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Richems.com is a home of truth, love, and godly inspiration — built on the foundation of Christ. Our purpose is to guide families toward spiritual growth, peaceful living, and practical faith through Scripture-based teachings, uplifting stories, and simple, purposeful homemaking.

Here, we believe that strong homes build strong nations. As you journey through our blog, may your heart be encouraged, your home be strengthened, and your walk with God grow deeper.

๐Ÿ’– Affirm with us: We raise godly children. We walk in love. We build in peace. We live by faith.

Showing posts with label Christian Faith. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christian Faith. Show all posts

When God Seems Silent: What to Do in the Waiting Season

 

When God Seems Silent: What to Do in the Waiting Season

There are seasons in every believer’s life when God appears to be silent. You pray. You fast. You search the Scriptures. You ask for signs. And still—nothing. Silence. These moments of waiting can be unsettling, even painful. But they are not unusual. The silence of God is often a sacred space where your faith is being refined, your heart is being aligned, and your destiny is being defined.

So, what do you do when heaven seems to go quiet? How do you navigate life when the God who sees all and knows all appears to have stepped back? This blog post explores what the Bible teaches about God's silence and how you can respond with faith, patience, and purpose in your waiting season.

1. God’s Silence Is Not God’s Absence

One of the first truths we must embrace is that God's silence does not mean His absence. Just because He’s quiet doesn’t mean He has abandoned you. Often, God is working behind the scenes in ways we cannot see or understand.

Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us:
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

God sees the full picture while we only see fragments. His silence may be a sign that He is positioning things for your good. Trust Him even when you can’t trace Him.

2. You’re in Good Company: Biblical Examples of God’s Silence

Many great men and women in the Bible experienced seasons when God seemed silent. Consider these examples:

  • Job: After losing everything, Job cried out to God, but God didn’t respond immediately. Job remained faithful, and eventually, God answered him powerfully.
  • Joseph: Betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, and imprisoned for years—yet God was preparing him for leadership in Egypt.
  • David: In the Psalms, he often laments God’s silence but always ends with praise.
  • Jesus: Even Christ experienced silence on the cross: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46)

If you’re in a waiting season, know that you are not alone. God used these silences to shape destinies—and He’s doing the same with you.

3. What Should You Do While You Wait?

Instead of growing weary, here are biblical, practical steps to take while waiting:

A. Stay Rooted in God’s Word

When God is silent, His Word speaks loudest. Make time daily to read Scripture. It will guide your heart and renew your mind.

Psalm 119:105 says:
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

B. Keep Praying – Even in the Silence

God treasures your prayers, even when they seem to go unanswered. Keep pouring out your heart. He hears every word.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 says:
“Pray without ceasing.”

C. Worship While You Wait

There’s power in worshiping God in the middle of uncertainty. Worship lifts your spirit and shifts your focus from problems to God’s presence.

Psalm 22:3 says:
“But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.”

D. Examine Your Heart

Sometimes God is silent because there's something in our hearts we need to confront. Bitterness, unforgiveness, or hidden sin can block spiritual clarity.

Psalm 139:23-24 says:
“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

4. The Silence Has a Purpose

God’s silence is not wasted time. He may be:

  • Teaching you dependence on Him rather than answers
  • Developing spiritual maturity and patience
  • Shielding you from premature blessings that may harm you
  • Inviting you into a deeper relationship that goes beyond feelings

Romans 5:3-5 beautifully states:
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”

Waiting doesn’t weaken you—it strengthens your character if you allow it.

5. Don’t Settle for Ishmael While Waiting for Isaac

Many fall into the trap of trying to “help God” when He seems silent. Abraham and Sarah did this, resulting in the birth of Ishmael. But God’s promise was Isaac.

Impatience can lead to decisions outside of God’s will. Don’t force doors. Don’t chase voices that promise shortcuts. God’s timing is always perfect.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 says:
“He has made everything beautiful in its time.”

6. Keep Walking by Faith, Not by Sight

Even if you don’t understand, choose to walk in obedience and faith. God values faith more than immediate understanding.

2 Corinthians 5:7 says:
“For we live by faith, not by sight.”

Trust the process. Trust the silence. Trust that God is with you, even when He’s not speaking.

7. Speak Life to Yourself

King David often found himself in distress, but the Bible says he “encouraged himself in the Lord.” (1 Samuel 30:6). You must learn to speak God’s promises aloud.

Declare:
“I am not forsaken.”
“God is faithful.”
“All things are working for my good.”
“The silence will not last forever.”

Your words have power. Use them wisely in the waiting.

8. God Is Always Working – Even in the Quiet

While you wait, heaven is not idle. God is arranging connections, refining your spirit, and preparing a blessing bigger than what you asked for.

Romans 8:28 confirms:
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

He is not late. He is not ignoring you. He is preparing you.

Final Word: The Silence Will Break

Silence does not mean forgotten. God has a set time to act. When He does, you will see why you had to wait. You’ll understand why doors didn’t open. You’ll realize that His timing was the safest, surest, and most strategic.

So while you wait:

  • Keep praying
  • Keep trusting
  • Keep worshiping
  • Keep growing

Because soon, the silence will break—and joy will overflow.

Isaiah 40:31 says:
“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”

Be still. Be strong. The silence has a purpose. And in God’s perfect time, your testimony will speak louder than any answer you thought you needed.

Written with grace by Richems – Faith. Family. Peaceful Living.

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There is Only One God


There is Only One God

In a world filled with diverse religious beliefs, philosophies, and ideologies, the concept of God remains central to human existence. While many cultures have different understandings of the divine, the fundamental truth upheld by Christianity is that there is only one God. This belief is foundational to the Christian faith and is supported by Scripture, reason, and the testimony of believers throughout history.

This article will explore the reality of the one true God—His nature, His attributes, and what it means for us as His creation. We will look at biblical evidence, theological insights, and the implications of this truth for our daily lives.

1. The Biblical Basis for One God

1.1 Old Testament Affirmation of One God

“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.” (Deuteronomy 6:4, NIV)

This verse is one of the most well-known declarations of monotheism in Scripture. It was a call to Israel to recognize that Yahweh, the God of their fathers, was the only true God.

Other Old Testament passages reinforce this truth:

  • Isaiah 45:5
    "I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me, there is no God."
  • Exodus 20:3
    "You shall have no other gods before me."
  • 1 Kings 8:60
    "So that all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God and that there is no other."

1.2 New Testament Confirmation

  • 1 Corinthians 8:6
    "Yet for us, there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live."
  • Ephesians 4:6
    "One God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
  • 1 Timothy 2:5
    "For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus."
“Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” (John 17:3)

Thus, from Genesis to Revelation, the Bible consistently proclaims that there is only one God.

2. The Nature and Attributes of the One True God

2.1 God is Eternal and Unchanging

  • Psalm 90:2
    "Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting, you are God."
  • Malachi 3:6
    "I the LORD do not change."

2.2 God is Omnipotent (All-Powerful)

  • Jeremiah 32:27
    "I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?"
  • Revelation 19:6
    "For the Lord God Almighty reigns."

2.3 God is Omniscient (All-Knowing)

  • Isaiah 46:9-10
    "I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. I make known the end from the beginning."
  • Psalm 147:5
    "Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit."

2.4 God is Omnipresent (Present Everywhere)

“Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.” (Psalm 139:7-8)

2.5 God is Holy and Just

  • Isaiah 6:3
    "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory."
  • Deuteronomy 32:4
    "He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just."

2.6 God is Love

  • 1 John 4:8
    "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."
  • John 3:16
    "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

3. The Danger of Idolatry and False Gods

3.1 The Bible Warns Against Idolatry

  • Romans 1:21-23
    "Although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile..."
  • Exodus 32:1-8
    The Israelites made a golden calf, quickly turning from the one true God.

Idolatry is not just worshiping statues; it includes anything that takes God's place in our hearts—money, power, relationships, or even self.

3.2 The Deception of False Gods

  • 2 Corinthians 11:14-15
    "Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light..."
  • 1 John 5:21
    "Dear children, keep yourselves from idols."

Only the one true God can bring salvation.

4. What It Means for Us That There is One God

4.1 Worshiping God Alone

  • Exodus 34:14
    "Do not worship any other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God."
  • Matthew 4:10
    "Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only."

4.2 Trusting in God’s Plan

  • Proverbs 3:5-6
    "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding."
  • Romans 8:28
    "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him."

4.3 Living for God’s Glory

  • 1 Corinthians 10:31
    "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."
  • Colossians 3:17
    "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus."

Conclusion

The truth that there is only one God is central to our faith and affects every area of our lives. He alone is worthy of worship, trust, and obedience. As we live in a world full of distractions and false gods, let us stand firm in our devotion to the one true God and lead others to know Him.

May our lives reflect the truth of Deuteronomy 6:4:

“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.”
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Why Every Season Has a Purpose—Even in Business and Family Life

 Life is filled with seasons. Some seasons bring joy, growth, and abundance, while others come with challenges, waiting, and lessons that are hard to embrace. Just as nature goes through spring, summer, autumn, and winter, our lives—whether in family, business, or personal growth—experience shifts and transitions. Recognizing that every season has a purpose helps us find meaning in both the highs and the lows, enabling us to grow through what we go through.



In this blog post, we will explore how different seasons shape us, why they are essential for both business and family life, and how embracing them with a godly perspective can lead to lasting success and fulfillment.



Understanding the Concept of Seasons in Life

Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” This profound verse reminds us that life isn’t meant to be static. Change is inevitable, and God has designed it that way. Every shift in our circumstances serves a greater purpose—whether we see it immediately or not.


When we talk about seasons, we’re not just referring to the weather or calendar months. Seasons can be:

  • Seasons of Growth: Times when things flourish—business is booming, relationships are thriving, and personal development feels effortless.

  • Seasons of Waiting: Periods where progress seems slow, and you feel like you’re in a holding pattern.

  • Seasons of Challenge: Times of struggle, where faith is tested, finances are tight, or family dynamics feel strained.

  • Seasons of Rest: Moments when God calls you to pause, reflect, and recharge.

The key is to recognize that no season is wasted. Each one carries lessons, blessings, and opportunities for transformation.


Seasons in Family Life: The Hidden Purposes


1. The Joyful Season: Building Strong Foundations

When your family is thriving—marriages are healthy, children are growing in faith, and there’s peace at home—it’s easy to feel God’s presence. These are the seasons of joy and abundance. But even in these moments, there’s a purpose: to build strong foundations.

  • Invest in Relationships: Use this time to deepen your bond with your spouse, nurture your children’s faith, and create lasting memories.

  • Establish Traditions: Family traditions rooted in Christian values can anchor your children’s identity and faith as they grow older.

  • Prepare for Challenges: Just as farmers store food during harvest for the lean seasons, strong family relationships serve as a support system during future challenges.


Biblical Example:

Consider the story of Joseph in Genesis. During Egypt’s years of abundance, Joseph wisely stored resources to prepare for the famine. Likewise, in seasons of family joy, invest in emotional and spiritual resources that will sustain you in tougher times.



2. The Challenging Season: Growing Through Trials

Every family faces tough times—financial difficulties, health issues, conflicts, or the loss of a loved one. It’s natural to question the purpose of such hardships. However, these seasons often produce the most growth.

  • Refining Faith: Challenges force us to lean on God more deeply. They strip away self-reliance and draw us closer to Him.

  • Teaching Resilience: Children who witness their parents handling difficulties with faith and grace learn invaluable life lessons.

  • Strengthening Bonds: Families often grow closer during crises because adversity fosters unity and compassion.

Romans 5:3-4 encourages us: “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”


Practical Tip:

During challenging seasons, pray together as a family. Open communication and shared faith practices can bring peace amidst the storm.


3. The Waiting Season: Trusting God’s Timing

Perhaps you’re praying for a breakthrough—a new job, a child, healing, or restoration in a relationship—and nothing seems to be happening. Waiting can be one of the hardest seasons because it often feels like wasted time. But with God, waiting is never wasted.

  • Developing Patience: Waiting teaches us to trust God’s perfect timing rather than our own.

  • Building Character: It’s in the waiting room of life that virtues like humility, gratitude, and perseverance are formed.

  • Preparing for the Next Season: Sometimes, God uses waiting seasons to prepare us for blessings we’re not yet ready to handle.

Biblical Example:

Think of Abraham and Sarah, who waited 25 years for the fulfillment of God’s promise—a son. Their story shows that even when answers are delayed, God’s promises are always fulfilled in His perfect time.


Seasons in Business: Embracing Change with Purpose

Just as family life has its seasons, so does business. Whether you’re running a store like Richems in Aradagun, managing a blog, or leading a corporation, understanding the purpose of business seasons can help you navigate them with wisdom and faith.


1. The Season of Growth: Maximizing Opportunities

When sales are high, customers are loyal, and everything seems to be working seamlessly, it’s tempting to get comfortable. However, seasons of growth are not just for enjoying success—they’re for strategic planning and preparation.

  • Reinvest Wisely: Don’t just enjoy the profits; reinvest in your business for future growth.

  • Innovate: Use the momentum to introduce new products or improve existing services.

  • Train and Develop: Equip your team (or yourself) with new skills to sustain growth.

Proverbs 21:5 says, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” Growth seasons are the perfect time to plan diligently for the future.


2. The Lean Season: Learning from Challenges

Every business faces downturns—economic slumps, slow sales, or unexpected obstacles. While these seasons can be discouraging, they are often the most educational.

  • Analyze and Adjust: Use this time to evaluate what’s working and what’s not.

  • Innovate Out of Necessity: Some of the best business ideas are born from a need to survive tough times.

  • Trust in God’s Provision: Lean seasons remind us that our ultimate provider is not the economy, but God.

Biblical Example:

Consider Job, a wealthy man who lost everything but remained faithful. In the end, God restored him with even greater blessings. The lesson? Hard times refine us, but they don’t define us.


3. The Waiting Season: Cultivating Patience and Vision

Perhaps your business isn’t failing, but it’s not growing either. You’re putting in the effort, but results are slow. This can be frustrating, but remember—growth often happens below the surface before it’s visible.

  • Focus on Long-Term Goals: Waiting seasons are opportunities to refine your vision and mission.

  • Develop New Skills: Use the time to learn something new that can benefit your business.

  • Network and Build Relationships: Sometimes, connections made during slow seasons lead to future breakthroughs.

Galatians 6:9 encourages us: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”


How to Embrace Every Season with Grace

No matter what season you find yourself in—whether in business or family life—here are some key principles to help you embrace it with purpose:

  • 1. Seek God’s Perspective: Pray and ask God to reveal what He wants you to learn in this season.

  • 2. Stay Grateful: Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant.

  • 3. Adapt and Adjust: Be flexible. Growth often requires change.

  • 4. Invest in Relationships: Whether it’s family or business, people matter more than profits or achievements.

  • 5. Keep Hope Alive: Trust that seasons change. Winter doesn’t last forever, and spring always comes.


Final Thoughts

Every season has a purpose. Whether you’re celebrating victories, enduring challenges, or waiting patiently for the next chapter, trust that God is at work in ways you cannot always see. Life, business, and family are not linear—they’re cyclical, filled with opportunities for growth, reflection, and transformation.


Ecclesiastes 3:11 beautifully sums it up: “He has made everything beautiful in its time.”

So, no matter the season you’re in, know this: God is with you, shaping your story for His glory and your good.


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