Monthly Archives: September 2015

On Fire for God – Burning with Passion

16 Wednesday Sep 2015

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ID-100176173In a previous blog post that centered around The Consuming Fire of God, the topic of fire and its characteristics as an element was briefly described. As mentioned in that post, fire not only consumes what surrounds it but it has the ability to spread throughout the vicinity. As long as other elements within its reach are flammable, a fire will not only scorch and destroy but it will spread.

As it relates to the life of every believer, the burning desire for God should emanate from one’s very life. The world around us should know just how powerful God is by not only the words that we speak but by our actions. How we operate daily should be indicative of our relationship with Jesus Christ and the fact that God reigns supreme in our lives. In the book of Revelation chapter 3, we can see that the writer who was the Apostle John is writing to various churches throughout Asia.

While John was exiled on the Isle of Patmos, he wrote letters to 7 churches between chapters 2 and 3:

    • The church of Ephesus
    • The church of Smyrna
    • The church of Pergamum
    • The church of Thyatira
    • The church of Philadelphia
    • The church of Sardis
    • The church of Laodicea

Throughout his letters, the Apostle John is given the charge by God to write to each church both encouraging and also challenging those within the congregation and also church leadership. Each of the churches were commended for maintaining their faith. (e.g. The church of Thyatira – Revelation 2:19) However, in a few of the 7 churches there were sins or issues that led to an ineffective influence throughout the continent of Asia.

For example, the church of Pergamum was found guilty of allowing the doctrine of false gods to be taught to the congregation. Even in the church of Ephesus, it was clear that the Ephesians did not love God as they once had according to verse 4 of chapter 2. However, the focus of this post will be to hone in on an important passage that contain words that God had given to John to write to the church of Laodicea.

In chapter 3 verses 15-16 the following words are given:

(NLT) “I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth!”

Verses 17-19:

(NLT) “You say, ‘I am rich. I have everything I want. I don’t need a thing!’ And you don’t realize that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked. So I advise you to buy gold from me—gold that has been purified by fire. Then you will be rich. Also buy white garments from me so you will not be shamed by your nakedness, and ointment for your eyes so you will be able to see. I correct and discipline everyone I love. So be diligent and turn from your indifference.”

The overall issue with the church of Laodicea was that many within the church were unaware of their spiritual indifference toward God and the things of God. First, God’s message to John was to inform the people of the church that they were ‘lukewarm.’ Why does God use that term and what does it mean in the spiritual sense?

‘Lukewarm’ is meant to suggest that an individual or group of people are indifferent towards a matter. Verse 15 says, “that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other!” The point that God wanted to impress upon the church of Laodicea was that their actions were neither for God or against God. Rather, what displayed was a cavalier or indifferent approach to how the church operated. Even verse 19 says, “So be diligent and turn from your indifference.”

The key point is that God despises anyone who decides to walk on the fence or live in neutrality concerning the things of God. The message that God gives to the Laodicean church is that of being expelled from the very presence of God. God desires that we as Christians burn with passion for Him. In this scripture, God is saying to us even today that there isn’t an in-between. Our lives are either hot or burning in passion for God, or we are cold and we reject God’s truth and love.

The truth of the matter is, God desires that we all burn with passion for Him, however, there will be those that choose to totally reject Him which can be illustrated in coldness towards God. It is key to understand that God wants us to love Him entirely. He doesn’t want pieces of our heart, but He wants us to let Him have the freedom to reign in our lives. In this scripture, the meaning is that God wants you entirely, or He would rather not have you at all.

You and I who are in Christ must burn for God with a passion that shows forth to everyone. Part of the problem within our world today is that there are Christians who are serving in religiosity, but their heart has not been changed to reflect the transforming power of Jesus Christ. Many act as the Laodiceans did which is to portray a life of connection to God through meaningless rhetoric and routine. Yet, the life of those who perpetrate is wicked to the core. The Laodicean church claimed to be rich in wealth but spiritually they were poor as verses 17-19 says.

The indifference that many today show forth is the very thing that God despises. While God also frowns upon those who choose to be ‘cold’ or live in rejection toward Him and His decrees, God makes it clear that He wants you to find your satisfaction and wholeness in Him. God desires that we who are in Christ burn for Him. When we burn for Jesus Christ, the whole world can see the power of God.

We are living in a time in which sinfulness has abounded and many things that were once wrong are now deemed acceptable in our society. However, God is looking for those who are willing to let the fire of God ignite their very lives. Showing indifference towards sin or even the things of God is one of the things that God hates. This is a part of the reason why many within the body of Christ are ineffective because there is a level of neutrality that has taken root within the realm of Christendom.

There are those who no longer fear or reverence God and they feel as if speaking the truth of God isn’t profitable. However, God’s standard and expectation of those who name the name of Christ hasn’t changed. Religion and rituals adhere to a disposition of being ‘lukewarm.’ However, true relationship and true proclamation comes from the heart of a person who is deeply drenched in the Holy Spirit and the fire of God.

Do you know Jesus as your personal Lord & Savior? If not, then you have a tremendous opportunity to start the ignition process of experiencing the fire of God in your life. Or, perhaps you are a Christian but your life is lukewarm. God wants to ignite your life with His Holy fire so that the world will know who you stand with and for. God desires that we know Him intimately and that our lives burn with passion. Seek God through Jesus Christ and repent of your sins. Allow God to shape you and to burn away the sin in your life so you can spread His love and His truth to the world around you.

Death by Pride – The Consequences of Ignoring Your Sin

14 Monday Sep 2015

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Have you ever given someone a piece of advice that would have proven to be beneficial and yet the individual scoffed and ignored your words? If so, you might have noticed that at some point the individual who chose to ignore you ended up in a situation that would have been avoided had they listened to your advice. It is the ignorance of a matter that often causes much of the blunders in our lives and even throughout our world. Time and time again, there are warnings that resound in our life and yet such warnings are not taken seriously.

The reason why is because of the element called ‘pride.’ Pride in its most basic definition is the disposition of self-sufficiency. It is to hold to the belief that you know what is best rather than seeing another person’s point of view. In our world today, the element of pride has taken root, more so now than ever. We live in a world in which the very essence of existence is now surrounded by secular humanism or better known as ‘human pride.’ If you look at various television commercials, you will notice that there has been an increase in the rise of human innovation with a focus on technology.

Essentially this means, many are now looking within themselves for inventive ideas rather than recognizing that we as humans do not have the intellectual capacity to do or invent without the direction and power of God. In the book of Proverbs chapter 16, the topic of pride is addressed. Throughout the book of Proverbs, pride and Godly wisdom are mentioned multiple times because King Solomon who was the writer of Proverbs, wanted the reader to understand that a life that is ruled by pride rather than wisdom is a life that is destined for failure.

Proverbs chapter 16 verses 1-5 says the following:

(NLV) “The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the thoughts of the heart. Trust your work to the Lord, and your plans will work out well. The Lord has made all things for His own plans, even the sinful for the day of trouble. Everyone who is proud in heart is a shame to the Lord. For sure, that one will be punished.”

In this scripture, the first thing we can extract is that we as humans suffer from pride because it is within our very nature. In the first part of verse 2 King Solomon says “All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes” which is meant to suggest that naturally because of our sinful nature, we are more self-reliant rather than reliant upon God. So, in the very heart of you and I is where pride exists. However, it is through the remission of sin and acceptance of Christ’s sacrifice that our prideful nature is altered.

When you and I make the decision to surrender our life unto God through Christ, we are laying down our pride and our own way of living. If you look at our world you can see the consequences which are born out of pride. Many see their way of living as ‘pure’ just as the scripture says in Proverbs chapter 16. Essentially, many ignore their sin because they are spiritually blind to their sin in addition to being resistant to the spiritual things of God.

The lawlessness and the consequences that come with an abundance of sin is based on humanity’s willingness to embrace human pride. If you read further into Proverbs chapter 16 you will see that there is evidence of what happens when pride reigns in the life of a person who chooses not to submit to God.

Verse 5:

(NLV) “Everyone who is proud in heart is a shame to the Lord. For sure, that one will be punished.”

Another translation of the Bible which is the English Standard Version (ESV) uses the word ‘abomination’ rather than shame. In God’s view, it is abominable or shameful for we as humans to operate in our own pride. The reason is because pride is rooted in selfishness which means that God does not have the freedom to reign in our lives. Pride is one of the many sins that were passed down from Adam & Eve unto us as we were born into this world. It is the person who is prideful who does not repent before God. They believe that their actions are not sinful but rather their actions are in purity.

However, our world shows us the very things that occur when each generation operates in blatant un-repentance and pride. Why is it that there is so much gun violence that is occurring in America? Why is it that countries around the world are experiencing governmental upheaval and economic uncertainty? One of the main symptoms is human pride. There is such a concentration on how ‘we’ as humans can build our own empires and solve our own problems.

However, every time we think that we can operate separately from God it becomes a reality that not only is God displeased with us, but that He leaves us to our own devices which usually means demise. King Solomon says that the person who is proud is the person who will meet punishment from God. Another verse confirms this notion.

Verse 18:

(NLV) “Pride comes before being destroyed and a proud spirit comes before a fall.”

The ultimate ending for a person who is prideful and ignores their sin is destruction. There are many who are given the opportunity to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord & Savior, and yet they ignore the call of God unto Himself through repentance. It is the proud person who says, ‘I am a good person.’ or ‘What I do isn’t that bad.’ However, the actions and words of a person can tell you just what is in their heart. Many have forsaken the ways of the Lord in exchange for their sinfulness. Most don’t want anyone to tell them how to live their own life. Many want to be unaccountable, but the truth is, on the day of judgment, God will give every person what they deserve.

However, you have an opportunity to avoid the penalty that comes with living in sin. Verse 6 of Proverbs chapter 16 says,

(NLV) “Sin has been paid for by loving-kindness and truth. The fear of the Lord keeps one away from sin.”

King Solomon says that your sin and my sin has already been paid for by God’s loving-kindness and His truth. The way that this has occurred is through Jesus Christ and His sacrifice. The sacrifice of Christ on the cross is sufficient to remove the stain of your sin, however, you must be willing to take God’s way out to be saved. Secondly, there must be a fear of the Lord. ‘Fear’ also means reverence in this context. Many (even those who claim Christianity) continue to operate in sinful behavior because they don’t fear God.

Without a reverential disposition towards God then you will believe that your own standard is what brings salvation and the solution to life’s problems. However, God wants you and I to come to Him to lay down our pride. The term ‘death by pride’ essentially means that both a spiritual and physical destruction result from a life steeped in pride. If you don’t believe that it can happen to you, simply peer through the windows of our society and notice how immoral and godless humanity has become. In fact, if you decide to reject God’s decrees and embrace a prideful stance, then you will personally see the negative results.

Humanity has become its own undoing, however, the solution is Jesus Christ. If you don’t know Jesus as your personal Lord & Savior, today is the day to relinquish your pride. God wants to know you and He wants to be your lifeline through Christ in these uncertain times. Pride runs rampant in our society, but the remedy to such pride is to bow down in humility before Jesus Christ. Only in doing so will you experience true freedom and the answer to life’s challenges.

Tools to Equip Every Believer

11 Friday Sep 2015

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ID-100169199A toolbox is a container that houses various assortments of instruments used to repair broken items. Each tool is designed to address a specific need with the intent to incorporate a solution to a problem. For example, a hammer is used to drive nails into a particular surface. If you need to tighten a loose nut or bolt, then a wrench would be useful. Or you may need to turn or even remove a screw which would mean using a screwdriver. Every tool that is available provides efficiency for the task at hand. Without the appropriate tool, then the issue that you may be facing will be unresolved until there is an intervention.

In the life of every believer, there are various tools that God has given to you and I as we journey through this life. The world continues to show us just how sin and a lack of morality have become the culture that many have embraced. If you turn on your television or even if you visit a website dedicated to the latest news you will see just how wicked and perverse our world has become. The fact is, the times that we are living in require a keen focus into who God is and what He desires for our lives. It also means that there must be the utilization of the spiritual tools that God has made available to every believer. This is so that we can be equipped to battle against satan as he continues to attack God’s people every day.

In scripture, there are various verses that we can examine to show us what tools we have available and also how such tools can be used so that we will be armed against the enemy’s schemes. The following are at least five tools that we who are in Christ have at our disposal. These tools are also taken from key verses of scripture to show you that God’s Word gives us all of the answers that we seek regarding life and how to live.

1. The Holy Spirit – The role of the Holy Spirit is to be our comforter and our helper. John chapter 14 and verse 26 says:

(NLV) “The Helper is the Holy Spirit. The Father will send Him in My place. He will teach you everything and help you remember everything I have told you.”

In this scripture, Jesus is talking to His Disciples, and He gives them the promise that the Holy Spirit will be sent to comfort them after His death on the cross. Basically, Jesus says that the Holy Spirit will be available once Christ leaves the Earth. Notice the key words in this scripture which are ‘teach’ and ‘helper.’ The Holy Spirit is available to every believer which gives you and I the ability to live triumphantly. The Holy Spirit which is one of the 3 in the Trinity (God, Jesus, Holy Spirit) is here to teach us. With the increasing level of deception in our world, we need the Holy Spirit more than ever.

The role of the Holy Spirit is to guide us into all truth so that we would not be deceived and destroyed. Secondly, the Holy Spirit is here to help us. He helps us to avoid the snares of the enemy in addition to giving us the supernatural power to do battle against our enemy. We obtain the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit through seeking God’s presence in prayer and in worship.

2. Pastoral Leadership – Unfortunately, there are some who are in Christ who choose not to find themselves in corporate worship or under the leadership of any Pastor. We are living in a time in which church attendance has dropped precipitously which aligns with the ‘Great Falling Away’ that the Apostle Paul talks about in 2 Thessalonians 2:3. However, God has designed Pastoral care and leadership for the well-being of believers who are not called to serve in that capacity. Every Christian who can should find a Pastor who speaks God’s truth and can teach them the principles of God’s Word.

Titus chapter 1 verses 5-9 mention the characteristics that a Pastor should exhibit. The Apostle Paul encouraged the institution of Elders (which is also aligned with what Pastors are meant to do which is to oversee believers in Christ) within churches. Verse 9 of this chapter says:

(ESV) “He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.”

The role of a Pastor is to give instruction to believers. Someone who is in Christ who does not have a Pastor to teach them in the ways of the Lord is someone who is without protection. The role of the Pastor which is also mentioned in Ephesians 4 verse 11 is one that God put into place for the purpose of leading believers and furthering the discipleship process. It is the role of a Pastor that buffers the enemy so that one’s soul is not left unattended and without sound instruction.

3. God’s Word – We are living in a time in which deception is increasing every single day. While it is important that we who are in Christ have the Holy Spirit, we also need to know God’s Word. It is knowing His Word and taking it as absolute truth that will spare us from being caught in the web of lies that satan puts forth. So many are now accepting what satan has given as truth instead of seeing God’s Word as the truth that is infallible and immutable.

Hebrews chapter 4 verse 12 says,

(NLV) “God’s Word is living and powerful. It is sharper than a sword that cuts both ways. It cuts straight into where the soul and spirit meet and it divides them. It cuts into the joints and bones. It tells what the heart is thinking about and what it wants to do.”

This scripture clearly states that God’s Word is ‘living and powerful.’ It is so powerful that the writer says that it is sharper than a sword that cuts both ways. Basically, it is God’s Word that convicts and brings the truth of God to our mind and our heart. It is the truth of God that cannot be changed despite how much the world around us changes. Using God’s Word as a filter allows you and I to avoid the lies that the world promotes to us daily. Knowing God’s Word and having it in your heart is what will give you knowledge and a baseline for conviction.

4. Prayer – Prayer is one of the most important weapons that we can use against the enemy. When we pray, we are establishing an open line of communication unto God which creates a relationship. Not only are we talking to God, but in prayer God talks back to us. It is like having a relationship with a person which is to say that constant communication builds the relationship. Through prayer, we have safety in addition to receiving the blessings that God desires for us.

Philippians 4:6 says,

(ESV) “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

God wants to know what is on your heart and He wants us to trust Him to the point that we rely on Him through prayer. Some may contend that if God already knows what we need or desire that there isn’t a reason to pray. However, when we pray it is the dialogue that we have with God that creates a closer relationship. Having daily times of prayer institutes a greater sense of who God is what He is able to do.

5. Fellowship with other believers – Knowing others who are also in Christ and having relationships with them establishes a mode of strength and accountability. In this individualistic society, it becomes so easy for us to be self-absorbed into our own thoughts and lifestyles. However, God created us to be relational which means to have relationships with others.

Hebrews 10:25 says,

(KJV) “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

The writer of this scripture wants us to understand that we must not take for granted that we can and should come together in the faith. Exhortation which also means to build each other up is an important part of the process. Weekly interaction with fellow believers gives you a sense of hope and also a sense of connection. This is also why it is important to be connected to a body of believers through regular church attendance.

The overall message is that we must be equipped through Jesus Christ. All of these tools are available to those of us who are in Christ, but to those who are not in Christ these tools cannot be manifested appropriately. If you don’t know Jesus, today is a great day to accept Him as your Lord and Savior. He wants to be your King and He desires that you have access to the tools listed above. In doing so, your life will be enriched and you will have the necessary means to address all of life’s circumstances. This is God’s promise to the believer and those who wish to know Him through Christ.

The Ultimate Ruler – God’s Standard for Humanity

04 Friday Sep 2015

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ID-10033867Throughout the world, there are various standards that are used for measurement. For example, metric units such as kilometers (km) are used to determine the amount of distance that one travels. Or, the metric unit known as a kilogram (kg) which is used to determine weight. The metric system is used worldwide in order to measure distance and weight. In most school systems, the use of what is known as a ‘ruler’ is used so that students can measure the distance of an object.

A ruler generally uses centimeters, millimeters, or inches to measure distance. A ruler can also be used to draw a straight or an angled line rather than drawing a curved line. It is the ruler that allows the user to maintain a level of order when drawing and even measuring. If one were to attempt a straight line without a ruler, the chances are that the line would be flawed rather than linear. Without the metric system or even the ruler, then it would be difficult to estimate how large or small an object is.

Spiritually speaking, the creator of the universe and all things that are not man-made is the standard that supersedes all standards. God Almighty has a standard for humanity which resides within His Word. God’s standard is designed for all of us to follow, however, because of humanity’s inclination to sin based on our sinful nature, the standard that God has put into place is often ignored or rejected.

There are two scriptures that should be examined as it relates to honing in on God’s standard for humanity to follow. The first comes from the book of 1 John 2, verse 16 which says the following:

(ESV) “For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world.”

In this passage which is in verses 15-17, the Apostle John is encouraging Christians not to love the world or the things of the world. What John means is that we who are in Christ should not love the desires of the flesh or even the pride in Earthly possessions. To love temporary things and even to indulge in our sinful nature is to essentially live by the standard that satan has set for the world to follow.

A standard is a way to measure or it is a directive that we are to live by. The ways of this world are hinged upon appealing to our flesh rather than to the growth of our Spirit through the influence of the Holy Spirit and God’s Word. John says that the things or the ways of this world are not from God the Father, but they are from the world. Who is it that sets the pace of a godless society? It is none other than satan who is ‘the god of this age’ as 2 Corinthians 4:4 says.

Satan has deceived many by instituting his standard which is steeped within our sinful nature. This is why many are following various trends that are inherently against God’s decrees because the standard of this world is not godly. Homosexuality, adultery, lying, murder, sexual immorality and other sins have become approved by our world system. While there may be laws that are put into place to suggest that order has been established, the truth is that many nations are operating in lawlessness. As a result of such lawlessness, disorder and misconduct become the norm within a godless culture.

So, it is important to understand that the ways of this world are the complete opposite of God’s standard. However, the question then becomes, ‘What is God’s standard for those who are willing to follow Him?’ Mark Chapter 7 is one of many scriptures that directly answers the question of what God’s standard is for all of humanity to follow.

In Mark chapter 7, Jesus addresses a group of Pharisees who challenge Him regarding tradition and ritual. One of the Pharisees had noticed that some of the disciples were not following the Jewish tradition which was to fully wash their hands before eating. So, Jesus was asked concerning this issue. In this chapter, Jesus made it clear in verses 17-19 that it isn’t the food that we eat that defiles our body but what comes out of our heart.

The Pharisees were very legalistic and followed the Mosaic law which put them in spiritual bondage. However, Jesus made it clear to them that their religiosity was an issue spiritually because they were doing things based on ritual, but their hearts had not changed. Here is what Jesus said in response to the Pharisees challenge:

Verses 20-23:

(NLT) “And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”

What Jesus said is that a person is defiled by what comes out of their heart. All of these sins are named to point to the fact that these are sins that result from our sinful nature. We are all born into sin which means we are prone to do any of these sins Christ names or even other sins He did not name. So what is the standard that God wants humanity to follow?

The standard that God has set in place for us is none other than Holiness and righteousness. The sins that Jesus names do not line up with Holiness or righteousness. In order for us to fully reach and institute God’s standard in our life, we must not only follow God’s Word by knowing His commands, but we must spend time with God daily. Spending time with God will increase your spiritual maturity and His presence in your life.

As a result, you will begin to live righteously and Holy as God requires because you are doing so in His power. You are also operating out of a spiritual rebirth through Christ. The reason we must be reborn spiritually is because we are born into sin by default. However, God’s standard which is Holiness and righteousness begins to be how we live when we immerse ourselves in His presence and in His word.

The standard of God is the complete opposite of satan’s standard which is what the world follows. Those who are not in Christ cannot live according to God’s standard because they are not controlled by the Holy Spirit. The Bible says in 1 Corinthians 2:14 that the things of the Spirit are foolishness to the person who does not have the Spirit which is the Holy Spirit.

The reason why so much sin has run rampant is because the heart of many has become hardened by their sinfulness. However, God desires that we seek Him and follow His standard for living. Just like a ruler is a measuring tool or a standard for maintaining linear lines when drawing, God’s decrees are meant to do the same for our lives. God wants to rule and have dominion in our lives, but we must relinquish control.

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior then you are operating by a worldly and sinful standard. The standard that brings satisfaction and complete safety is the one that God has designed. Our world is growing increasingly chaotic because of humanity’s unwillingness to allow God to rule. Many are clamoring for peace and safety but only in Christ will they find it. Accept Jesus Christ and believe that He is Lord and allow God’s standard to be the basis for your life.

The Cost of Being a True Disciple of Jesus Christ

03 Thursday Sep 2015

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Today, a woman by the name of Kim Davis has become a national news story for her open and unabashed defiance against same-sex marriage. In Rowan County Kentucky, Davis served as a court clerk in a Federal statehouse. As a part of her job, Davis was ordered to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, however, since the ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court in June, it is now legal for same-sex couples to be married. As a result of Davis’s defiance, she not only received public and private scrutiny but now she resides in prison.

Kim Davis was questioned by a same-sex couple who wanted to know the authority that Davis had to deny them a marriage license. Her response was that she was operating “Under God’s authority.” Davis made it clear from the very beginning that her stance was firmly rooted in her alignment with the commands and principles of God’s Word. However, as a result of her stance to comply with godly values, she was persecuted for the faith.

In the book of 1 Peter Chapter 3, the Apostle Peter touches on the subject of suffering for doing good. “Doing good” is meant to denote the active participation in seeking to exemplify a life of God’s righteousness. Verses 13-18 adequately explain what we as Christians should do and how we ought to approach persecution at the hands of unbelievers.

Verses 13-14:

(NLT) “Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats.”

Peter makes it clear that when we who are in Christ suffer for the sake of Jesus Christ and His righteousness, we will be rewarded. There is a reward that God will give to every person who stands for His Holiness and His Word as they are persecuted by unbelievers.

Verses 15-17:

(NLT) “Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. Remember, it is better to suffer for doing good, if that is what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong!”

Verse 18:

(NLT) “Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit.”

In examining the above verses of 15-18, there are a few principles that we can extract for understanding what the cost is for being a true disciple of Jesus Christ.

1. To be a disciple of Christ it will cost you your life – The Apostle Peter says “You must worship Christ as Lord of your life.” When you accept Christ as your Savior, you also accept Him as your Lord. This means that you are no longer operating under your own volition, but you have given your life unto God through Christ. To be a disciple is to give up your very life for the cause of Christ. Persecution against Christians isn’t a new phenomenon because it has occurred for centuries. However, even in our modern day, Christians are being persecuted for the faith.

There will be a day in America when those who are truly in Christ will experience persecution on the same scale that occurs overseas. While many are still under the false belief that America will always be a country of ‘religious freedom’ the fact is that we who are in Christ will be challenged. Just as Kim Davis was jailed for her stand against homosexuality, you and I who are in Christ may see the day that our belief in God and even the truth that we speak will be attacked. However, as disciples of Jesus Christ our lives will be given for the sake of Christ. This means literally and even in how we live daily.

2. Suffering comes with being a disciple of Christ – Peter says in this passage that suffering for doing what is right is better than suffering for doing what is wrong. The fact is that the element of suffering or persecution is a part of what it means to be a disciple. We live in an age in which many who claim Christianity are afraid to suffer nor do they want to. Instead, many have embraced various sins including homosexuality in order to appease the powers that be. However, doing so is to align yourself with wicked leadership which is akin to participating in sin itself.

Rather, God is calling each person who is truly serious about their relationship with Christ to follow Him and Him alone. Suffering is a consequence of standing against sinfulness because those who are in their sin are the very enemy of God because they are disobedient in what they say and do. Peter says that it is better to suffer for doing good than to suffer for doing what is wrong.

To suffer because of your sin is much worse because for one there isn’t a reward for suffering in sin. Only destruction and a life of a poor quality result from suffering in sin. To suffer in Christ is to reap a reward both here on Earth and in Heaven. God rewards those who suffer for Christ’s sake. Since we are in Christ, we too are to take on the same type of suffering that Jesus did which is to die to our flesh and to also experience persecution as He did.

3. The testimony of your life will show forth God’s glory – Peter says “Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ.” The fact is that a person who is a disciple of Jesus Christ will exhibit a lifestyle that will bring glory to God. Peter says that those who persecute you will be ashamed when they see the good life that you live because you and I belong to Christ. How we live and what we say speaks volumes to the world around us. If you and I are willing to stand up for Christ and against the deception and attacks of the enemy then God’s glory will shine in our lives.

It isn’t enough to merely claim the title of “Christian.” Rather, our lives must show others who God is and what God’s love looks like. Some believe that Kim Davis’s defiance is an act of hate. Those who are blinded from God’s truth will believe the lies of the enemy. Her choice not to issue marriage licenses to gay couples was strictly based off of God’s Word and Her obedience to Him. In standing up for God’s truth, she is embodying what it means to truly be a disciple and to give everything for the sake of Christ. Kim’s boldness will hopefully spark a national and even international response from Christians everywhere not to give into satan’s agenda.

The truth of the matter is, persecution will come to the life of every believer who is truly committed to being a disciple of Christ. The cost of being a disciple involves losing one’s reputation and their very life. All of us who are in Christ are called not only to identify with Christ but to actively pursue the cause of being a disciple of Christ. If you don’t know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you have an opportunity to be a part of this great call. The cost of being a disciple is monumental, but the reward is greater than anything the world can offer.

Holy Boldness – Refusing to Give in to Fear and Intimidation

02 Wednesday Sep 2015

Posted by in Bible, Christian, Christianity, Faith, God, Inspiration, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Life, Love, Spiritual

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Bullying has been a phenomenon that has taken place for generations. Throughout history, the art of bullying has been built off of one or more individuals who assert a greater amount of power over those who are considered to be weaker. Regardless of a person’s age, bullying can occur and often does occur. Whether it be in the workplace, in one’s neighborhood, or even in school, bullying can happen to anyone. However, there is one thing that can and often deters a person who is a bully.

When an individual finally realizes that the treatment that they are receiving deserves a level of indignation and boldness, then that is when the bullying ceases. Contrary to popular belief, violence is usually not necessary to deter a person who bullies. Rather, it is the desire of the person who is pushed around to realize their self-worth and to stand up in courageousness against those who are seemingly in power. It is then that the bully retreats and begins to back down because a person who uses force or insults to dictate, feed off of the fear of others.

In the time that we are living in, there are many Christians who have given up their God given authority. Many have decided to capitulate to the lawlessness that many nations have incorporated in their culture. Instead of speaking the truth to the powers that be, many Christians have become silenced by the wickedness who represent the majority. In the book of Numbers chapter 13, 12 scouts are sent by Moses to survey the land of Canaan.

Canaan was a land that was promised by God to the people of Israel. The Israelites were told that they would inhabit the land. In verses 1-21 of this chapter, Tribal leaders were sent to Canaan in order to give a report of the land and its inhabitants. Here is what the leaders reported:

Verses 27-29:

(NLT) “This was their report to Moses: “We entered the land you sent us to explore, and it is indeed a bountiful country—a land flowing with milk and honey. Here is the kind of fruit it produces. But the people living there are powerful, and their towns are large and fortified. We even saw giants there, the descendants of Anak! The Amalekites live in the Negev, and the Hittites, Jebusites, and Amorites live in the hill country. The Canaanites live along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea and along the Jordan Valley.”

Notice that the leaders say that the land is “flowing with milk and honey.” This meant that the land was prosperous and plentiful.  Also take note of the inhabitants of the land. The leaders stated that the inhabitants were powerful and that they were giants.

Verse 30:

(NLT) “But Caleb tried to quiet the people as they stood before Moses. “Let’s go at once to take the land,” he said. “We can certainly conquer it!”

Caleb who was one of the spies that Moses had sent to Canaan believed that they were capable of possessing the land. However, notice the rebuttal in the final verses:

Verses 31-33:

(NLT) “But the other men who had explored the land with him disagreed. “We can’t go up against them! They are stronger than we are!” So they spread this bad report about the land among the Israelites: “The land we traveled through and explored will devour anyone who goes to live there. All the people we saw were huge. We even saw giants there, the descendants of Anak. Next to them we felt like grasshoppers, and that’s what they thought, too!”

Notice that in the last verse the leaders felt as if they were miniscule or quite incapable of conquering the land. The report that the leaders gave was as the scripture said a “bad report.” Essentially, most of the Tribal leaders were afraid of their opposition because they saw themselves as smaller compared to the giants. Thus, they believed they couldn’t possess the land nor did they think it was worth trying.

When you look at our world today, there are many things that can cause those who are in Christ to believe that the effort to proclaim the Gospel is simply not worth it. Some may believe that living for God and standing for God’s righteousness isn’t the path to take. If the majority of society is going in one direction, why shouldn’t we do the same? The answer to such a question is that God has given every Christian a responsibility.

The responsibility is none other than to stand firm in the faith which the Apostle Paul encourages us to do in 1 Corinthians 16:13. In Numbers, chapter 13, the Tribal leaders were of the belief that they could not conquer the land of Canaan because they were intimidated by the sheer size of the giants. Many Christians have assumed the same philosophy that the Tribal leaders had which is that they were incapable of doing what God had given them the power and ability to do.

God had already promised the land of Canaan to the Israelites, but fear and intimidation caused them to doubt that it was possible. In the context of having Holy boldness, you and I need to have the fearlessness that it takes to stand firm in the faith even in these times. The world is constantly showing signs of decay both morally and spiritually, and yet it is the same world that has silenced many in the body of Christ.

Instead, we who are truly in Christ must be willing to stand for God’s principles and choose not to give into what the world has dictated. Many fear persecution and criticism from the media or from unbelievers. However, in order for us to accomplish what God desires which is to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to a dying world, we must stand unashamed. Christians should not look at the ratio of those who believe and those who don’t, and merely give up due to the majority choosing not to believe.

It is true that the trends are now against those who are seriously following Christ. However, that is not the baseline to follow as it relates to seeking God and following Him. Our basis for truth and spreading the Gospel should be hinged upon the mandate that God has given to us which is the Great Commission. Regardless of what laws are instituted to silence Christians, we must stand. Allowing ourselves to be intimidated by what has become ‘the law’ is not how God wants us to operate. While we are supposed to support and pray for our leaders, we should not forsake Godly principles.

Regardless of the sin that has become approved by society, we who are in Christ should remain authentic to the calling that God has given to us. Not only are we called to share the Gospel with everyone we meet, but we are to abstain from sin. This is not a time for the called of God to be ashamed of the Gospel or to shrink back in fear. The days are becoming more dangerous as we reach the coming of Jesus Christ.  Now is the time to stand for Christ and to do so unashamedly.

If you don’t know Jesus as your as your personal savior, then you are living in sin which separates you from the knowing God’s love. Now is the time for you to accept Christ’s precious gift of salvation while you have a chance. Once you have accepted this gift of life, then you will also be called to take a stand against the enemy and all who stand with Him. All of us who are in Christ must live by godly principles and we must do so with Holy boldness.

Following the Direction of God

01 Tuesday Sep 2015

Posted by in Bible, Christian, Christianity, Faith, God, Inspiration, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Life, Love, Spiritual

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ID-100326043Throughout our time of living, there has been a multitude of technology that has assisted us in our daily lifestyle. From email to text messaging to the ability to research information via the internet. Another form of technology is that of the institution of having access to GPS. The acronym ‘GPS’ stands for ‘Global Positioning System.’ GPS technology is U.S. owned and it is designed to allow users of the system to achieve navigation through real-time results. It also utilizes satellite capability which allows each user to connect to navigation via a device (e.g. hand-held GPS).

Essentially, this technology was created with the intention to track a user’s whereabouts so that said user can find their destination with the guidance of the available technology. Each individual is located within the system and given a destination based on a pinpoint of their location. The course is then charted in which the best possible route is given to the user for them to follow on their journey.

Spiritually speaking, our lives are designed to be led but to be led by God. When you look at the world around you, there are so many ways that one can take to a point where one’s pathway can become convoluted. So many voices are calling out to you and I on a daily basis, however, the pathway that is certain is the one that is surrendered unto to God. It is only by God’s leading that we are able to avoid the catastrophe of a life that is led astray toward destruction.

In the book of Isaiah chapter 30, the account of Judah and its rebellion is given in the scripture. Judah was a Kingdom (also known as the Southern Kingdom) which was divided from the Northern Kingdom.  Both the Northern and the Southern Kingdom were originally made up of 12 tribes which comprised the people of Israel. The 12 tribes experienced disunity and division which resulted in the split of two Kingdoms with Judah being one of the Kingdoms.

In the first part of this passage, Judah is recorded as being in a rebellious state against God. The people of Judah wanted to make a treaty with Egypt in order to receive protection against the Assyrians. Isaiah had given a prophecy in chapter 10 about the Assyrians capturing Israel (the Northern Kingdom). In scripture, it was also prophesied that Judah (the Southern Kingdom) would also be captured by the Assyrians. So, as a result, the nation of Judah began to look to Egypt as their way out.

Verses 1-3:

(NLT) “What sorrow awaits my rebellious children,” says the Lord. “You make plans that are contrary to mine. You make alliances not directed by my Spirit, thus piling up your sins. For without consulting me, you have gone down to Egypt for help. You have put your trust in Pharaoh’s protection. You have tried to hide in his shade. But by trusting Pharaoh, you will be humiliated, and by depending on him, you will be disgraced.” 

Verses 4-5:

(NLT) “For though his power extends to Zoan and his officials have arrived in Hanes, all who trust in him will be ashamed. He will not help you. Instead, he will disgrace you.”

The above verses point to the judgment and words of anger that God brought against Judah because they failed to trust in God. Instead, Judah sought Egypt that historically had been a pagan and godless society. For their disobedience against God, the people of Judah found themselves in a situation that was both destructive and uncertain.

In verses 8-17, the warning against rebellion is given to the people of Judah. The judgment that is given further stated what would occur if they chose not to follow and trust in God Almighty. However, in verses 18-30 there is a reverse to the judgment of what will occur if the people of Judah chose to trust in God and to follow Him.

Verses 18-20:

(NLT) “So the Lord must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help. O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more, He will be gracious if you ask for help. He will surely respond to the sound of your cries. Though the Lord gave you adversity for food and suffering for drink, he will still be with you to teach you. You will see your teacher with your own eyes.” 

Notice what it says in verses 21-22:

(NLT) “Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, “This is the way you should go,” whether to the right or to the left. Then you will destroy all your silver idols and your precious gold images. You will throw them out like filthy rags, saying to them, “Good riddance!”

They key point of verses 21 and 22 is that the people will hear the Lord’s voice and God’s voice will utter the words, “This is the way you should go.” These words signify a directive and as the scripture says, that the people would destroy their idols because they would choose to be obedient unto the voice of the Lord.

As it relates to following the direction of God, there are blessings that come when we are obedient and when we follow God’s leading. In this particular passage of scripture, the people of Judah were self-reliant to the point that they trusted in another resource rather than trusting in God who is the source for all stability. There are many who are doing the same today.

Many are trusting in other resources whether it be their bank account, the economy, the media, or even themselves. As a result, the path that is taken is one that is unstable and it is no longer a path of certainty. If you look at the world around us, there are many problems that humanity faces. Part of it is because of the blatant sinfulness that humanity continues to engage in. However, despite the troubles that are apparent, trusting in God through Jesus Christ is what will institute safety and a pathway that remains uninhibited.

It is only when we choose to follow our own path or the paths of others that we fall short. Just like a GPS has a predetermined route, God has a predetermined path for you and I to follow.  However, if we deviate from that path then it is likely that we will experience a loss in time and a loss in our direction.  The world offers a system in which you can choose your own path.

The truth is, God also allows us the ability to choose what we will do with our lives. However, if we make all of our decisions without Him and His leading, then we will experience negative repercussions for our disobedience. The people of Judah rejected God’s direction and as a result they suffered at the hands of the Assyrians. However, those who chose God rather than their own path were spared.

We are living in a time in which we cannot afford to reject God’s Wisdom and the leading of the Holy Spirit. So many perils await us as we attempt to live in this life. However, with God’s help, you and I are able to navigate through the snares and pitfalls that the enemy presents to us.  If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Personal Lord & Savior, you are not able to be led because you are in your sin. Accept Christ and allow God to lead you as you live in a world that is constantly changing.  Only in Christ are you able to maintain stability in addition to receiving the blessings that God has for you to obtain.