Category Archives: Faith

Restoration from Your Past – God Can Use You Despite What You’ve Done

01 Wednesday Jul 2015

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Technology has given humanity many opportunities to enhance life from the perspective of convenience and even scientific advancement.  Despite the negative qualities that technology use has caused, there are still benefits to using the technology that is available to us. For example, film preservation or film restoration allows for the process of old films to be restored to a visible and increased quality. Film preservation, in essence, is the ability to rescue decaying film stock or film strips, and to preserve the images that are within the film stock. In doing so, the film is able to be used despite any damage or decay that was caused by the amount of time that the film existed.  So, this process preserves and restores the film from its original image that perhaps lost quality due to time.

When you look at your life, have you ever felt as if you did something so horrible, that you could not be forgiven?  Have you ever thought to yourself that your past disqualifies you from achieving success or being seen for anything other than your past? The great news is that God sees you differently than you see yourself.  Just like the process of film preservation, God is able to preserve and even restore your life from your past sins and mistakes.

One Biblical example is that of the Apostle Paul.  He is one of the most known individuals within the Bible, because of his past in how he persecuted the church – in addition to being the writer of most of the books in the New Testament.  The Apostle Paul had a history of killing Christians before he experienced his conversion through Jesus Christ.

In Acts 7:58, the Apostle Paul whose original name was “Saul” is shown in the scripture for the first time.  In Acts Chapter 7, you will see that the first Christian martyr is stoned to death in front of the Sanhedrin Council. At that time, the Sanhedrin Council was the Supreme Court that ruled in ancient Israel.  Stephen who was the first Christian martyr was stoned for preaching about Jesus Christ, in which “Saul” was one of the main antagonists to the Christian church.

In Acts 8:1, it says that Saul approved of Stephen’s death. However, the reign of terror that Saul inflicted is further noted in this chapter:

Acts 8: 1-3:

(NIV) “And Saul approved of their killing him. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off both men and women and put them in prison.”

So, Saul who later is converted to the Apostle Paul as he became known as began to destroy the church and persecuted many Christians.  It was Saul’s belief that he was doing the work of the Lord, but he did not realize that he was actually a detriment to society and to the Christian faith at that time.  However, God had an alternate plan for Saul.

In Acts 9, the conversion of Saul into who he would later become is recorded:

Acts 9:1-6:

(NIV) “Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

The latter part of verse 19 into verse 21 shows the actual change that Paul exhibited:

(NIV) “Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. All those who heard him were astonished and asked, “Isn’t he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn’t he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?”

To make a quick side note, Saul’s name being changed to Paul was strictly based on his Jewish and Roman heritage.  Saul was his original name because he was born to a Roman Father. This meant that he was able to hold Roman citizenship, however, he was also a Jew. This meant that he also had a Latin name, which was “Paul”. Later after he was converted into Christianity, Saul began to use the name “Paul”, because after his conversion it was more advantageous for him to use Paul rather than Saul in order to preach unto the Gentiles.

As you can see in the scripture above, Paul’s conversion from a Christian killer to an ambassador for Jesus Christ was quite striking in contrast.  God used Paul mightily throughout the rest of his life, which also resulted in him writing most of the New Testament.  Yet, just as Paul was converted from his old lifestyle, God can do the same for you and I.

Regardless of your past God can use you to do great things in His Kingdom. He can also take the broken places in your life, and mend them to become straight again.  It is God’s love for humanity that creates an opportunity for us to know Him in His majesty, but it is up to us to take that step.

You may feel that what you have done and who you were in your past, somehow disqualifies you from being loved by God.  However, God’s love surpasses the sins that you have committed.  As John 3:16 says, God so loved the world  that He gave His one and only Son Jesus, to die for the world’s sins.  That is a testament to His love for you and I. Even if you have done something so detestable, God sees you as someone that He not only wants to save through Christ’s sacrifice but to also use in His Kingdom.

There were many examples of individuals in the Bible who were used to do great things. Some like Paul had checkered pasts, however, they were given opportunities to receive salvation and to be used in God’s Kingdom.  How much of an honor would it be, to serve the creator of the universe while knowing that you were not perfect?  God doesn’t expect you and I to be perfect, but He wants us to come to the knowledge of who He is.

God can restore you through the redemptive power of Jesus Christ. Regardless of what you did or what you are currently doing, God is able to redeem you from your past or present sin.  Just as Paul was given an opportunity to receive salvation and to be used, you too have an opportunity to be changed through Jesus Christ.  If you are carrying guilt because of what you did, then you are living in bondage to your past.  1 Peter 5:7 says, (NIV) “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” God is the one who is able to bear the burden that we carry.

All of us have burdens that we carry in our day to day walk.  However, by allowing God to restore you from your past, and to carry your burden you are able to be free.  Do you know Jesus in the pardon of your sin?  If not, then you have a grand opportunity to seek salvation through Christ’s sacrifice.  God can use you for His Kingdom despite the mistakes you have made.  It is up to you to seek the Lord for healing and restoration.

The Invitation – Will You Accept It?

29 Monday Jun 2015

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ID-10023653If you have ever been invited to a special event, it is likely you would have received an invitation either by email or by mail. Invitations are designed to formally invite each guest or person that is enlisted. This is so they can participate in an event that is deemed to be celebratory or of special recognition to the honoree/s. Each person who is invited is in some way affiliated with whoever is the focal point of the ceremony or gathering.  One can surmise that the guest has a relationship or at least know of those who they were invited by. As a guest, one can expect to be given special treatment and acceptance which is a by-product of the affiliation with the honoree/s.  In most cases, however, invitations that are sent, are usually exclusive rather than inclusive of all.

The large difference between an event that is exclusive to the public, and the invitation that God offers through Jesus Christ, is that God’s invitation is inclusive to all.  One of the most quoted and most familiar passages of scripture can be found in John 3:16.  It says:

(NIV) “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

The key word in this verse of scripture is “whoever” or as some translations say, “whosoever”. This scripture has become a testament and the crux of the love that God has shown to all of humanity.  It highlights the decision that God made on behalf of humanity to send Jesus Christ, His one and only son to die for the Earth’s sins. As a result of Christ’s death on the cross, humanity has an opportunity to receive salvation.  As this scripture says, “whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” That means, regardless of who you are, and what you have done in your past – if you trust in Jesus Christ and believe He was raised from the dead, then salvation is available to you.

The great thing about God is, He always provides an alternative for humanity. If you look at the world around you, there is a constant decay that has and continues to occur before our eyes. The rapid decadence that is on display is a result of the sinfulness that has run rampant. However, the alternative is a life that is lived through accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. God made a way for humanity to escape His wrath and to escape Hell.

The truth is, all of us deserve to be destroyed, because of our sinful nature. In Psalm 51:5, the psalmist David says that he was a sinner at birth, which also applies to each human being.  It is because of the sin that Adam & Eve committed in the Garden of Eden, that our original destiny was one of destruction and sinfulness.  However, the alternative to that plan was Jesus Christ who is the giver of life.

In 2 Peter 3:9 it says, (NIV) “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”  This scripture essentially means that throughout all of the sins that we commit, God shows us patience. This can be understood as God’s grace unto us which God extends to every person.  The grace of God is something that many have been covered by, even when we deserved the worst of what should have happened to us.

The above scripture also makes it clear, that God does not desire to see humanity perish but to come to repentance.  That is His desire for you and I. When we are unrepentant in our sin, then the penalty is death both spiritually and physically as it says in Romans 6:23. All of the sinfulness that is now being promoted within our society, it has a cost. The legalization of homosexuals being able to marry in 21 countries is not only an abomination to God’s order, but it is a sin.  This sin among other sins has a high price to pay. However, God does not want humanity to pay for its sin through destruction.

Jesus Christ died for you and I so that we would not have to pay the price that we owe. All of the lawlessness that has become “the law” only puts our global society into more confusion.  However, God wants us to repent as a human race.  By repenting, we are acknowledging that we have sinned and that we are ready to surrender our lives unto God through Jesus Christ.  While God’s grace is available to all, the thing about His grace is, that it eventually runs out. While God is patient with us, once He has given us ample time to repent and we do not, the consequences begin to take effect.

In Romans 6: 1-4 the Apostle Paul says:

(NIV) “What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”

In this passage, the Apostle Paul begins by asking a question of whether or not we should continue sinning so that grace may abound. His answer is an emphatic, no. Instead, Paul encourages us not to continue in sin but to remember that because Jesus Christ was raised from the dead, we too have an opportunity to have a new life. It is this invitation to a brand new life, that God offers to every person through Jesus Christ.

What the world offers to us, is the alternative to a life of destruction.  Much of the temptations and pressures to conform to this world system, result in a lower quality of life, in addition to an eternity that is spent in separation from God’s presence.  However, the way out is by accepting the invitation that Jesus offers through His sacrifice.  Just like any invitation, you have the opportunity to accept or decline. It is based on your free-will.  God will not force you to love Him or accept His grace and mercy, but rather He wants you and I to choose Him.  Will you accept God’s invitation? He is waiting for you so that you can have life and life abundantly.

Living For God Despite How Much the World Changes

26 Friday Jun 2015

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Today, June 26th, 2015, America and the world witnessed what many would call “A historic day” and a “Victory for America.” Today marked the full legalization of gays and lesbians to freely marry within all states.  The Supreme Court of the United States deliberated for months, only to come to a 5-4 ruling which now makes “gay marriage” the law of the land. This isn’t exactly a new phenomenon – 20 other countries worldwide have also given their gay and lesbian populations the ability to marry under their law. The truth of the matter is, change within our societal structure is transpiring rapidly.

It seems that now, if you so much as disagree or speak out against homosexuality, you are labeled a bigot and you are reviled by society. Most Americans and even many around the world, are now siding with the introduction and existence of gays marrying. Most have seemingly embraced “change” as it has become, which means that anyone who does not capitulate to the latest trends will be a pariah in the social climate. However, despite how much the world has and continues to change, God still has a standard that has not and will never change.

In 1 Peter Chapter 4, the Apostle Peter gives instruction and even encouragement as it relates to living for God.  He is addressing Christians in the context of arming themselves to withstand the same suffering that Christ took for all of humanity.  In verses 1-2 he says,

(NIV) “Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin.  As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.“

What Peter is suggesting is that anyone who is in Christ must live their life as Jesus did which was with the mindset of sacrifice and dying to oneself.  Jesus’ death on the cross symbolizes the active participation that every Christian ought to resemble in their daily walk. Romans 6: 6-8 refers to being crucified with Christ which means, we are to deny ourselves and the desires of our flesh.  Going back to 1 Peter 4, the 2nd verse says that if we have the same attitude as Christ did in His suffering, then we will not fulfill the desires or deeds of the flesh, but rather the will of God.

Essentially, the first point to be made in the time that we are living in is that we should intensify the crucifixion of our flesh daily.  This means, that regardless of what we are being tempted with, or what society has approved of, we must choose to participate in the suffering of Christ. By doing so, we are able to escape from the pain and damage that sin causes to our very lives. What many within the world do not understand, is that there are consequences for sinfulness.

For example, now that homosexuality has become acceptable and marrying someone of the same-sex is the law in America, there will be consequences that come as a result of humanity’s disobedience and sinful living.  The fact is, we are already seeing consequences of the sin that has become acceptable. Violence, confusion about one’s identity, weather patterns that continue to grow worse, among other examples that point to the harsh realities of a sin-filled world. Satan has craftily blinded the masses into believing that you should “live and let live” but what he doesn’t show you is the long and short-term damage that comes as a result of living in sin.

Peter goes on to say in verses 3-4:

(NIV) “For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you.”

In these verses, Peter points to lifestyles that were perhaps what many during his time participated in before they were followers of Christ. During Peter’s time, he was speaking to the converted, suggesting that they were once in their sin.  However, notice what he says in verse 4. He says, “They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you.” This is an important verse because it is proof that where we are in our time now, is not a social climate that is accepting of anyone who goes against the grain of society.

Basically, those of us who truly stand for God and for His righteousness will be ridiculed because we do not join in or approve of the sin that is on display. As a result, we can expect to be abused verbally, and not surprisingly it may come down to physical abuse at some point. However, regardless of what the majority believe and accept, God holds each Christian to a higher standard which is His standard.  Jesus Christ did not die for sinfulness to be acceptable or the norm.  He died so that all men would come to the knowledge and experience of God’s love, and escape the wrath of Hell that we all deserve.

Peter goes on to say in verses 5-6:

(NIV) “But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.“

Despite what the majority have decided to endorse both in America and worldwide, every person will be held accountable for what they do. God will judge every person for the sin they commit, and for the life that they live. However, the beauty is that because of Christ’s sacrifice, we have an opportunity to accept it, and turn away from our sin. That is what the gospel of Jesus Christ is – it is about the redemptive power that only God can give to us through Jesus Christ.  We can be redeemed from the destruction that a life of sin brings and be reconciled back to God through Christ.

Finally, it is important to note of what the Apostle Peter says in verse 7:

(NIV) “The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray.”

The fact is that we are living in the last days or the end times.  Jesus Christ is soon to return, which means that the days that we are living in are more perilous than in years past. There is so much confusion over the various reasons for violence and tragedies that occur daily.  Many are wondering, why such acts of violence take place domestically and abroad.  The reason has to do with the end of the age as scripture tells us.  Peter gives us the instruction to be alert and sober, which means not to be distracted but aware of what is happening.

We should also be prayerful and watchful as these events unfold in our world today.  The important thing to note is that the generations that are coming after us, will have to contend with the evils and various laws that have been instituted worldwide.  They must be shown the way to live for Christ, which means that we who are currently living, must show them what being a Christian is.  To be in Christ is to deny yourself, and to reject the sinfulness that our world has said is “good” and “acceptable”.

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as  your savior, you have an opportunity to accept His sacrifice.  The world continues to show examples of disobedience and sinfulness, which results in negative consequences. Jesus Christ came and died for you, so that you wouldn’t have to reap the pain and suffering which comes from sin. Our world will constantly change, but God’s standard for humanity does not change.  Live for God, and experience the reward of a life that is found in the safety of Jesus Christ.

Healing That Comes When We Submit Ourselves Unto God

24 Wednesday Jun 2015

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If you have followed the news lately, you might have seen various tragedies that have taken place worldwide.  One such tragedy that has overtaken the headlines in America, and throughout the world is the horrible murders of 9 individuals in Charleston South Carolina.  According to the news reports, a 21-year-old Caucasian male who purposely targeted an African Methodist Episcopal church with the intent to commit mass murder opened fire by shooting and killing 9 African-American individuals.  It was a tragedy that took the United States and even those watching abroad back to the horrors of racism on display in such a diverse society.

It has been out of this tragedy that conversation has shifted back to race relations between blacks and whites in America.  Much of this conversation has sparked anger, confusion, but also that of forgiveness and unity. It was the words of a victim’s family member that publicly expressed forgiveness towards the gunman who was responsible for taking 9 lives. In the statement of forgiveness, some have pondered how it was that someone could extend forgiveness for such a heinous crime.  However, even with such forgiveness, there remains a scar within a nation that has had a troubled history regarding race and other issues for centuries.

How do we respond when we see senseless tragedies that occur on a daily basis?  What is one to say when their nation is thrown backward into an upheaval that sparks hysteria and division? The answer lies in the one who has the ability to bring peace and direction, and that is the almighty God.

In 2 Chronicles 7:14 it says:

(NIV) “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will  heal their land.” 

In 2 Chronicles chapter 7, there is the account of King Solomon who has constructed a new temple, which was dedicated to God through animal sacrifice and worship.  This passage says that Solomon consecrated the temple to the Lord and provided burnt offerings. As a result, the Lord was pleased with this dedication and He appears before Solomon in verse 12. In this verse it says,

(NIV) “the Lord appeared to him at night and said: “I have heard your prayer and have chosen this place for myself as a temple for sacrifices.” 

If you look at 2 Chronicles Chapter 6, verses 13-21, King Solomon is praying for the Lord to honor his Kingship and his ascendance to the throne.  It was King David who was the Father of King Solomon, and it was Solomon’s earnest prayer that the Lord inhabit and bless the temple that he had constructed.  It was also his supplication that God hear the prayer of the people of Israel.  Going back to chapter 7 in verses 15-16 it says:

(NIV) “Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.” “I have chosen and consecrated this temple so that my Name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will always be there.” 

What God is saying to Solomon is that because of the temple’s dedication and Solomon’s earnest prayer, He has and will honor his request.  In verses 17-18, God gives Solomon conditions for his prayers being answered when He says that Solomon must be faithful in observing the decrees and laws that God has instituted.  If he does so, then his throne will be established just as it was promised to King David.

This is important as it relates to what we are seeing in our world today.  There are so many tragedies and moments of confusion that are taking place daily, because of humanity’s refusal to submit themselves unto God.  In 2 Chronicles 7:14, God gave the blueprint for humanity if they desired to see healing within their land.  That blueprint involves a participation in turning away from one’s sins to follow after God in obedience.

Much of why we continue to see various acts of senseless tragedies both in America and worldwide is because, there are many who choose to live in sinfulness.  America is a prime example of a country that has balked against the decrees of God.  Sins such as homosexuality, murder, adultery, drunkenness, and all forms of disobedience are being endorsed and approved of.  As a result, the nation of America has been thrown into confusion over various issues that continue to plague the society.

However, just as God promised King Solomon, there is a promise for anyone who decides to be faithful unto God in obedience.  That promise is one of peace, and an attentive ear by God unto our prayers.  A nation that endorses sin, and turns a blind eye to godly values, is a nation that cuts access to God’s willingness to answer prayer.  To be clear, it isn’t just America that has shown examples of blatant sinfulness, but there are many nations that are choosing idolatry and sin over surrender and God’s way of peace. Verses 19-20 in 2 Chronicles chapter 7 gives us an example of what can and will happen to any nation that accepts sinfulness:

(NIV) “But if you turn away and forsake the decrees and commands I have given you and go off to serve other gods and worship them, then I will uproot Israel from my land which I have given them and will reject this temple I have consecrated in my Name.  I will make it a byword and an object of ridicule among all people’s”  

In verse 21, God said that the temple would become a “heap of rubble”.  What God said to Solomon was that if he chose to go in the opposite direction of being faithful and honoring unto God, then there would be consequences for the nation of Israel in addition to the temple being destroyed.  This also included those who would make the choice to serve other gods.  Even in today’s time, we can see both the blessings of any nation or group of people who follows after God and the curses that are caused by a degenerate and disobedient society. Some may wonder as to why the tragedy in Charleston South Carolina took place last week.  There are even those who are still asking the question of why September 11th took place nearly 15 years ago.

Here is what can be deduced from various moments of tragedy and that is, God will often allow certain things to occur to get our attention.  There are moments in which every nation receives judgment or warnings in order to bring order back into the land.  What God stated in 2 Chronicles 7:14 is that anyone who makes a concerted effort to walk in humility and reject their sinful ways, He will provide healing and forgiveness. This invitation is open to both the sinner and the saint which means we all have an opportunity to see healing in our lives and in our nation.  However, that healing can only come when we humble ourselves and seek the Lord for His ways.

The truth is, as the end times intensify, many nations including America will institute laws and precepts that defy God’s order.  However, the good news is that anyone who chooses can remain in safety by accepting Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.  Any nation that promotes sin, is a nation that opens itself up to be cursed.  Various examples both past and present point to the erosion that takes place when disobedience reigns.  However, God always offers an alternative – that alternative is a life that is everlasting and full of joy.  The world cannot give you true joy, because true joy comes from a life lived under obedience unto God and in Christ.

Are you looking for healing in your own life? Do you see the tragedies that occur everyday, which are results of the sinfulness that continues to exist? If you have not given your life to Christ, today is a great day to do so. He can and will give you peace that you would never be able to imagine, however it is up to you.  Experience God’s healing and accept this gift of life.  It only comes when you and I submit ourselves unto a Holy and loving God.

Jesus Christ Is Our Remedy

18 Thursday Jun 2015

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ID-100280806Illnesses and diseases continue to plague our world on a daily basis.  It is because of our exposure to various carcinogens within our environment, and even familial genetics that certain health risks are apart of the human experience. In the event that you or I should fall ill or even experience a physical injury, our first inclination is to seek medical assistance.  This can be done by seeing your primary care physician, visiting the hospital in an emergency, or treating your own illness with prescribed medication. There are various remedies available which are designed to alleviate symptoms and cure our body of just about any disease.

However, there is also a disease that affects our lives as well, and that is sin. Jesus Christ who died and rose again, He was and is the remedy for the sin that plagues humanity.  In Isaiah 53:5 it says the following:

(NIV) “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.”

This short scripture was given as a prophecy by the prophet Isaiah.  He was one of the prophets in the Old Testament who prophesied of Jesus Christ’s 1st coming or the 1st Advent. It is clear that the prophet Isaiah foresaw the coming and even the death of Jesus Christ.  In verse 3, he speaks towards a future event which was the crucifixion of Christ.  By examining this verse, there is a phrase that should be extracted, which is “by his wounds we are healed.” 

It is common to look at this phrase and associate it with physical healing because to the reader it may suggest that because of Christ’s wounds and sacrifice, any disease we have can be healed. However, that is not what the prophet Isaiah meant when he gave this statement.  In this context, to be healed means that our sins are purged because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

You can think of sin as a disease.  It is like an illness that does damage over the length of its existence in one’s life.  Like a disease that affects a person’s body, it is the sin that we participate in that can and often causes our lives to spiral out of control.  In Romans 1, the Apostle Paul refers to the godlessness that occurred during his time, which is also applicable to today.

In Romans 1 verses 24-25 says:

(NIV) “Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised.”

Verse 28 says:

(NIV) “Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done.”

What Paul says in this scripture, points to the sinful society that he had witnessed, which is what can be seen throughout our world today.  In that passage, Paul gives a description of what occurs when sin takes root within our lives.  It says that God gave them (those he witnessed in the godless society) over to a depraved mind because they were insistent upon their sinfulness. That is exactly what we see happening in America and around the world.

Since sin is essentially a disease, it has side effects.  For example, if someone has a stomach virus, then one of the major side effects is that of vomiting. That is because the body is responding to the foreign agent or virus that has invaded.  The same can be seen when we sin.  Sin is what causes a destruction of life, and a deterioration of our spiritual health.  For example, in America we are constantly seeing examples of what sin does to a society.

There has become so much confusion regarding one’s own gender and even racial identity with the latest news reports of Bruce Jenner (now using the name “Caitlyn”) and Rachel Dolezal (a Caucasian woman) who identifies with being African American. These two examples which were made public spectacles in recent times are examples of individuals who are confused because of their spiritual state.  Basically, anyone who is not in Christ is prone to be confused as to who they truly are.

Even if one does not suffer from an identity crisis in these respects, one who does not know Jesus in a relationship, is open to accepting what the world has set as their identity. However, such behaviors including a whole host of other negative behaviors are a result of living in sin.  Our lives were meant to glorify God in holiness, and in obedience.  As a result, we experience stability both mentally and spiritually. However, when we are renegades or unrepentant then our lives suffer from the disease which is that of sin.

However, the great news is that there is a remedy. Just as there are natural and even medicinal remedies that can be used to cure various diseases, there is a remedy to cure sin. Jesus Christ is the one who can cure us of the negative consequences of our sin. Romans 8:1 says, (NIV) “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,”. 

This means that if we are in Christ, we are no longer condemned or bound to our sinful nature. The negative consequences of our sin are washed away by the blood of Jesus. However, the effects of our sin being null & void are based on our willingness to repent and turn to God in obedience. The reason why so many experience upheavals in their lives is because they have chosen not to seek the Lord for spiritual healing and repentance.

Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life – but he is waiting for us to accept His sacrifice.  The remedy for your soul is Jesus. He is the one who not only bandages any wounds, but he cleanses them by purifying our lives through the Holy Spirit. Sinfulness is what separates us from having a perfect relationship with God the Father. In our sin, we cannot know God but in repentance and active obedience through Christ, we are made whole.

The violence and various tragedies that occur throughout our world are a result of the end times that we live in.  However, it is also a result of nations and the people within them that are unrepentant.  America as a whole continues to see tragedy after tragedy in part, because of various laws and sinful behaviors that have become “acceptable”. If any nation decides that it will reject God’s decrees,  then it will pay a heavy price.

However, Jesus Christ died and rose again so that no one would have to pay that price.  He can spare you from the tragedies and negative consequences of sin if you follow Him. He is the ultimate remedy for all that ails humanity. Seek the Lord through Jesus Christ, repent, and allow the Holy Spirit to do the work in you.  Jesus is the healer of your soul.  Accept His sacrifice, and be reconciled unto God.

Will You Answer God’s Call?

12 Friday Jun 2015

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ID-10047580Try to imagine yourself in this scenario:

Your telephone rings, and you see who it is that is calling – but you decide not to answer it. As you continue your daily routine, the same phone rings with the same caller.  Once again, you decide to ignore it because you are too preoccupied with other tasks in life. Just as you are drifting off to sleep for the night, your phone rings again and at this point you decide to turn your smartphone off because you can’t be disturbed as you fall asleep.  You feel annoyed, and  yet there is a tug in your heart because you recognize the caller, but your priorities are aligned around your own life instead of answering the call.

The truth is, there are millions every day who are called by God to accomplish His purposes, and yet His calling is ignored.  Whether it be due to a blatant rejection, deciding not to make the time to answer or being so engrossed in one’s own activities, there are many who do not answer the call of God. In Matthew 22, Jesus teaches by using the “Parable of the Wedding Feast.” In this parable, Jesus shows us an example of those who are invited to a wedding feast but they do not accept the invitation.

Verses 1-3 says:

(NIV) “Jesus spoke to them again in parables, saying: “The kingdom of heaven is like a king who prepared a wedding banquet for his son. He sent his servants to those who had been invited to the banquet to tell them to come, but they refused to come.” 

As you can see, in the beginning of what Jesus was teaching, there was a refusal to come on behalf of those who were invited.  Notice what Jesus says as he continues:

Verses 4-5:

(NIV) “Then he sent some more servants and said, ‘Tell those who have been invited that I have prepared my dinner: My oxen and fattened cattle have been butchered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding banquet.’ “But they paid no attention and went off—one to his field, another to his business.”

So, in this parable, there are those who did not heed the call or the invitation because they were too busy.  However, in verses 4-5, there is the element of preparation that is offered to those invited.  Basically, the King’s servant was given the task to tell those invited that they would  be recipients of the various types of food to be consumed. Yet, those who were called to the wedding refused because they were too busy or nonchalant about the invitation.

This is how humanity has and continues to treat God.  Many are offered the opportunity to answer the call of salvation and even the call into His purposes, and yet they do not answer the call.  Jesus says in verse 14 of that passage, “For many are invited, but few are chosen.” This means that the invitation is to the masses, but yet there will be few that are selected based on their choice to heed the call.

One of the things that satan does not want you and I to come to the knowledge of is the plan and even the blessings that God has made available to us.  Just as the parable mentions, those who were invited had access to all of the food already prepared for them.  God has a plan for your life, and His plan is one that is good and not one of destruction.  He has already prepared your purpose and even the impact that you can have on others.

However, if we as humans decide to reject God’s calling, then we are unable to participate in the wonderful things that God has in store for us.  Another example of God’s calling is that of Samuel. In 1 Samuel chapter 3, there is an account of the calling of Samuel by God Himself.

In verse 1 it says, (NIV) “The boy Samuel ministered before the Lord under Eli. In those days the word of the Lord was rare; there were not many visions.”  Verses 2-5 says,

“One night Eli, whose eyes were becoming so weak that he could barely see, was lying down in his usual place. The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the house of the Lord, where the ark of God was. Then the Lord called Samuel. Samuel answered, “Here I am.” And he ran to Eli and said, “Here I am; you called me.” But Eli said, “I did not call; go back and lie down.” So he went and lay down.”

In verses 6-9, the Lord calls Samuel 2 more times, in which in verse 10, Samuel finally responds to the calling.  It is important to note that Samuel was very young, and he had not yet known the Lord enough to recognize or accept God’s calling.  So, it suggests that sometimes a lack of spiritual maturity and the willingness to listen intently is also a reason why many do not accept the calling of God. However, with Samuel, he was under the guidance of Eli who showed him the essence of hearing the Lord’s voice. The story of Samuel is an important example of God’s calling because throughout Samuel’s life he was used as a prophet, a judge, and a priest.  He was used mightily to speak to the nation’s and to various leaders about God’s warnings and even sinfulness throughout the lands.

Just as Samuel accepted the call, you and I have an opportunity to accept the call of God upon our lives.  Truthfully, every human being is called by God to do something extraordinary in His Kingdom.  The first calling, however, is to be called out of the darkness as 1 Peter 2:9 says. There must be a separation between who we are in our sinful nature, and who we will be once we receive salvation through Jesus Christ.  Once we are called into the light, then we are called into the “Great Commission” as Matthew 28: 16-20 outlines.  The Great Commission involves reaching all of humanity for the sake of spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

It is also important to note that God also calls each individual for specialized purposes. This means that you and I have been given gifts that God can use to build His Kingdom and to reach those who are lost in their sin. Certain passions and gifting’s that you possess have been given on loan by God, for you to give glory unto God, and to enhance the lives of others. We aren’t just called out of our sin to exist, but we are called to make an impact in history and in this dark world.

If you haven’t accepted God’s calling either into salvation or your purpose, then you have an opportunity.  Everyday, God is calling, but it is up to each individual to answer.  He has so many things to show you and to do through your life.  However, you must answer the beckoning of God.  There won’t be any peace until you surrender and accept the call upon your life.  Will you answer God’s call?

God – The Ultimate Model of the Parent / Child Relationship

10 Wednesday Jun 2015

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ID-100205632When you look at the current state of the human family in today’s time, it is quite clear that the quality of parenting has declined.  While there are still many examples to be seen of positive parenting styles, there are also examples of bad parenting.  If you were to turn on your television, you would see news reports of child neglect and parents who have abused their children.  Even as it relates to the quality of parenting, it seems that many children are being left behind to fend for themselves.  One might believe that poor parenting outweighs that of positive parenting.  However, to get a clearer view of what a parent/child relationship should be, we can look at God’s relationship with humanity.

In Romans 8, Paul takes a moment to explain the essence of the Parent/Child relationship that God desires to have with each of us.  He says in verses 14-17 the following:

(NIV) “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.”

Notice the key word, “Abba Father”.  What does that phrase mean? The term “Abba” originates from the Aramaic or Hebrew language.  It is a term of endearment that a child uses to express the fondness and even relationship of a child to their Father.  So, when Paul says “And by him we cry, “Abba Father.” he means that our relationship with God becomes one of a parent to a child once we are born again in the Spirit.  As Paul puts it, we are adopted into sonship with God after we are reborn through the acceptance of Jesus Christ.

The reason why it is important to view God in the context of He being your Heavenly Father and you being His child is because it is this type of relationship that is special. One can have a romantic relationship, and one can even have a friendship, but a parent/child relationship is unique in its own right. It is the type of relationship that cultivates identity.  For example, a child who has a loving Mother & Father usually finds themselves in a position of knowing who they are and they understand their identity as they grow.

The same is so concerning our relationship with God. It is because He is our Heavenly Father (upon receiving salvation), that we become aware of who He has made us to be.  A child’s identity is tied to their parents because their traits and characteristics are based on the family lineage and origin.  As Jesus explains to Nicodemus in John 3 verses 1-21, we must be born again.  In that scripture, to be born again means to be reborn by the Spirit or to undergo a conversion from a sinner into a follower of Christ.

The reason why rebirth is such an important concept is because it signifies a shedding of the old and embracing the new.  However, the concept goes deeper because it then signifies being reborn into a new family with a new Father.  The new family involves that of being grafted into the body of Christ with God becoming your new Father. So essentially, experiencing salvation is more than just a change in your lifestyle or even the name that you claim.  It is a process of being adopted as a son or daughter of God.

When it comes to “religion”, the focus is based on behavioral changes and structure.  Religion was not meant to encompass the very essence of a relationship because practicing religion eliminates active communication and intimacy with God.  However, when we receive Christ, and we become apart of God’s family, we are then given an opportunity to have a relationship with God.  Think of it as a Father to his son or daughter.

A son or daughter can have a familial relationship with their Father because the access has been granted based on being born into the family.  So this means that a son can ask what he wishes of his Father, and he can spend time with his Father.  That is what God desires from our lives.  He wants an authentic and familial type of relationship with us.  That is why Hebrews 4:15 says that we can approach God’s throne with confidence because if we are His children, then we can ask Him what we will, just as a child asks his/her Father what they desire.  Of course, what we ask must line up with His will for our lives, but we can still ask confidently knowing that God’s will shall be done regardless of which way He answers us.

There is also the element of protection as it relates to God’s relationship with us.  A loving parent will always see to it that their child is protected from anything inherently dangerous. God also desires to protect  us as His creation and His children.  This is why obedience unto God is paramount, because if we follow the commands that God has given to us, we put ourselves in a position to be protected from negative consequences. You can think of obedience unto God as a guardrail to protect you from yourself and from outside influences.

We live in a world that is rooted in a godless type of living, and yet the same individuals that reject God are the same persons who suffer from the consequences that come with disobedience.  Part of it is that many do not understand the parent/child relationship that God wants us to have with Him.  The other part of it is that our sin calls out to us, and we serve our flesh because we are subjected to sin rather than the Holy Spirit. However, God wants us to have a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ.

The ultimate model of a parent/child relationship is exemplified in God the Father.  There may be many examples of positive parenting and successful parents for us to see. However, none of the parents that exist can surpass the parenting and love that God can lavish upon us.  Do you have a relationship with God the Father?  Is He the one that you can cry “Abba Father” to?  If not, then you can have this relationship by accepting Jesus as your savior.  By doing so, you will receive an inheritance that can only come from God the Father.  He has many things and words of wisdom to impart unto you. Accept Christ, and become a part of God’s family and His body of believers.

Obedience – Ensuring Your Protection

09 Tuesday Jun 2015

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When you think of the law, what comes to your mind?  Is it a picture of a judge who presides over a court ruling?  Do you think of a police officer who holds the responsibility of protecting citizens from harm? If you thought of these two figures of authority, then you have the correct view in terms of what represents law and order. However, within a system of law that is working properly, there must be an element of obedience.  What does obedience encompass concerning law?

For laws to establish order and for such laws to be effective, they must be followed. Laws are put into place in order to create a system of orderly conduct, and to avoid chaos.  A nation without laws is a nation that operates in lawlessness which leads to an existence of negative consequences.  In a society that is governed by law, most do not actively disobey to the point of being arrested because they understand that laws are put into place to protect their well being.

While laws that were instituted by humans were designed for our protection, God has also established a standard and His own set of laws that are to protect us.  An example of what disobedience looks like can be found in 1 Samuel 15.  Samuel was called at an early age to be a Prophet to the nations. In this chapter, Samuel tells King Saul (Saul was anointed to be King over Israel) to completely destroy a group of people called the “Amalekites”. The Amalekites were a nation of sinful and wicked people, who God had given King Saul the order of destroying for their assault against Israel.

In verse 3 it says:

(NIV) “Now go, attack the Amalekites and totally destroy all that belongs to them. Do not spare them; put to death men and women, children and infants, cattle and sheep, camels and donkeys.”

So King Saul begins by destroying the Amalekites in verse 7 while also taking Agag (King of the Amalekites) alive.  However, notice what it says in verse 9:

(NIV) “But Saul and the army spared Agag and the best of the sheep and cattle, the fat calves and lambs—everything that was good. These they were unwilling to destroy completely, but everything that was despised and weak they totally destroyed.”

It was God’s original order to Saul in verse 3, that Saul kill everyone and everything leaving virtually nothing behind. But as we see in verse 9, King Saul, and his men take what is good which are the sheep, cattle, fat calves and lambs.  Essentially, by taking what was left, Saul was acting in disobedience to what God had said.  In verses 16 – 22, Samuel begins an exchange with Saul when he tells him of God’s displeasure.  Basically, in these verses Saul attempts to justify his disobedience. In verse 21, Saul uses the justification that his men took the animals left behind so that they could  use them as burnt offerings unto the Lord.

However, even with that justification, Saul acted in disobedience. So, Samuel gives Saul the final word of judgment in verses 22-23.

(NIV) “But Samuel replied: “Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has rejected you as king.”

In the end, King Saul was removed as King over Israel for his disobedience. Saul believed that what he was doing was right in his own eyes, but he chose to defy what God had given him to do.  As a result, his kingship was over. Often times we in our own lives, live in disobedience unto God.  Whenever we are blatantly sinful and reject the warnings and words of God, there are consequences.

Just as Saul experienced his dethronement, we too are open to God’s judgment if we disobey.  By nature, humanity is prideful because of being born into sin. So, naturally we are inclined to reject the authority of God in our sinfulness. However, when we do so, we are open to God’s judgment and to negative consequences.

We are living in a global society that promotes secular humanism and living as you see fit. However, Proverbs 3:7 says not to  be wise in your own eyes but to shun evil. The reason is because when we live under our own guidance apart from God’s, we will always suffer the consequences.  We are seeing a society all around us that is degenerating because of the sin that is being promoted.

Sinfulness is active disobedience unto God, and it is the very sin that God will not stand for. God is a Holy God and it is His will that we follow after His ways and not our own. Those who are secular humanists try to institute the very idea that obedience unto God isn’t necessary nor is it best for humanity. That is because secular humanists shun accountability which means that one can do what they feel is the right thing to do without consequence.

However, God shows us daily and throughout scripture that any person or nation that openly or privately defies God will pay a heavy price. Obedience to God is paramount to the success and stability of our lives because He puts His standards into place for our protection.  Why is it that premarital sex or fornication as scripture says, is something to flee from according to 1 Corinthian 6:18? Engaging in fornication causes various illnesses, in addition to tying the souls of two individuals because of how sex is a covenant.  It causes not only physical damage but also emotional damage which is why Paul says to flee from sexual immorality.

Why is it that God instituted the commandments of “thou shalt not kill” and “thou shalt not steal”? Simply because, engaging in either of these acts is sure to create negative consequences.  The other reason is because the root of stealing and even killing is based out of sinfulness which is against what God desires for each of our lives.  The point is that God desires that we live in obedience unto Him, because He knows the negative consequences that can occur if we do not follow what He has said. The other reason is because obedience shows our love for God.

John 15:10 says, (NLT) “When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.” Basically, when you follow God in obedience you are proving your allegiance and love for Him.  This is how you know that your devotion to God is authentic – when you walk in obedience.  The first step to obedience is to surrender your life to Christ.  By accepting Christ’s sacrifice in the pardon of your sins, you are a step closer to protection from negative consequences. Obedience is indeed better than sacrificing your well being.  Choose Christ, and ensure your protection through obedience to God.

Spiritual Blindness – Visually Impaired Without Christ

08 Monday Jun 2015

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Imagine that you are blindfolded while attempting to get from point a to point b. All you see is darkness while you hear the sound of movement around you. You find it difficult to navigate to your destination as your eyes are impaired by the blindfold. It becomes a struggle just to find your way as you stagger from one place to the next. Then you realize just how dangerous it is to venture out into the world while blindfolded. So, you decide to take the blindfold off, and you realize that your vision is no longer impaired.  Now, you have the eyesight to see where you are and where you are going.  You are no longer stopped by the blindfold nor are you staggering, but you have a clear direction.

Spiritual blindness is akin to wearing a blindfold – it is the unawareness and impairment that is caused by the very sin that exists within our lives.  The timeless hymn “Amazing Grace” contains the following words which have become a staple in the lives of many Christians:

“Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found;
Was blind, but now I see.”

This age-old hymn was written by a clergyman by the name of John Newton. It was first published in 1779 and has become a song that epitomizes the very essence of salvation and coming to the knowledge of God’s love. The words to take note of are “Was blind, but now I see.” The writer of the hymn wanted to put an emphasis on the notion that once those who were in sin experienced salvation, it became the same as one’s eyes being opened from blindness.

In 2 Corinthians 4:4, Paul further points to the element of spiritual blindness when he says the following:

(NIV) “The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” 

Who is the “god of this age”?  Ephesians 2:2 refers to as some translations have put it, “the prince of the air.”  The prince of the air is satan – he is the ruler of darkness which means that he has a certain amount of influence in the Earth. The Apostle Paul mentions in this passage that satan or the “god of this age” has the ability to blind those who are unbelievers. In, 2 Corinthians 4, Paul is speaking to Christians and giving words of encouragement.

In doing so, Paul gives a contrast of those who are spiritually blinded by satan, and the light that can be seen which is the gospel of Jesus Christ. When it comes to spiritual blindness, there is an unawareness and even a deception that comes at the hand of satan.  There are many examples that we can see today, in which various forms of deception have been used to blind the masses.

For example, the media continues its daily onslaught of accepting sinful behavior and projecting that acceptance onto its viewers and listeners.  Now, homosexuality, drug use, sexual promiscuity, and even transgender living has become culturally acceptable. Anyone who dares to speak out against such behavior is labeled as a religious heretic. However, the truth of God’s word remains which states that the wages of sin is death according to Romans 6:23.  However, the other half of that scripture says that the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus.

The unfortunate part about spiritual blindness is that when one is in their sin, they are unable to see the damage that their disobedience and sinfulness causes.  Daily, satan uses multiple means to fleece the majority through social media, television and radio broadcasts, and even print media.  As a result, there is a generation of individuals that are raised not to have a reverence for the things of God or Holy living.  However, what God promises is to illuminate the eyes of the spiritually blinded through Jesus Christ only if the choice is made to repent and surrender one’s life.

Satan doesn’t want those in darkness to come to the exposure of God’s marvelous light.  He understands that if we as humans ever become free from sin, then we are no longer bound to the power that sin exerts against us. Essentially, those who are spiritually blind, they are separated from knowing who God is through Jesus Christ.  We are not able to know the creator in His fullness if we are blinded by our sin. 1 Corinthians 2:14 says that the person without the Spirit of God, cannot understand the things of the Spirit. Basically, those who are in their sin and refuse to yield to Jesus Christ, they are unable to receive spiritual sight.

However, once you and I have been washed by the blood of Jesus Christ and have accepted His sacrifice, we become new creatures.  Our spiritual eyes are then made to be clear with vision. Millions of people are walking in spiritual blindness every day.  There continues to be an assault on Holy living, the principles and standards of God, and anyone who stands true to the allegiance of Jesus Christ.

The times that we are living in are indeed critical.  It is becoming increasingly difficult to live in a society that promotes a godless lifestyle while those who are in Christ stand for God’s righteousness unashamedly.  The truth is, as decades pass it will only become more challenging. However, the hope that humanity has is in Jesus Christ.  The great thing about God is that He gives everyone an opportunity to be released from their spiritual blindness.

Just as a person who is blindfolded has an opportunity to be released from the blindfold, every human being that is willing can also see clearly.  It is spiritual blindness and sinful living that keeps humanity locked in a state of unawareness and confusion. So much damage is caused against those who are blind and those who are being led by the blind. Every day, governments are lying and deceiving their citizenry because the politicians themselves are spiritually blind.  Many who are unaware follow their words and accept the laws that are put into place.

More and more, we are being prodded to give up the very principles that God has instituted for the sake of humanity and for His glory.  Yet, there must be a generation that will rise and proclaim that Jesus cures spiritual blindness and that He is the answer. If you haven’t accepted Christ as your savior, you have an opportunity to be set free from your blindness.  Then and only then will you be aware of satan your enemy, and you will be able to lead others to Christ.  Receive your spiritual sight by accepting Christ and you will see how God will lead you.

Your Inheritance Is Available to You – Know its Value and Accept the Gift

05 Friday Jun 2015

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ID-10052834Most if not everyone wants to be a recipient of a fortune or treasure that is passed down within a family structure.  To receive something of value from someone who has passed it down to you in the event of their death is commonly known as an “inheritance”. Often, responsible families will incorporate a will which is in the form of a document. In this document, it is outlined as to who will receive items that are passed down from the person who will at some point pass away. An inheritance can be a large sum of money, a car, or a house.  It can be anything that holds intrinsic value.

Just like an inheritance within a family structure provides the chain of passing down items of value to succeeding generations, those who are in Christ are also heirs to the inheritance that God offers.  In Romans chapter 8, the Apostle Paul explains the inheritance that every Christian has if we are truly connected to God:

(NIV) Verses 14-17:

“For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.”

The main words to focus on in this scripture are, “heirs”, “God’s children”, and “share”. These words are associated with anyone who follows Christ, because once we are adopted into the family of God through Christ & the Holy Spirit, we become God’s children.  What does it mean to be a child of God? You can think of this in a similar context of being a son or a daughter to a Mother or a Father.

In the process of an inheritance, parents that truly love their children usually leave a legacy or something of value for the next generation. That is because the relationship between the child and parent warrants that there is a continuation of items of worth within the hands of those who are next in line.  God treats those who are His children in the same way.  All of us who are in Christ, we share in His blessings because we are heirs with God and joint heirs with Christ.  It is because we are in the family of God, that we have access to the blessings He wants to bestow upon us.

However, notice what Paul also says at the end of verse 17.  He says “if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” Paul is talking about the sufferings of Christ.  To be a Christian isn’t to simply claim the title, but it is to suffer as Christ did for the sake of God.  Just as we will be recipients of the blessings of God, we will also be recipients of momentary suffering for Christ’s sake.  

As mentioned, we who are in Christ have access to the inheritance that God wants to give to us.  It is the element of passing down gifts and items of value that God wishes to provide to every person who follows Him.  However, there is one thing that all Christians must be responsible for and that is maintaining our inheritance.  It is quite possible to reject what is being given to you by giving your inheritance to someone else in exchange for what appears to be a better deal.

In our society today, there are many who constantly squander their inheritance because they are living in sin and disobedience.  God wishes that all people come to know Him and to give them a blessed existence.  However, because many don’t know that an inheritance is accessible to them through Christ, they are giving their inheritance away on a daily basis.  This is just what Esau did with Jacob in the Old Testament.

In Genesis chapter 25, the birth of Jacob and Esau is recorded in verses 24-25. Jacob and Esau were individuals who the Lord had given as a prophecy to their mother Rebekah.  They were also two individuals that were inherently different in their character and in their behavior. Esau was originally given the birthright because he was the first-born.  A birthright simply meant that a son who was born first was given the same authority that the Father had upon his death.  So, Esau would possess the authority and other assets given to him by his Father, because he was born first.

Notice in verses 25-26 that there was a struggle between Esau and Jacob as they exited their Mother’s womb: (NIV) “The first to come out was red, and his whole body was like a hairy garment; so they named him Esau. After this, his brother came out, with his hand grasping Esau’s heel; so he was named Jacob.” We can see that Jacob held onto Esau’s heel with the intent to steal his birthright even before he was born.

As the two grew older, there was another point in time in which Jacob had another opportunity to steal his brother’s birthright. In verses 29-33 we see the following exchange:

(NIV) “Once when Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the open country, famished. He said to Jacob, “Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I’m famished!” (That is why he was also called Edom. Jacob replied, “First sell me your birthright.” “Look, I am about to die,” Esau said. “What good is the birthright to me?” But Jacob said, “Swear to me first.” So he swore an oath to him, selling his birthright to Jacob.” 

So, essentially Esau sold his birthright for stew. There are two things that we can gather from this:

1. Esau did not know or care about the value of his birthright – There are many who live their lives in sin, not knowing the value of the inheritance that God offers.  By being in Christ you are able to receive God’s blessings.  However, when we sin we are trading in our inheritance for something that is worthless and perishable.

2. Esau was willing to do anything to feed his appetite – The scripture says that Esau was hungry – so hungry that he gave away his inheritance. Sometimes it is quite easy to give away your inheritance for a moment of sin.  All of us have various appetites that are driven by our flesh, but if we are not careful, we can give our inheritance away for a moment of sin that is fleeting.

The point to be made is that when we come to know who God is in the pardon of our sins, we have access to an inheritance.  God has so much in store for you and I, but we must be willing to see the value of His blessings.  If you are in sin, you are giving up your inheritance for momentary pleasure.  Christ died and rose again so you could be a joint heir with Him.  Accept Christ as your Lord and savior by repenting of your sins. Once you have accepted Jesus’ sacrifice, you are welcomed into the family of God where your inheritance is waiting for you.