Only One God

 

There Is Only One God: A Call for Peace and Unity Among Christians and Muslims

“Say: He is Allah, the One.” — Qur’an, Surah Al-Ikhlas 112:1
“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” — Deuteronomy 6:4

In a world deeply divided by race, politics, and religion, a fresh breath of unity is desperately needed. At the center of the world's two largest religions—Christianity and Islam—stands one undeniable truth: There is only One God.

This post is not a debate or a theological comparison, but a heartfelt appeal for peace, harmony, and mutual respect. It is an invitation for Christians and Muslims alike to step away from fear, suspicion, and conflict—and step into understanding, shared values, and the higher calling of love and peace.

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June Check-In: 7 Powerful Financial Questions for a Stronger Marriage

 

Mid-Year Money Check-In for Couples

As we step into June, we’ve officially reached the halfway mark of the year. For couples, it’s more than just another month—it’s the perfect time to hit pause, reflect, and realign on the two areas that often define the health of a home: finances and shared responsibilities.

Money and home life are deeply connected in marriage. When managed well together, they bring peace, purpose, and progress. When left unchecked, they become sources of stress and disconnection. That’s why now is the time for a Mid-Year Money Check-In.

Here are 7 powerful questions every couple should ask this month to strengthen both your finances and your foundation.

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1. Have we stuck to our household budget so far this year?

Budgets are only useful when they’re real. If you've created a household budget in January, it’s time to revisit it. Are you overspending in some areas? Have new expenses emerged? Are you both aware of what’s coming in and going out?

💡 Tip: Don’t treat this like a financial report card—use it as a map. If you’re off course, recalibrate together.

2. Are we actively saving toward our shared goals?

Whether it's a new home, renovation project, baby on the way, vacation, or retirement, every couple has dreams. But dreams need funding.

Are you contributing regularly to your savings goals? Have your priorities shifted? Maybe you're ahead on one goal and behind on another.

💬 Ask each other: Are these goals still what we both want? Do they reflect the life we’re building together?

3. Do we both feel involved and heard in financial decisions?

One partner may naturally take the financial lead, but that doesn’t mean the other should be left out. Financial teamwork is built on communication, trust, and mutual decision-making.

💡 If one of you handles most of the bills or investments, set aside time to review everything together—no blame, just transparency.

4. Are we managing home responsibilities fairly and sustainably?

Finances aren’t the only thing that can unbalance a marriage. The way chores, childcare, and household decisions are handled can cause resentment if not addressed.

June is a great time to look at how home responsibilities are shared. Is the current setup working for both of you?

🔄 A practical chat can reduce emotional weight. Consider using a shared calendar or app to balance tasks.

5. Have any unexpected expenses revealed gaps in our planning?

Car trouble. Medical bills. Job changes. Life throws curveballs, and they often cost money. If the first half of 2025 brought unexpected expenses, now’s the time to reflect on how prepared you were—and how you can be more resilient moving forward.

💡 This is a great time to check or start your emergency fund.

6. Are we aligned on long-term housing or investment plans?

Home-related decisions—like moving, upgrading, downsizing, or investing in real estate—can be exciting and stressful. They require emotional and financial alignment.

Do you still share the same vision for your home? Has your timeline changed? Are you both clear on what’s needed to get there?

📈 Review mortgage options, market trends, or renovation costs together—even just a conversation keeps you aligned.

7. What financial habit can we build together this summer?

New habits don’t need to wait until January. In fact, June is a perfect time to pick one small change you can commit to together—something that will strengthen your financial life and deepen your partnership.

• A no-spend weekend challenge
• Weekly “money dates”
• Automating savings
• Reviewing subscriptions together

👣 Tiny steps build strong momentum. The goal is progress, not perfection.

❤️ Final Thoughts: Money Conversations Are Marriage Conversations

Your financial health is a reflection of your communication, values, and trust as a couple. This June, carve out space—maybe a cozy evening on the couch or a walk around the block—to check in.

Ask the hard questions. Listen with care. Laugh at your missteps. And most importantly, plan the future together.

You’re not just managing money—you’re building a life.

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The King's word

 

Where the Word of the King Is – Living Under Divine Authority

“Where the word of a king is, there is power: and who may say unto him, What doest thou?” – Ecclesiastes 8:4 (KJV)

Introduction: A Kingdom Without a King?

In today’s world, the concept of absolute authority is often met with suspicion. From democratic governance to personal autonomy, we celebrate freedom—freedom of speech, thought, choice, and action. But in our celebration of liberty, have we forgotten the power, security, and blessing that comes from living under divine authority?

The Bible is not silent on this matter. Ecclesiastes 8:4 offers a profound truth that resonates through all of time: “Where the word of a king is, there is power…” In the spiritual realm, this is not merely poetic. It is a principle. A kingdom without a king is a vacuum of chaos. But a kingdom with a righteous king is a place of order, blessing, and peace.

This post is not just about kingship in theory—it’s about how believers, families, and homes can thrive under God’s divine authority. As Richems, my passion is to help you build a God-centered home, rooted in Scripture, where Christ is King and His Word is law.

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1. Understanding the Word of the King

The ancient world understood kingship. When a king spoke, his word was law. There was no debate. There was no committee to approve or revise it. His word carried authority, power, and finality.

In the Kingdom of God, Jesus is the eternal King, and His Word is final. When the Bible speaks, heaven backs it. The authority is not in the ink on the page—it is in the One who speaks.

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

To live under divine authority, we must first recognize the Bible as the active Word of our King. Not just a book of suggestions, but the constitution of the Kingdom we now belong to.

2. A King’s Word Changes Everything

Let’s imagine this scene:

A soldier is sentenced to death. All legal channels have failed. His family mourns. Then, unexpectedly, the King himself speaks: “Let him live.”

Instantly, the execution is canceled. Why? Because the word of the king overrules every lesser authority.

This is the power of God’s Word in your life. Doctors may speak of terminal illness. The economy may predict your downfall. Enemies may plan your destruction. But when God declares healing, restoration, and victory—His Word prevails.

“Who may say unto Him, ‘What doest thou?’” – Ecclesiastes 8:4b

No one challenges the decree of God. If He says you are blessed, no curse can stick. If He says your home will be peaceful, no chaos can remain. The King has spoken!

3. The Power of Submission: Living Under Divine Covering

In today’s culture, the word “submission” is often misunderstood. But in the Kingdom of God, submission is safety.

To submit is not to lose identity—it is to gain access. Just like a soldier thrives under the chain of command, a believer thrives under divine authority.

“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” – James 4:7

Notice the order: Submission comes before resistance. Many of us try to cast out devils and solve spiritual problems without first submitting to the King. But true power flows from alignment. When you’re under God’s authority, you’re also under His covering.

In the Christian Home

A peaceful home is not one where everyone does what they like—it’s one where everyone honors divine order. Children obey. Wives and husbands walk in unity and respect. And above all, Christ is Lord in word, decision, and atmosphere.

Do you want a godly home? Then make sure God’s Word—not your emotions or traditions—is final in your house.

4. The Word Speaks to Every Area

Where the Word of the King is, there is power—for every area of life.

a. Marriage

When you make God's Word your marriage manual, you align your relationship with His blueprint. Forgiveness becomes non-negotiable. Love becomes unconditional. And leadership is modeled after Christ’s servant-hearted authority.

“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church…” – Ephesians 5:25

b. Parenting

You don’t need to guess your way through parenting. The Word gives clarity:

“Train up a child in the way he should go…” – Proverbs 22:6

c. Business and Finances

Even your work life is not outside God’s authority.

“But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth…” – Deuteronomy 8:18

When God speaks increase, no recession can hinder you. Build your business on biblical integrity, and watch it flourish under divine favor.

5. Obedience: The Response to Divine Authority

Living under divine authority isn’t just hearing—it’s doing. Obedience is the true evidence that Christ is King in your life.

“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only…” – James 1:22

Imagine a soldier who hears the general’s order but chooses to ignore it. That’s not loyalty—it’s rebellion. In the same way, delayed obedience is still disobedience.

Why Obey?

• Obedience brings protection (Psalm 91:1).
• Obedience invites blessing (Deuteronomy 28).
• Obedience builds intimacy with God (John 14:21).

6. The Consequence of Ignoring the King’s Word

Let’s be honest—many believers live outside the Word and suffer for it.

They love God in name but follow their feelings instead of Scripture. Their homes are in disorder. Their children are confused. Their hearts are full of worry. Why? Because where the Word of the King is absent, chaos fills the vacuum.

“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge…” – Hosea 4:6

7. Living the Word Daily – Making the King’s Word Your Lifestyle

It’s not enough to know the Bible exists. We must let it shape our daily lives. Here are practical ways to live under divine authority:

• Start with the Word Daily: Open your day by reading a portion of Scripture. Let the King speak before anyone else does.
• Apply What You Read: Write down one action step from your reading.
• Declare the King’s Word Aloud: Speak Scriptures over your home, your children, and your business.
• Correct Your Course Often: Whenever you realize you’ve strayed from the Word—repent quickly.

8. Testimonies: When the Word of the King Spoke for Me

Years ago, I was at a point where everything felt stuck. Finances were tight. My home was tense. My spirit was tired.

One day, I came across Ecclesiastes 8:4 again: “Where the word of a king is, there is power.”

It hit me like never before. I realized I was living based on my fears, not God’s authority. That day, I began declaring Scriptures over my life again.

Things shifted. Not overnight. But atmospheres changed. Ideas came. Peace returned. Why? Because when you put the Word of the King in your mouth and heart, you allow heaven to work in your reality.

9. Raising a Generation That Honors the Word

As parents and leaders, we must raise children who understand the weight of God’s Word.

Let them see you turn to Scripture for decisions.
Let them hear you say, “God’s Word says…”
Let them learn that God’s authority is love, not control.

10. Jesus – The King Whose Word Still Rules

Jesus is not a symbolic King. He is alive and ruling—and His Word is still law.

“All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” – Matthew 28:18

Even when it challenges you. Even when it convicts you. Even when it calls you to forgive, serve, or wait—His Word is always for your good.

Conclusion: Let the King Speak in Your Life

Where the Word of the King is, there is power—not confusion, not fear, not compromise.

Let that be the declaration over your home.
Let it govern how you raise your children.
Let it be your guide in business, your comfort in trials, your joy in worship.

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Final Reflections

• Is the Word of the King final in your decisions?
• Are there areas of your life where you’ve ignored divine authority?
• What one Scripture will you start living out today?

Remember, where the Word of the King is, there is power—and you are never alone when you live under divine authority.

Let’s Connect: I’d love to hear your thoughts. How are you applying God’s Word in your home and personal life? Leave a comment or visit richems.com to read more on building a peaceful and godly home.

Faith. Family. Peaceful Living.
– Richems (Alaremu)

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A fling that prolonged

 

🕊️ Be Cautious of a Fling That Got Prolonged — It Can Rewrite Your Destiny

In the fast-paced world we live in today, where relationships are often treated as trends, it’s easy to fall into what seems like “just a fling.” A casual connection. Something light and fun. But what happens when that fling doesn’t end? What happens when something meant to be short and simple stretches into months—or even years?

Suddenly, you’re emotionally entangled, your decisions are influenced, and your future—yes, your destiny—is being rewritten without your full awareness.

A Fling that Lingers Can Become a Chain

What begins as a moment of passion can quickly evolve into a web of emotional confusion. You may start compromising your values, lowering your standards, or drifting away from your God-given purpose.

What was supposed to be temporary can now become a detour from the path God has prepared for you.

📖 Biblical Insight:

"There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death."
— Proverbs 14:12 (ESV)

That fling might seem harmless—exciting, even—but is it right? Just because something feels good in the moment doesn’t mean it leads to life. Many destinies have been delayed or even derailed because someone lingered too long in a relationship that wasn't from God.

Guard Your Heart — It Shapes Your Life

The Bible says in Proverbs 4:23,

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

Your heart is the seat of your emotions, your choices, your future. Allowing someone who isn’t walking in the same spiritual direction into your heart can change the course of your life.

Wisdom for the Younger Generation:

1. Know your worth. You are not made for someone’s temporary satisfaction. You are chosen for God’s eternal purpose.
2. Recognize red flags early. If it doesn’t align with God’s Word and peace doesn’t follow it, it’s not worth your future.
3. Pray before you play. Don’t enter any relationship without seeking God’s guidance. He sees beyond the now.
4. Seek counsel. Speak to mentors, parents, or spiritual leaders who can help you discern.
5. Let go when it’s time. Ending a prolonged fling may hurt, but healing is better than regret.

Final Thoughts

A fling that got prolonged may seem harmless, but in reality, it can be a seed that grows into distraction, delay, or even destruction. Be wise. Be watchful. Don’t trade your divine destiny for a few moments of fleeting affection.

You were not made for temporary love. You were made for purposeful love—first with God, and then with someone He chooses for you.

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How Do You Recognize Love When It Arrives?

 

How Do You Recognize Love When It Arrives?

The whole world talks about love like it’s a fairy tale — a sweet, magical thing wrapped in roses, soft music, and butterflies in your stomach. From movies to poems, we’ve been taught to expect candlelit dinners, poetic text messages, and the promise of happily ever after. But what if real love isn’t always that pretty?

What if love doesn’t just touch your heart — it wrecks your world in the best possible way?

Because, sometimes, love doesn’t arrive like a soft breeze. Sometimes it hits like a storm. And when it does, it changes everything. It reshapes how you see the world, how you understand yourself, and how you connect to the people around you.

Love Doesn’t Always Whisper — Sometimes It Roars

You see, love doesn’t always come quietly, dressed in flowers and fairy dust. Sometimes, love feels like a hunger. A deep, aching need that fills your soul and empties it all at once. It’s not just about having someone to hold hands with — it’s about needing them like air, like your heart doesn’t know how to beat unless they’re near.

Love, real love, is disruptive. It challenges the neat boxes you’ve placed your emotions in. It doesn’t politely knock at the door of your life. It barges in, unannounced, demanding to be felt.

And when love really shows up, it shakes the ground beneath your feet. Like an earthquake. You don’t just notice love — it demands your attention. It pulls you out of your comfort zone and drags you into vulnerability. It stirs up things you didn’t even know you’d buried — fears, hopes, wounds, and dreams.

You stop sleeping the way you used to. Your thoughts keep circling back to one person. You try to distract yourself, but everything reminds you of them. A song. A smell. A phrase. Their name is like a spark in your chest.

So How Do You Recognize Real Love?

We often confuse love with infatuation or desire. But real love has a unique signature. It may not be soft and sweet all the time, but it is deep, undeniable, and transformative.

1. It’s Not Always Comfortable
   Real love often feels like being exposed. You’ll feel raw and open, like someone finally sees every inch of you — the light and the shadows — and chooses to stay. That’s terrifying, and yet, that’s how you know it’s not just infatuation. Real love doesn’t flatter your ego; it exposes your soul.
2. It Stirs a Fire Inside You
   Love motivates change. It pushes you to grow, to become more patient, more understanding, more sacrificial. It doesn’t settle for who you were yesterday — it invites you to become better for the sake of someone else. It draws out your higher self, the version of you that lives with greater purpose.
3. It Doesn’t Let You Hide
   You can’t fake love. When it arrives, it demands honesty. You can’t keep pretending, can’t keep walls up. Love forces you to be real, because real love is brave enough to handle the truth. It isn’t afraid of the messy parts of you.
4. It Consumes, But Doesn’t Destroy
   There’s a difference between love and obsession. Obsession drowns you, but love refines you. It consumes in the sense that it becomes part of who you are — it colors everything you do — but it doesn’t strip you of your identity. Instead, it reveals your truest self.
5. It Shows Up in Action, Not Just Words
   Real love is proven in what we do. It shows up in quiet sacrifices, in loyalty, in forgiveness. It stands beside you not just when it’s convenient, but when it’s costly. Fairy tales end with "I love you." Real love begins there.
6. It Challenges and Supports You
   Love will challenge your beliefs, your habits, and your flaws. But it won’t leave you to face those things alone. It offers support as you work through them. It says, “I see who you are, and I believe in who you can be.”
7. It Feels Like Coming Home
   Maybe the biggest sign of real love is this: with the right person, you feel at home. Even in chaos, even in hard times. You can breathe around them. You can rest. You are safe.

The Fairy Tale vs. the Earthquake

We grow up believing that love is soft music and butterflies. That it will come easily and fit perfectly, like a missing puzzle piece. But real love is messy. It asks for effort, for grace, for constant forgiveness. It stretches you. It unearths every part of you and lays it bare.

And yet, it’s the most beautiful kind of chaos.

It’s not the fairytale kind of love that simply floats you away into the sunset. It’s the kind that walks with you through fire and never lets go of your hand. It’s not always poetic, but it is always powerful.

Real love isn’t about losing yourself. It’s about finding yourself in the presence of someone who sees you and still says, "yes."

What Real Love Feels Like

It’s wild. It’s sacred. It’s uncomfortable and warm at the same time. It feels like:

• Losing sleep because their voice echoes in your mind.
• Feeling peace just knowing they exist.
• Wanting to protect their heart even more than your own.
• Seeing your future in their eyes, and your past making sense because it led you here.
• Feeling vulnerable but never unsafe.
• Being known, and being loved anyway.

Love doesn’t complete you — you are already whole. But real love complements you. It makes life richer, fuller, deeper. It teaches you how to give, how to forgive, how to endure.

Love Isn’t Always Beautiful, But It’s Always Worth It

Yes, the butterflies and flowers are part of the journey. But lasting love isn’t built on fleeting moments — it’s built on deep, soul-level connection. It's the kind that doesn't let you go, even when you're angry, broken, or afraid. It’s the kind that says, “Even now, even here, I choose you.”

So if you’re waiting for love to show up wrapped in perfection, you might miss it.

Instead, look for the kind of love that rattles your soul, that awakens your heart, that makes you feel alive — even if it’s messy, even if it’s overwhelming.

Because when love really arrives, you won’t be able to sleep through it. It won’t just feel like magic. It will feel like hunger. Like an earthquake. Like you’ve finally found home — and you can never go back to who you were before.

Have you ever felt love this deeply? Or are you still waiting for it to shake your world?

Share your thoughts in the comments below — let’s talk about what love really feels like.

#RealLove #SoulDeepConnection #HeartAwakening #LoveBeyondFairyTales

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