Why Does God Love Us?

20 Thursday Aug 2015

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

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Agape, Eros, God, God's love, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Love, Sin, Unconditional love

Nature which is one of the many gifts that God gives to us provides various testaments to His glory. Whether the elements of His creation are big or small, they all serve as indicators of how marvelous and supreme God is in His splendor. One creation that many do not think much about is the common ant. The ant which is an arthropod is one of the many insects that showcase just how the brilliance of God has translated to creation.

The ant is an insect that is best known for displaying hard work or toil towards a specific task. Day in and day out, ants can be found moving constantly as they build, seeking food and shelter, and carry out the purpose of their natural instincts. It is also said that ants can lift up to 5,000 times their own weight despite their miniscule size. The ant is an amazing creature despite how overlooked they are. However, the ant shares a common trait with humans and that is our lives when compared to such a Holy and magnificent God do not even match His glory.

God is altogether matchless in every inch and portion of His divinity. This is of course not to suggest that your life and my life do not matter. Our lives matter because we were created by God to worship Him and to spread His glory throughout the Earth and throughout history. However, despite who we are and all of our imperfections the question can be asked and that is ‘Why does God love us?’ What is it about humanity that God would even think about you and I?

In the book of Psalms, the Psalmist David phrases the question of God’s love differently. In Psalm chapter 8 verse 4 he says,

(NLT) “what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?”

If you look through the Bible there are at least three scriptures which either reference David’s question or directly quote the same verse. They are Hebrews 2:6, Job 7:17, and Psalm 144:3. This is a critical question because when you look at who we are as humans, the fact is that you and I are undeserving of God’s grace and love. We are undeserving because of our sinfulness and the fact that we were all born into sin. David is asking the question of why we as mere human beings are even considered by such a Holy and righteous God.

If you think about it, we deserve Hell and destruction because of the original state that we were all born in. There are many who continue to remain in their state of sin because they either choose not to believe in God’s existence or they are committed to serving their sinful nature rather than living in submission unto God. Romans 7:18 says,

(ESV) “For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out.”

The Apostle Paul understood that because of his sinful nature that outside of God’s intervention through Christ Jesus that we do not have the ability to ‘be good.’ Sin is the very antithesis to God because His Holiness is the direct opposite of sin which was born out of Adam & Eve’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden. Based on that fact, it could be assumed that God should have nothing to do with you and I. As David asks, “What are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them?”

Why does God love us? Why is it that there are so many tragedies that occur daily and yet humanity is allowed to exist? Why didn’t God destroy humanity in the very beginning and start over? These are questions that many have asked and many continue to ask. However, is there an answer for God’s love towards a sinful and imperfect human race?

Genesis 1:27 says the following:

(NLT) “So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”

The important thing to note concerning that scripture is that God created us in His own image. To be in the image of God is to be made in His likeness or made in His splendor. When you really think about it, there is no one who is greater than God Himself. Since God pre-existed time and space, then it meant that He was the only one who was glorious. Thus, because there was no one before Him and there shall be no one after Him, then the love that He has toward us is based on the fact that we were created in His original image.

Basically, we as human beings are to represent the image and likeness of God. It is because of the introduction of sin that the image of God within us was shattered upon being born into sin. That does not mean that God loves us any less, but the love that God shows to us through grace and mercy is based upon God being love and wanting His image to be shown in us to further glorify Himself.

1 John 4:8 says that God is love which means that all of the attributes of love which are listed in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 are the exact traits that comprise who God is. So, if God is love then it means that He shows the same love to you and I. God exemplifies what is called ‘Agape love.’ The word, ‘agape’ is Greek which means unconditional. To exhibit agape love is to show forth a love that goes beyond right and wrong. Basically, regardless of what a person does, the love that was there initially, still exists at the same magnitude.

That is the type of love that God has for you and I. He loves us unconditionally because He is love which means that He was and is the original creator of what love is meant to be. Satan has corrupted the minds of many throughout history to pervert love to be something that it never was. Today, love can be lustful and sexual or it can be based out of greed. It doesn’t mean that love does not encompass sensuality because the term ‘Eros’ is a 2nd Greek term which is the erotic type of love.

However, what satan has done is cheapened the very love that God created and portrayed love to be inherently selfish and self-seeking. The kind of love that God shows is not selfish, but it is based on wanting you and I to experience life and life abundantly through Jesus Christ. God wants all of us to bask in His glory because there is no one greater than He. Regardless of what attractions or pleasures the world promotes, the glorious presence of God Almighty supersedes everything else.

John 3:16 says that God so loved the world that He gave Jesus Christ as His only begotten son that whosoever shall believe in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. God’s love never runs dry unlike the love of humanity. We as humans are fallible which means that our lives are unstable. However, when we connect with Jesus Christ we begin to show the attributes of the great love that God lavishes upon us daily.

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your personal Lord & Savior then you don’t know the love that God shows to us. You can be a recipient of this love by accepting Christ and committing your life to Him. God has designed you and I to worship Him and experience His glory to the full. Take the time today to commit your life to Christ by confessing your sins and believing in your heart that Jesus Christ is Lord. This great love that God offers is available to you.

The Coming Judgment of God (Part 2) – Preparing Yourself Spiritually

19 Wednesday Aug 2015

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

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End times, God, God's judgment, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Judgment, Last days, Preparation, Sin, Sinfulness, The End times

Full Size Image Thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes and even snow storms are a normal part of the natural occurrence of weather patterns. Each year, we can see both the beauty and the severity that exists as it relates to active weather scenarios. With each storm that approaches there is also the personal responsibility of everyone who will be affected to prepare and prepare adequately. Storms that are severe can and often impose hazardous conditions to those within range.

Thus, it is paramount that anyone who is warned of a looming storm prepare before it actually occurs. Lack of preparation will only lead to a disaster which could mean suffering minor or major injuries or even losing your life. Natural disaster mitigation has become more important than ever before due to the increase in the severity of weather patterns.

Spiritually speaking you and I must prepare ourselves before the judgment of God falls upon the nation that we live in. It is a fact that all nations will be judged by God at some point. In the book of Psalms chapter 9, the Psalmist David is actually giving adoration unto God for the judgment that He gives. Many of the Psalms which were written by David are songs of praise for the attributes and even the many acts that God had done for David in his life.

In chapter 9, David starts in verses 1-2 by giving praise:

(NLV) “I will give thanks to the Lord with all my heart. I will tell of all the great things You have done. I will be glad and full of joy because of You. I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High.”

Verses 3-6:

(NLV) “When those who hate me turn away, they fall and are lost from You. For You have stood by my right actions. You sit on Your throne and are right in how You judge. You have spoken sharp words to the nations and have destroyed the sinful. You have thrown out their name forever and ever.”

It is clear in verses 3-5 that David found himself in conflict with those who were considered to be his enemies. In Psalm 109, David prayed for the destruction of those who hated him or were against him. However, in Psalm 9, notice that the word ‘judge’ is used. This word is used to indicate that God is the ultimate judge over each person. This means that ultimately God will have the final say over every life and every nation.

Verses 6-8:

(NLV) “Those who fight against You are finished forever. You have destroyed their cities. They will be remembered no more. But the Lord lives forever. He has set up His throne to say who is guilty or not.He will punish the world by what is right. He will be fair as He rules the people.”

These verses point to the fact that God has and will judge the world. David says that God “will punish the world by what is right.” which means that any nation or any person who is not following God’s decrees or His will, will find themselves in a state of punishment as it relates to the wrath of God. As mentioned in part 1 of the topic of the coming of God’s judgment, there will be a day in which God’s judgment will fall. Sin cannot continue without a penalty. David made it clear that God’s judgment during His time of living was one of fairness and swift punishment against all who rejected God in His righteousness.

If you look at our world today, there are many signs of the coming judgment that God will bring. Various acts of violence occur daily in addition to blatant examples of God’s decrees being rejected by the masses. The truth is that we are living in a world that is godless. It doesn’t mean that those who God has called out of darkness do not exist. However, the majority have decided to embrace wickedness and a lifestyle that is open to sinful behavior. Even with the monumental evidence pointing in a direction of accepted sinfulness, there are things that you and I can do to prepare for the coming wrath of God.

1. Ensure that you are truly in Christ – To be found in Christ is the safest place that you can be during a time of disaster. Scripture makes it clear that everyone who engages in pride and a rejection of God’s authority will be judged and taken down. Isaiah 2:12 says the following:

(KJV) “For the day of the Lord of hosts shall be upon every one that is proud and lofty, and upon everyone that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low:”

However, in order to avoid calamity, you and I must find ourselves in a position of surrender unto Christ. You can think of being in a relationship with Jesus as being in a bunker or a cellar during a time of destruction. A bunker is a place in which you can hide during a time of a nuclear explosion. The purpose of a bunker is to shield those who are confined within it from the chemical elements and explosions that would be a result from chemical warfare. If you haven’t accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord & Savior, you are living in a life of sin and you are vulnerable to God’s judgment. By finding yourself in Him, you will escape the penalty of a life that will be judged by God rather harshly.

2. Know what the signs of the times are – The truth is that we are living in the End Times. The End Times represent the active scenarios that will take place before Jesus Christ returns for those who have accepted Him as Lord & Savior. The book of Matthew chapter 24 is a passage of scripture that points to many of the signs that would occur on Earth just before Jesus Christ will return. Many of the signs have taken place such as Earthquakes in many places, in addition to wars and rumors of wars. Another such sign is the increase in wickedness which is stated in 2 Timothy 3:2.

The point is that we are seeing an escalation in the sinfulness of humanity in addition to increasing tragedies that are occurring daily. What you see on your local, national and international news networks are many signs which are pointing to the End Times. It is important that you and I are aware of the signs so that we are not caught unprepared when Christ returns. 1 Peter 4:7 says to be sober or aware so that you can be watchful and praying. We are to be mindful of the times that we live in and we are to be prayerful about our world and our very lives.

3. Know God’s Voice and know His truth – It is incumbent upon every person who desires to prepare before God’s judgment comes to know God’s voice and His truth. Knowing God’s voice comes by spending time with Him in prayer and in worship. It is the same as building a relationship with a person. The more you communicate and have a relationship, the more you will know the person’s voice or habits. God speaks in various ways but by spending time with Him you are then aware of His voice. God may be speaking to your heart and He may be urging you to deviate from your daily routine which may one day save your life.

Having a firm sense of when God is speaking and what He is saying will be vital during these times. Discerning His voice and knowing what He commands can be a difference in what happens to you and what you may avoid as a result. Knowing God’s Word will also help you to avoid the deception that satan proposes to us daily. If you don’t have a clear understanding of what God’s Word says and how to apply it, then you will fall for the lies of the world.

The fact is that God’s judgment is coming and it is coming soon. While you and I do not know exactly when the next wave of God’s judgment will fall, I can tell you that the day is sooner than not. God has already promised in various parts of the Bible that anyone who rejects His authority will be taken down by His righteous judgment. Every nation that approves of sinful behavior will be met with destruction. The judgment of God isn’t an easy topic to discuss, but it must be shared with the masses.

Every day there are many examples of how close we are coming to the judgment of God. It is only a matter of time before He reveals His wrath on every nation and person who is not found in Him. Will you be prepared for what is coming? If you don’t know Jesus Christ, today is the best day that you can accept His sacrifice. Find your safety in Jesus Christ and avoid the wrath of God’s judgment.

The Coming Judgment of God (Part 1)

14 Friday Aug 2015

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

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God, Idol, Idol worship, Idolatry, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Judgment, Sin, Sinfulness

If you have ever watched or even participated in the sport of surfing, you would have noticed that to surf you must endure considerable sized waves from the ocean. A skilled surfer can navigate through the water by employing various techniques in order to ride through waves as they rise and thrash around. However, there are also times in which surfing can be a challenging sport.

Even the most skilled of surfers can encounter waves that are so grandiose that they are unable to maintain stability. As a result, the wave begins to overcome the individual by completely submerging the surfer underneath the swell of the wave. In some cases, it can be deadly and dangerous to experience a gigantic wave that has the capacity to overpower your very efforts to remain balanced. That is because of the wave’s sheer force which supplants even the most experienced of surfers. Regardless of how much experience a surfer may have, there are moments when he/she is not a match for the magnitude that a raging wave can bring.

The same concept can be applied spiritually in that there will be a day in which all of humanity will see God’s judgment on display. The analogy of a tidal wave represents the judgment of God. Basically, many are in their sin and ignoring the coming wrath and judgment that God will bring. In this context, the reference to God’s judgment is not concerning our individual judgment when you and I will stand before the judgment seat of Christ. The judgment that I am referring to is the wrath that God will display towards every nation that has rejected Him.

In the book of Amos chapter 5, there is yet another example of the people of Israel being judged because of their sins. It is important to note that although God has always had a covenant with the people of Israel, they were not exempt from being judged whenever they forsook God to engage in idolatry and disobedience. Amos was one of the many prophets in the Bible who prophesied against Israel by delivering the message of judgment that God had spoken.

In chapter 5 of the book of Amos, Amos is seen giving a call to repentance as it relates to the people of Israel. As it was many times before, the people of Israel had strayed away from God by turning to foreign gods and to sinful behavior. Each time they did this they were judged harshly with various consequences. According to this scripture in Amos, the people of Israel were essentially encouraged to turn back to God rather than continuing in their idolatry.

Verses 1-3:

(NLV) “Hear this word, O people of Israel, this song of sorrow which I sing for you:“The young pure woman Israel has fallen, and she will not rise again. She is left alone on her land. There is no one to raise her up.”For the Lord God says, “The city of Israel that sends out a thousand soldiers will have a hundred left. And the one that sends out a hundred will have ten left.”

Verses 4-5:

(NLV) “The Lord says to the people of Israel, “Look for Me and live. But do not look for Bethel. Do not go to Gilgal or cross over to Beersheba. For the people of Gilgal will be taken away to a strange land, and Bethel will come to nothing.”

It is important to note that in these verses Amos is speaking to the reality of what Israel had become spiritually. Gilgal, Beersheba, and Bethel were all places that the people of Israel had committed idolatry. Basically, idols and graven images had been erected in those places but as Amos prophesied, the places where idol worship had taken place would be no more. Amos urges those in Israel to look to God so that they can live. Essentially, this was the final plea of Amos for those in their sin to turn to God rather than remaining in their disobedience.

Verses 6-7:

(NLV) “Look for the Lord and live, or He will break out like fire in the family of Joseph. It will destroy, and no one in Bethel will be able to stop it. You turn what is right into something bitter. You throw what is right and good down to the earth.”

Amos says that if they continue to reject God that God will destroy them as a fire destroys. Notice also verse 7 in which Amos says, “You turn what is right into something bitter. You throw what is right and good down to the earth.” If you look at all of the chaos and unrest that is occurring within our world today, it is a symptom of an underlying problem which is sinfulness. Just as this scripture points to the sins that the people of Israel were committing, many in our world are doing the same.

Various laws are being passed worldwide which no longer provide a sanctity for life nor are they based on the foundation of God and His righteousness. Essentially, humanity has turned what is considered to be right or just into as Amos says “something bitter.” Even in verses 10-11, the people of Israel rejected the truth of God or anyone who spoke it. That is what many have done throughout our world. Many have chosen to deny the truth of God only to live by their own standard of truth. When this happens, there is a price to pay which is that of God’s righteous judgment.

In chapter 8 of Amos, the judgment of Israel is further predicted which eventually occurs later in chapter 9. In chapter 8, Amos has a dream with the symbolism of a basket of fruit. Here is what Amos says in verses 1-3:

(NLV) “This is what the Lord God showed me: There was a basket of summer fruit.And the Lord said, “What do you see, Amos?” I said, “A basket of summer fruit.” Then the Lord said to me, “The end has come for My people Israel. I will not change My mind again about punishing them. The songs of the king’s house will become loud cries of sorrow on that day,” says the Lord God. “There will be many dead bodies. In every place, they will be thrown out without a word.”

Looking at this scripture it is clear that the end of the people of Israel had come. God declared in verse 2 “I will not change My mind again about punishing them.” It came to a point in which God was so displeased that He had seen enough of the sin. There will come a day for every nation and person who rejects God that their time will be cut short. If America and other foreign countries insist on instituting societies of blatant sinfulness, then there will be a day of reckoning. Just as Israel received its judgment at that time, every nation that rejects God will also receive the judgment that it is due.

The final part to notice are verses 11-12 which says:

(NLV) “The days are coming,” says the Lord God, “when I will send a time upon the land when the people will be very hungry. They will not be hungry for bread or thirsty for water, but they will be hungry to hear the Words of the Lord.People will go from sea to sea, and from the north to the east. They will go from place to place to look for the Word of the Lord, but they will not find it.”

Essentially, God declared that there would be a day in which the people of Israel would find themselves searching to hear from God, but they would hear nothing in return. The reason is because of the disobedience and rejection that the people of Israel engaged in. They were so steeped in their traditions and sinful behavior that they rejected the very God who had given them commands and even provided for them years earlier. So, since they made the choice to reject God, God decided that he would not speak to the people of Israel.

If you look at it in today’s context, our world is in a similar position. God is speaking to us daily through people and various signs of the End Times. However, the majority are continuing to ignore what God has spoken. As a result, there will come a day in which it will be too late to make amends for the sinfulness that has occurred. The people of Israel were cast down for their disobedience.

God does not and will not tolerate the blatant sinfulness that is so prominent in our world today. There will be a time in which the hand of God will be completely removed. God’s grace is still hovering over our nations to a degree, but the more sinfulness that we engage in the further back his grace is removed. Now is the time for you and I to heed the call of God before His judgment falls.

If you don’t know Jesus as your personal Lord & Savior, today is a great day to give your life to Christ. Our world continues to grow worse, but there is still hope. Jesus Christ is the hope of the Earth. It is up to you to decide where your life will be found. Ony in Christ will you find safety.

What is the Purpose of the Body of Christ?

13 Thursday Aug 2015

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

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Body, Body of Christ, God, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Purpose, Salvation

The human body is one of the many creations that God has given to us as a gift. If you look at the human body it is comprised of various organs that have specific purposes. Whether internally or externally, the human body is a creation that no one else can claim as its creator other than God Almighty. With the creation of the human body, there are body parts.

Each body part is designed to function in a specific role in the body as a whole. For example, the legs allow the body to move from one place to another. The arms of the body create the capability to reach objects in conjunction with each hand being used to grasp. Body parts such our ears and our eyes allow us to hear and to see what is within our surroundings. Each body part is unique but when they are working in unison they accomplish the purpose of the body which is to function fully.

The very example of the human body is the imagery that the Apostle Paul uses in 1 Corinthians chapter 12 in verses 12-21. However, before Paul uses the analogy of the human body in reference to those in Christ, he talks about the spiritual gifts that reside within the body of Christ and the diversity of the various gifts. In verses 4-7 Paul mentions the diversity or differences between the spiritual gifts that God has made available.

(NKJV) “There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord.And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all.But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all:”

In verses 8-11 Paul gives examples of the various spiritual gifts such as teaching, prophecy, the interpretation of tongues, discerning of spirits, and the gift of healing. Paul’s point is that within the body there are different spiritual gifts that exist. As the Apostle Paul continues in this chapter he then uses the analogy of the human body, however, before he begins he says the following in verses 12-14:

(NKJV) “For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ.For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. For in fact the body is not one member but many.”

Paul’s point in these verses is that we who are in Christ are to be ‘one’ or unified regardless of what background we may come from. The key is that we are all baptized into one body which means that we are partakers of the Holy Spirit in oneness or unity. The point of this chapter in 1 Corinthians is to encourage unity within the body of Christ despite the various differences. Paul then uses the example of the human body in verses 15-17:

(NKJV) “If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I am not of the body,” is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I am not of the body,” is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where would be the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling?”

Verses 20-21:

(NKJV) “But now indeed there are many members, yet one body. And the eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you”; nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.”

In a summary, Paul is basically making the point that the body of Christ should function in unity. He uses the analogy of human body parts to state that there are different parts, but there is one purpose or goal which is to function together. Even if there are different functions or different members within the body of Christ they cannot say that they do not need each other. Rather, each part must function in harmony in order to achieve the purposes of God.

This then leads to the question, ‘What is the purpose of the body of Christ?’ There are at least three purposes that the body of Christ serves:

1. To enhance and nourish the lives of those in the body of Christ –

Ephesians 4: 11-12 says the following:

(NLT) “Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ.”

Here the Apostle Paul makes reference to what is called the ‘Five-Fold Ministry.’ The Five -Fold Ministry is a collection of offices held within the body of Christ. These are offices that God has called some within the body of Christ to serve in their particular capacity. However, notice that Paul uses the word ‘gifts.’ Even with these five offices they are also considered to be gifts that God has given to some. Also, as it relates to the earlier passage in 1 Corinthians chapter 12, Paul names other gifts which God has made available to those who He has given them to.

The point is that one of the purposes of the body of Christ is to edify one another or to build up the church or the body of Christ. Edification is to institute a process of building a structure. In this case, the structure is that of the church or the body of Christ. Our goal as Christians is to serve one another in love and with our deeds. This creates a process of spiritual edification and unity among brothers and sisters in Christ.

2. The body of Christ must reach out to those who are lost and living in sin – In Mark chapter 16 verse 15 Jesus tells His Disciples to spread the Gospel unto all nations. The Gospel is ‘The Good News’ which is the news of redemption through Jesus Christ. The same command that Jesus gave to the Disciples is the same that applies to each person in Christ. We are not saved by grace to live within our own Christian sphere. We are saved so that we can be witnesses unto those who are in their sin.

The purpose of the body of Christ is to evangelize by spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The love of Christ spreads through you and I which means that if we are open and obedient to what God is calling us to do, we will be representatives of Christ in every area of our lives. Reaching out to those who are in darkness in addition to discipling others is what the Great Commission involves.

3. Model God’s love and His truth to a broken world – Those of us who are in Christ must be the example of God’s love and what His truth stands for. Not only must we love our neighbor as our self but we must take a stand against sinfulness by rejecting the lies of the world. Standing for God’s truth means loving everything He loves and hating everything He hates. We must be the ‘Salt of the Earth’ as Matthew 5:13 declares. We can only do that by showing forth the power of the Holy Spirit in how we live. If God is love and if God represents a righteous truth which is His truth, then we should declare His words and walk in the same manner.

Overall the body of Christ must come together in order to show forth the true power of God within this Earth. Walking in a relationship with Christ is indeed a personal endeavor. However, the body must function together if we are going to serve these three purposes. So many within the body of Christ have become divided based on race, culture, denomination, and doctrine. For too long the body of Christ has been split for various reasons but God is calling us to come together to accomplish His will.

If you don’t know Jesus as your personal Lord & Savior then you won’t be able to fulfill the purposes of the body of Christ. Join the body in reaching the lost by giving your heart to Jesus Christ. Accepting His sacrifice will change your life and you will become a part of The Great Commission and the body of Christ’s overall mission which is to glorify God in everything that we do.

Fighting for the Next Generations

12 Wednesday Aug 2015

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

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Children, Fighting, Generation, God, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Salvation, Warning, Youth

Children are one of the many gifts that God has given to humanity. To be a child is to experience life in a stage of innocence and wonder. Even to those who have their own children it is a blessing to birth a child from the womb. A child represents vitality, youthfulness, and imagination. Children were and are meant to be protected in addition to being raised to be aware of the realities of life as they grow into maturity.

In the book of Genesis chapter 1 and verse 28, God gave Adam & Eve a command to “be fruitful and multiply.” This meant that Adam & Eve were given the task to procreate by having offspring. The purpose of procreation was to perpetuate the image of God throughout the Earth. However, because of the sin that entered through Adam & Eve, the image of God within humanity became distorted which meant that each generation was also corrupted upon birth.

However, even with that being the reality, children are still God’s gift to all of us and they hold a special purpose in the heart and mind of God. That purpose is to continue a godly legacy through each generation that passes. In the book of Proverbs chapter 22 the writer who was King Solomon provides various words of wisdom which are in the form of instructions. In fact throughout the book of Proverbs there are words of admonishment and encouragement for all to seek wisdom and to walk in God’s righteousness. It is a book that contains many practical applications for the life of everyone who desires to follow God’s will.

In chapter 22 of the book of Proverbs, there is a key verse to focus on for the purposes of this post. Verse 6 says the following:

(NKJV) “Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.”

This verse is quite short and yet it is a powerful verse in the Bible because it signifies a reality as it relates to raising one’s child. King Solomon essentially says to raise a child in the way that they should go, with the result being that they will not depart from it. The question then becomes ‘What is the way that every child should go?’ As mentioned previously, the book of Proverbs was written with the purpose of instituting godly wisdom with practical principles for life.

King Solomon was the wisest man who had ever lived during his time. However, there is one thing that he understood and that was that to obtain wisdom meant to seek the one who dispensed wisdom who was and is God Almighty. The fact is that the way that every child should go is in the way of the fear and the admonition of the Lord. In Ephesians chapter 6 verse 4, the Apostle Paul confirms this notion when he says,

(ESV) “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.”

Basically, every child should be raised to not only fear or reverence the Lord but to at some point cultivate their own relationship with God through Jesus Christ. However, what we have seen and continue to see are many examples of children who are no longer being raised to reverence God. Children are now being raised by parents who don’t know God for themselves. As a result, each generation becomes more degenerate and susceptible to the lies that satan imposes.

We are living in a dangerous time in which the innocence of today’s children is being taken from them. They are being fed various forms of perversion through the media and shown that life or the things of life are no longer sacred. At younger and younger ages children are being taught to use violence to exact a means of justice. They are being taught that being homosexual and transgender is ‘normal.’ It is perfectly fine that a child or children can be raised by two mother’s or two father’s.

The entire order and sanctity of life has become debased to the point where moral and even spiritual absolutes are left to be relative as it concerns truth. Today’s children and those generations that follow will face staunch opposition to the things of God. Satan understands that if he infiltrates children in their formative years, that he can corrupt future generations. His goal is to destroy each seed before it has a chance to grow.

That was the purpose behind satan’s ploy to influence Adam & Eve into sinning. While they both had a choice, he used deception to corrupt future generations. Of course, there is hope and there is a remedy even for the generations that exist now and will exist. Jesus Christ is the only hope that you and I have. He is the only hope that each generation has as we live in these troubling times. However, how do we fight for the generations of today and of the future? Here are a few considerations:

1. Be the example of Jesus Christ in this dark world – The main reason as to why many children are now in the hands of the enemy is because they have been left without godly examples. That is not to say that none exist, but if you look at the majority it seems that many parents both young and old have forsaken the laws and commands of God. Children naturally mimic what they see others do which means that if their parents have chosen to adhere to satan’s deception by living in sinfulness then you can expect their children to perpetuate the same sinfulness.

The reason why King Solomon admonishes those who are parents to raise their children in the way that they should go is because if they are raised in godliness, it is less likely that they will leave that path. Even to those who are not parents, it is still a responsibility to be an example to the children in your life. By modeling godliness and rejecting the perversions and falsehoods of this world, you can and will affect the current and next generations.

2. Protect those who can’t protect themselves – The fact is that when you are young you are unable to fend for yourself. Even in the animal kingdom, young offspring are unable to survive on their own without their parents intervention. Thus, the parents of the offspring battle against predators to protect their lineage and the future of their offspring. That is the same mindset that you and I must have. We must protect those who cannot protect themselves. Even as it relates to young teenagers, they are vulnerable because they are still developing.

If you and I do not model Jesus Christ and teach each child we come into contact with the ways of godliness, then each generation will lose more and more to the hands of satan. It is true that as time goes forward our world will grow worse and worse according to Matthew 24:12. However, if we stand by to do nothing then there will be many who will enter the gates of destruction. Those of us who know the truth must warn even those who are in their youth.

3. Understand that God’s legacy must be passed down – The future of humanity and our world lies within the hands of the youth of today and those who will come after. God still wants His legacy of love and redemption to be passed down to every generation. By giving every young person the truth of Jesus Christ, we will ensure that the message of Christ will transfer throughout time. Just because the world has rejected God’s decrees and many have decided to live in sin does not mean that God is not calling those who are coming forth in years to come.

The legacy of God and His righteousness must be handed down to the next generations. It is the only thing that will provide stability in the time of chaos. The fact is, God’s judgment will fall upon every nation and person who rejects Him. During the times of His judgment there must and will be a generation that will be saved from destruction. The only way that will happen is if we who are in Christ pass the godly legacy that resides within us to the next generation.

As tragic and disturbing as our times may be, there is a duty that you and I have. We must fight for the current and future generations. Rather than allowing your children be they biological or not to be handed over to the enemy you must wage a war in the name of Jesus Christ. Our world has decided that it isn’t enough to deceive adults but that it must deceive and destroy the innocence of the youth.

It is time for every adult to understand the tremendous responsibility of fighting for those who are coming after us. If you don’t know Jesus in the pardon of your sins, you are unable to fight for the next generation. The battle you fight will be in vain because you are fighting on the wrong side. Accepting Christ and giving your life to Him will give you the opportunity to fight on the side of victory. All of us must fight for the next generations so that lives can be saved instead of lives being lost.

Rejecting the ‘Truth’ of Today’s World – Accepting God’s Truth

11 Tuesday Aug 2015

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

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Deception, False, God, God's truth, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Lies, Sin, Truth, World, Worldly, Worldly wisdom

If you are old enough to remember you can recount the education or principles that you received at a young age. For example, simple mathematical principles such as 2+2 = 4, or reciting historical facts were a part of the development that you and I encountered. There were many educational tools that perhaps you were exposed to as a way to create an environment of learning so that you would grow older to use what you learned later in your life. The point of many of the principles is that many of them remained true in their context.

No one can suggest to you that 2+2 = 16 because mathematically the answer is incorrect. If someone were to suggest to you that George Washington was the 15th President of the United States, they wouldn’t be able to do so with a valid argument because historically George Washington was the 1st President of the United States. The point is that there are certain aspects of our lives that are not open for discussion and cannot be changed because they are immutable and factual.

Unfortunately, we are living in a time that the word ‘truth’ has taken on a different connotation. Basically, there are various aspects of our global society which now lends itself to creating one’s own truth. Essentially, our world has now instituted the aspect of relativism. This means that one can have a version of their truth while someone else can believe what they wish and it is true. The problem with this belief is that only one side can be correct. In the book of 1 Corinthians chapter 3, the Apostle Paul actually warns against accepting worldly wisdom or the wisdom of this world.

In chapter 3, the Apostle Paul is addressing the church of Corinth. It was a church that was known to have issues with spiritual immaturity in addition to various sins that were present among many in the church. In verses 1-4 of chapter 3, Paul addresses the spiritual immaturity and division that was apparent among the congregants. He even gives them instruction regarding their role in the body of Christ in verses 5-9. In verses 10-15, Paul even mentions the aspect of building the appropriate foundation of one’s life which is Jesus Christ.

In verses 16-17, Paul then addresses the principle of remaining Holy unto God since our body is the temple that the Holy Spirit resides in. Based on this chapter it is apparent that the church of Corinth needed words of truth and encouragement as it related to growing in spiritual maturity. However, in verses 18-20, the Apostle Paul warns against embracing worldly wisdom.

(NKJV) “Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you seems to be wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, “He catches the wise in their own craftiness”; and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.”

If you read further until verse 23 of this chapter you will see that the context of this portion of scripture admonishes those in the church of Corinth not to brag or think more highly of themselves as they ought to. However, the focus of this post is to highlight what Paul says in verses 18-20.

Looking at those verses Paul says that the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. What does Paul mean when he makes that statement? If you look at those who think that they are wise in their own merit, they are under the deception that they themselves have all of the answers. In our world today, there is an abundance of those who are deceived. It has been decided that you can invent your own truth and believe as you see fit. However, there is a consequence that comes with perverting God’s truth and creating a falsehood or a lie.

Paul says at the end of verse 19 and in verse 20, For it is written, “He catches the wise in their own craftiness”; and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.” In other words, Paul is saying that God ensures that those who believe themselves to be wise by worldly standards are the very individuals that meet an unpleasant end. Paul says that the thoughts of the wise are futile. This means that those who have embraced worldly wisdom are unable to accomplish what they have set out to do in their own thoughts.

The way of this world is to invoke pride in oneself and to change absolute truth into relative truth. The deception is that there are absolutes that cannot be changed, yet we live in a world where many have embraced the wisdom of this world. If you look at homosexuality and even the lifestyle of changing your gender, there are certain truths both morally and spiritually that cannot be changed. When such behaviors or lifestyles are embraced by the masses it comes at a high price which is always negative.

However, satan who is our enemy has deceived the minds of many to believe that you can redefine what was never yours to define in the first place. The reason why we must guard against accepting ‘the truth’ of this world is because it is based out of human wisdom. A person’s life that is based out of human or secular wisdom is a life that is destined for failure. The only wisdom and truth that will create stability is that of God’s Word.

The Bible or God’s Word was written via the inspiration of God unto the men who wrote it. As much as our world changes, the fact is that God’s Word will always be true. There is so much confusion and chaos in our world today because many have adopted the wisdom of this age. ‘The Truth’ is now what you choose to believe rather than what is fact. You can invent what you wish as long as you are not hurting anyone else.

As a result, many of the behaviors that were once thought detestable have now become accepted and common as a part of the world’s culture. Isaiah 5:21 says,

(NLT) “What sorrow for those who are wise in their own eyes and think themselves so clever.” In this chapter, the Prophet Isaiah is speaking to the Kingdom of Judah. At that time, the people of Judah were sinful individuals who had rejected God. However, this verse only shows to serve as a reminder that those who think of themselves as wise in their own eyes will meet an unfortunate demise just as those in Judah did.

The overall point is that you and I must embrace God’s truth instead of what the world proclaims to be ‘the truth.’ Even if our society continues to decay morally and spiritually, God’s word will stand forever. You can see the confusion and instability of a world that believes in the creation of ‘your own truth.’ The only foundations that are concrete are upon Jesus Christ and the Word of God.

Do you know Jesus as your personal Lord & Savior? The truth of God can only be known and fully accepted when you are living a life that is surrendered unto Christ. Confess your sins before Him and believe in your heart that Jesus Christ is Lord. As for those of us who are in Christ our basis for truth should be none other than God’s Word. The media and those of the world can change various facts to be ‘true’ but in reality it is only false. However, God’s Word will always be true regardless of what is said. Don’t be deceived by accepting worldly wisdom. Only God’s truth will stand.

Coming as You Are but Being Changed From Your Original State

11 Tuesday Aug 2015

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

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Coming as you are, Encounter, Faith, God, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Paralyzed, Salvation

Throughout human history, there have been phrases that have been coined. Some phrases have been etched in our memory, our culture and our everyday speech. Other phrases have become altogether trite or cliche to the point that the phrase is no longer effective. There are even phrases that Christians have instituted which have been adopted in everyday language concerning those of us who are in Christ.

One such term is ‘Come as you are.’ This term or phrase is not found anywhere in the Bible in its exact wording, however, the concept of coming to Jesus or coming to God as you are is Biblical. The exact origin or even timeframe of the expression seems to be unknown or at the very least its origin is not altogether certain. Nevertheless, what is certain is that this phrase has made its way into Christendom. What does this phrase mean exactly?

Usually, this phrase is used to suggest to those who are non-Christians that they can freely come to Jesus for salvation in the condition that they are in. It can even be applied to Christians who need to recommit their lives to Christ and surrender all that they have and who they are in their entirety. The essential point is that ‘Coming as you are’ means that regardless of what your spiritual condition is, God wants you just as you are. It is meant to denote that even if your physical appearance (e.g. clothing) does not signify the lifestyle of a Christian who lives in modesty that anyone can come to Christ as they are in their current state.

However, it seems that this phrase has lost an important part of what it truly means to ‘Come as you are.’ Biblically, there are multiple parts as it relates to the process of salvation. The first is that there is the point of surrender. This means that an individual feels the conviction of the Holy Spirit which causes them to turn away from their sinful ways. It involves an active confession of their sins, accepting Jesus Christ as Lord & Savior and renouncing their lifestyle of sin.

Secondly there is the point of conversion or transformation. This means that the individual’s life is no longer the same as it was, but it has been transformed through the power of the Holy Spirit and the acceptance of Jesus Christ. Finally, there is the point of spreading the Gospel and the gift of salvation to others. It means that the converted is now taking on the responsibility of sharing with others the opportunity of conversion from darkness into the light of Christ.

In the book of Mark chapter 2, Jesus returned to a place called Capernaum. In this place, Jesus lodged as a guest at a local home. Eventually, the news of Jesus’ resting place became public and the house where he was staying became packed with visitors. In verses 3-4 of Mark chapter 2, we see that four men carry a paralyzed man to Jesus with the attempt to receive healing of the infirmity. However, because of the largeness of the crowd, they are unable to reach Jesus. So, they devise a plan to remove the roof of the house to have the paralyzed individual lowered in.

Verse 5 says:

(NLT) “Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My child, your sins are forgiven.”

In verse 11 Jesus gives the paralyzed man the command to get up. Jesus says,

(NLT) “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!”

Verse 12:

(NLT) “And the man jumped up, grabbed his mat, and walked out through the stunned onlookers. They were all amazed and praised God, exclaiming, “We’ve never seen anything like this before!”

It is important to take note of a couple of principles from this scripture:

1. The paralyzed man came to Jesus to be transformed – Not only was the man paralyzed physically, but it is obvious that he committed some sort of sin or sins within his life, that needed forgiving by Jesus. Notice that in verses 3-4 that the paralyzed man and 4 others were intentional about seeing a change in his condition. So much so that they forcibly removed the roof of the house in order to receive a miracle of healing. Basically, the paralyzed man was committed to trusting in Jesus’ ability to heal him of his paralysis. It wasn’t enough for the paralyzed man to merely come to Jesus as he was, but he knew that at some point when he came into contact with Jesus, that he would be changed from his original condition.

Essentially, the concept of ‘Come as you are’ in modern times has stopped at the part of coming as you are. The next part of the equation is to be changed. It is often that the notion of ‘Coming as you are’ means that we come to Jesus as we are and that is the end of the story. However, this scripture shows us that transformation comes at the point of contact with Christ. Jesus Christ did not die for you and I to remain in our sin. He died on the cross and rose again so that we could be set free from the power of sin. Some even use the argument that it takes time for God to deliver us from our struggles or addictions. What we see in Mark chapter 2 is that deliverance was swift because of the paralyzed man’s faith and Christ’s intervention. This is not to say that you and I will never be tempted or we will never battle against sinful desires. However, the goal should be to let go of every sin that tries to weigh us down.

2. When you truly come to Christ your life is forever changed – It is a sad story to see many who claim Christianity and yet their lives are similar if not the same as those who are of the world. The Bible makes it clear in Matthew 5 verse 13 that we who are in Christ are the ‘Salt of the Earth.’ This means that our lives must be sanctified or separated for God’s use. It also means that who we are must be the complete antithesis of those who are living in ungodliness. There are many examples of those who have confessed that Jesus is Lord, but the true transformation has not taken place in their heart.

To accept Christ isn’t to merely confess your sins but it involves believing in your heart that Jesus is Lord and that you need saving from your sin. Then the next step is to actively pursue the things of God which means seeking God’s presence, studying His word, and surrounding yourself with other believers. When you and I truly encounter God in His Holy presence, sin cannot remain. The paralyzed man was forever changed because he had the faith to believe that Jesus could transform his condition. Verse 5 of Mark chapter 2 uses the words, “Seeing their faith.” which meant that the paralyzed man and his friends believed in their hearts that Jesus could transform. In the end, it meant a life that was changed, and a greater testimony of the things that Jesus could and would do during His life of ministry.

If you really look at what it means to ‘Come as you are’ it means bringing all of your sin and your very life to be surrendered unto Christ. Much of what many think as ‘Coming as you are’ is maintaining a life that isn’t changed but instead it resembles the very things that God wants to deliver us from. Instead, you and I must be willing to release all of our burdens and all of our sins before Him.

Coming to Christ involves ‘Coming as you are’ but it doesn’t involve staying in the same condition. Otherwise, what does this gift of salvation mean? Do you know Jesus Christ in the pardon of your sins? If not, then you have an opportunity to come to Jesus in your sin. However, you must believe in your heart that Jesus died on the cross and that He is Lord. Then once you confess your sins to Him and truly believe that He is Lord, the journey continues with a daily renewal through the Holy Spirit. You and I can come as we are, but we should not remain the same after encountering the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Staying Focused – Keeping Your Eyes on God

10 Monday Aug 2015

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

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Attention, Diverted, Eyes, Focus, Focused, God, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Satan, Sin

ID-100279863 The human eye is one of the most important parts of the body. While it is true that one can still live without eyesight, having the ability to see is what provides vision to the world around us. The eye is a body part that produces visibility and awareness to objects or human beings that are within our environment. One such fact about the human eye is that it serves an important role in the process of our brain activity.

When you and I look at an object, the image of the object is sent back to the brain in response to what we just saw. So what we perceive or the image that is set before us is parsed as information and sent back to our brain. Another fact about the human eye is that usually the object we are looking at is where our attention becomes diverted. This is of course until we decide to look at another object or person. However, our attention span involves our vision. For example, if you are watching television it then means that your attention is focused toward your T.V. This is because your vision or your eyes are focused on what you are watching rather than what is around you.

The same concept applies to having a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Daily, you and I are bombarded with distractions that are designed to divert our attention away from God. Satan uses various measures to place obstacles and sideshow attractions within our view so that we are no longer looking unto God, but instead focusing on the worldly aspects of life. In the book of Genesis chapter 19, the scriptural account of the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah is recorded.

In this chapter, we can see that two angels approach a man named Lot and his family in the city of Sodom. The angels give Lot a warning about the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah essentially urging Lot and those with him to leave the city. In verse 13 the angels that the Lord had sent to give a message of urgency to Lot and his family proclaim the following message:

(NLV) “For we are about to destroy this place. Because the cry against its people has become so loud to the Lord that the Lord has sent us to destroy it.”

It is important to note that Soddom and Gomorrah were two neighboring cities that committed various acts of sin. It was the sinfulness that resided in both cities that caused God’s anger and wrath to be unleashed. Soddom and Gomorrah were cities that approved of just about every sin that you can think of. These cities were very similar if not the same as many nations that exist today. However, it is also important to understand that God’s judgment will fall upon every nation that promotes sin which means that there will be a day when all nations that reject God will be met with destruction.

Verses 14-16:

(NLV) “So Lot went out to speak to his sons-in-law who were to marry his daughters. He said, “Get up! Get out of this place! For the Lord will destroy the city!” But his sons-in-law thought he was only joking. When morning came, the angels told Lot to hurry. They said, “Get up. Take your wife and your two daughters who are here. Or else you will be destroyed when the city is punished.”

Verse 17:

(NLV) “When they had brought them out of the city, one of them said, “Run for your life! Do not look behind you. Do not stop until you are out of the valley. Run to the mountains or else you will be destroyed.”

Notice what the instructions of the angels were to Lot and his family. The angels explicitly give the order to Lot and his family not to look behind them. This, of course, can apply to the concept of obedience. Whenever God gives us commands He does so because He wants to protect us from negative consequences. The negative consequence in this scripture occurs to Lot’s wife.

Verses 25-26:

(NLV) “He destroyed those cities, and all the valley, and all the people of the cities, and what grew on the ground. But Lot’s wife behind him turned and looked toward the cities. And she was changed into salt.”

The punishment for Lot’s wife was that she was turned into a pillar of salt. It was due to her disobedience that she lost her life. However, the principle of this scripture isn’t just that she was disobedient but that she lost her focus. She took her eyes off of where God was leading Lot and his family. Essentially, she was distracted which resulted in her untimely demise.

The key of verse 26 is that Lot’s wife turned backward to look at the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. The instruction that the angels gave was to run and not to look behind. How often do you find yourself focusing on the daily distractions of this life? Lot’s wife was not focused on what was ahead but rather what was behind her. It is quite easy for you and I to take our eyes off of God. It is God who leads us and guides us if we are willing to be obedient and follow His plan for our lives.

The Psalmist David said in Psalm 141 in verse 8,

(NKJV) “But my eyes are upon You, O GOD the Lord; In You I take refuge;
Do not leave my soul destitute.”

The interesting aspect about the trek or path that Lot’s family was instructed to take was that they were headed into a place of safety. It was only when Lot’s wife took her eyes off of her destination that she was no longer in a place of safety. If you think about our world today, much of the violence and tragedies that we see are a result of the sinfulness around us. However, God wants us to put our eyes on Him because He is our place of safety.

It doesn’t mean that we should ignore the plight of our world, but we should remain focused by having our attention placed toward God and the things of God. If you are constantly engrossed in what the media has to say or what your friends have to say, then you will always be in a state of confusion. However, God wants you and I to put our attention where it belongs.

Even as it relates to accomplishing goals in your life that you know are tied to the promises of God, you must keep your eyes fixed toward God. The thing about God is that He wants us to depend on Him for every aspect of our lives. If He is the one who created the Heavens and the Earth then that means He also created every aspect of your life.

It is often easier to take matters into your own hands by attempting to solve your own problems. However, God wants everyone who will to surrender everything to Him and allow Him the space to invoke deliverance. Much of the turmoil that we see in our world is because of humanity’s sinfulness but also its disobedience. There are a myriad of world leaders who are attempting to solve spiritual problems in their human capacity.

However, it is only when our eyes are fixed unto God that He will deliver us and steer us into His will. That is what Lot’s wife failed to do. She misplaced her attention and diverted it to a place of sin and destruction. God desires for you and I to be in a place of safety but also a place of devotion unto Him.

If you don’t know Jesus Christ as your personal Lord & Savior then you are unable to fix your eyes upon God. Only through Christ can you focus on God who is the one who will lead you and guide you. Our world is ever-changing and it continues to grow worse because of the abundance of humanity’s sinfulness. However, when you focus on God through Jesus Christ you are able to avoid the snares and distractions that satan places before you. As believers, we must stay focused by placing our attention on God.

Being a Student of God’s Word – Knowing His Truth for Yourself

06 Thursday Aug 2015

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

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Bible, God, God's truth, God's Word, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Sin, Student, Study, Truth

ID-100159550 (1) Most who have experienced any sort of education did so in the context of studying a particular subject. A classroom setting has been one of the most common forms of education in a public setting. Students gather to receive instruction from their professor or teacher in order to be educated about a specific topic. Surrounding the topics are various exercises that each student must complete in order to rehearse and ultimately prove their level of ascertaining the material. Once such exercises are complete, students are usually tested in order to ensure that they have retained the material.

Such tests are given grades and are used as a measuring tool to examine a student’s aptitude in a subject. If the student does well throughout his/her course, then they will be rewarded with a passing grade. If not, then the student will suffer a failure of the course and will not be permitted to move to the next level of learning. However, the most important aspect for every student who encounters an assignment or a lesson plan is that of their study. For a student to be successful there must be a regimen which involves either self-study or corporate study with other students. Without a measured amount of study, there will be a loss of information which results in a failed attempt to obtain knowledge and succeed in the course.

Spiritually speaking it is important for all who desire to seek the righteousness of God and His ways to study God’s Word. Whether it be studying on your own time or doing so in a corporate setting, the education of God’s Word is invaluable to the life of every believer. In the book of Hosea chapter 4, the account of the prophet Hosea who is speaking to the people of Israel is recorded. Throughout this chapter, Hosea like other prophets in the Old Testament is seen giving words of judgment and rebuke against those who are in sin.

Verses 1-3 state the following:

(NLV) “Listen to the Word of the Lord, O people of Israel, because He has something against the people of the land. “They are not faithful or kind, and no one in the land knows God. There is swearing, lying, killing, stealing, and sex sins. They are always hurting others, and there is one killing after another. The land is filled with sorrow. Everyone who lives on it wastes away, together with the animals of the field and the birds of the sky. Even the fish of the sea are taken away.”

In these 3 verses, Hosea is telling the people of Israel what God has given him to say. These were words of rebuke and it was a direct testament to the reality of sin that was occurring among the nation of Israel at that time. If you look at what Hosea says, you can see a parallel between what happened then and what is happening in our world today. The fact is, there has been an abundance of sin that has swept through our world.

Just by looking at your local, national, and international news networks you can see the same if not worsened acts of sin that Hosea names in this chapter. It is because of humanity’s sinfulness that our global society is in the condition that we see.

In verses 4-5, God speaks through Hosea when he mentions the fact that both the Priests and the people of Israel will fall or as other translations such as The Message Bible uses the word ‘stumble.’ The reason why both sides stumble is because they have essentially turned their back on God to revert to sinful lifestyles. However, an additional reason is because both the Priests and the people of Israel have forsaken the knowledge of God.

Verse 6:

(NLV) “My people are destroyed because they have not learned. You were not willing to learn. So I am not willing to have you be My religious leader. Since you have forgotten the Law of your God, I also will forget your children.”

God says through Hosea that His people (meaning those of Israel and the Priests) are in the condition of being destroyed because they have not learned. The New King James Version translation says, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” The prognosis of those in Israel along with the Priests was that they were in danger of being utterly destroyed because they lacked knowledge. What was it that they lacked knowledge of? If you read further in verse 6 you will see that God says that they along with the Priests had forgotten the Law of God.

Basically, the Law or Laws of God are the unchanging principles and commands that God has set into place. The people of Israel as a whole had abandoned the study and adherence to God’s Word. In addition, the Priests who were called by God to teach the people had forsaken His Word as well. As a result, the Priests were no longer chosen to be representatives of God in the capacity of being Priests.

In looking at this scripture there are a few things we should take note of:

1. We must know the truth of God through His Word – The Bible contains both the Old Testament and the New Testament but both books are relevant with commands and principles for every generation. One reason why there is so much chaos and sin in our world is because there is a lack of knowledge concerning God’s Word. Especially as it relates to many churches and those in the body of Christ, there has been a watering down of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The fact is that everything that has been prophesied to occur throughout scripture concerning the End Times is coming to pass. The answers to the questions that those in sin are asking such as, ‘What is happening in our world?’ can be found in God’s Word. However, because there is a deviation from God’s knowledge and obedience unto His principles, humanity perishes because of a lack of learning. We who are called must know God’s Word and understand that it is absolute truth.

2. There is a penalty for turning away from God and His precepts – The fact is that blatant sinfulness will always have a penalty. The notion that one can continue in sin (whether Christian or non-Christian) without a consequence is completely debunked when the light that God’s Word provides is shed on the very thought. The Word of God and truly knowing it will convict you and it will provide a clear path to every problem or question you will have.

The body of Christ today has shown many examples of church leaders who either do not know God’s Word or have excluded certain parts of it in order maintain their church membership. However, whenever you and I forsake God’s Word and obedience unto Him then there is a price to pay. Israel during the time of Hosea paid a price for their disobedience and not knowing God’s Word.

3. The truth of God cannot be changed – If you look further through the book of Hosea, chapters 9 and 13 show that Israel is judged for its blatant sinfulness. In fact throughout the Bible there were prophecies of judgment against any nation that sinned and turned away from God. Each prophecy turned out to be true with swift judgment falling on any ungodly nation. The fact is, God’s word will always be true.

Despite what society claims to be true, moral, and acceptable, it is not the ultimate authority. What our world politicians have established and the media has stated as relative truth cannot stand against God’s absolute truth. Relativism is essentially the way of life as we know it today. It basically means that one can have their own version of the truth rather than abiding by moral and even spiritual absolutes. God’s Word will always trump what humanity attempts to change as a new and appropriate version of the truth. Regardless of how much the world changes, God’s Word will never change.

For all of us who desire to be in Christ, it is paramount that you and I take the time to study God’s Word and seek the revelation of it from the Holy Spirit. In today’s time, it is necessary more than ever that we hide God’s Word in our hearts. Satan distorts the truth and many believe his falsehoods. However, only those who stand firm in God’s Word and take it as the truth will be saved.

Do you know Jesus as your personal Lord & Savior? If not, you are currently under the deception of satan. The lies that he has fed you are embedded in your heart. However, accepting Jesus Christ and learning God’s Word will wash away the sin and the confusion. Take the time today and accept the gift of life that Christ offers.

The Voices Around Us – Who are You Listening to?

06 Thursday Aug 2015

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

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Blessed, God, Happy, Jesus, Jesus Christ, Listen, Listening, Sin, Sinfulness, The world, Voices

ID-100277763 We are living in what is considered to be the golden age of communication as it relates to social media. Technology has now become the staple of the human communication effort. Daily, we are bombarded with messages through the internet, television, and over the radio airwaves. Much of how many communicate in this day and time is through some form of technology which has deeply embedded itself within our world’s culture.

However, even with such a massive concentration on communication, we must take a step back and ask ourselves ‘What and who are we listening to?’ The media is now available to everyone within a 24-hour time span. If you want to discuss any topic or get the latest news about a matter you are now able to view and listen to just about any news source. It is because of such a concentration within the media that many have taken what is said as absolute truth. As a result, the lies that are reported and pushed onto the masses have caused many both Christian and non-Christian to be led astray.

In the book of Psalms chapter 1, the Psalmist David explains the difference between those who are followers of God and those who are living in their sinfulness. This chapter is quite short in length only containing 6 verses. However, the words that David gives to each reader are words that accurately classify a person who rejects God and a person who embraces God. He starts off by saying the following in verse 1:

(NLV) “Happy is the man who does not walk in the way sinful men tell him to or stand in the path of sinners, or sit with those who laugh at the truth.”

The key part of this verse is the first half which says, “Happy is the man who does not walk in the way sinful men tell him to.” Why does David use the word ‘happy’ in this verse? This particular translation which is the New Life Version uses the word ‘happy’ which can also be translated into the word ‘blessed.’ In fact, the King James Version of the Bible starts with the words, “Blessed is the man.” So, what David is saying is that anyone who decides not to walk in the way of those who are in sin is a blessed person.

This means that one can only benefit from going in the opposite direction of someone who is walking in sinfulness because those who are in Christ are no longer spiritually blind. In the world we live in today, the media blitz (e.g. Television, Radio, Magazines, Newspapers) and even the social media blitz are being used as tools not necessarily to inform but to distract and ultimately destroy. Satan has cunningly used various means to ensnare many individuals by promoting his lies which are disguised as absolute truth.

There has been, of course, the massive media campaign that incorporates the phrase, ‘Follow us on Twitter’ which many have now taken and used to garner a mass following. However, what satan has constructed is a society that has become built on following others rather than following after God Almighty. This is not to suggest that the use of Twitter or any other social media website is inherently sinful. However, the fact is that many have misplaced their priorities and have become duped into following after other humans who are living in sin.

What David is saying is that the person “who does not walk in the way sinful men tell him to” is happy or blessed. It is when we begin to follow the trends and the words of what our global society has set up that we are in error. The only way to avoid the traps and devices that satan has put into place is to follow after God through the Lord Jesus Christ. There are a whole host of sinful behaviors and lifestyles that have become acceptable because many are listening to what has been said.

David concludes in verse 1 by suggesting that not only should we not follow the words of those who are sinful but we should not partake in communion or fellowship with those who reject the truth. To do so puts you in a dangerous place. For anyone who wants to avoid destruction, there must be an abstinence from sinful company which means those who are living in darkness. The psalmist David continues in verses 2-3:

(NLV) “But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither, and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”

The person who is ‘happy’ or ‘blessed’ is the same person who delights him/herself in the Word of God and he/she finds the time (day and night) to concentrate and meditate on His Word. Essentially what this means is, anyone who is truly in Christ will ensure that God’s Word is their basis for truth. Much of the world relies on the truth of what others have said, but it is God’s Word that is the absolute truth. It goes beyond what laws have been passed, what your President or politician has deemed moral. It even goes above and beyond what your friends and family may accept as their own truth.

David makes it clear that we who want to be godly and have a relationship with Him must rely on God’s Word for the truth. As loud as many of the voices around us may be and as abundant as such means for communication may seem, the fact is that God’s Word will supersede the word of every human being. Listening to the poison that the media puts forth on a daily basis is a sure way to be beguiled or deceived. However, God’s Word will always stand as the truth that cannot be changed.

In verses 2-3 of this passage, David suggests to us that those who find their delight and concentration in the Word of God will be established in a place of abundance and fruitfulness. Only those who have chosen to listen to the poison and misleading words of the world will find themselves in a place of lack and confusion.

Verses 4-6:

(NLV) “Sinful men are not like this. They are like straw blown away by the wind. So the sinful will not stand. They will be told they are guilty and have to suffer for it. Sinners will not stand with those who are right with God. For the Lord knows the way of those who are right with Him. But the way of the sinful will be lost from God forever.”

This scripture says that sinful individuals do not have the same outcome as those who are seeking God and meditating upon His Word. Essentially, David says that the sinful will experience utter destruction or in His words, “the sinful will be lost from God forever.” The King James Version of the Bible uses the term, ‘perish.’ However, God wishes that no man or woman perish but that everyone would come to the knowledge of Jesus Christ.

The overall message to all of us is that we must not submit or adhere to this world’s system. It is designed to ensnare and destroy every person who decides to agree with and accept the conditions that are set in place by satan. Instead of listening to or accepting the counsel from those who are living in sin, it would be beneficial to give your life over to God through Christ.

Do you know Jesus as your personal Lord & Savior? Today is a great day to relinquish control and begin by accepting His gift of life. Jesus came to die on the cross so that you could be redeemed and set free. Our world is only growing worse and much of the poison around us has infected the masses. However, the remedy is Jesus Christ. He wants to be in a relationship with you, but the choice is yours. Are you willing to listen to the wisdom and the instructions of God rather than those in the world? Take an opportunity today, and heed the call of God.

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