Category Archives: God

Growth (Part 2) – What Happens When Sinfulness Begins to Grow?

04 Tuesday Aug 2015

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Throughout history, there have been various diseases and outbreaks that have caused widespread illness and even panic.  From the Bubonic Plague which began in Europe between 1346 to 1353, to the Spanish Flu epidemic which took place in 1918, to even the most recent outbreak of Legionnaire’s disease in NYC. There have been historical accounts of diseases that have spread and killed many throughout human history. Even so, there is a common term that is associated with multiple illnesses and that is the term called ‘cancer.’ 

Whether it be breast cancer, colon cancer, or prostate cancer, the impact of cancer upon one’s body can be fatal if not treated.  However, one such fact about cancer is that it is formed from an individual cancer cell. According to the American Cancer Society, it is said that cancer occurs when a cell or cells begin to grow out of control. This in turn means that once a cell is cancerous, it spreads and begins to corrupt other healthy cells. Once this occurs it then means a weakening of the immune system which results in serious illness and or death. However, to eliminate the cancerous cells and their damage, treatments (whether chemically induced or naturally ingested) are prescribed to produce a remission of the cancer in question.

Spiritually speaking, sin exhibits the same characteristics as a cancer cell. If untreated or the remedy who is Jesus Christ is not introduced, then our sinfulness begins to cause our lives to spiral out of control.  In the book of James chapter 1, the writer who is James mentions the impact that sin can have on those who allow it to rule in their lives. Verses 14-15 state the following:

(NLT) “Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.”

It important to note that the context of this part of the chapter was written in order to explain the aspects of testing and temptation.  In verses 12-13, James tells us that we should not assert blame towards God for allowing us endure or experience temptation or testing.  He wants every reader to understand that it isn’t God who tempts humanity, rather temptation comes from the evil desires that are within us.

James makes it clear that all of us will be and we are tempted to sin or commit evil acts. The sin that is already within us from birth is what creates the temptation or the desire to go against the Will of God. James says that it is our desires which entice us and drag us away. Once we have the urge or the temptation is presented, then the possibility of being lured away becomes a reality.

However, notice what verse 15 says:

(NLT) “These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.”

It is the sinful desires within all of us that can give birth to sinful behavior. Basically, he uses the word ‘birth’ to denote that there is a process that takes place concerning sin. Some translations of this scripture such as the King James Version, use the term ‘conceive.’ Basically, to conceive is to produce which then means to give life to something. Much of the temptations within us start within our heart and in our mind. The mind and heart are the most powerful parts of our being, especially that of the mind.

Proverbs 23:7 says that what a man thinks in his heart, he is.  This means that what we think of ourselves or allow to penetrate into our heart and mind is what we become or do. If you allow the enemy who is satan to flood your heart and mind with sinful lusts, then eventually you will act upon it.  The conception of sin is in a single thought.  The key is that when the thought is left open for further ponderance then your actions will follow suit to what your mind focuses on.

James continues by saying that when sin is allowed to grow it gives birth to death.  The keyword as with the theme of this post and a previous post is ‘grow.’ What happens when sin begins to grow?  James gives us the prognosis which is ‘death.’ Once again, this doesn’t just mean a physical death but also spiritually.  The consequences of a life that is ruled by sin is one that begins to erode in all senses.

Our global society has become a testament to the depravity and morbidity that comes when sin is embraced. Various countries around the world have been thrown into confusion because of entire populations that have forsaken the laws and ways of God. A blatant refusal to accept Jesus Christ as Lord & Savior has taken root within the hearts of many, and as a result death both physically and spiritually has reigned over many nations.

The fact is that when we decide that we want be a god unto ourselves or that we want others to be our god, then we are handed over to our own lusts and evil desires.  It is also important to note that sin grows not only within our own lives, but it affects the lives of others.  Entire families and human populations have been affected by the wickedness that exists in leadership capacities. World governments have produced chaos, oppression, and disdain among their citizenry. That is because, like a cancer cell, sin starts with one person and spreads to others.

However, there is great news and that is Jesus Christ is the remedy. How do we escape the harsh reality of what sin can do to us?  Here are a couple of considerations:

1. Our mind must be renewed and transformed daily – For those of you who are not in Christ, your mind is given to depravity because you are in sin. However, when you accept Jesus Christ, He is the one who renews your mind. Romans 12:2 says that we must be transformed by the renewing of our mind.  Why does the Apostle Paul focus on the mind?  Simply because the mind is where sin is conceived.  This means that if our mind is not renewed by Jesus Christ, then we will operate out of our sin.  Even for those of us who are in Christ, we must be renewed daily through God’s Word, in His Presence and in constant prayer. Without renewal, then our mind will revert to carnality.

2. We must yield our lives unto the control of the Holy Spirit – This falls in line with being filled with the Holy Spirit.  When you and I have accepted Christ and we are in a relationship with Him, we have access to the power of the Holy Spirit.  This means, that when we seek God for the in-filling of the Holy Spirit that our lives become controlled by the Holy Spirit as long as we are obedient.  We gain the fruits of the Spirit because we are spending time in God’s presence.  1 Corinthians 2:14 says that the person without the Spirit cannot accept the things of the Spirit because it seems like foolishness.  In order to avoid the growth of sin, we must yield our lives over to the Holy Spirit to renew us and cleanse us of all unrighteousness.

The overall word to remember is that we must ‘surrender’ our lives unto God through Christ.  Naturally, we are all inclined to sin and be disobedient. However, it is by accepting Christ and giving our lives away to God every day that will remedy the growth of sin in our lives.  If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Lord & Savior, your life is being ruled by sin.  To be free from that sin, you must confess your sin unto Jesus Christ and accept His sacrifice. Then and only then will you be able to avoid the death that comes with living a life in unrepentance.

Growth (Part 1) – Are You Growing in Godliness?

04 Tuesday Aug 2015

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When you look at life it can be characterized by various examples of growth. From the day that a new-born child enters into this Earth, to a tiny seed that is planted in fertile soil. There are many examples of living organisms that show forth what growth looks like. For example, if a baby is blessed to experience life outside of his/her mother’s womb they will hopefully grow to reach their first year of life. It is then that years pass and the infant becomes a toddler, and then of course a young child.  After surpassing the stage of a young child, then the teenage years begin which results in a brand new life experience.

After the teenage years, there are of course the years of adulthood. Once adulthood has been reached, then there is, of course, a transition into the middle-age period. Finally, if God has blessed you to live long enough, you will experience the Elderly stage of life.  As it relates to every living creature there is a time span that God allows for growth.  Each stage is different than the one before it, but there are stages of growth throughout this experience that we call ‘life.’ 

Spiritually speaking there is also the concept of growth.  It is often that you hear of the term, ‘spiritual growth’ in the context of growing in godliness. In order to see where your life stands before a Holy God, the aspect of growing in godliness will be examined. The fact is that all of us are growing in either godliness or in our sinfulness, however, there is a difference between the two but in this post, the elements of what growing in godliness looks like and how it is accomplished will be explored through scripture.

As it relates to growing in godliness, the book of 2 Peter Chapter 1 will give us a better view of what it means to grow closer to God and exhibit His characteristics. In the first part of this chapter, the Apostle Peter makes a declaration of what it means to grow in faith. Throughout this chapter, the Apostle Peter uses characteristics that can be gained when we grow in godliness.  In verses 3-4, Peter says the following:

(NLT) “By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.”

It is clear that Peter is talking to those who are in Christ because he uses the terms ‘we’ and ‘us.’ Basically what Peter says in verse 3 is that God has given us all that we need to live a godly life.  This means, the way that we ought to live and the principles for godliness are available to every person who chooses to follow God with their life. Notice that Peter says that we who are in Christ have received all that we need for living a godly life, based on our experience and knowledge of who God is.

In order to start the process of living and growing in godliness, it is important to know who God is both through His word and having knowledge of it and also experiencing God in an authentic relationship. To grow in godliness is to spend time with the one who exhibits godly characteristics. Think of it as spending time with your friends – when you are closely attached to those around you, you begin to exhibit similar characteristics. That is how it works in a relationship with God.  The more time you and I spend with Him, the more His traits begin to show forth in our life.

Peter goes on to mention the promises of God in verse 4:

(NLT) “And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.”

Part of growing in godliness is not only receiving and understanding God’s promises but also responding in faith towards what God has promised.  The fact is that all of us who are in Christ, God has made certain promises to us. It is by trusting in God’s promises and allowing our faith to be shown in our actions and our words that we are able to please God.  Peter says that the promises of God enables us to share or portray the divinity of God while at the same time avoiding our sinful desires and the corruption of the world.

Peter continues in verses 5-7:

(NLT) “In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone.”

In these two verses, the Apostle Peter instructs us to respond to God’s promises. Basically, he says that we are to build our faith by living in moral excellence or essentially to be in good standing with God based on how we live. Notice that he also lists a couple of the fruits of the Spirit.  According to Galatians chapter 5 verses 22-23 the fruits of the Spirit are listed by the Apostle Paul.

Two of the fruits of the Spirit that Peter mentions in the above scripture are self-control and patience.  The result of growing in godliness is exhibiting the fruits of the Spirit.  Peter not only gives us two of the fruits of the Spirit, but he encourages us to display these fruits along with other godly characteristics such love or brotherly affection. How does one exhibit the fruits of the Spirit and how do we display brotherly love towards everyone?

The way that you and I can truly grow in godliness is by allowing God to change our hearts through His Holy presence.  This goes back to the point of spending time with God. Prayer, worship and studying the Word of God are the key ways that we can grow in godliness.  As you begin to seek the presence of God, He begins to saturate you with His presence which then enables you to exhibit the fruits of the Spirit.

Finally verses 8-9 state the following:

(NLT) “The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But those who fail to develop in this way are shortsighted or blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their old sins.”

Peter says that the more you grow in godliness by responding to God’s promises and exhibiting the fruits of the Spirit, then you will be productive in your knowledge of Jesus Christ.  The fact is, the more we experience God in His fullness, the more we begin to know Him.  Some have only an intellectual experience of God, but one cannot be productive if there is a limitation on actual experience. God wants us to know Him and the only way we can do that is if we experience Him in authenticity.

Peter gives a final warning in verse 9 when he warns against a failure of developing in godliness.  When you and I do not develop ourselves in godliness, then we begin to forget the reason as to why Jesus came to save us in the first place.  Jesus Christ bled, died on the cross and rose again so that we could perpetuate the image of God in the Earth and also be redeemed from our sins.

A failure to develop in godliness only means that we who are called to be separate from the world do not fully understand the privilege and honor we have to represent Jesus Christ. Do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord & Savior?  If not, then you are unable to grow in godliness without Christ. You have an opportunity to be apart of the call of God unto His Holiness and righteous way of life. He wants to cleanse you of all unrighteousness and use you in His Kingdom. Accept this gift of salvation and begin to see your life change because the power of Jesus Christ.

What is Coming from the Fountain of Your Life?

03 Monday Aug 2015

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Water fountains can be seen in public places and are especially common in parks and city surroundings. A water fountain can be used for quenching one’s thirst, or it can serve the purpose of decorating a particular environment. Most who have looked at a fountain or drank from a fountain, understand that what comes from the fountain is based on its source. Water is usually the element that flows from the fountain to give us a pleasurable view, or to eliminate thirst.

Generally, the way fountains are created is to bring forth a flow of water from one source. Rarely if ever will you witness a fountain that brings forth multiple streams of fluid because a fountain uses one pump that is connected to one particular source.  In the book of James chapter 3, the first part of this book makes reference to controlling the human tongue.  The writer who is James doesn’t mention the tongue in the context of the organ itself but what this chapter mentions is that what we say or how we speak is quite corruptible.

Basically, James says in this chapter that the tongue is unruly as in it is the most uncontrollable part of our body. Here is what James says:

Verses 1-2:

(NLT) “Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged more strictly. Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way.” 

James alludes to the fact of our unruly speech when he says, “For if we could control our tongues.” In verses 3-5, James makes comparisons using various analogies to show that small things can inflict a massive amount of damage. He says the following in the latter part of verse 5 and verse 6:

(NLT) “But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.”

What we say and how we say it can either give life or it can destroy.  What James says in the above verses is that our speech has the ability to kill or destroy what is in the vicinity. The old adage of “Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” is 100% false. The fact is that words do hurt because according to Proverbs 18:21, the power of life and death is in the tongue.  You and I can literally destroy someone else or a situation based on the words that we speak.

Going further into this scripture, James not only says that our tongue is unruly, but it is duplicitous in that we often say one thing only to say something that is the complete opposite. James says in verse 9:

(NLT) “Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God.” 

This particular verse begins to set up the principle to be gained from this blog post and that is what each of our lives show forth unto God and unto others.

Verses 10-12:

(NLT) “And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water? Does a fig tree produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? No, and you can’t draw fresh water from a salty spring.”

James says that for the person who is a Christian, it is the duplicity of our words which brings forth an image that is inconsistent.  Basically, to be in Christ and to commit unrepentant sins as those who are in the world, it is incongruent with the message of what we as Christians profess.  This is in part one of the problems with some who claim Christianity today.  Basically, there are those who are labeled as hypocrites because they profess one thing and they do another.

In the context of this scripture, James is referring to our speech but this can be applied to our behaviors as well.  How can someone who is in Christ and claims to have the love of God within their heart spew hatred and disdain for humanity?  How can anyone who truly loves God commit sins and believe that the grace of God will continue to cover sinful living without consequence? How is it that we who are called to be separate from the world embrace the very sins that God says to shun?

The answer lies in the connection and this begs the question of, ‘What or who are you connected to?’  James asks the question, “Does a spring of water bubble out with both, fresh water and bitter water?” He says emphatically, “No, and you can’t draw fresh water from a salty spring.” The fact is, whether you are in Christ or a sinner in the world, there isn’t an in-between. 

For those of you who are in the world, you are exhibiting sinful behaviors because your life is connected to the evil and death that satan provides. Anyone who does not know Jesus Christ will sin unrepentantly because their connection is to satan and not to God through Jesus Christ.  When we come into the knowledge of Christ and truly give our lives to Him, we are transformed.

The reason why many profess one thing in their lives and show a completely different disposition is because their lives are not truly connected to God. The Wellspring of life, the Living Water is Jesus Christ. This means that if you are connected to Him, then your life will begin to bring forth Living Water. John 7:38 says:

(NLT) “Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.'”

In that scripture, Jesus is speaking and He is saying that anyone who believes in Him, rivers of living water will flow from the heart.  Basically, because Jesus Christ is the Living Water, then He provides the water which means that in our connection to Christ, His water begins to flow from our heart.

What you and I speak on a daily basis is indicative of what is within our heart. If someone is constantly speaking words that are filled with anger, hate, depression, and anxiety then it means that their heart is full of what comes out.  If your heart is full of joy, peace, kindness, and love, then your heart is full of what you speak.

There is only one side or the other as James illustrates to us.  You cannot truly be in Christ and yet your words or actions profess a different position. It is the same as someone who is in the world.  A person who is of the world cannot truly be under the influence of satan and yet profess to be a follower of Christ.  For all of us to please God, our lives must be a harmonic symphony that is aligned with God’s commands and our connection to God through Christ.

Do you know Jesus as your personal Lord & Savior?  If not, your life cannot be pleasing unto God.  If you are living in unrepentant sin, there is a high cost that you will pay. However, the beauty is that Jesus paid the cost on the cross so that you wouldn’t have to pay it. Accept Jesus Christ and let the rivers of Living Water flow from your heart.  Such water only produces life rather than the death that sin brings.  Only in Christ can we have life abundantly and life eternally.

The Illusion – Disguised as the Truth

03 Monday Aug 2015

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If you have ever watched television or have seen what are known as ‘Magic tricks’ much of the routines on display are deceptive in their nature.  Many of the tricks and performances are based out of illusions in order to deceive audiences into believing that what they just saw actually happened.  Magicians hide under the guise of mysterious occurrences in order to portray that something supernatural has occurred.  Of course, it is true that trickery and those who delve into magic can tap into satanic influences which can indeed elevate the portrayal of magic to another level.

However, the bulk of what magicians do is based within deception or illusions. For example, some magicians use mirrors and other tools in order to create an illusion that may be hidden to the naked eye. As a result, the viewer finds him or herself in amazement as to how such an act could be possible when, in essence, the simple root to the act was illusory from the very beginning.

As it relates to the spiritual sense, satan also uses many illusions and deceptive measures to bamboozle those who are unaware.  Not only are his deceptions used against those who are not in Christ, but even those of us who are in Christ can be deceived if we are not discerning of the various tactics and illusions that satan uses. In the book of 1 John Chapter 4, the Apostle John makes reference to those who are false prophets or who engage in false doctrine.  He encourages Christians to be discerning of those who claim to tell the truth, but are truly deceptive. John says in verse 1 the following:

(NLT) “Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world.”

The first thing to take note of is that the Apostle John warns us not to believe everyone who claims to speak to us “by the Spirit.” What does he mean when he uses that phrase?  In this context, John is suggesting that there will be those who claim to be speaking by the Holy Spirit or by God’s truth. In reality, not everyone who claims to be a Christian or claims to be speaking under the influence of the Holy Spirit is credible in what they say. It is in this particular context that John is admonishing us to guard against those who may be perceived as inherently spiritual or in Christ because they are being used by satan to confuse those who are truly in Christ.

The Apostle John says that we must test the spirit that is on display before us to discover whether or not it is indeed one from God or one from satan.  Both those who are in Christ and those who are not in Christ are subject to be attacked and led astray by false teachers.  Anyone who is not rooted and grounded in God’s Word, and under the influence of the Holy Spirit can be deceived. However, in order to avoid deception you must do as John says which is to “test the spirit.” How do you test a spirit to ensure that it is from God?

The very first way is to be filled with the Holy Spirit.  In the book of Acts Chapter 1, Jesus teaches His Disciples about the Holy Spirit.  The Holy Spirit is one of the 3 as it relates to the God-Head or the Trinity.  The Holy Spirit is a person within the Trinity who was given the express purpose of leading and guiding all of His people into the truth. John 16:13 says:

(NLT) “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future.” 

The Holy Spirit will lead us and guide us into all truth.  That means when we have the Holy Spirit in our lives, He helps us to avoid deceptions and illusions. In order to be free from deception, we must be filled with the Holy Spirit.  In Acts chapter 2, there is of course what is known as ‘The Day of Pentecost.’ It was an event in which believers were gathered in one place (also known as The Upper Room) and the Holy Spirit descended upon everyone who was there.

Acts 2: 1-4

(NLT) “On the day of Pentecost all the believers were meeting together in one place. Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.” 

To be filled with the Holy Spirit, it involves actively seeking God for the in-filling.  Those who were gathered in the Upper Room, they sought God in order to be filled.  We who are in Christ have the same opportunity to be filled with the Holy Spirit.  In doing so, we then have power and discernment which comes from God.

Secondly, to test or discern the spirits as John says, we must know God’s Word.  Having His Word in our hearts will illuminate our eyes to God’s truth. Much of what the world feeds us is false because it is based on the lies that satan concocts.  Daily, the media, and other sources attempt to cloud the judgment and the eyes of the masses. However, only in Christ and in God’s Word is there safety and truth.

There will be many who will pervert the truth of God and suggest that everything that goes on in society is acceptable.  Sins such as homosexuality and even abortion have now become accepted by mainstream society.  So much so, that even some who claim Christianity have accepted these sins among others as harmless.  However, God’s Word unveils what is righteousness and what is sin.  To test every spirit and false doctrine you and I must use God’s Word as a filter.

John continues in 1 John Chapter 4:

Verses 2-3:

(NLT) “This is how we know if they have the Spirit of God: If a person claiming to be a prophet acknowledges that Jesus Christ came in a real body, that person has the Spirit of God. But if someone claims to be a prophet and does not acknowledge the truth about Jesus, that person is not from God. Such a person has the spirit of the Antichrist, which you heard is coming into the world and indeed is already here.” 

The final way that John provides to us is to look at the person’s behaviors and the words that they speak. Those who are teaching falsely will not acknowledge Jesus Christ as Lord.  They will also say and do things that do not line up with God’s Word. This scripture says that such a person is of ‘the Antichrist’ which means to be against Christ. There are various deceptions both in our society and even within many churches.

Satan is crafty and subtle as it relates to using anyone to deceive.  Those of you who are not in Christ, you are operating under a deception.  The illusion that satan uses is one of pleasure and equating happiness to materialism. Such things are disguised as the truth only to hide the lies underneath. Jesus Christ wants to open your eyes to His truth.  If you don’t know Jesus as your personal Lord & Savior, you can be redeemed and set free from the illusions of this world.

For those of us who are in Christ, we must guard ourselves in prayer and we must seek the Lord.  The enemy wants to deceive even the very elect, but it is our responsibility to guard our hearts and our minds through the Holy Spirit and through God’s Word.  The illusion is a reality and many have bought into satan’s deceptions.  However, only God can rescue us from the deceptive tools of the enemy.  Accept Jesus Christ and the truth will be revealed unto you.

Changing Your Address – The Concept of Being ‘Dead to Your Sin’

31 Friday Jul 2015

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Most of us have experienced what it is like to move from one residence to another. Moving is one of the most stressful periods of life because it involves taking all that you own and placing it in another residence. It is a time in which the normalcy as it relates to the routine of daily living is interrupted briefly. The purpose for such a move may be because of wanting a change in scenery, increasing space for the family, a job change, or one may be unable to afford their current living situation.

However, when you move from one residence to another, your old address is no longer relevant to your life and where you will be living.  In most cases, once you have moved from one address to another, the old residence will at some point be occupied by someone else.  If that occurs, then you will be unable to live in the property that you moved from because someone else either owns it or it is being rented. Your next residence is what will offer a new way of living, a new beginning, and a fresh start in life. Attempting to go back to what you left behind would defeat the purpose of starting over and gaining a new residence for you and or your family.

The same concept can be applied spiritually to each of our lives.  In an earlier blog post, the principle of being awakened and alive in Jesus Christ was explained by using the scripture from Ephesians 2:1-6. The point of that post was to examine what being dead in our sin means but also knowing what it means to be alive or awakened because of Jesus Christ.  In Romans chapter 6, the Apostle Paul brings up a similar principle but instead, he uses the principle of being ‘dead to sin’ and being ‘alive in Christ.’

There is a fundamental difference between being ‘dead in your sin’ and being ‘dead to your sin.’ To be dead in your sin is living in death or a constant state of decay. Being dead to your sin means that you are no longer bound to the power that sin has over you.  In Romans chapter 6 the Apostle Paul explains it this way:

Verses 1-2:

(NLT) “Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it?”

First it is important to focus on verse 1 in which Paul is challenging the notion that one can continue sinning and taking advantage of God’s grace.  There are many who have and continue to believe satan’s lie which is that you can continuously sin and expect God’s grace to cover your sin.  It is true that God will forgive us when we sin, however, the expectation that God has of every Christian is to live in holiness and obedience.  This means not willfully sinning and expecting to be in the right position with God.

Of course, you and I are in our human state which means that we will all sin at some point because we are imperfect.  However, many have used that reality as an excuse to continue in sin. Paul answers the question emphatically regarding sinfulness in verse 2 when he says that we should not continue living in sin. However, notice what he says in this verse:

“Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it?”

Paul says that we have ‘died’ to sin which means when we have received Christ in our hearts, we are no longer living in sin or alive to our sin.  We have ‘died’ to our sin which means it no longer has power over us. Just like the analogy of living in a new residence and attempting to go back to your old one, that is how God sees us when we accept Christ. It becomes fruitless and it is not practical to live in an old residence when you have a new residence to live in.

Paul continues in verses 3-4:

(NLT) “Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death? For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.” 

The interesting part of these two verses is that the Apostle Paul uses the term, ‘baptism.’ Why does he use this term and why is it relevant to our relationship with Christ? First you must understand the meaning of the word ‘baptize.’ The word ‘baptize’ is actually derived from the Greek word ‘baptizo’ which then comes from the root word ‘bapto.’ This was a term that was used in the first century as it related to immersing a cloth or garment into water with bleach and then with dye in order to change the color of the cloth or garment.

In the historical sense, baptism meant to immerse with the intent of seeing a changed product as the end result.  As it relates to Jesus Christ, the term ‘baptism’ is used in the symbolic sense concerning Christ’s death, burial and resurrection. Paul says that we were “buried with Christ by baptism” which means that when Christ died on the cross, it was the act of His death that started the process of breaking the power of sin.  Jesus was and is our atoning sacrifice for the debt of sin that we could not pay. The burial of Christ is also symbolic as it relates to baptism by water. When someone is baptized they are taken down into the water to symbolize that there is a death and a burial to their sinful nature.

What all of this means is, when we are baptized with Christ, we are essentially dying to our sin which means we can no longer live in it as we did before.  Secondly, Paul says in the latter part of verse 4, “And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.” So, the last part of the process is that there is a resurrection. Jesus Christ did not simply die only to remain dead. However, Jesus died and rose again 3 days later.  

Christ’s rising again from death completed the process of providing new life to us and breaking the power of sin. Even with water baptism the act of getting out of the water symbolizes a resurrection and a newness of life. Regarding water baptism, it should be noted that every Christian should at some point receive the baptism by water.  Water baptism is a public declaration of one’s confession that Jesus is Lord in their life. It is also symbolic of a person’s new life in Christ which means to signify to the world that there has been a shedding of sin or the old nature.

Verses 5-7 in this passage sum up the point that Paul makes to us:

(NLT) “Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised to life as he was. We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin.”

So, the overall point is that when we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord & Savior, our lives change. If we have died to our sin, and we are buried and have been resurrected as Christ was, then our lives are made new. The reason why there are many who can continue in their sin (both those who are not in Christ and those who claim Christianity) is because they have not been truly made new and whole.  That isn’t to say that you and I will never sin again.  However, if our lives resemble exactly what those who are of this world do daily, then we have not allowed Christ to transform us.

If you don’t know Jesus in the remission of your sins, you are living in death.  However, if you want to be dead to your sin and experience life in abundance, then you have an opportunity to accept this gift of life.  Being dead to your sin is to be alive in Jesus Christ. It is only Christ who can change your life and make it brand new.

“A Time Such as This” – You Were Born to Impact the World

31 Friday Jul 2015

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Human history has shown us various examples of what tragedy, change, and revolutions look like.  Throughout each generation that has passed there were instances of those who fought for a specific cause in order to produce change. World history records uprisings such as ‘The American Revolution’, ‘The Arab Spring’, and ‘Tiananmen Square’ as conflicts and protests that were sparked out of a dissatisfaction with the status quo. Basically, these revolutions among many others throughout history served as a reminder that where there is a cause there will be those who are willing to take a stand.

War and protests have occurred over many centuries because those who were courageous enough to fight understood the ramifications that their involvement would have on the world.  Each of the three uprisings named in addition to countless others changed the shape of our world the way that we see it today.  Even in our current view of the world, there are examples of revolts and those who are willing to actively pursue a stance against what they believe to be oppression and tyranny.

There is such an example of someone in the Bible who understood her role in standing up for what was right and her name was Esther. Esther was a woman who had a Jewish background who according to scripture would later save her people (the Jews) from annihilation. The book of Esther contains 10 chapters which account for the story of a woman who rose to prominence as the Queen who ruled with King Xerxes over Persia.

Before getting into the principles that can be extracted from the book of Esther, it is important to understand the historical background of who Esther was and how God used her to save an entire nation of people.

Starting with chapter 1 in the book of Esther, King Xerxes was married to Queen Vashti.  However, in verses 10-21 of this chapter, Vashti is deposed as Queen for the reasoning of her open obstinance in the face of King Xerxes. (Verse 12). As a result, she was removed as Queen and a replacement was sought. Moving forward to chapter 2, we are introduced to Esther.  She was adopted by a man named Mordecai who was also Jewish.  In this chapter, Esther along with many other beautiful women were brought before the King to be chosen as his next Queen.

It is important to note that Esther was told by Mordecai not to divulge her nationality, otherwise she would not be seen favorably by the King. Eventually, Esther was chosen by the King to be his Queen. In chapter 3 there is a pivotal point which will bring us to the principles for this particular blog post.

There was a man by the name of Haman who was promoted to one of the highest offices in the Kingdom.  However, in verses 1-3, we can see that Mordecai who is now employed by the King as a gatekeeper comes into contact with Haman. When Haman arrives, Mordecai does not bow down to Haman which was a sign of disrespect.  In verse 5 of this chapter, we see that one reason had to do with the fact that Mordecai had told others that he is a Jew.

As a result of this information, Haman becomes enraged and devises a plan to exterminate all of the Jews in addition to killing Mordecai.  In chapter 4 of Esther, Mordecai finds out that there is a decree to destroy all of the Jews who were under the reign of King Xerxes.  Mordecai then requests the help of Queen Esther, and they exchange responses through messengers that they send.

Mordecai believes that since Esther is the Queen, she can persuade the King to revoke the order of destroying the Jews. At the onset, Queen Esther is skeptical and does not think that she has a chance to even go before the king. Notice what Esther’s response is in verse 11:

(NLT) “All the king’s officials and even the people in the provinces know that anyone who appears before the king in his inner court without being invited is doomed to die unless the king holds out his gold scepter. And the king has not called for me to come to him for thirty days.”

However, look at Mordecai’s response:

Verses 13-14:

(NLT) “Don’t think for a moment that because you’re in the palace you will escape when all other Jews are killed.  If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance and relief for the Jews will arise from some other place, but you and your relatives will die. Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this?”

There are three things that we can take away from this particular passage:

1. God had a reason for establishing Esther as the Queen – In Mordecai’s plea to Esther, he poses the question of the possibility that God perhaps allowed her to become Queen in order to save the Jews from extermination. Mordecai even challenges Esther not to be silent about this problem because if she does, she and her family would lose their lives if they are found. The principle for you and I is that we were made to be impactful within our world.

The fact is that our world is growing worse and worse due to the increase of wickedness. However, God is searching and calling those who are willing to stand up against the enemy who is satan. All of us were made to do great things for God’s Kingdom, but we must be willing to forsake the ways of sin, and accept this tremendous call that God has placed on our lives. Even if you are not in Christ, God has a plan for your life and He wants to use you to accomplish His will. By accepting Jesus Christ, God’s purpose will be fulfilled in your life. Just like there was a looming tragedy in the time of Esther, today we are living in times that are quite troubling. However, God is calling those who will, to stand for His truth.

2. Esther was willing to face her initial fear – In verse 11 Esther tells Mordecai about the harsh reality of being killed if she or anyone were to appear before the King without being summoned first.  However, she accepts Mordecai’s request and appears before the King in chapter 5 in verses 1-2. Despite the risk of being killed for appearing before the King without permission, Esther realized that the cause was greater than her own life.

That is what we who are called by God must understand and that is, sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and standing against what the world has deemed ‘acceptable’ is a greater cause than we could ever know.  If it means risking alienation, persecution, and even death then the cause of Jesus Christ must be what we stand for. Facing the challenges in a sinful society is what Christians are called to do, and we must do so without restraint.

3. The lives within the Jewish nation were saved – It was in part because of Esther’s willingness to face what seemed like a hopeless situation that in the end the Jews were saved.  However, if you look back at chapter 2 in verses 21-23, Mordecai hears about an assassination attempt against King Xerxes. As a result of this, Mordecai sends the information to Queen Esther and the assassination is thwarted.  Haman who was the individual who wanted to destroy all of the Jews and kill Mordecai is later found guilty by the King for wanting to eliminate ithe Jews and Haman is put to death for it.

Mordecai is later discovered by the King to be Jewish in addition to Queen Esther’s heritage being disclosed.  However, because of Mordecai’s loyalty to the King in thwarting an assassination attempt that a new decree was put into place to save every Jew from destruction. So, in essence, God used Esther through her willingness to stand up for the Jews, and God honored Mordecai for his dedication to the King.

The fact is, that when we are obedient unto God and when we allow Him to use us, lives can and will be saved through Christ.  We who are Christians have a tremendous opportunity to share the Gospel with the lost.  By standing firm and facing opposition, we are in a position to experience what it looks like for the lost to be saved.

Do you know Jesus as your Lord & Savior?  If you do not, you can be apart of the harvest which involves reaching those who are not in Christ.  Like Esther, God can use you to change a generation and the world around you.  God wants to use every person who is willing to bring the Good News to all nations.  Our world will only grow worse as sin abounds, but the hope that we have is in Jesus Christ.  You and I, we can impact the world for God.

Awakened & Alive in Jesus Christ

30 Thursday Jul 2015

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ID-10027894Death is a natural occurrence as it relates to the cycle of life that everyone has and will experience.  The beginning stage involves being born into this world and hopefully growing up to live a long, healthy, and enjoyable life. However, after the beginning and the in-between stage of life, there is an ending point.  No one knows when their time will arrive, but all of us will transition into death which will bring us to our eternal destination whether that be Heaven or Hell.

However, the topic of death is one that most do not wish to have. It is the very fact that death symbolizes a loss of life or the ceasing of one’s natural body in the state of living that makes it difficult to even ponder.  When we die, our Earthly body will return back into the ground and our spirit will return back to God. (Ecclesiastes 12:7) It is when a person dies, that life in the natural sense no longer exists. Some also consider death to be an experience in which our soul rests or sleeps.

As it relates to our spiritual well-being, there is a similar analogy that can be drawn to describe being alive in Christ or being dead in your sin. In the book of Ephesians chapter 2, the Apostle Paul brings this analogy to the attention of those in the church of Ephesus.  In the first part of this chapter, Paul uses language that suggests that those he was speaking to were in their sin but had been converted to a life with Jesus Christ.

Verses 1-3:

(NLT) “Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature. By our very nature, we were subject to God’s anger, just like everyone else.”

Paul says to those in Ephesus, “Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins.” What he is suggesting is that when you and I are in a state of sin, we are living in death.  To live in death is to be in a constant state of decay and lacking vitality. Romans 6:23 says that the wages of sin is death.  When Paul made that statement, it didn’t only mean a physical death but also a spiritual death.  To be spiritually dead is to be in a separated position from God who is the giver of life. 

There are many who are exhibiting what could be the same as a fictional portrayal of a zombie. Zombies are purely imaginative in their existence of entertainment. Horror movies and television shows have portrayed individuals who were supposed to be dead, and yet they could be seen walking around as a living person.  Many are living in this life unaware of the fact that while they are physically alive, they are spiritually dead. Spiritual deadness breeds corrosion and it begins to spread to various parts of your life. Why is it that some of the wealthiest individuals are also some of the most cantankerous and unfulfilled individuals?

The reason is because there is the absence of life in the spiritual sense.  The Apostle Paul in verse 2 goes on to say to those at Ephesus who had given their lives to Christ, that they were once ruled by satan.  Paul says, “He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God.” When you are in a condition of spiritual deadness, it is satan who is at work in your heart. There are many who believe that we as humans have the ability to be ‘good people.’ However, because we are all born into sin, the element of ‘being good’ is not within our capability.  

By the world’s definition, ‘being a good person’ is strictly moral rather than it being based on godly principles and His virtues. Within ourselves we cannot ‘be good’ because it is our spiritual deadness that prohibits us from ever achieving life and the fruits of the Holy Spirit.  In the latter part of verse 3 Paul says, “By our very nature, we were subject to God’s anger, just like everyone else.” The nature that Paul refers to is our sinful nature. It is because of our condition of being dead spiritually that we are unable to please God. 

Nevertheless, there is hope and it involves the spiritual awakening and revitalization that only Jesus Christ can give.  The Apostle Paul says in verses 4-6:

(NLT) “But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus.”

The fact is that before any of us can experience a spiritual resurrection, we must come to terms with the reality that we are spiritually dead.  That comes by making a decision once you have heard God’s truth.  The great thing about God is that He leaves no person without the knowledge of His truth.  It is up to all of us to decide whether we want to be alive or remain dead spiritually.

Paul says that God gave us life when Jesus was raised from the dead.  It is the grace of God that provides each person with the gift of eternal life. However, here is a key point of this scripture:

Verse 6:

“For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus.”

If you are in Christ, you are now united with Christ which means that you have an inheritance that is given to you because you are in a relationship with Jesus Christ.  The keywords that support that are, “seated us with him in the heavenly realms.” So, when you and I are connected to Christ, not only do we gain life but we become beneficiaries of God’s blessings.

To be alive is to experience life in abundance both here on Earth and after our physical bodies have ceased from living.  There are many who are asleep or spiritually dead because they are in sin, however, Jesus Christ came so that you and I could have life.  Even those of us who are in Christ, we must ensure that we are constantly plugged into the power source.  It is possible to claim Christianity and yet be as dead as those who living in worldliness. 

It isn’t so much about claiming Christianity or stating that you are a Christian. The proof comes when you and I are in steady connection with God through Christ.  In doing so, our lives begin to exhibit the fruits of Spirit which comes from our daily walk with the Lord.  Do you know Jesus as your personal Lord & Savior? If you are walking in unrepentant sin, you are spiritually dead. However, Jesus came to give you life and life abundantly.  Accept His gift of life and be awakened and alive in Jesus Christ.

God is Speaking – Are You Listening?

29 Wednesday Jul 2015

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ID-10028650Have you ever sat in silence only to be startled by the sound of an ambulance or a police siren? Usually, such vehicles are designed to alert the surrounding community or population to a dire situation that has occurred or is in progress of being addressed. Such sounds break the silence in which we were accustomed to so that we could see the greater danger or need that someone else may be experiencing. Emergency response vehicles also serve the purpose of being the mode of transportation to rescue an individual or to pinpoint the location of a disturbance.

The first goal of dispatching an emergency vehicle and personnel is to get the attention of the surrounding population as a warning of what is occurring. Secondly, it is to dispatch aid to those who are in need.  Nevertheless, there is one who is also seeking to get our attention and that is the Almighty God. When we look at the world around us, we can see various examples of God attempting to get our attention. Often times we think that our daily way of life and how our society is structured is merely the way that things are meant to be.

However, when you turn on your television and you see senseless tragedies on display, these are not just random occurrences of evil.  Much of what we are bearing witness to are the signs of the End Times, results of humanity’s sinfulness, and warnings from God to those who will listen. In the book of Ezekiel Chapter 3, the account of the Prophet Ezekiel receiving instructions from God is recorded.

In verses 1-3, you can see the impartation of God’s Word unto Ezekiel.  God gives Ezekiel a message of warning to proclaim to the nation of Israel.  As it was, the people of Israel had become disobedient and their hearts had been hardened because of their obstinance. (Verses 4-9) Ezekiel was concerned about his assignment to give God’s message to a group of people who he felt would not listen to what he had to say. Ezekiel felt similarly as Jonah did when God commanded that he go to Nineveh to preach to the sinful population.  The feeling was one of dread and an opposition to what God had given him to do.

However, God brought both Jonah and Ezekiel into submission in differing ways.  As far as Ezekiel was concerned, God led him to the people of Israel to proclaim God’s warning which made him ‘Israel’s watchman.’ In verses 16-19 the scripture reads as follows:

(NLT) “After seven days the Lord gave me a message. He said, “Son of man, I have appointed you as a watchman for Israel. Whenever you receive a message from me, warn people immediately. If I warn the wicked, saying, ‘You are under the penalty of death,’ but you fail to deliver the warning, they will die in their sins. And I will hold you responsible for their deaths. If you warn them and they refuse to repent and keep on sinning, they will die in their sins. But you will have saved yourself because you obeyed me.”

In verses 20-21, God gives Ezekiel the same charge but instead God uses the term, ‘righteous people’ rather than the term ‘the wicked.’ These were two conditions which covered those who were followers of God and those who were not which means that God is equally just with those who have committed their lives to Him and those who have not.

However, the overall point of this passage is to make it clear that God will indeed use who is available to bring a message of warning to anyone who will listen. It is also true that God will use scenarios in our world and even in our own lives to get our attention.  Just like an emergency vehicle sounds its alarm to warn those in surrounding areas, God does the same for us.

There are a couple of things to take note of as it concerns this particular passage:

1. There is a penalty that comes with living in sin – In chapter 3 of Ezekiel, the first part of verse 19 says, “If you warn them and they refuse to repent and keep on sinning, they will die in their sins.” In verse 20, the same condition is given to those who are righteous individuals or those who are following God. This scripture essentially points to the fact that there is a penalty given to everyone who remains in their sin.  Even in our world today, God is speaking through various signs and unfortunate events that signify God’s displeasure with humanity.

With the constant approval of a multitude of sinful behaviors which stoke the flames of lusting after the flesh and committing self-idolatry, also comes negative consequences. Such consequences are not only a result of unrepentant nations, but it is also a warning that God gives us to repent and avoid destruction.  The great thing about God is that He doesn’t just allow you and I to sin without any warning. God loves all of us enough to not only provide Jesus Christ as an atonement for our sins but to warn us of the high cost that comes with unrepentant sin.

One prime example of such a warning to humanity was September the 11th, 2001. As tragic of a day that it was, it was also an event that served as a warning to anyone who had not yet chosen God through Jesus Christ.  Some don’t like the idea of using natural and even man-made disasters as an argument for God’s warnings, however, God will often allow things to happen to get our attention.  However, as you can see nearly 14 years later, America has grown worse morally and as a whole it has spurned the very idea of Holiness and submission unto God.

2. Those who know the truth will be held accountable for not sharing it with others – In this passage, Ezekiel is also told that if he does not warn those who are in their sin, then he will be held responsible for their deaths. For those of us who are in Christ, we have a tremendous responsibility to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Our goal shouldn’t be to condemn anyone, but it is to warn and also share the Gospel in love.

In our society today, we are now living in a time in which telling someone the truth of God may not include the penalty of sin and even talking about Hell. The fact is, both Hell and the penalty of sin are actual destinies for those who refuse God’s ways. However, if we who know the truth withhold it from a dying world, then there is a price that we shall pay. Ezekiel understood that if he failed to warn those in their sin, that the blood of those not warned would be on his hands.

Our job as Christians is to warn as many people as we can about the coming of Jesus Christ, and what can happen if a life of sin is lived in unrepentance. The fact is that even those who are not Christians have been warned through various signs and occurrences. When God speaks, He does so that no man or woman is left to say that they did not know. God is speaking all around us in each phase of our lives.

America and other countries around the world are all giving us signs of humanity’s willingness to sin. God has given us plenty of signs and there will be more to come. There will be a day of judgment that comes to every nation that defies God’s decrees. However, are we willing to listen and be obedient? If you don’t know Jesus in the pardon of your sins, you have an opportunity to be saved. God is constantly speaking, but it is up to you listen and surrender to His will.  In doing so, you will be in a better position than if you remain in the condition of a hardened heart.

Seeking the Eternal Richness of God

29 Wednesday Jul 2015

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If you were to conduct a poll concerning the desire to achieve financial abundance or to gain great wealth, you would find that the majority of individuals polled would agree that it is to some degree a goal or at the very least a desire.  Even if it is a fantasy, to be wealthy or to have more than enough financially speaking is what many aspire to achieve. It is true that in every society it is necessary to earn a living in order to survive.

However, most humans spend their lives working their way upward on the corporate ladder in order to achieve personal and financial success.  While all of us must work in order to create stability within our lives, it is the constant pursuit of money and objects that can and will create an instability. In many cultures around the world, it is considered positive if you have obtained a great or a considerable amount of wealth.

Our world today has become consumed with the idea that having material assets is what equates to happiness and satisfaction. Daily, television commercials and internet ads are produced with the intent to invoke the user or viewer to purchase a new product.  Much of the latest gadgets such as smartphones, for example, are constantly sold with the idea that you the consumer must have the ‘latest and greatest’ or you are far behind. As a result, there are many who are enticed by the clarion of large corporations that push the latest attractions – and those who are open to this bombardment heed the call. Money and an acquisition of material possessions have long since been a staple of human life from one generation to the next.

However, the hidden truth about seeking to be fulfilled by materialistic acquisitions is that to gain temporary treasure is to profit nothing of value in the eternal sense. In the book of Matthew Chapter 6, Jesus is addressing and teaching various principles to His Disciples.  In verses 19-24, Jesus touches on the topic of having wealth.  Notice what the first verse of this passage says:

Verse 19:

(NLT) “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal.”

Jesus gives the instruction for us not to collect or store up treasures for ourselves here on Earth.  The reason why Jesus wants to dissuade us against collecting treasures or Earthly things is because they are temporary.  He uses the imagery of the destruction that moths and rust can and will cause to material possessions.  For example, the moth which is a winged insect is commonly known to be a nuisance to personal property.

Research shows that moths in their larvae form (before they reach their adult stage) are actually known to destroy clothing, however, the concept of the destruction of moths is essentially the same.  Even as it relates to rust, metal items eventually rust due to exposure over time from oxygen and moisture. The whole point of using this imagery is so that we can understand just how temporary the acquisition of material things truly is. Jesus continues in the next two verses:

Verses 20-21:

(NLT) “Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.”

Jesus says in verse 20 to store our treasures in Heaven.  Why does He instruct us to store our treasures in Heaven, and what are the ‘treasures’ that He is referring to? There are a couple of points to examine from verses 20-21:

1. Heaven is a place that is incorruptible – Here on Earth there are a myriad of examples in which Earthly things are corruptible or temporary. Nothing we gain here on Earth in the materialistic sense will last forever. Regardless of how much money you earn in your lifetime, or what material possessions you gain, there will at some point come a time in which your material possessions will fade away.

However, in Heaven, nothing is corruptible which means it is a place that is eternal. Jesus also says that “thieves do not break in and steal.” How often have you consciously secured your belongings?  Probably as often as you can, because we live in a world that has become so consumed with having property and currency that it is constantly under the threat of theft.  However, Heaven is a place where theft does not occur.

2. The treasures to be stored in Heaven are non-material – Material gain and wealth eventually fade and profit nothing towards eternity.  However, it is what a person does with their time especially for the sake of building God’s Kingdom that will last.  A passage from 1 Corinthians Chapter 3 verses 11-14 says the following:

(NLV) “Jesus Christ is the Stone on which other stones for the building must be laid. It can be only Christ. Now if a man builds on the Stone with gold or silver or beautiful stones, or if he builds with wood or grass or straw, each man’s work will become known. There will be a day when it will be tested by fire. The fire will show what kind of work it is. If a man builds on work that lasts, he will receive his reward.”

What the Apostle Paul is saying in this scripture is that Jesus Christ is the foundation that we must build our lives upon.  Having Christ as your foundation is the first step to moving toward a life that will yield great fruit. A life that has its foundation built upon the temporal things of this world only leads to a life that is empty in the pursuit of ‘the next best thing.’ What Paul is also saying in this scripture is that every person’s work or service is what will be counted.

He says, “There will be a day when it will be tested by fire. The fire will show what kind of work it is.” This means that every single person will be judged by God based on how they lived and what they did with their lives. It is important to note that this scripture is not suggesting that you and I can be saved based on our works.  We are not saved by works, but by the grace offered to us because of Jesus Christ and His sacrifice.  What Paul is addressing here are the works that will last.  What are the works that will last?  The only legacy or works that God will accept is only what gives Him greater glory. 

In other words, if your life has not been yielded to God through Jesus Christ, then your works in this Earth will be burned in the fire (judgment before God) and counted as nothing suitable.  The reason is because the works we do in our flesh are corruptible. However, the work we do by God’s Spirit are eternal.

Looking at verse 21 of Matthew 6, Jesus says, “Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.” Whatever is most important to you is what you will serve.  If money and material possessions are important to you, then your life will be centered around the quest to achieve temporary prosperity. Jesus says in of verse 24,

(NLT) “No one can have two bosses. He will hate the one and love the other. Or he will listen to the one and work against the other. You cannot have both God and riches as your boss at the same time.” 

The whole point that Jesus is making here is that you cannot serve both God and material wealth.  There are so many who have either committed idolatry by serving their money and their possessions, or they have tried to serve both God and what they have.  However, God desires that we serve Him with our whole heart and being.

A lot of what the world advertises today is temporal and it will leave many dry at the end of their lives. Instead of seeking the next best thing, we should seek the eternal richness of God. It can only be found in Jesus Christ.  If you don’t know Jesus as your Lord & Savior, this is a perfect time to find God’s eternal richness.  Only in Christ and what you do for God will last. Without Him, your life will be in abject poverty in the spiritual sense.  The richness that God has to offer will last throughout your life and into eternity.

Are You Fighting on the Winning Side?

28 Tuesday Jul 2015

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

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In the world of team sports, there are generally two sides that are competing for one goal and that is to win a contest and achieve total victory over their opponent. There is one side that is destined to win, and the other side that is destined to lose. In most cases, the winner and the loser are unknown until the end of the match has transpired. However, the common thread is that both sides are predestined to experience an outcome whether it be positive or negative.

Even as it relates to a wartime scenario.  In every major war, a conflict began between two sides that opposed another for various reasons.  However, just as a sports team was destined to win or lose in their contest, a nation or military regiment is also destined to be victorious or lose the war in their efforts.  In most cases, it isn’t necessarily possible to determine which side will win in a military conflict with the exception various circumstances guaranteeing a victory to one side over the other. (e.g. lack of military weaponry, one side being massively outnumbered, lack of military skill)

However, a war or a game played between two teams is usually dictated by chance and not necessarily concrete evidence that victory is imminent. Basically, anyone can win given the right circumstances. However, there is one particular war that you and I are engaged in on a daily basis and that is a war that is spiritual. Ephesians 6:12 says it this way:

(NKJV) “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.”

The fact is that our lives are the focal point of an actual battle in the spiritual sense. The enemy who is satan is constantly attacking all of humanity every day.  His desire is to not only distract but to destroy every person.  It is the goal of satan to prevent you and I from having an authentic relationship with God through Jesus Christ.  However, the 2nd part to this equation is that of the almighty God.

Not only is satan fighting for the possession of you and your soul, but God is also fighting for your possession.  The difference is, God is fighting for you in the context of love and securing your eternity with Him in His glorious presence. In fact, God fought for you and I from the very beginning of Adam & Eve’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden.

In Genesis chapter 3, there is an exchange that God has with satan who is at that time in the form of a serpent.  Here is what God declares to satan:

Genesis 3:15:

(NKJV) “And I will put enmity Between you and the woman, And between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, And you shall bruise His heel.”

The above scripture is actually the first prophecy of Jesus Christ.  The ‘He’ in this scripture is referring to Jesus Christ.  God is stating that Jesus will ‘bruise’ or as other translations say, ‘crush’ the head of satan.  Of course, God also says that satan will bruise the heel of Jesus which denotes the crucifixion of Christ.  However, the Bible declares that Jesus not only died, but He rose again, giving Him victory over death and completing the process of redeeming humanity from sin. So, it is clear that from the beginning of time, God had a plan to fight for you and I, by allowing Jesus Christ to be the sacrifice for humanity.

However, even with both sides and their intentions being known, there is still a part that you and I have to play.  That part is deciding which side we will join ourselves with. Like it or not, there isn’t a choice as it relates to not picking a side. There are some who believe that they can merely ignore both sides and simply exist without consequence. Nevertheless, we are all born into sin, which means by default you and I were destined to be on the side of satan instead of God.

To be on the side of satan and his desire to eliminate humanity’s possibility of salvation is to conjoin yourself with a side that is destined for failure.  Satan knows that his ultimate ending is destruction at the hands of God Himself. So, he also wants to blind as many as he can, so that there will be many who join him in his destruction.  However, to be on the side of satan is to remain in a position of a destiny that does not include a victory.

On the other hand, to be on the side of God is to receive not only victory but peace, joy, and eternal security. The great thing about God is that when He fights for you and with you, losing is not an option. If you are on His side and you have accepted Jesus Christ as your savior then you are automatically a winner at the end of it all. It was the very act of Christ dying on the cross for the world that turned the tide from eternal damnation to everlasting life.

Some believe that if you decide to give your life to Christ that you will ‘miss out on all of the fun.‘ Many believe Christianity to be ‘boring’ and ‘stale’ because from the worldly point of view there are too many rules that prohibit you from ‘living freely.’ However, what those who are in darkness do not understand is that for one, such rules are in place for the protection of those who wish to be saved from disaster. Secondly, God is more concerned about the freedoms that you have in Christ, than the things you are unable to do.

What satan wants all of us to focus on are the things we can’t do if we decide to join the side of God. By focusing on what we can’t do or can’t have, then we begin to lust after the desires of the flesh and our lives become centered upon self-gratification.  The whole idea of living for Christ is to deny oneself for the sake of growing closer to God. There is a multitude of those who are choosing the losing side which is satan’s side.

Many are seeking fame, money, pleasure, and overall a life that exemplifies the very opposition to anything godly.  However, what they are unaware of is that there is an eventual state of decay which results from a life that is self-indulgent. Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose again so that you and I could experience a change in our original destiny.  However, there is a choice that you and I have to make.

God desires to know you and to be known by you, but He wants you to choose Him. His side will always be victorious because God has already made it so that the end result is nothing short of success. Unlike a sports game between two teams or even a war between two nations, the element of chance is not a factor.  There is a 100% success or failure rate that each of us can and will experience.  However, the success or failure is determined upon your choice accept God through Jesus Christ or to choose satan’s side.

If you don’t know Jesus Christ in the pardon of your sins, now is a great time to join the winning team.  If you do so now, you will not regret the decision for the rest of your life. God wants you to be apart of His success because on God’s team the success is shared with all who are within the family of God. Are you fighting on the winning side?