions, or simply living out faith authentically, every believer is called to participate in this divine assignment.

Are we actively sharing the hope of Christ? Are we investing in the spiritual growth of others? Are we living with the assurance that He is always with us?

The Great Commission is more than a passage—it is a calling that continues today. May we boldly step forward, knowing that Jesus goes with us.

For more information and study check out the books from Grow Stronger Roots on Amazon.

The Glory of Christ and the Fulfillment of His Mission: A Reflection on John 17:4-5

John 17:4-5 is a powerful moment in Scripture, capturing Jesus’ deep communion with the Father as He prepares for the ultimate sacrifice. These verses read:

“I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do. And now, O Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was.” (NKJV)

In these words, Jesus acknowledges that He has fulfilled His mission—He has lived in perfect obedience, revealed the Father to humanity, and laid the foundation for redemption. But now, He turns His gaze toward the glory He shared with the Father before time began.

The Glory of Christ in His Earthly Ministry

Jesus says, “I have glorified You on the earth.” How did He do this? Every act of love, every miracle, every teaching, and ultimately, His willingness to take on the sins of the world glorified God. His life was a living testimony of the Father’s character—full of grace, truth, justice, and mercy.

Though He walked the earth in humility, He carried the very essence of divine glory. Unlike worldly glory, which fades, His glory was rooted in obedience, servanthood, and perfect love.

The Completion of His Work

Jesus also says, “I have finished the work which You have given Me to do.” This is a remarkable statement. Though His crucifixion had not yet happened, He speaks with certainty—His mission is as good as done. He has set everything into motion for salvation. Soon, through His death and resurrection, He will conquer sin, death, and the powers of darkness.

This moment reminds us that Christ was not a victim of circumstances—He was always in control, walking in divine purpose. His obedience to the Father was complete, even in the face of suffering.

A Glorious Restoration

Finally, Jesus prays, “And now, O Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was.” Here, Jesus anticipates His return to divine glory, the majesty He shared with the Father before creation.

This verse gives us a glimpse into the eternal nature of Christ. Before the incarnation, before He walked among us, He existed in perfect unity with the Father, clothed in divine splendor. Now, as He prepares for His greatest act—His sacrifice—He looks ahead to being reunited with the Father in glory.

What This Means for Us

These verses remind us of Jesus’ unwavering obedience and His divine nature. He was fully man, yet fully God, fulfilling His mission with absolute certainty. They also invite us to reflect on our own lives—how are we glorifying God in our daily walk? Do we live with purpose, knowing that we are called to follow Christ’s example?

John 17:4-5 is not just a window into Jesus’ heart; it is an invitation for us to live with the same focus. May we seek to glorify God in all that we do, knowing that we are part of His redemptive story.

For more information and further study check out the books from Grow Stronger Roots on Amazon.

Biblical Principles of Investing: Wisdom from Scripture

Investing wisely is a principle woven throughout the Bible, teaching us to be diligent, ethical, and faithful stewards of the resources God provides. While the Bible does not directly address stock markets or modern financial systems, it offers timeless wisdom on stewardship, growth, and trust in God rather than wealth.

Investing with Wisdom and Diligence

The Bible encourages careful planning and thoughtful investment. Wise financial decisions reflect good stewardship, bringing productivity and growth.

“She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.” (Proverbs 31:16, KJV)

This verse highlights the importance of making strategic investments, using resources wisely, and working diligently toward prosperity.

Diversification and Risk Management

In Ecclesiastes, Solomon offers a principle that closely aligns with modern investment strategies:

“Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth.” (Ecclesiastes 11:2, KJV)

Diversification is a biblical principle that helps mitigate risk. Just as farmers plant various crops to safeguard against poor harvests, investors should wisely distribute their resources.

Avoiding the Love of Money

While investing can be beneficial, the Bible warns against greed and trusting in wealth over God.

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…” (Matthew 6:19-20, KJV)

Money should never become an idol. The purpose of investing is not simply personal gain but to use resources for good—to bless others and glorify God.

Generosity and Ethical Investing

Biblical investing should align with ethical principles, ensuring that wealth is used righteously. Paul urges believers to be generous rather than hoarding riches:

“Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God… That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate.” (1 Timothy 6:17-18, KJV)

Investments should align with Christian values, avoiding industries that exploit or harm others. Additionally, giving should be a priority, ensuring that wealth is used for charitable purposes and kingdom-building.

Conclusion

Biblical investing is about wisdom, stewardship, ethical decisions, and keeping faith in God rather than wealth. By applying these scriptural principles, believers can make investments that honor God, provide for their families, and contribute to the greater good.

What are your thoughts on biblical stewardship? I’d love to hear how you apply these principles in your financial decisions.

For more information and study check out the books from Grow Stronger Roots on Amazon.