Stop Striving and Start Abiding (Galatians 3:1-14)

So those who rely on faith are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith. Galatians 3:9 (NIV)

How easily do we fall into the mindset that we must earn everything we receive? This world tells us that we get what we work for. While diligence and hard work are commendable traits, carrying this “checklist” mental framework into our spiritual walk creates a heavy, exhausting burden. It truly makes me feel like a failure.

We can unknowingly slip into a performance-based relationship with God. We start treating our quiet time, spiritual habits, and service like a daily spiritual to-do list. We take full control of life each morning instead of letting God navigate. Without realizing it, we may even desire to shine before others rather than letting God’s light shine brightly through us.

Paul saw this exact pattern creeping into the churches in Galatia. This passage still applies today as a vital wake-up call. He makes a crucial distinction between two concepts that are often blurred by the world:

Faith (The Foundation of Salvation):

Salvation comes only through faith in the price Jesus Christ paid on the cross. We are completely powerless in saving ourselves. No amount of human effort, moral striving, or rule-keeping can earn God’s favor or bridge the gap caused by sin. As Paul reminds us, if righteousness could come through keeping the law, then Christ died for nothing. Because of Jesus, we are saved and completely freed from the bondage of performance that could never measure up.

Paul points back to Abraham, who lived long before the Mosaic Law was given. Genesis records that Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness. From the very beginning, God’s plan was that salvation would come through faith, not rule-keeping.

Works (The Fruit of Gratitude):

Relying on work puts us under a curse because breaking even a single part of the law makes us guilty of it all. But Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us when He hung on the cross. He took the separation from God that we deserved, so that through faith, we might receive the promised Holy Spirit.

So, what was God’s ultimate purpose of the law? To prove our need for Jesus. The law itself cannot save; it can only condemn and point out our flaws. It acts as a mirror showing us that we cannot fulfill God’s standards on our own, pointing us directly to the Savior.

Although good works and obedience cannot save us or earn God’s love, living righteously flows naturally from a heart filled with gratitude for Jesus’s immeasurable sacrifice. Rather than striving under a performance mindset, daily surrender is an invitation to follow Him in absolute trust—opening our lives to continuously receive His divine guidance, peace, mercy, love, and joy because we are already saved.

Paul wants us to understand that Christ’s acceptance cannot be earned; the heavy weight of performance lifts. You no longer must live under the anxiety of wondering whether you’ve done “enough”. The victory has already been secured on the cross.

Before Understanding Faith Over Works	After Understanding Faith Over Works
Struggling to ensure actions meet the “Christian mark”.	Solely relying on the Lord to lead every step.
Anxious and concerned about what the world thinks.	Relieved of the pressure to perform perfectly.
Overwhelmed by trying to do life through human effort.	Experiencing less stress and deeper rest in Christ.
Believing spiritual performance brings God’s goodness.	Surrendering daily with the prayer: “Have Your way, Father!”
Trapped on a legalistic treadmill.	Honoring God moment by moment out of gratitude, knowing the battle has already been won!

Today, the choice is yours-to stop striving and start abiding. Carry out good works not to win God’s heart, but because He has already captured yours. Pick up your cross daily, surrender your plans, and let His Spirit lead you into full life of walking daily in the goodness of God.

October 12, 2026 1

Crucifying the Hustle (Galatians 2:11-21)

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!”Galatians 2:20-21 (NIV)

Personal Struggle: There is a quiet, exhausting battle that happens right after I press publish, schedule the retreat, or write the book/blog draft. It happens in the stillness of the room – the whisper begins: Is this enough? Am I enough?

We are all leaders in some capacity, serving God with our gifts. If we are honest, we probably know this tension all too well. We live in a culture—and frankly, a Christian ministry environment—that constantly measures calling by visibility. The world often tells me if I don’t have a slick website, a packed calendar with three workshops scheduled annually, and a rapidly expanding follower count, I am not truly “all in.” What is your hustle struggle?

So we wrestle. We question our abilities. We look at other leaders and instantly make human comparisons, deflating our own humble efforts before they even have a chance to breathe. And when it comes to sharing our work—promoting the blog post, the study, testimony, or the book—we freeze. We wonder: How do I share this so the people who need it can find it, without looking self-absorbed? Where is the line between holy stewardship and selfish ambition? How bold am I allowed to be without losing my humility?

We want, more than anything, for God to receive every ounce of glory. Yet, we end up paralyzed between the world’s demand to hustle and our fear of stepping into the spotlight.

Recently, as walking through Galatians 2:11-21, Paul’s words hit me with fresh, piercing clarity. Paul publicly confronts Peter. Peter—a pillar of the early church—had begun pulling away from eating with Gentile believers out of fear of what others would think. He allowed the pressure of human opinion and religious expectations to dictate his behavior, slipping back into a performance-based mentality. Paul called it what it was: hypocrisy that was out of step with the truth of the gospel.

How often do we do the exact same thing in our calling? We let the expectations of the platform party dictate our worth and distort our mission. We fall into the trap of believing that our work is only valid if it yields visible, measurable success.

Right after confronting Peter, Paul lays down the foundational truth that sets us free: “We know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ…” (Galatians 2:16)

Translate that into the daily grind of ministry and as a leader for God: You are not justified by the size of your platform, the number of retreats on your calendar, or the sales of your book. Your worth as a servant of God was settled at the cross. You do not have to earn God’s acceptance through relentless human effort, nor do you need to prove your calling by meeting the world’s standard of success.

Paul goes on to say: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!” (Galatians 2:20-21)

When we are crucified with Christ, it means two crucial things:

1. We crucify the need for human approval. We lay down the pride that craves applause, but we also lay down the insecurity that shrinks back in fear. Insecurity feels like humility, but it is often just self-focus in disguise—worrying so much about how we will be perceived that we hide the message God gave us to share.

2. We crucify the pressure to produce in our own strength. When we try to force open doors, build an empire, or measure our obedience by worldly metrics, we are essentially trying to justify our work through works of the law. We set aside grace and act as though the outcome depends entirely on our own hustle rather than God’s power.

So what does this mean when it’s time to carry out the work of the Lord: be a mentor, share the book, invite people to the study, or post the article? It means promotion ceases to be about self-hustle and becomes an act of simple stewardship.

If God gave you a word, a study, a job, or a story meant to encourage someone’s soul, sharing it boldly isn’t arrogant—it is obedient. You aren’t asking for applause; you are setting a table for people to feast on God’s truth. Your job is simply to hold out the bread; it is God’s job to bring the hungry to the table. Whether He brings five people or five thousand, the faithfulness required of you remains identical.

You don’t need to fit into a cookie-cutter mold of what a successful ministry leader looks like. You don’t need to apologize for starting small, nor do you need to feel guilty for speaking boldly about what God has done.

When we rest in Galatians 2:20, the burden falls off our shoulders. It is no longer you striving to build something great to prove your worth. It is Christ living through you, loving people through your obedience, and using your weak, imperfect efforts for His eternal glory.

To my fellow weary brothers and sisters: let’s stop setting aside grace. Let’s do our work with excellence, share it with clear, unashamed stewardship, and leave the size of the room entirely in God’s hands. His grace is enough. And in Him, so are you.

October 5, 2026 0

Stand Firm in Grace: Guarding Gospel Truth While Pursuing True Unity (Galatians 2:1-10)

This matter arose because some false believers had infiltrated our ranks to spy on the freedom we have in Christ Jesus and to make us slaves. We did not give in to them for a single moment, so that the truth of the gospel might remain firm with you. Galatians 2:4-5 NIV

Peace-Just keep peace!

Have you ever found yourself tempted to stay silent or compromise your convictions just to keep the peace? In a world—and often even inside the church—those values avoiding conflict at all costs and taking a firm stand for truth can feel intimidating. Yet, true biblical unity is never built on the foundation of diluted truth; it is anchored firmly in the unchanging grace of the gospel.

In Galatians 2:1–10, the Apostle Paul travels to Jerusalem alongside Barnabas and Titus to present the gospel he had been preaching among the Gentiles. While there, certain false believers infiltrated their gathering, attempting to strip away their spiritual freedom and force Gentile Christians to submit to Jewish legalistic customs, such as circumcision. Paul’s response was immediate and unyielding: he did not give in to them for a single moment, so that the truth of the gospel might remain intact for all believers.

As we explore Week Three of the Galatians study guide, we are confronted with a crucial question: Why was it so important for Paul to defend the truth of the gospel instead of compromising for the sake of peace?

If Paul had caved to peer pressure, the purity of the gospel would have been destroyed. Salvation would no longer be a free gift received by faith alone, but a reward earned through human ritual and legalistic effort. Paul recognized that temporary harmony achieved by abandoning core truth is not true peace at all—it is spiritual bondage. Standing firm for the gospel preserves the freedom Christ bought for us.

This raises another vital consideration for believers today: What differences among Christians should never divide us, and what core truths must never be compromised?

What Should Never Divide Us: Secondary preferences, worship styles, cultural backgrounds, dietary choices, or personal traditions ought never to fracture our fellowship. The body of Christ is made up of diverse people with unique stories, and our differences highlight the beauty of God’s grace working across all cultures.
What Can Never Be Compromised: The central truth of justification by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone. As cross-referenced in Romans 10:8–13, salvation comes to everyone who confesses with their mouth that Jesus is Lord and believes in their heart that God raised Him from the dead. Adding human requirements to God’s grace distorts the gospel completely.

When James, Peter, and John recognized the grace given to Paul, they didn’t demand uniformity; they celebrated unity in the shared mission of Christ.

Living out the gospel together requires intentionality. True unity in Christ is not passive; it demands healthy communication, humility, and active love. Good communication prevents misunderstandings, clears away fear, and keeps our focus aligned on Jesus.

Notice, too, the one specific request the Jerusalem leaders made of Paul: to remember the poor—the very thing Paul was eager to do. True gospel unity always overflows into practical mercy and caring for those in need.

As you reflect on Galatians 2 this week, consider what faith commitment you can carry into your daily walk. Where is God calling you to stand firm on gospel grace, communicate with deeper love, and extend the hand of fellowship to others? Let us guard the truth of Jesus passionately while loving one another fiercely.

September 25, 2026 0

The Power of Your Story: How Your Transformation Points Others to the Father (Galatians 1:11-24)

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But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, my immediate response was not to consult any human being. Galatians 1:15-16 NIV

Have you ever wondered if your personal story is truly worth sharing? It is easy to look back at past mistakes, unresolved pain, or seasons of struggle and think, Who would want to hear about that? Yet, as we read through Galatians 1:11–24, the Apostle Paul reminds us that the gospel message is never a product of human effort, clever logic, or self-improvement. It is the direct, miraculous work of God intervening in human lives.

In his letter to the Galatians, Paul shares his own radical testimony to prove this very truth. Before encountering Christ, Paul was deeply entrenched in his traditions and zealously persecuting the early church, trying to destroy it completely. Humanly speaking, he was the last person anyone expected to embrace Jesus. But when God called him by His grace, Paul’s entire trajectory shifted. He went from attempting to dismantle the church to proclaiming the gospel across nations. When the believers in Judea heard about his transformation, they didn’t give credit to Paul’s willpower; instead, they glorified God because of him (Galatians 1:24).

That is the true heart of a testimony: it points away from our own capability and highlights God’s supernatural grace.

Your story does not need a dramatic Damascus road experience like Paul’s to carry eternal weight. Often, the most profound witness comes from the places where you once felt most broken. In my witness tract, Come Meet My Father, I reflect on how Jesus completely reshaped my heart toward my own earthly father. For a long time, I carried the weight of his absence. Yet, Christ healed my bitterness, imparted a spirit of forgiveness, and taught me to love when it felt impossible.

I even shed tears of gratitude, realizing that my father’s absence ultimately drove me directly into the arms of Jesus. What could have remained a source of lifelong pain became the exact doorway through which I met my Heavenly Father. Accepting Jesus does not just polish our outward behavior; He radically changes our heart, thoughts, actions, words, and entire perspective.

Why Sharing Your Story Matters

When you open up about your walk with God, you offer a lifeline to someone who may be quietly suffering. You might encounter someone who doubts that God can ever forgive them, heal their brokenness, or soften a hardened heart. Your story serves as living evidence that Jesus still changes lives today.

When you reflect on questions like those in Week Two of the Galatians study guide—considering what parts of your story best display God’s grace or how your journey can encourage a doubter—you begin to see your life through God’s perspective. If God asked you to design a witness tract based on your own life, what moments of grace would you highlight? You do not need a degree in theology or a perfectly rehearsed speech. You simply need a heart willing to say: This is where I was, but this is who God is, and this is what He has done for me.

A Simple Invitation to Others

Sharing your witness can be as simple as pointing people to the essential truths of the gospel:

Admit that we have all sinned and fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23).
Believe that Jesus paid the penalty for our sins on the cross (2 Corinthians 5:21).
Ask for His forgiveness and declare Jesus as Lord of your life (Romans 10:9, Ephesians 2:8).

When we surrender under the authority of Christ, we are made whole, set free from the bondage of sin, and adopted into God’s family.

Do not hold back the miracle God has worked in you. Whether your background reflects intense opposition like Paul’s or silent wounds of hurt and abandonment, your testimony carries the authority of God’s transforming grace. Share your story with someone and watch how God uses your journey to invite others to come and meet their Heavenly Father.

September 25, 2026 0

The Approval Trap: Human Validation vs. Divine Service (Galatians 1:1-10)

Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10 NIV

The pursuit of human validation is exhausting! Would you agree? In the opening of Paul’s letter, he establishes a stark boundary between striving for public applause and serving a divine calling. True spiritual conviction requires a conscious shift in priority from people-pleasing towards absolute fidelity to divine truth.

The differences between seeking the favor of humans versus living under God’s authority:

Dimension	Seeking Human Approval	Seeking God’s Approval
Primary Driver	Cultural trends, fear of rejection, and the desire for social acceptance.	Unconditional divine acceptance, spiritual truth, and authentic calling.
Message Clarity	Prone to compromise, watering down complex truths, and avoiding necessary confrontation.	Clear, direct, and unadulterated declaration of core principles.
Ultimate Outcome	Chronic emotional fatigue, fluctuating self-respect, and spiritual stagnation.	Lasting peace, clear identity, and absolute fulfillment of purpose.

WOW! I have found myself doing all the above! I am learning that living under an “audience of one” means acknowledging that human praise cannot anchor my identity or be a substitute. I have some deep scars from seeking human approval. What about you?

Paul expresses profound astonishment at how rapidly we can drift away from foundational truths toward “different gospels” that substitute grace with performance-based legalism. When core truths are mixed with secondary cultural demands, the original message is completely compromised. Gary Hamrick says, “Jesus plus anything ruins everything!’”

True transformation relies entirely on unmerited favor and an accomplished rescue from modern destructive patterns, rather than a checklist of rigid behavioral performance regulations. Paul makes it clear that introducing self-righteous conditions or human-made rules to a system of grace creates a subtle form of bondage that discredits the completeness of the original foundation.

How can we live with divine focus?

Shifting our focus away from crowd-pleasing requires systematic personal adjustments. It requires us to refuse to bend the foundation truth to satisfy temporary human opinions. This immediately spurs me to pray, “LORD, give me the courage to seek Your approval above anyone else.”

As a call to action from Galatians 1:1-10, I pray we can pinpoint the specific situations where fear of human disapproval prompts a compromise of personal core values or ethical standards, and we stand firm against cultural trends that pressure us to dilute God’s gift of salvation for quick, human validation.

What is your prayer and call to action when you reflect on Galatians 1:1-10? I would love to hear your thoughts.

September 14, 2026 0

Galatians Bible Study

Happy Fall Y’all, as we say in Texas! Hopefully the cooler weather is around the corner, but we know what time it is–time to start back with a small group routine. Refining Ministry has provided this online platform for the past seven years! We are excited to get started with the Galatians Bible Study. Kickoff is today!

We look forward to continuing to experience the power of God’s Word by teaming together with others online every Monday night via Zoom. This is always a wonderful time with meaningful moments and lasting effects. What? That sounds very promising! We can honestly say that living out Scripture and having an accountability group truly does produce moments where the Holy Spirit works in the lives and hearts of participants. We see it week after week. I can even say the effects on my life have changed my heart, perspective, thinking, and knowledge of our Savior and LORD.

Refining Ministry is dedicated to studying the Bible book-by-book with you. God designed us for community, first with Him and then with others. Our Zoom Bible study creates space to deepen your personal relationship with God, strengthen reliance on Scripture, and walk closely with Christ. “…grow in the grace and knowledge of our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 3:18)

Kickoff is tonight! If you are curious about the group and the format, here is the kickoff presentation: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1N9OnCEiasvR_9GLdpPpmbB-CvFVrJvvELlTlk4Ypjko/edit?usp=sharing

If you are interested in joining us and receiving the Galatians Workbook material, please contact us. Our email address is refiningjourney@gmail.com. We would love to have you join us.

September 7, 2026 0

CALL TO ACTION: Colossians 4:7-18

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You’ve got to move it, move it!! Your action matters!

Have you ever read Scripture, pondered the meaning, then closed God’s Word without an action plan or a way to saturate your life with God’s way of living? I know I have – over and over, time after time. Often I ask God to create in me a pure heart, yet I do nothing on my part. OUCH!

Refining Ministry has been leading others in how to deep dive into their Bible for seven years. Each study has revealed wisdom and discernment in how to allow God’s Word to transform hearts and minds. One thing we have found to be true always: Christ alone is the sole source and substance of spiritual maturity regardless of our religious beliefs, education, or special giftings. Our intimacy with Him is more important than anything else.

This summer we engaged in a slow walk through Colossians by approaching each verse with a vision of action. Together, we have been watchful for the LORD and held ourselves accountable to seek God through an act of obedience based on the Scriptures we studied. It has not always been easy, but it has been very rewarding.

The slight mindset change and the intentionality allowed each of us to embrace humility and obedience as a method of worshiping the Father. It has forever changed how I get dressed every morning…clothe yourself in compassion, gentleness, humility, kindness, and patience…Colossians 3:12. (The verse is hanging in my closet and has allowed me to stay under God’s authority when life gets hard!)

It has been a privilege to lead like-minded women each Monday night this summer through the book of Colossians. Paul’s words have pierced my heart along with the sweet love and devotion of each lady who participated in this Bible study. I can say I have experienced the true meaning of walking hand in hand with my beautiful sisters in Christ. I am forever grateful.

As we close out Chapter 4, here is an example of how we have studied and digested Paul’s words verse-by-verse. I pray it encourages you to action as well.

Be an Encourager and Restorer (Verses 7–11)

Paul highlights ordinary people who brought him comfort. Notice Mark here—the same Mark who had previously deserted Paul, now restored and useful.
Action: Lift up fellow workers and offer grace. Think of someone serving in ministry, a leader, or a friend who is weary or recovering from a setback. Send them a voice text, card, or message of genuine encouragement this week.

Labor Ferociously in Prayer for Others (Verses 12–13)

Epaphras, who is described as “always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.” Prayer isn’t a passive sideline activity; it is active spiritual work for the maturity of others.
Action: Pray for spiritual endurance, not just physical comfort. This week, pray for the ladies in your church/small group to be able to stand firm, mature, and fully assured in God’s will.

Build Community Around God’s Word (Verses 14–16)

Faith grows in community, rooted in Scripture. Nympha offered her home space; Paul urged them to share God’s written truth.
Action: Open your life and anchor your relationships in truth. Intentionally invite someone into your life for spiritual community this month—opening your home, inviting someone to your next bible study, sharing how Scripture has impacted you.

Complete the Mission God Gave You (Verses 17–18)

Finishing well requires intentional effort and reliance on God’s grace during hard times.
Action: Don’t quit on the assignment God placed in front of you. Name the specific assignment God has called you to right now (raising children, a tough workplace, a church role, a hard marriage) and commit to seeing it through.

July 27, 2026 0

GALATIANS: 12 Weeks Through Grace and Freedom

Unfiltered Truth. Real Freedom. Deep Grace. 12-Week Study of Galatians starting September 7th!

If I had to pick one writer in the New Testament whose voice cuts right through the noise, it’s the Apostle Paul. His passion is contagious. He’s bold, straightforward, and isn’t afraid to throw in a bit of holy sarcasm when defending the truth. Paul is definitely not a fence-sitter—he makes it crystal clear where he stands.

That’s why we are so excited for what’s next. Galatians is Paul’s passionate letter defending justification by faith alone, breaking down religious legalism, and defining what it truly means to live led by the Holy Spirit.

Over 12 weeks, we’ll walk verse by verse through all six chapters together. We’ll be using our Sit, Soak, and Saturate study method—a rhythm that teaches us how to slow down, ask deep questions, pray Scripture, and apply God’s Word to daily life in a completely fresh way.

Whether you’ve never opened a Bible before or you’ve been studying for decades, you belong here. We’ll simply open our Bibles together, one day at a time, and let God’s Word do what it always does: refine us.

Class Details:

Start Date: Monday, September 7^th, 6:00 pm CST
Length: 12 Weeks (Six chapters, verse-by-verse)
Location: Online via Zoom (with digital resources provided)

If you’ve been wanting to build a consistent Bible habit, or if you’re longing to deeply understand your identity in Christ, this is your invitation.

Ready to jump in? Send us a message (refiningjourney@gmail.com) or comment below to get your Zoom link, class schedule, and study resources!

July 26, 2026 0

Stepping into a New Season: Why Embracing a “God-Word” Changes Everything

Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Joshua 1:7-8 NIV

Hello, Friends!

Have you ever experienced a season where God handed you a single word—and that one word began to reshape how you viewed your circumstances, your mindset, and your daily walk with Him?

A few years ago, I shared a post here on Refining titled “3 Reasons for Embracing a God-Word.” I talked about how stepping away from human resolutions and leaning into a Spirit-led focus gives us a framework for true spiritual growth. It anchors us when life’s storms rage and reminds us to set our minds on things above (Colossians 3:1-2).

Today, I want to extend a personal invitation to you to step deeper into this journey with us.

Why Focus on a God-Word? When we allow God to speak a specific word into our lives for a season—whether it’s FOCUS, SURRENDER, ABIDE, or COURAGE—three powerful shifts begin to happen:

It Shifts Our Mindset (Romans 12:2): A God-Word isn’t a temporary trend; it’s an ongoing, daily transformation that aligns our thoughts with His truth.
It Anchors Us in the Storm: Circumstances fluctuate, but a word grounded in God’s promises becomes a weapon of faith (a sword!) when life feels heavy or uncertain.
It Refines Our Daily Walk: It moves our faith from theory to practical application, guiding how we pray, act, and love others every single day.

You Are Invited to Join the Journey. Spiritual refinement was never meant to be walked alone. Whether you’ve been seeking clarity in a deep valley or you’re eager to deepen your reliance on Scripture and the Holy Spirit, there is a place for you here. We are gathering a community of believers who are ready to stop being caught off-guard by life and start standing firm as mighty warriors in faith.

Here is how you can jump in today:

Email us: Come be a part of our upcoming online session for four weeks in August. Email us at refiningjourney@gmail.com before August if you are interested.
Virtual Class: Monday nights at 6:00 pm via Zoom. We will send you the link and workbook.
Book: It is optional to purchase the book, ONE WORD, by Jon Gordon. You may check your local library or buy a used copy.

Let’s Walk Together. You matter, and your journey matters to God. I look forward to watching how He moves in your life as we surrender our plans and embrace His authority together!

In Grace & Truth,

Genna

Refining [Spiritual Growth]

“Embracing a journey of refinement under God’s authority with an eternity mindset.” — Jeremiah 24:7

July 26, 2026 0

KEEP GOING! Colossians 3:15-25

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17 NIV

Hello friends. Have you ever had those days when the enemy tries to fill your head with lies? You know the feeling—especially right after you’ve done something big for the Lord or intentionally pressed deeper into your relationship with Him. Let’s just be honest: IT IS FRUSTRATING!

The good news is that this pushback is only temporary. We already know the end of the story, and the enemy loses. In the name of Jesus, we can absolutely remind him of his future! But if I’m being completely transparent, those attacks can still take the wind out of my sails at times. What about you?

Recently, Refining Ministry hosted a prayer retreat for a group of women. God has been planting the seeds for this event for a couple of years now. We have been pressing into the content He provided and faithfully following His lead. It was a beautiful experience, perfectly orchestrated by Him on so many levels. For me personally, it was a true spiritual high.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24 NIV

But slowly, the enemy began to creep in with his usual attacks. I knew I had to fight back by firmly defending what Refining Ministry stands for and the purpose behind everything we do. This time, my battle strategy looked a little different—I sat down and wrote an affirmation.

So… here it is:

Our Affirmation of Authority

Satan, you have absolutely zero authority over Refining Ministry because it is built by and for the Lord. We walk the pathway God paved for us all the way back in 2019. In the name of Jesus, we cast you out of the impact this ministry has—and will continue to have—on lives in the past, present, and future.

Our hearts are completely dedicated to guiding people past surface-level faith and equipping them to live a deeply rooted, Word-fed life. Whether we are leading notebooking retreats, teaching scripture engagement, hosting online classes, or helping believers “crown the sword,” we will continue to do the essential work of spiritual maturity.

We know the legacy of a ministry like Refining isn’t built on flash—it’s built on the deep, lasting transformation of the people we walk alongside. It is our mission to encourage others in their daily walk, provide resources and skills to assist them, and spark a genuine, sold-out love for Him and His Word.

On this day, we affirm that we will keep refining, keep equipping, and keep pointing people to the Father. May the Kingdom of heaven shine upon our efforts by leading, guiding, and directing us to impact every single life we touch. Satan, intimacy with God will be accomplished through this ministry because we stand solely under His authority!

Where in your life do you need that exact kind of encouragement today? Do you need to hear the words “KEEP GOING!” whispered loudly in your ear?

My friend, lean hard into God. Write out your own affirmation for what it looks like to live your life for the Lord, and speak directly to the enemy. In the name of Jesus, tell him exactly where he stands.

And then? KEEP GOING-with God’s peace and a grateful heart!

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. Colossians 3:15-16 NIV

July 15, 2026 0