Category Archives: Giving

Violet’s Sermon in Pueblo, Colorado

Good morning, my beloved brothers and sisters in Christ! What a blessing it is to be gathered here in Pueblo, a city rich in history, culture, and resilience. As I walked through the streets, I marveled at the historic buildings, the vibrant waterfront plaza, and the echoes of the past that still whisper through the city. Pueblo, once a humble trading post, became a thriving hub of industry, a gateway for pioneers, and a place of transformation.

But today, I want to talk about a transformation far greater than industry or history—a transformation of the heart, a revival that starts with the love of Jesus Christ. Pueblo, just as your city stands at the confluence of the Arkansas River and Fountain Creek, I believe today you are at a spiritual confluence, where God’s power and love are ready to flow into your lives like a mighty river.

A City of Strength, A People in Need of Revival
Pueblo has long been known as Steel City—a place of endurance and perseverance. The people here are hardworking, passionate, and deeply connected to their roots. But let me ask you today: Have we placed our trust in our own strength rather than in the strength of the Lord? Have we relied on our history rather than our destiny in Christ?

The Bible tells us in Isaiah 40:31, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Pueblo, God is calling you to be strong in Him, to trust in His power rather than your own. If this city is known for steel, let it now be known for hearts refined by fire, strengthened by faith, and unshaken by trials.

We are standing in the very place where, every late August, thousands gather for the Colorado State Fair. It is a time of joy, music, celebration, and excitement. People come from all over to see the rodeos, hear the concerts, and experience the carnival. But as I reflect on this, I am reminded that no earthly joy can compare to the joy we find in Christ.

The Bible tells us in Nehemiah 8:10, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” The celebrations of this world are fleeting, but the love of Jesus brings a joy that lasts forever. Pueblo, God wants to bring a revival that is greater than any festival—a revival that changes lives, heals wounds, and restores hope. Just as the fair draws crowds year after year, what if the love of Christ drew people into the kingdom daily? What if Pueblo became a city known not just for its festivities but for its faith?

Pueblo’s history is filled with pioneers, builders, and dreamers. It has seen hardship, but it has also seen resilience. I believe God is calling His people in this city to be pioneers of faith, to build His kingdom, and to dream again with His vision.

Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:14, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Pueblo, you are not hidden. You are called to shine. You are called to be a light in the darkness, a beacon of hope for the lost, the broken, and the weary.

What would happen if we, the Church, stepped out in faith? What if we took Christ’s love beyond these walls and into our schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods? Just as the steel industry shaped the skyline of this city, the love of God can reshape its future. Let us rise up and become vessels of revival, carriers of His love, and builders of His kingdom.

The Revival Starts With You
Every great move of God begins with a willing heart. Maybe today, you feel weary. Maybe you feel distant from God. Maybe you think revival is for someone else, but not for you. But let me tell you, the love of Jesus is for you! His power is for you! His Spirit is moving in this city, and He is inviting you to be part of it.

Haggai 2:6-7 says, “I will shake the nations, and what is desired by all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory.” Pueblo, the shaking is happening. God is calling you into something new. Are you ready?

Conclusion: Will You Say Yes?
Today, I leave you with this challenge: Will you answer the call? Will you open your heart to the revival God is bringing to Pueblo? Will you allow His love to transform you so that you can bring transformation to others?

Maybe you’ve been hurt. Maybe you’ve been carrying burdens too heavy to bear. But today, Jesus says to you, “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

The rivers that run through this city have shaped its land. Now, let the river of God’s love shape your heart. Let it cleanse, restore, and fill you with purpose. Pueblo, your best days are ahead. Your revival is here. Will you step into it?

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your presence in this place. Thank You for Your love that never fails and Your plans that never falter. Today, we say yes to You. We open our hearts to Your revival. Fill us, renew us, and let Your love flow through this city like never before. May Pueblo be a city known not just for its history, but for its destiny in You. We give You all the glory, Lord.

The Power of Gratitude in Spiritual Growth

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Unthankfulness clouds judgment and dulls spiritual understanding, as seen in Romans 1:21, which describes how ingratitude leads to darkened understanding. This concept is evident in human behavior, where constant complaining blinds individuals to the blessings and lessons surrounding them. A lack of thankfulness not only leads to rebellion but also diminishes the ability to see and act wisely.

The Bible offers numerous examples that highlight the transformative power of gratitude and faith. In Exodus 15, after tasting the miraculous sweet waters, the Israelites were instructed to obey God and trust His covenant, which promised health and protection. This act of divine intervention underscores the importance of aligning with God’s will through obedience and gratitude. The ability to see God’s hand at work often depends on a heart tuned to thankfulness, rather than clouded by doubt and negativity.

Faith is essential in overcoming life’s challenges, as seen in James 5:14-15. When prayers seem unanswered, the temptation arises to accept defeat or question God’s will. However, this mindset reflects a lack of responsibility and trust in His promises. True faith involves standing firm, even in adversity, and declaring God’s truth over visible circumstances. As believers, we must trust the “Expert of all experts,” knowing that what seems impossible to man is possible with God.

Faith, Healing, and Divine Authority
Faith is the foundation of the Christian life, but it requires believing before seeing. Hebrews 11:1 reminds us that faith is the evidence of things not seen, urging believers to trust God’s promises despite contrary circumstances. This principle applies to healing, provision, and restoration. Jesus’ ministry exemplifies this faith, as He healed all who came to Him, demonstrating God’s will to heal and restore.

Pride and presumption hinder faith. Many people, unwilling to take responsibility for their actions, attribute failures to God’s mysterious will. This attitude not only contradicts scripture but also diminishes the believer’s authority in Christ. In contrast, the Word encourages believers to declare and decree God’s promises boldly, unlocking powerful demonstrations of His deliverance.

This season is marked by acceleration and divine strategies, as God raises an army devoted to His heart and purposes. These refined voices, unshaken by opposition, carry His truth with boldness. Intercessors are called to embrace intense prayer, knowing it shifts spiritual realities and brings God’s glory to earth.

Walking in Victory and Spiritual Authority
Believers are heirs of God, as stated in Galatians 4:7, no longer merely servants but sons. This identity grants them the authority to overcome challenges and live victoriously. However, many fail to walk in this authority due to lies about their unworthiness or past mistakes. The enemy exploits these lies, but the truth of God’s Word declares that the curse has no legal right in a believer’s life.

Spiritual growth requires embracing God’s vision and rejecting the limitations imposed by human intellect or doubt. Divine revelation through scripture, prayer, and dreams equips believers for the challenges ahead. As they heed God’s call, they step into new realms of authority and wisdom, prepared to impact nations and regions.

Faith demands perseverance. Whether facing sickness, financial lack, or relational strife, believers must hold onto God’s promises and trust His timing. As Jesus demonstrated through His life and ministry, faith triumphs when believers refuse to give up. This commitment leads to a deeper intimacy with God and the manifestation of His power in their lives.

In this season, God is fortifying His people with supernatural strength and resurrection life, enabling them to run their race with greater vigor. His promises are sure, His presence transformative, and His purposes unstoppable. Those who align with Him will witness His glory in unprecedented ways.

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