Category Archives: Inspiration

Behind the Scenes – Discerning What is Happening

15 Thursday Oct 2015

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ID-10066972Stage plays have been a form of entertainment for many years. Actors and actresses have and continue to provide pleasure to the masses throughout various genres of the entertainment business. Those of us who have ever watched a stage performance usually concentrated on what and who was set before us. We see the acting and even the scenery onstage, while at the same time what is behind the stage is hidden from the audience.

In order for each production to be successful, work must be done behind the scenes to ensure that what the audience sees is well worth the money and time spent. It is what occurs behind the scenes that creates a finished product in addition to tying together the act as a whole. The viewer is not concerned with what goes on behind the curtain, however, if one were to take a look it would be a discovery as to how the production was put into place.

We are living in a world in which there are so many things that are occurring daily. Just by turning on your local and even national news station you will see the state of the world that we live in. However, with all of the sociological shifts that are on display, there is also a great deal of activity that is occurring beneath the surface. What you and I see with our natural eyes is just what is set before us. However, there is a spiritual undercurrent to the various issues and activities that plague our global society.

In the book of 1 Corinthians, chapter 2, the Apostle Paul is speaking to the church in Corinth. In this chapter, he gets into the subject of wisdom and spiritual discernment. In verses 1-5 of this passage, it is clear that the Apostle Paul is re-visiting the church of Corinth because he says in verse 1, “When I first came to you,”. Paul also says in these first few verses that when he came he did not come with elegant or persuasive speech, but rather he came with plain words.

The Apostle Paul wanted to impress the point that what he said did not come from human wisdom but rather through the revelation and inspiration of the Holy Spirit. In verses 6-7, Paul makes a reference to mature believers when he says that he speaks in wisdom, but not in worldly wisdom. The wisdom he refers to is that of godly wisdom which can only be discerned and grasped by spiritual connection to God.

Paul then makes a distinction between those who are operating by the Holy Spirit and those who are of the world when he says in verse 8: (NLT) “But the rulers of this world have not understood it; if they had, they would not have crucified our glorious Lord.” The Apostle Paul is saying that those in authority during his time did not understand the things that are only discerned by the Spirit of God. If they had, then they wouldn’t have crucified Jesus Christ. Notice what Paul says in verses 10-12:

(NLT) “But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God’s deep secrets. No one can know a person’s thoughts except that person’s own spirit, and no one can know God’s thoughts except God’s own Spirit. And we have received God’s Spirit (not the world’s spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us.”

The great thing about God is that He offers an opportunity for all of humanity to see the world and life through His Spirit. However, the only way that this is possible is if we have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Paul makes it clear that when you are of the world and operating out of the “world’s spirit” then you are not able to spiritually discern. The world’s spirit is essentially the rejection of God’s truth and God’s Spirit. Paul further explains this in verse 14:

(NLT) “But people who aren’t spiritual can’t receive these truths from God’s Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can’t understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means.”

Those who are not spiritual or those who are not connected to God through Christ cannot receive the truth from God’s Spirit. Discernment or the ability to see what is truly occurring can only be achieved when you and I are in a relationship with Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit. Much of what we see in our world represents what is transpiring behind the scenes.

For example, much of the gun violence we have seen throughout this year in America isn’t just due to mental health issues as many have stated. While mental health may be an issue to a degree, the majority of the cases of violence are based on a spiritual underlining. Satan has used those who are open to his demonic forces to take innocent lives. In order for the issues in our world to be addressed, they must be spiritually discerned and they must be approached from the Biblical and spiritual perspective.

Many within our world are seeing things on the surface, but only through the Holy Spirit can we accurately discern what is truly happening. The tragedies that we see in our world are not just cases of random violence. Much of the issues in our world are entrenched and based in sin and rebellion against God. Politicians are in a quandary as to how to rectify spiritual issues. One cannot address what is spiritual unless they are following Jesus Christ and they are under the influence of the Holy Spirit.

Paul says in verse 15:

(NLT) “Those who are spiritual can evaluate all things, but they themselves cannot be evaluated by others.”

We who are truly in Christ and operating in the Holy Spirit’s power, we are able to see beyond what is on the surface. Just like an on-stage production there are mechanisms and activities that are happening behind the scenes. Such occurrences dictate what occurs on stage. In our world, many who are blinded by sin are unable to see what is truly happening.

The person who is worldly and in their sin cannot discern between right and wrong. They are not able to see the reasons our world is operating the way it is. Why is it that year after year, our world leaders are unable to come up with seemingly ‘common sense solutions’? Why is it that violence around the world is not addressed even with various changes in the law?

The answer to such questions is only spiritually discerned. The Holy Spirit reveals to those who are in Christ what is truly happening in our world. However, in order to receive the revelation, we must listen to God and also use His Word as a filter to help us as we travel through this world. Spiritual discernment is only available to those in Christ, but the key is that the invitation to salvation is open to all of humanity.

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your personal Lord & Savior, then you are not able to spiritually discern. You may have questions as to why the world continues to change and grow worse. The only way to get the answer is by accepting Jesus Christ’s sacrifice and by repenting of your sins. Believe in your heart that Jesus is Lord, and allow Him to transform your mind and your heart. Once that takes place, your perspective will change and what you see on the surface will only be a product of what you see behind the scenes.

Wisely Investing With the Life that God Has Given to You

09 Friday Oct 2015

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ID-10058305Investing is a term that is usually associated with money or even time. To invest is to give support or to apply your own resources into an entity or a mission. When you invest, you are giving what you have and placing it into what is hopefully profitable. There is such a thing as a ‘good investment’ and also a ‘bad investment.’ A good investment involves the allocation of resources toward something or someone that proves to be lucrative in the long run. It is the reception of positive gains that results from investing wisely.

However, a bad investment occurs when a resource that is given later yields poor results. Usually when a bad investment takes place, the person who invests does not benefit but rather there is a loss that occurs. Depending upon how poorly resources were invested, the loss may be minor or major. The truth is, with anything in life we are all investing in someone or something. At the same time, God has given each person a choice to invest in their life wisely or unwisely.

In the book of Luke chapter 19, particularly verses 11-27, Jesus presents a parable to a crowd of listeners. It was the ‘Parable of the Ten Servants.’ The overall summary of this parable was to highlight servants of a King who invested what they were given wisely and a servant who did not. Jesus begins with the following verses:

Verses 12-14:

(NLT) “A nobleman was called away to a distant empire to be crowned king and then return. Before he left, he called together ten of his servants and divided among them ten pounds of silver, saying, ‘Invest this for me while I am gone.’ But his people hated him and sent a delegation after him to say, ‘We do not want him to be our king.’”

In these particular verses, it is interesting to note two things:

1. God has chosen you to serve Him and fulfill His purposes – The fact is that God desires that you and I serve and worship Him. He gives you a choice in the matter, but it is beneficial to surrender your life to Jesus Christ so that you will experience the blessings of God. As in the scripture, the 10 servants were called to invest what the soon to be King had given to them. That is what God calls each person to do which is to invest with the life that He has given to us. Once Jesus Christ has been accepted as Lord and Savior, then there must be an investment in God’s Kingdom.

2. Humanity often refuses the Kingship of God – This means that there are those who haven’t given God the ability to have free reign in their life. In the scripture of Luke chapter 19, in verse 14, the people who were to be subjected to the individual chosen to be King in the parable did not want him to have authority over them. We can see blatant evidence of many who have made the choice to reject God’s authority which means that they are not subject to God and His Kingship. If you look at our world today, you can see the signs of what occurs when humanity rejects the authority and leadership of God. There is a de-evolution that occurs when we as humans decide that we want to be our own god or that we want to deny God’s involvement in our lives.

To grasp the principle of investing wisely or unwisely, there must be an examination of the next few verses:

Verses 15-17:

(NLT) ““After he was crowned king, he returned and called in the servants to whom he had given the money. He wanted to find out what their profits were. The first servant reported, ‘Master, I invested your money and made ten times the original amount!’ “‘Well done!’ the king exclaimed. ‘You are a good servant. You have been faithful with the little I entrusted to you, so you will be governor of ten cities as your reward.’”

In these 3 verses, the servants are called in and they are assessed in order to discover the amount of profit they would provide to the King. In verse 16, one of the servants proclaimed that 10 times the original amount was made off of what the King had given. Of course, the King expresses his gratitude and pleasure towards the servant. In return, the servant was given governorship over ten cities.

In verses 18-19, another servant gives his report to the King in which 5 times the original amount of what was given was produced. The servant is rewarded with 5 cities to be the governor over. However, notice what occurs in verses 20-22:

(NLT) ““But the third servant brought back only the original amount of money and said, ‘Master, I hid your money and kept it safe. I was afraid because you are a hard man to deal with, taking what isn’t yours and harvesting crops you didn’t plant.’ “‘You wicked servant!’ the king roared. ‘Your own words condemn you. If you knew that I’m a hard man who takes what isn’t mine and harvests crops I didn’t plant, why didn’t you deposit my money in the bank? At least I could have gotten some interest on it.’”

Based on the above scripture it may seem like the King was a bit harsh towards the servant, because the servant made the claim, “you are a hard man to deal with”. The servant essentially expressed his apprehensiveness and even what seemed to be distrust toward the King and what he does with the funds he is given. However, what the servant should have realized is that the money that he was given did not belong to him but to the King. The servant is then called, ‘wicked’ because he was disobedient and he failed to use what he was given to multiply.

Notice the final verses of this parable:

Verses 24-26:

(NLT) “Then, turning to the others standing nearby, the king ordered, ‘Take the money from this servant, and give it to the one who has ten pounds.’ “‘But, master,’ they said, ‘he already has ten pounds!’“‘Yes,’ the king replied, ‘and to those who use well what they are given, even more will be given. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away. And as for these enemies of mine who didn’t want me to be their king—bring them in and execute them right here in front of me.’””

In these verses, the judgment of the King is clear. The King orders that the money is taken from the servant who did nothing with it and that his portion be given to the servant who did the most. The King also instructs that those who use what they have been given well will receive more and those who do nothing will lose what they have.

The final instruction given is that those who despised the King and shunned his Kingship would be executed because they were considered to be enemies of the King. It is quite clear that in this parable the expectation and desire of God is that we as humans use what He has given to us.

All of us were given gifts and talents but also an opportunity to have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. A major part of investing wisely is to accept the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. When you and I choose to surrender our lives and forsake our sin out of obedience unto Christ, we then have a new beginning. The reconciliation between God and humanity is only bridged when there is a repentance of sin and a rejection of it through the acceptance of Jesus Christ.

Another part of investing one’s life wisely is understanding that God desires to use each person for His glory. Many are squandering their lives looking for fulfillment in various ways, and yet their lives are wasting away. God wants to use the life that He has given to you to bring others to the knowledge and experience of His great love. Also, He wants to know you in intimacy which comes from an actual relationship with God through Christ.

The final thought to examine is that when we as humans reject God’s great love and Kingship, then we are considered to be His enemies or against Him. As a result, we ultimately lose the benefits that God offers through His blessings when we invest unwisely. To invest unwisely is to either invest in things that have no eternal value or not to invest in the things of God at all.

The question then becomes, are you investing wisely or unwisely? If you don’t know Jesus as your personal Lord & Savior, then you are unable to invest what you have wisely. The first step is to make the wisest decision possible which is to give your life to Jesus Christ. He will show you how to live for God and how to live in this life. By having a relationship with Christ, you will know what your purpose is and how to use God’s gifts for His glory and the benefit of others.

God – The Righteous Judge

08 Thursday Oct 2015

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ID-10095619When you think about the word ‘justice’ what comes to your mind? In just about every society, there is some form of a system in place which is meant to provide judgment for those who participate in criminal activity. Justice which has now become a universal goal for humanity is a concept that has not always yielded the appropriate results.

Throughout our world system, there have been countless times in which individuals who were guilty of a crime were exonerated of all wrongdoing. On the other hand, there were individuals who were innocent and yet they were mistakenly charged for a crime that they did not commit. The machine of justice has proven to be both a success and a failure in the eyes of humanity. However, there is one judge who surpasses all others in the delivery of justice and that is the Lord God Almighty.

In the book of Romans chapter 14, the Apostle Paul is admonishing Christians not to judge one another. Throughout this chapter, Paul encourages believers in the faith not to quarrel over what seems to be trivial in nature. For example, in verses 1-3, Paul uses the example of disagreeing on what type of food one should eat and that it is unnecessary to get into disputes regarding the choice of food. Even in verse 5, the Apostle Paul mentions the issue of honoring a certain day as ‘holy’ over another and that Christians should not argue over such things.

In the time that Romans chapter 14 was written, Paul was addressing issues of those who were still torn between keeping the ceremonial Jewish laws and those who were breaking away from such tradition. However, Paul wanted to encourage unity among those in Christ which meant to refrain from judging one another. Here is what Paul says in verses 10-12:

(NLT) “So why do you condemn another believer? Why do you look down on another believer? Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. For the Scriptures say, “‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will declare allegiance to God.’ Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God.”

The key portions of the scripture to focus on for the purposes of this blog post are the words “we will all stand before the judgment seat of God.” Paul also says, “Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God.” Paul wasn’t just referring to those who are in Christ, but this applies to every person. It is God who will judge and He shall do so righteously.

When most think of a judge it is usually appropriate to assume that the concept of a fair or just ruler is what many expect. The reason why many expect a fair ruling from a judge is because the judge as a figure represents justice or the delivery of fairness. God is the one who we will stand before at the end of our lives. It is His judgment that is final but how He judges is based upon how we live.

For example, there are those who are currently living in their sin and believe that they will avoid the due penalties that come with living in sin. The truth of the matter is that God sees your current actions and you just like I will be judged when life on this Earth is complete. God judges righteously which means he judges with fairness in addition to ensuring that every deed is either rewarded or punished accordingly.

Even those of us who are in Christ, we are going to be judged for what we do. A person who has given their life to Jesus Christ will be judged according to the profession of faith and also whether or not what is professed lines up with what is done. It will be our connectivity to God through Christ that will be examined. This means that if our life is not anchored or secured in Christ that God will remove us from His presence which is according to Matthew 7:23.

So, it is incumbent upon each individual (Christian or non-Christian) to understand that everyone will be judged according to what is done and based on every word that is said. Often times, humanity has shown a level of pride that caters towards assuming the role of ‘being the ultimate judge.’ Basically, the secular humanist does not feel an obligation towards anyone else as it relates to accountability especially an entity that is invisible.

However, even those who choose not to adhere to godly principles will be judged in the end. God who is the righteous judge will ensure that all verdicts and decisions will be handed down justly. You and I will give an account for what we have done in our life. The first thing that will be examined is whether or not a relationship with Jesus Christ was cultivated. If the answer to such a question is yes, then your eternity is certain and it will be spent in Heaven with the presence of God.

If the answer is no, then you can expect to be met with the isolation and fiery result of Hell. The interesting thing about God being a righteous judge is that while His verdicts are always just there are also moments in life when He grants us clemency. This means, that grace and mercy are extended toward us.

How often can you say that you received favorable treatment or were given an opportunity that you didn’t deserve? Such an experience is known as ‘grace.’ It is the offering of what is undeserving or in spite of what was done. Here on Earth, God offers grace even to those of us who do not deserve it. Jesus Christ dying on the cross to save us from our sins was not only an act of love but an act of grace.

You and I are sinful in our nature which means by default, we were meant to be destined for Hell. However, grace is the element that gives us an opportunity to avoid the death sentence that we deserve. God’s grace is available, but the key is understanding that when a decision is made to to accept Christ’s sacrifice, His grace is then extended to us. Those who are in sin can also experience God’s grace but such grace is limited because of one’s allegiance to a sinful lifestyle. It is also important to note that even with the grace of God, His grace is not given with the expectation that we would continue to sin.

Mercy which is also what God gives unto us is essentially the act of not giving what is deserved. To have mercy is to withhold a harsh judgment even when the person deserves what should be given. God has shown you and I mercy because He did not allow the judgment of destruction to override His great love for us. Instead, God’s mercy is what gave us the way of escape which was and is Jesus Christ. In fact, every day that you and I live is a gift of mercy because, in our imperfections, God is still merciful.

The fact is, however, both ‘grace’ and ‘mercy’ have their limitations toward those who are in constant rebellion. Since God is the righteous judge, He will always ensure that every judgment is given soundly and also finally. He decides what the ultimate punishment or reward will be for each person. However, the determination of which we will receive is based upon whether or not we are obedient unto God through Christ.

Do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? If your answer is no, then the judgment that God would hand down if you were to die today would be one of separation and destruction in Hell. Don’t wait until it is too late to decide who you will serve. Jesus Christ died and rose again so that you could be reconciled back to God through Christ. The judge who is God will rule in fairness, but He wants you to choose Him today. Once the judgment of God is given, it is final. Today is the day to have a new life in Christ and in doing so, your life, and even your eternal life will be secure in God.

Who Are You Looking to for Guidance? – Seeking God for Direction

06 Tuesday Oct 2015

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Last week on Thursday, October 1st, yet another mass shooting took place in the state of Oregon at Umpqua Community College. The now-deceased gunman shot and killed 10 individuals while wounding another 9. Many Americans and even those around the world are once again pondering the universal question when such tragedies occur, “Why?” Time and time again we have witnessed unspeakable calamities which not only affect the families that were directly involved, but such occurrences have shaken the human experience in a collective manner.

As a result of another mass shooting, many Americans, and even politicians are calling for an introduction to new gun laws to mitigate such shootings from occurring in the future. Some are even calling for a strict plan to address mental health in America. There seems to be so many who are calling for answers as to what should be done to put an end to the violence. Many are seeking human means and solutions to address what is truly a spiritual issue.

Shortly after the massacre took place, the President of the United States was quoted as saying, “our thoughts and prayers are not enough,” which was meant to suggest from his perspective that more should be done to address the ongoing issue. However, the problem with the President’s statement is that it does not take into account that with all action there must be divine providence at the hands of God. All of us desire order and laws to institute accountability, however, how many are willing to allow God to be the basis for their foundation and guidance?

In the book of Galatians chapter 2, specifically, verses 15-21, the Apostle Paul gets into the issue of being justified by faith rather than being justified by the works of the law. In verse 15, the Apostle Paul makes an important note about being Jewish by birth but also not being a Gentile sinner. The reason why Paul mentions this is because, by Jewish custom, following ceremonial laws or a strict adherence to Mosaic laws was implemented habitually. However, notice what Paul says in verses 15 and 16:

(ESV) “We ourselves are Jews by birth and not Gentile sinners; yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.”

What Paul is essentially saying in these verses is that faith in Jesus Christ is what justifies or proves us as acceptable unto God rather than using the works of the law to justify oneself. It is the devotion and honor unto God that gives us the ability to be acceptable instead of looking to the law to create a change in the human heart. The problem with our global society today is that many are looking to the law or their government to execute morality and guidance rather than looking to God who is the one who gives us the formula for morality and godly wisdom.

Much of the reason why many of these mass atrocities continue to plague our world is because of humanity’s irreverence and staunch opposition towards the things of God. Paul says that the works of the law will not justify which means that solely focusing on the law to vindicate or exact true conversion is futile in its endeavors. In America, many politicians are looking to solve issues of violence, drug abuse, financial disparities and a whole host of other issues by doing so in their human will.

However, whenever a nation is not built upon the foundation of Jesus Christ then it will ultimately crumble from within. The fact is that demonic forces have run rampant throughout our world because many within each nation have decided that secular humanism and a deviation from godly principles will solve each calamity. However, when humanity exalts itself or other idols are allowed to be worshiped, then the presence of demons and satanic influences begin to proliferate.

The tragedy that occurred last week in Oregon in addition to various tragedies that have occurred in the past and present history of our world is the result of sinfulness and a lack of reverence for God. The Apostle Paul continues in the next few verses:

Verses 17-18:

(ESV) “But if, in our endeavor to be justified in Christ, we too were found to be sinners, is Christ then a servant of sin? Certainly not! For if I rebuild what I tore down, I prove myself to be a transgressor.”

Verses 19-21:

(ESV) “For through the law I died to the law so that I might live to God. I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose.”

In verse 19 Paul says that through the law, he died to the law. What does Paul mean? Basically, the Apostle Paul was subjected to the law in terms of abiding by various laws in order to maintain order or compliance within society. However, Paul understood that the law is not what brings true morality but rather it is life in God through Jesus Christ. Paul finishes in verse 19 by saying “so that I might live to God.”

Paul says that he died to the law meaning, he does not look to the law as a measurement to fulfill righteousness but rather when life in Jesus Christ is lived, we automatically know the difference between right and wrong. Paul says that it is Christ who lives in him which then results in a life that is lived in obedience unto God. In the final verse, Paul says that if the law grants righteousness then it would mean that Jesus Christ’s death was in vain.

The overall principle to learn is that we as humans should not look to the law or our government to institute morality or to even provide it. The guidance that you and I should be looking to is none other than God through Jesus Christ. Much of the chaos that we see within many nations is due to the corruption and sinful behavior of leadership.

Unfortunately, those who are citizens within each nation are looking to their leaders to legislate and bring change, but such change cannot come at the hands of humanity. The prayers of the righteous and the obedience of those who are willing to seek God is what will foster a revolution. However, tragedies that we have seen will, unfortunately, become common place as long as humanity is insistent upon its own way.

For such calamities to be mitigated, there must be a surrender to the things of God. Even in your own life, there must a relinquishing of your pride and a surrender unto Jesus Christ in Holiness and obedience. Otherwise, your life will not be under the guidance and straightened path of God. It is only in Christ that our lives have order and meaning. Without Jesus Christ, then there is a constant quandary about how to solve problems that arise in life.

Do you know Jesus Christ as your personal Lord & Savior? If not, then you don’t have the necessary key who is Jesus Christ to provide the answers to any questions you have. Our world groans and constantly seeks the answers to various situations that surface, and yet the very answer they seek is found in Christ. Repent of your sins, and believe that Jesus Christ is Lord and allow Him to radically change your life.

The One True God – (Part 2)

30 Wednesday Sep 2015

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We are living in a time in which the world around us is searching for answers but also searching for the truth. Many want to see clear evidence of a matter so that their thirst for understanding and even a rational conclusion is grasped. There is a popular idiom or phrase that has been used for quite some time. The phrase, ‘Show me the money’ is used to denote one of two things.

It can suggest to the person in question that a payment of some sort is requested, but it can also mean that there is a request to be shown evidence. It is the question of evidence that many are looking for. Whether it be evidence of what their politician promises to do once sworn into public office. Or the evidence that one’s life can be turned from tragedy or misfortune into positivity and blessings. For many, the constant quest to prove the evidence of God’s existence is still at the forefront of their mind.

However, despite what the world looks to for its evidence, God shows us what is the truth and what is a lie. Looking to God who is the one who holds everything in place is where you and I should find the answer to life’s questions. In the book of 1 Kings chapter 18, there is a passage of scripture which will help us to see that God is indeed the one and true God.

In this chapter, Elijah who is a prophet of God was sent to King Ahab to deliver an important message to him. In verses 1-16, Elijah meets a man by the name of Obadiah who is King Ahab’s house manager. Throughout these 16 verses, Elijah and Obadiah have an exchange of words which later results in Elijah meeting with King Ahab. A few of the important verses to focus on are verses 18 and 19 in which King Ahab and Elijah finally meet.

(NKJV) “Then it happened, when Ahab saw Elijah, that Ahab said to him, “Is that you, O troubler of Israel?” And he answered, “I have not troubled Israel, but you and your father’s house have, in that you have forsaken the commandments of the Lord and have followed the Baals. Now therefore, send and gather all Israel to me on Mount Carmel, the four hundred and fifty prophets of Baal, and the four hundred prophets of Asherah, who eat at Jezebel’s table.”

It is important to note that in verse 2 of 1 Kings chapter 18 Samaria which is located in Israel experienced a drought. Throughout the Bible, droughts were signs of God’s judgment against a particular nation or group of people. Such judgment was the result of sin within the land. There was idolatry that occurred throughout the land of Israel which Elijah eludes to in verses 18 and 19.

He uses the term ‘Baal’s’ which signifies idol worship. Baal was the main god that the Canaanites worshiped in the Old Testament. However, Elijah says that King Ahab has committed idolatry by worshiping false gods. In the next few verses, Elijah then asks to meet with the children of Israel at Mount Carmel. The children of Israel were guilty of following Baal which was idol worship.

Verses 20-22:

(NKJV) “So Ahab sent for all the children of Israel and gathered the prophets together on Mount Carmel. And Elijah came to all the people, and said, “How long will you falter between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him.” But the people answered him not a word. Then Elijah said to the people, “I alone am left a prophet of the Lord; but Baal’s prophets are four hundred and fifty men.”

Verses 23-24:

(NKJV) “Therefore let them give us two bulls; and let them choose one bull for themselves, cut it in pieces, and lay it on the wood, but put no fire under it; and I will prepare the other bull, and lay it on the wood, but put no fire under it. Then you call on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the Lord; and the God who answers by fire, He is God.”

So essentially, Elijah wanted to prove that the Lord God was indeed the true God compared to the Baal’s that were the false gods. It is important to note that even in our society today there are many who are serving false gods. Whether it be the god of money, clothing, or even erecting other humans as gods, idolatry has run rampant in our world. However, these things mentioned are considered to be false gods because they are illegitimate or non-functioning.

However, the Lord God is everlasting and living compared to other idols that exist in our world. For centuries, even those of other religions have created statues and images which were then worshiped as if they were living and able to breathe. However, notice what happens in verse 26:

(NKJV) “So they took the bull which was given them, and they prepared it, and called on the name of Baal from morning even till noon, saying, “O Baal, hear us!” But there was no voice; no one answered. Then they leaped about the altar which they had made.”

In verse 27, Elijah mocks them by saying that their god must be asleep or he is busy because it seemed the more the individuals cried out to their god the more silence and inactivity there was. In verse 28, it became so much of an issue that the people who worshiped and called out to their god began to cut themselves to the point in which they began to bleed – and yet they did all of that to no avail.

The interesting point about those who committed self-inflicted wounds is that they did so at the allegiance and worship to their god. Many today are worshiping different things and even other people, and yet it is causing self-destruction or self-inflicted wounds. When you and I worship other gods instead of the Lord God, then our lives begin to suffer from being led astray and we destroy ourselves in the process.

In verses 30-35, it was then Elijah’s turn to pray to his God who was the Lord God. In these verses, Elijah re-builds the altar with 12 stones which represented the 12 Tribes Israel and he has the altar and the burnt sacrifice drenched with water twice. In verses 36-37, Elijah prays to God and asks that His presence and truth be known to the people. Essentially, Elijah wanted the reality and the evidence of God to be known based on the altar being burned by fire.

Verses 38-39:

(NKJV) “Then the fire of the Lord fell and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood and the stones and the dust, and it licked up the water that was in the trench. Now when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces; and they said, “The Lord, He is God! The Lord, He is God!”

At the end of the day, Elijah and those who witnessed it saw the evidence of God and saw the truth for themselves. The fact is that regardless of other gods that may exist, none of them are true, but rather they are false. Anything and anyone can be a god, but there is only one God who is everlasting and who lives.

The world that we live in today has been built to showcase idolatry just as it was in the Old and even the New Testament of the Bible. Idolatry is not a new phenomenon, but rather it has continued throughout human history. However, it is a sin to commit idolatry and in every instance, God shows His righteous judgment.

There will be a day in which the world shall be judged for the allowance of idolatry. However, even after that day comes, God will prove Himself to the world and even after you and I pass away from this Earth we will know that God is indeed the truth and that He lives. The sad part about idol worship is that many serve gods that cannot speak, cannot hear, nor do they have life.

However, worshiping God who lives, speaks, listens, and is the giver of life is a better option than to worship something or even someone who is dead. Even if someone decides to create an idol out of a living person, such an act is still illegitimate because a mere mortal does not have the power to create or to have dominion over everyone and everything.

Only God Himself is the true God who desires to be known and He desires to know us. The only way to know Him is through having a relationship with Jesus Christ. Do you know God for yourself? Have you accepted this gift of life through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ? If not, then you are missing an important part of what it means to experience life. Also, you will not have a chance to experience eternal life. Only through Christ will you taste the majestic and glorious power of God. Accept Christ and know who God is for yourself.

The One True God (Part 1)

30 Wednesday Sep 2015

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There are two terms that can be used to describe the authenticity of a subject matter. ‘Fact’ and ‘Fiction’ are words that create a line of distinction between what is true and what is false. For example, a film or a book that is classified as ‘fiction’ is one that is based on events that are inherently false or imaginative which means that it did not actually occur. On the other hand, information that is based on a fact or facts is undoubtedly true in its origin.

Facts cannot be disputed because at the root of existence lies the very essence of veracity which results in failed attempts to prove a falsehood. Regardless of how much one would try to prove that water is not wet, the fact is that water in its very nature and molecular structure creates the moisture which characterizes water as we know it. One can desire to suggest that something is not false, but the truth is found in its fiction or lack of evidence to support the basis for claimed truth.

For many centuries, humanity has participated in heated debates regarding the existence or even non-existence of God. Atheists have long since held to the belief that we as humans do not have staunch evidence to prove that God exists. Agnostics believe that there is a mystery behind the existence of God which means that it cannot be known. Even those who ascribe to other religions such as Hinduism, Islam, or even New Age beliefs, hold tightly to what it is that they believe to be true about life and God as they see Him to be or not to be.

However, there is one immutable and overarching fact that trumps what belief systems exist and that is that God is the only true God. The Bible gives us clear facts to God’s existence and His presence throughout history. Genesis 1:1 says the following:

(KJV) “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.”

This one verse of scripture is perhaps one of the best starting points as it relates to understanding God’s existence. This scripture says that in the very beginning God created Heaven and the Earth. The world around us did not just occur out of happenstance. One type of argument that well-known Atheists such as Professor Stephen Hawking use is that the universe was created by ‘spontaneous creation.’ This belief is meant to suggest that what we see was simply created out of an explosion which ties into the theory of the big bang.

However, such belief does not account for creation because with every creation there is a creator. The Bible was written by men who were inspired by the Spirit of God. All of the trees, the oceans, the birds of the sky, and the atmosphere around us was created by God. Even we ourselves were created by God as the book of Genesis chapter 1 and verse 27 points out in the creation of the first human. Adam was created in the image of God as this scripture says.

Even after Adam was created and Eve was later taken from the rib of Adam, she too was created to be in the likeness of God. The story of creation is one that only God is responsible for. The question of whether or not God exists has been the topic of discussion for many centuries. The bigger question to be asked is, ‘If God does not exist then why is it that the same question continues to be asked?’

Why are arguments still a part of today’s discussion? The fact is that the existence of God is all around us, and there is only one true God. Humanity may come up with other ‘gods’ or ways to determine human existence but the very essence of life is built off of one creator who is God. He isn’t only the ‘God of the Old Testament’ as some would say, but He is God of both the Old and the New Testament.

Satan desires to obstruct and cause we as humans to denounce the existence of God because he does not want you and I to experience the presence and awesome power of God. His majesty is all around us and the fact that life, as we see it could not be created by human hands, is more than enough evidence to show that God is indeed the truth. Some of the greatest minds both past and present were deluded into thinking that God did not nor does He exist.

Individuals who were quite brilliant believed that since there is no physical evidence, then God cannot be proven to exist. Rather, the existence of life was explained by asserting philosophical and even scientific arguments. However, the first part of verse 1 in Psalm chapter 14 says:

(KJV) “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God.”

It is the person who says that God does not exist who is foolish. They are blinded by their own sinfulness which means that they cannot understand who God is or even understand that He exists. Even those who choose to believe in other ‘gods’ or another ‘god’ they too are operating under a deception.

In our social climate, it is unpopular to speak out against other religions and even those who choose to deny God’s existence. We live in a global society in which it is considered ‘intolerant’ to erect a bulwark against someone else’s belief. We are in a ‘live and let live’ system. However, we who are Christians are tasked with the responsibility of speaking God’s truth and telling those in their sin that there is an alternative.

Jesus Christ was sent to Earth to die on the cross for the world’s sin. That means that if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, your destiny is Hell and destruction. However, your destiny can be changed through Jesus Christ. God is indeed the only true God and He does exist, but it is up to you and every person to believe or not. God will not force Himself upon us, but He wants us to voluntarily believe and love Him with our whole heart.

When we do, there is an indescribable joy that comes from knowing the creator of the universe. How great would it be to know that the universe, the world we live in, and our very lives were not created by chance but that each creation that is not man-made was done with a specific purpose? The evidence of God is all around us, but for the truth to be revealed, there must be an acceptance of Jesus Christ in order to have one’s eyes illuminated to God’s truth. There is only one True God and none other like Him.

Defending the Faith

28 Monday Sep 2015

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cross-sword-and-shield-mdWarfare is a concept and a reality that has existed for centuries. Many wars have been fought for justifiable reasons and there have been many wars that were unjustified. However, in every war that has taken place, the element of defending one’s position and territory has been at the forefront of the war itself. The objective of any war is for one side to be victorious over the other, however, the common factor is that both sides are usually defending what they are in pursuit of.

To defend territory or a position is to actively stand against an adversary who threatens to advance which means gaining control or power. In Christendom, a popular scripture that is often quoted comes from Ephesians 6:12 which says:

(KJV) “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”

The above scripture is meant to focus on the aspect of warring or fighting a spiritual battle. This part of life is something that we are engaged in daily which is a spiritual battle. However, there is another aspect that we are to focus on as Christians even in the realm of spiritual warfare and that is ‘defending the faith.’ What is defending the faith and what does the Bible tell us about it?

1 Peter chapter 3 and verse 15 references the term ‘defense’ and the concept of defending the faith. The term ‘defense’ is not necessarily used in every translation but the concept remains the same. The context in this part of the chapter was to encourage Christians to defend the faith regardless of the opposition from unbelievers. The Apostle Peter wanted Christians to know that in the event that persecution occurs we are to defend what it is that we believe and our stance in Christ.

Verses 14-16:

(ESV) “But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.”

Peter says we are to “always be prepared to make a defense” which means we who are in Christ are to stand against the opposition. The fact is that Christians are given a charge to defend the faith which is an active stance against those who oppose. Many have unfortunately taken the position of restraining or containing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In today’s social climate, it has become the norm to relegate one’s belief or stance to oneself rather than imposing on anyone else.

However, the imposition of the Gospel or the faith is not to be squelched but to be shared with the lost. We should defend the faith because in such a defense we are showing forth our allegiance unto God and the things of God. There is a term that also aligns with defending the faith and it is ‘apologetic.’ This is a theological term which means to give a rational defense for the Christian faith. The word ‘apologetic’ can be broken down into the Greek form which is ‘apologia’ which means to give a reason or defense.

When we as Christians are challenged by the culture, we are not to run unashamedly nor are we to capitulate with what the social and even spiritual climate dictates. We are living in a time period in which the false doctrine both in many churches and even in society has become acceptable. Secular humanism, the influence of Islam, agnosticism and various religions have become taken as truth rather than seeing each as an extension of what satan wants to use to pervert and ultimately deceive.

However, those who are truly in Christ must be willing to defend the faith and stand for God’s truth regardless of what the cost may be. However, notice how we are to do so according to verse 15:

“yet do it with gentleness and respect”

Even in speaking the truth to those who are in darkness we must do so with gentleness and respect. Calling something out for what it is can be done respectfully because it means that it is being done in love towards the person. Many have embraced the belief that mentioning Hell and even the aspect of sin should be avoided. Not telling a person who is in danger of destruction is much worse that the backlash and opposition that will be given.

Instead, Christians are called to defend the faith or to give a reason as to why we believe. We are also called to give those who are lost the truth of Jesus Christ. However, we must do so with gentleness and respect which means that our tone should be truthful but also with a caring disposition which emanates from our relationship with Christ. The fact about eternal damnation can be given to the world without it utterly destroying the person in the process.

The goal of reaching those in Christ isn’t to speak with words of vitriol but to simply give those in their sin the lifeline who is Jesus Christ. The truth of God will convict which is the job of the Holy Spirit. Our responsibility is to deliver the message as it is by giving the consequences of what will occur if a person in sin does not receive the intervention of Jesus Christ. We are not to add or remove anything from the the Word of God.

At the end of the day, the defense of the faith is necessary because both salvation and the reality of Hell and eternal separation from God are crucial nuggets of truth for every person. While our society continues to erode in sin, there must be those who are willing to stand firm and defend the truth of God. Not to do so would mean that we as Christians have given up not only our position but our territory to the enemy.

Satan wants to eliminate every opportunity for someone’s eyes to be opened to the truth. We as Christians must give the world a reason as to why it is that we believe in God. Why should holiness and an abstinence from sin be the way that we as Christians live? Why is it that social issues such as homosexuality and abortion should be openly addressed by those who are in Christ instead of remaining in silence? Why is it that God’s Word and an adherence to it is to be applied to one’s life?

For every Christian, the answer lies in verse 15 in which Peter says, “but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy.” This is not only expected of each Christian, but it is a command. The reason is because everything that we do we do so out of reverence unto Jesus Christ because He is Holy. With honoring His holiness, there is an expectation that we would then defend the truth of God in the midst of opposition and deception. The point is to go after those who are in their sin and give them God’s Word.

Our concern isn’t whether or not someone is offended by God’s truth because believe it or not there will be those who find God’s truth offensive. This is not contradictory with the statement of being gentle and respectful. The reason is because those who are in their sin will naturally reject any truth that God provides. It is only when a person’s heart is open and a choice has been made to surrender that such truth will convict and open their blinded eyes.

The concern of every Christian should be to model the example of Jesus Christ and to give the Gospel to all of humanity. Many have unfortunately remained in silence for a fear of rejection and not wanting to be challenged by those in sin. However, the defense of our faith requires that we challenge the opposition since the opposition is so adamant about challenging those in Christ.

Jesus Christ is the lifeline for every lost soul, but it is a choice that one makes to accept or reject the gift of life. Do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? If not, then you are in sin and you need a savior. Jesus is the one and only one who can save you from your sinful condition. Accept this gift of life and allow your life to be made whole through the redeeming power of the cross.

A Call to Repentance and Turning Away from Your Sin

28 Monday Sep 2015

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When it comes to learning, a common method that is often used is ‘repetition.’ The word ‘repetition’ essentially means to repeat a behavior with the end result being a learned trait or behavior. In the educational field, repetition or rehearsal is often used in order to achieve mastery over a certain skill. The mind that God has given us is designed to work within the realm of repeated behavior to learn.

As we do something over and over again, it becomes 2nd nature to us and, as a result, we no longer think it strange to behave in the manner that we learned. It is the constant exposure to a behavior that causes our mindset to change so that what we continue to do is then learned. It then means that certain boundaries that were once in place before the repetitious learning are no longer defensible to one’s mind. Repetition is a lifelong process for learning that obviously begins at our youth. It is this type of education that creates a mode of daily operation in what one has constantly learned to do.

In our world today, the aspect of sin and sinful behavior has taken on an accelerated form of acceptance and even its own lifestyle. We are living in a global society in which ‘anything goes’ which is meant to suggest that one can live as they see fit. Sin and the participation in sin is apart of our nature. This means that a continued lifestyle of sin leads to further sinful behavior because we learn from what we do constantly.

However, Jesus Christ died on the cross for a reason and that was so that you and I could be saved from the penalty of sin. In addition to this, Christ’s sacrifice demands that all who choose, will heed the call to repentance and turn from sinful behavior.

In the book of John chapter 5, Jesus encounters a man at a place called ‘Bethesda’ which is located in Jerusalem. According to verse 5, there was a man who had been lying near a pool and he had been paralyzed for 38 years. The pool was meant to be a place of healing. It is at this point that Jesus asks the man a question:

Verse 6:

(NLV) “Jesus saw him lying there and knew the man had been sick a long time. Jesus said to him,“Would you like to be healed?”

This verse is important to examine because Jesus was asking the man if he wanted to be healed from his condition. When you think about the condition that sin leaves us in, it is a condition that leads to a life of destruction. Sin is what separates us from having a relationship with God, however, it is because of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross that we all have a way of escape.

The question that Jesus asks the sick individual suggests that Jesus is offering an alternative to the condition. Of course, it also symbolizes that the sick man has a choice to make.

Verses 7-9:

(NLV) “The sick man said, “Sir, I have no one to put me in the pool when the water is moving. While I am coming, another one gets in first.” Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your bed and walk.” At once the man was healed and picked up his bed and walked. This happened on the Day of Rest.”

Once the man accepts Christ’s offer and he is obedient to the original command to get up, he is immediately healed of his condition. However, there is something else to take note of in verse 14.

(NLV) “Later Jesus found the man who had been healed in the house of God. He said to him, “Listen! You have been healed. Stop sinning or something worse will come to you.””

Not only does Jesus offer a change in the man’s condition but He says “Stop sinning or something worse will come to you.” Other translations of the Bible use the words “Go and sin no more.” Why does Jesus tell this individual not to sin anymore and why does He warn him that if he does that something worse will happen to him? It is clear that the man who had been stricken with paralysis had sinned in his past which caused his condition. It is unclear as to what sin he had committed, but the fact that Jesus tells him not to sin anymore suggests that Jesus knew that his condition was a result of his sin.

In the world that we live in today, many believe that you can seek forgiveness from God and continue to sin as you please. However, just as Jesus made a call for the sick individual to be healed from his condition, Jesus is making the same call to many today. That call is one of repentance. Many are now adhering to the message of ‘God is love’ which is absolutely true. God is a God of love and He wants us to love our neighbor as ourselves.

However, what this teaching or message lacks is the other part which is that God is a God who expects us to be Holy and to abstain from sin. Since God is Holy then we are to be Holy as 1 Peter 1:16 says. Satan desires that we remain in the condition of sin because he understands that we cannot fully please God or have a relationship with Him while we are in our sin. Deception has been infused into our world system and it has even crept into many churches.

God is calling us to repentance which means that He wants us to ask Him to forgive us of our sins. True repentance means that there is an acknowledgment of wrongdoing. However, that is not where repentance ends. The 2nd part to repentance is to actively turn away from your sin and not to return to it. Jesus told the paralyzed individual not to sin again because if he did he would experience worse consequences.

The message of Jesus Christ is both one of redemption but also a call to holiness. The point of being changed from one’s condition isn’t to go back to what was once detestable and sinful, however, it is to commit oneself to the aversion of sin. Even those who do not believe in God believe that the sin that they live in will not and does not equal consequences. However, if you look at the world around us you can see the consequences that exist.

Turning away from your sin is not only beneficial because you will avoid further consequences, but it shows an allegiance and a love for God. At the end of the day, God wants us to choose Him and to love Him with all of our heart. It is the avoidance and remittance of sin that shows God how much we love Him. Truly following Christ involves living in holiness and adhering to God’s Word.

The common argument is that none of us are perfect and that we all sin. This statement is a fact in that none of us are perfect. However, more often than not this is used as an excuse to continue in sin and to take advantage of God’s grace. Another issue is that many would rather not be told that they are in danger of going to Hell because of their sin. Many believe that to be condemnation. However, it would be far worse not to hold each person to God’s standard of holiness by allowing sin to run rampant in the life of a believer or even a non-believer.

Jesus Christ does not offer condemnation, but He offers eternal life. The only way to achieve eternal life is to accept Christ’s sacrifice, repent of your sin and to turn from it. Even those of us who are in Christ must actively pursue holiness because it is what God requires. We as humans will never be perfect in our endeavors, but God does not expect those who are called to live sinfully with the assumption that it is permissible to sin and yet claim allegiance unto God.

The more you love God with all of your being, the less you will desire to sin which means even when you falter it is less likely that you will go back to the same sin. Do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? The process for salvation starts at acknowledging that you are a sinner and that you need salvation. Secondly, you must believe in your heart that Jesus Christ is Lord. Then you must turn from your sin and seek God in daily prayer, reading His Word, and connecting with other believers in the faith. Today is the day to heed the call to repentance and to turn from your sin.

Spiritual Exercise – Working Out Your Salvation

25 Friday Sep 2015

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ID-100179879Physical exercise is a part of life that is usually encouraged to all who have the ability of movement. It is physical movement that is responsible for the strengthening of one’s muscles, the burning of calories, in addition to increased blood flow throughout the body. The more that you exercise, the healthier that you will become. There are various types of exercises that are designed to concentrate on specific body parts.

Exercises can contrast between light and heavy with a special emphasis on improving bodily function. One type of exercise that is common is known as ‘weight lifting.’ Lifting weights are designed to enhance muscle expansion and overall physical strength. The greater number of repetitions, the greater one’s endurance will be when lifting weights. It is also true as it relates lifting heavier objects. The heavier the object, the greater one’s resistance becomes meaning more strength.

In one’s walk with Jesus Christ, there is also the element of ‘working out’ or ‘exercise.’ Such exercise is done spiritually in various ways. In the book of Philippians chapter 2 and verse 12, the Apostle Paul gives simplistic encouragement to Christians. Paul says the following:

(ESV) “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling,”

In this chapter, the Apostle Paul is writing to the church of Philippi in which he is encouraging Christians not to be proud and to also have a love for each other. In verses 5-11, Paul also mentions that Christ exhibited humility which we as Christians should also seek to model after. However, verse 12 is a direct challenge to every Christian to work out one’s salvation in fear and trembling. What does Paul mean when he makes this statement?

To work out one’s salvation means that there must be an active process of engaging in spiritual activity. The point is to enhance your own life and the life of others through development in Jesus Christ. There are those who believe that one can receive salvation and that is the end of the process. However, the words ‘work out’ is meant to suggest that one is proactive in their own salvation or salvific experience. How do we as Christians work out our salvation? Here are a few considerations:

Reverence God daily – In today’s time there are those within Christianity who have allowed themselves to lose or not fully understand the fear or reverence of the Lord. God is a Holy God who demands that the creation worship Him and He alone. Many have taken the stance of living in religiosity with rituals but not truly seeking to revere the personhood of God. When you have a ‘fear and trembling’ as Paul says in verse 12 it means that you understand the authority of God. It also means that you are not apt to voluntarily sin which means that you abide by the set standard of Holiness and righteousness.

Paul says in verse 13:

(NLT) “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.”

Here Paul says that God works in us which means that if we reverence Him then we are automatically obedient unto God because God then gives us the desire to do His will. A Christian should never lose reverence for God or the things of God. Otherwise, a desecration of all that is Holy and righteous begins to occur which is displeasing unto God.

Seek God’s truth in His Word – The Apostle Paul gives Christians another nugget of truth concerning God’s Word in Romans 15:4:

(ESV) “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.”

The Word of God was written through men by the inspiration of God, but it was written for our instruction and our encouragement. When you and I begin to read God’s Word and allow it to guide us, then we will grow spiritually. The Word of God is also the hope and the only hope that we as humans have. Part of the reason why there is so much confusion in our world is because there has been a deviation from the Bible and its truth.

We are living in a time in which many don’t truly know how to rightly divide the Word of truth which has led to many being deceived. However, God’s truth does not change despite how humanity does. We who are in Christ must know God’s Word and look to it for absolute truth and encouragement. It is what will keep us from being led astray into deception. This is why it is important for you and I to constantly meditate on God’s Word and allow His truth to permeate our heart.

Daily prayer – 1 Thessalonians chapter 5:16-18 says the following:

(ESV) “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

The Apostle Paul is once again encouraging Christians through His letter to the church of Thessalonica in which he uses the phrase, ‘pray without ceasing’ which is meant as a directive. We as Christians are to always pray because it keeps the line of communication open to God. God desires that we have a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ. One way of doing that is through prayer because it invokes reverence and communication unto a Holy God.

When we pray, we are to recognize that our prayer enhances our connection to God and it also keeps us in the will of God. It is prayer that provides safety, change, power, and the ability to access the authority that we have as Christians. It is also important to understand that in our times of prayer, we should seek to listen to God because He will also speak back to us through the Holy Spirit.

Building relationships with those in the body of Christ – The Bible encourages us to build up one another as it says in 1 Thessalonians 5:11. We are to edify each other in the body because when we do, it begins to invoke strength and unity. Walking in this life as a loner only leads to a life that is not vibrant or connected and it lacks accountability.

However, we should be accountable to someone else and we should also keep in mind that the struggle we have with sin is a burden that others can assist us with. We are to bear the burdens of one another according to Galatians 6:2.

The ultimate goal of every Christian should be to seek to be Christ-like which stems from one’s devotion unto God by considering and putting into practice each of these three methods. Active participation in one’s salvation is paramount to growth in God. Salvation does not stop at merely confessing your sins before Jesus Christ, but there is a process of salvation which involves seeking God to purify your heart and mind daily.

Do you know Jesus Christ as your personal Lord & Savior? If not, today is a great day to receive salvation through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. He died on the cross and rose again so that you could be redeemed. Start the process by accepting this gift of salvation. After you have done so, the journey continues as you become a new person through Christ.

Day and Night – Recognizing the Difference Between the Two

24 Thursday Sep 2015

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DayNightAll of us have been blessed to have the gift of life. While not everyone will pass away at the same exact time period, the one thing we all have in common is that we each have 24 hours a day that God has given to us. In such a time period, there are at least two distinctions that we all use to determine how much time has passed. The first distinction is that of the ‘daytime.’ Daytime or daylight symbolizes light and even movement. To see the light of day is to experience illumination.

While the hour of morning generally begins at 12:00 am, daybreak is usually understood to take place when the sun begins to rise and darkness begins to recede. Thus, the end of the night is declared which means the beginning of the dawn. Then there is also of course the distinction of the ‘night time’ or ‘dusk.’ The night time period represents darkness and for many a time of rest or seclusion from the world. It is usually a time in which you are unable to see because of the darkness that surrounds you.

Spiritually speaking, there is also such a distinction between light and darkness. The Apostle Paul assists us in the illustration by using the phrases ‘children of the light’ and ‘children of the day.’ This reference can be found in 1 Thessalonians Chapter 5 in verse 5 in which he says the following:

(ESV) “For you are all children of light, children of the day. We are not of the night or of the darkness”

In chapter 5 of 1 Thessalonians, the Apostle Paul is writing to the church in Thessalonica. He urges Christians in that church to be watchful for the Lord’s return. Paul does so in the manner of reminding those who are in Christ that they are not in darkness, but that we in Christ are children of the light or children of the day. Why does Paul use both of those phrases concerning Christians?

To be a child of the day or a child of the light, it means that there is a sense of illumination and even a distinction. Paul continues in that verse when he says that we are not of the night or the darkness. This is a declaration to those who are in Christ that there is a separation between those in Christ and those who are in sin. Children of the day are individuals who have allowed Jesus Christ to enlighten their spiritual eyes and their heart.

What are the characteristics of a person who is a child of the day? Here are a few considerations:

Godly Love – This is not meant to refer to love as the world casually uses this phrase, but it is meant to denote a love that only comes from God. The world suggests that love is based on a feeling or that it is conditional. However, love that comes from God is unconditional and it seeks to serve others.

Restraint and abstinence from sinful living – A person who is a child of the day will adhere to a lifestyle that is not one of living in sin. Contrary to much of the false doctrine, one who is truly in Christ will shun evil as Proverbs 14:16 says. We are living in a time in which one can claim Christianity or say that they know God, but yet their lifestyle does not line up with God’s demand for self-restraint and obedience unto His commands.

A person cannot be a child of the light or of the day and allow sin to be within their life. Our world today continues to impress the idea that you can believe in God and be ‘religious’ and yet accept sinful behavior and even the sinful behavior of others.

Allegiance to God instead of to what satan desires – Humanity has now embraced secular humanism and ‘global unity.’ However, we who are children of the day must reject satan’s ploy to unify those of us who are in Christ with the wickedness of the world. Our allegiance must be to God and God alone. Anything less than such a stance is to abide by the lawlessness and sinfulness that is presented to those in the faith.

Such characteristics or dispositions as noted above are just a few of the things that separate a person who is of the day and a person who is of the night. What are the characteristics of a person who is a child of the night or in darkness?

Unrepentant sin – If you look at the world around us, many have taken God’s truth and spiritual and even moral absolutes and made it into a complete lie. It is now acceptable to do ‘what you feel’ is the right thing and to accept a myriad of sins. Those who live in unrepentant sin are doing so because they are unable to accept the things of the Holy Spirit as 1 Corinthians 2:14 says. Their eyes have not been illuminated by Jesus Christ, which means sin is natural which means they are in darkness.

Confusion about what is true and what is a lie – Our world today has become entrenched in the delivery of various mixed messages that many are confused as to what is right and what is wrong. Even many who claim to be Christians have allowed the world to dictate what God has said and what God hasn’t said. It is the person who is a child of the night that cannot understand the truth of God because they adhere to false doctrine.

Rapid decay both spiritually and physically – If you are a child of the night or in darkness then your life will begin to exhibit a decline in many different ways. Outside of Jesus Christ a person’s life cannot be full of peace or safety because there is a staunch opposition to God who gives life in abundance. Various examples can be shown of what a life looks like when it is unattached from Jesus Christ. Many who commit suicide or even those who are caught in addiction are simply mirroring the symptoms of a broken life without Christ.

Just as there is an obvious delineation between day and night, spiritually there is a divide between light and darkness. What the world promotes is a merge between the two, however, if a person is truly in Christ then such a merger cannot take place because the world will not accept the things or the people of God as they are. To a sinner who chooses to reject God, anything that resembles His light cannot and will not be accepted.

The reason for this is because, where there is light the darkness begins to fade. That is how the life of every Christian should operate. Are you a child of the day or a child of the night? If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior then you are living in darkness. Jesus came and died so that you could be a child of the day. The world is rapidly changing for the worse, but there is hope in Jesus Christ. Accept His gift of life and allow God to show you His marvelous light.