Tag Archives: Satan

What Is Love? Part 1

03 Thursday Dec 2020

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The word “love” is a common word that is used in a variety of contexts. For example, love is often used to denote the romance and intense feeling of passion between two individuals. It is also used in ways that are not romantic (e.g. I love football). Love is a word that means different things to different people. That is because for one, experiences often shape how we define words.

In addition, the world as a collective has its own definition of what love is. However, what is love truly defined as? 1 John 4:7-11 gives us what the definition of love is.

(NKJV) “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love. In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.”

First, take note of what the first verse says, which is “love is of God.” Love as a concept and as it is meant to be defined comes from God Himself. This is qualified when the writer the Apostle John says, “God is love.” Before we can truly understand what love is, we must acknowledge that love has already been defined by God, because love is who He is. It is God’s character to love, which is why Jesus was sent as a sacrifice to reconcile humanity back to God.

It was God’s love for His creation, that prompted the sacrifice of Jesus so that we as humans could have an unbroken relationship with God the Father. If we do not know who God is, then we do not have a clear definition of love. We are also unable to love properly, if we do not have a connection to God through Christ, because it is required in order to know what love is, and to love others.

To be clear, the world has its varying definitions of what love is. As mentioned, it is often based on what a person experiences or their own world view of the concept of love. What makes the world’s definitions of love inaccurate, is that in most cases, it is not based on knowing God. Rather, it is based on self, or the views of others. Looking to the world as a means to define, will often leave incomplete pictures because the world around us does not take its cues from God. Instead, the Bible makes it clear that the world system is dominated by Satan Himself.

Ephesians 2:2 says (NLV) “
You followed the sinful ways of the world and obeyed the leader of the power of darkness. He is the devil who is now working in the people who do not obey God.”

Since Satan is the one who has influence over the world, he perverts all that is good. Therefore, it becomes altered automatically, which means anything that comes from the world view is taken from Satan first. Since that is the case, that also includes the view of what love is. It should be known that because God is love, then He is the one who shows us what love is and how to love. Without Him, we are left to make up what we believe love to be, and sometimes, there are toxic examples that some have justified to state what love is.

The other part of 1 John 4:7-11 that is important to take note of, is that God loved His creation (us) first. We did not love God, rather, it was His love for us that caused Him to send Jesus as a substitute for the penalty of sin that we all owe. Knowing this, it means that from the very beginning, God loved us, even in the midst of our sinful condition.

Do you know Jesus in the pardon of your sins? If you don’t know Jesus, today is the day to give your life to Christ through repentance, the acknowledgment of Jesus’ sacrifice on the Cross and Him rising again from the dead. Once you come to the knowledge of Christ, you will be able to truly love and understand what it means to love and be loved. Knowing God through Christ, gives us the correct and only way to understand love as it was meant to be.

Who is the Antichrist? (Part 2)

27 Wednesday Apr 2016

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According to dictionary.com, the definition of the term ‘globalization’ is “the act of globalizing, or extending to other or all parts of the world.” You and I are living in a globalized system and the concentration of integrating all nations with one another continues to take place daily. It has increased at such a rapid rate over several decades. Most would argue that globalization and erasing what were once barriers will create a stable and more open society.

However, the majority who are unaware of the scheme that has been set in motion by Satan, do not realize that globalization is merely a plot to bring the Antichrist into full power. As mentioned in the last blog post, the Antichrist will be a figure who will rise to world dominance according to Revelation chapter 13 and Daniel chapter 7. If you notice, over the last decade, we have heard terms that have been touted such as, ‘unity’, ‘new world order’, ‘global economy’ and ‘global society’.

Each of these terms are not just words spoken without meaning. These words are a part of a larger plan to bring this world system under one individual, who is the Antichrist. He will perpetuate a Satanic system for a season before he and Satan are utterly destroyed by God’s wrath according to 2 Thessalonians 2:8 which says:

(NLT) “Then the man of lawlessness will be revealed, but the Lord Jesus will kill him with the breath of his mouth and destroy him by the splendor of his coming.”

So, it is clear that Jesus Christ will ultimately reign in victory and triumph over the Antichrist and Satan. However, before that period comes the question is, how will the Antichrist assume power? What has to happen and what is happening that will lead to the shift in the world as it is known? The answer lies in a few aspects that are evident in scripture and in our daily lives.

Technology and its influence – Have you ever noticed that there has been a constant barrage of smartphone ads and an encouragement to purchase the latest technological gadget? Like it or not, technology has grafted itself into our daily lives. Many have become trapped in the constant presence of technology to the point that it has become an unknown addiction. The truth is, our world has become conditioned to believe that we must have it for survival.

In fact, there will come a day in which humanity will be forced to use technology because the world system will demand it. Think of the constant push to end cash transactions. Now, almost everything can be bought with a credit card, smartphone, or in the very near future an implanted chip. This Satanic system will use technology for the purposes of buying and selling products.

The Antichrist will be at the head of this new economy which is currently in place as we speak. Revelation chapter 13, verses 4-5 says the following:

(NLT) “They worshiped the dragon for giving the beast such power, and they also worshiped the beast. “Who is as great as the beast?” they exclaimed. “Who is able to fight against him?” Then the beast was allowed to speak great blasphemies against God. And he was given authority to do whatever he wanted for forty-two months.”

Notice that the Antichrist will be given authority. His authority will come from Satan who will empower him to do as he pleases for three and a half years. How will he be able to have this control? One major way is through technology. According to Revelation 13:17-18, at the time when the Antichrist will have power, those left behind will not be able to buy or sell without the mark of the beast. The number ‘666’ will be the world currency which means it will in some way be tied to technology. Much of how we buy things today is a subtle precursor to what will come later.

Global deception – If you look at our society today, you can see the wickedness and various changes that have occurred in the human lifestyle. Currently, there has been an open and rigorous debate over “same-sex marriage” and being “transgender”. Both of these issues seems to be the next phase that Satan is using in order to bring every person together under his world system. Anyone who goes against this latest change will be met with staunch opposition which will mean public and private ridicule. In some cases it may even mean imprisonment and or violence against those who don’t stand with the majority.

For the Christian, it should be clear that anything named as a sin in scripture is still a sin regardless of how the world tries to approve of it or make it seem harmless. Many have been deceived today into thinking that such lifestyles are not sinful but rather many believe that you are a bigot if you say otherwise. However, the Antichrist will use the same type of deception to fool the world and cause many to be destroyed.

Believe it or not, the Antichrist will make promises that will be fulfilled for a time. He will also perform miracles which according to Revelation 13:3, will create a massive following. Many will be deceived into thinking that the Antichrist is the one who can and will save a crumbling world system. However, those who worship the Antichrist will fall into destruction.

Taking advantage of political and social turmoil – If you were to turn on your television or even search the internet for your local and world news, you would find that our world is quite unstable. From Middle Eastern violence to threats of terrorism, to even constant violence existing between neighborhood citizens. The fact is, that in the last days the following things will happen according to 2 Timothy 3:2:

(NLT) “For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred.”

Just looking at each generation that comes forth, it seems that life and respect for others is no longer sacred. That is because, in the last days before Christ’s return, many would become as the Apostle Paul says in this scripture. As a result, political and economic chaos will ensue. We see constant fluctuation with our collective economies while at the same time terrorism remains to be a threat to human life.

All of these things we see daily are being used in order to create a global system that will be under Satan’s influence through the Antichrist. He will promise peace and provide answers to our world’s problems for a season. Then, for three and a half years he will cause chaos and destroy those who swear their allegiance to him. This is why organizations such as the U.N., NATO, and even world politicians are unable to solve the issues. The reason is because according to prophecy these things must happen which will lead to the Antichrist coming to power. Revelation 13:7 makes it clear that he will have power over every tribe, tongue, and nation.

After reading all of this, it sounds like bad news. Unfortunately, these things must and will happen. However, the good news is that Jesus Christ will reign supreme when all of this is over. At the end of the age, God will see to it that Satan and all of his followers will receive their due punishment. Evil will be eradicated and Satan’s system will be no more. Instead, the Kingdom of Heaven will be ruled by Jesus who will rule with an iron rod according to Revelation 19:15.

At the end of it all, Jesus will be King of Kings and Lord of Lord’s. Regardless of how things are in our world now, or how bad they will be later, God shall set up His Earthly kingdom and end the evil that Satan has put forth. The question is, do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? If you take a look at our world around us, things are getting worse.

The signs are pointing to the coming of Jesus Christ. This means, that the opportunity to choose Christ in a better environment is quickly passing. Choose Jesus today, so you can avoid having to make a life or death decision at the hands of the Antichrist. Repent of your sins and turn to Jesus Christ. God will honor you for choosing Him, and He will also reward you with everlasting life. Choose Jesus Christ.

Who is the Antichrist? (Part 1)

26 Tuesday Apr 2016

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World leaders and those who are considered to be highly influential have existed for thousands of years. Throughout history, many individuals both male and female have risen to a status that has left an indelible mark on the world stage. Individuals such as George Washington, Martin Luther King Jr, Mahatma Gandhi, and Mother Theresa achieved greatness that was not isolated to their own country but stretched into the world at large.

Some world leaders and well-known individuals were born into wealthy families. Others, arose out of obscurity only to find their place in history as recognizable to the vast majority. It is a person who assumes status as a world leader or an iconic figure who is remembered for the impact that they have on humanity and the world culture.

Spiritually speaking, there will be an individual who will also rise to critical acclaim. However, this individual will be unlike any other world leader that we have seen in our lifetime. This individual is described in Revelation chapter 13, and he will assume the role of “The Antichrist.” Who is the Antichrist and what does the Apostle John have to say about him in Revelation 13?

Before going into that chapter, it is important to know what the term “Antichrist” means. 1 John 2:22 says the following:

(NLT) “And who is a liar? Anyone who says that Jesus is not the Christ. Anyone who denies the Father and the Son is an antichrist.”

The Apostle John says in this verse, that the person who essentially denies that Jesus is the Christ, is an Antichrist. To be an Antichrist is to be against Christ. This is both a stance and an evil spirit that comes from Satan according to 1 John 4:3. However, while any person can assume the spirit of being an Antichrist, the Bible makes it clear that there will be one person who will embody this spirit that comes from Satan himself.

2 Thessalonians 2:3 calls this man “the man of lawlessness.” He is also known as “the man of sin” according to other translations. The point is that the Antichrist is an individual who will appear at a certain time in history. However, Revelation chapter 13 gives us a symbolic representation of who this man will be.

The Apostle John writes the book of Revelation in the format of what he sees in his visions from God. John is shown what is known as the “Tribulation period” which will be a time when chaos engulfs the world. This is also the time after the 2nd coming of Jesus Christ which is often referred to as “the rapture” in which all Christians who follow Christ will be taken out of the Earth to rest with God.

Those who reject Christ will be left to experience the challenging and destructive time that will occur during the tribulation period. The Apostle John starts in the first part of chapter 13 by stating that he sees a beast rising out of the sea.

Verse 1:

(NKJV) “Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name.”

It is important to note the symbolism that John gives us from his vision. The first thing that he says is that he is standing on the sand of the sea and he sees a beast rising up out of the sea. This beast that John refers to is the Antichrist. But why is it important that he mentions the sea? Symbolically, a sea in scripture represents a mass of people. So, the Antichrist will rise out of humanity.

The seven heads represent seven kings or seven rulers within the world. John also sees these kings or heads with ten horns. The ten horns represent ten nations that are ruled by the seven kings. Historically, these kings and nations derive out of the Middle East and Europe.

In fact, Daniel chapter 7 also gives a similar prophecy that the Apostle John does.

Verses 23-24:

(NASB) “Thus, he said: ‘The fourth beast will be a fourth kingdom on the earth, which will be different from all the other kingdoms and will devour the whole earth and tread it down and crush it. As for the ten horns, out of this kingdom, ten kings will arise; and another will arise after them, and he will be different from the previous ones and will subdue three kings.”

Who is the fourth beast? It is none other than the Antichrist who will rise to power. The important thing to note is that these ten horns represent ten nations that are ruled by seven leaders or kings. Why does Daniel initially say that there were ten kings? As Daniel prophesies in verses 23-24, three of the kings or leaders were taken out of the equation leaving seven. Thus, as John points out in Revelation there are seven heads (leaders or kings) with ten horns (ten nations).

Why is this important for us to understand what the seven heads and ten horns represent? The reason is because the Antichrist or the beast will have control over the world system by taking power over the ten nations. The ten nations are critical because they represent nations that have economic and political influence in today’s time. It is believed by many Biblical scholars that these nations will indeed come from the Middle East and Eurpoe. Nations such as France, Spain, Egypt and Iran will be among them.

The point to be made is that the Antichrist will assume power over not only the ten nations that have political and economic influence but the Antichrist will control the entire world for a certain season. How do we know that this is true?

Daniel says in verse 23 that the beast will devour the entire earth and crush it. This means that once this individual who is the Antichrist rises to power, he will indeed be responsible for destroying the world by capturing the world system. The only way that it will be possible is through the power that Satan himself provides. Notice what John says in the latter part of verse 2 of chapter 13:

(NKJV) “The dragon gave him his power, his throne, and great authority.”

The dragon that John saw in his vision is none other than Satan. So, it is vitally important that you the reader understand that our current world system is being framed by Satan who will utilize the coming of the Antichrist to deceive and destroy. Satan’s goal is to increase his own kingdom through deception and through brute force. The Antichrist who has yet to be revealed here on Earth is simply waiting in the background for his cue.

In order for the Antichrist to appear, it will only mean that Jesus Christ has returned for His church. Believe it or not, the coming of Christ is sooner than we realize. While Jesus said that no man knows the day or the hour that Christ shall return, it is clear that based on the signs of the time that can be found in our world and throughout scripture that Jesus is soon to return.

The question is, are you eternally secured in Jesus Christ? If you don’t know Jesus as your personal Lord and savior, your time for redemption is right now. Delaying will only lead to your demise both eternally and even physically. The end of the world is yet upon us. The Antichrist will not only deceive many but he will destroy those who are left behind. Don’t delay your safety by rejecting Christ.

If you wait, you may be left behind after Christ returns only to be faced with losing your soul to Satan or losing your life in rejection of the Satanic system that is being cultivated at this very moment. While there is time, accept Christ and avoid the penalty of sin. Now is the time to come to Jesus Christ and have your sins forgiven.

When God Gives You a Warning (Part 1)

27 Tuesday Oct 2015

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In the dashboard of every vehicle, there are indicators that are illuminated when a specific issue with the vehicle is found. For example, an indicator may show that a passenger or even the driver is not wearing their seat belt. Or, an indicator may suggest that the oil level within the vehicle is nearly depleted. Each indicator that illuminates within the dashboard is specifically designed to get the attention of the driver.

Such signals serve as a warning to suggest to the driver that the vehicle and or driver may experience an adverse reaction if the highlighted warning is not addressed. In our lives, warnings are often given to us by God in order to save us from an impending disaster. The fact is that God loves you and I so much that He gives us warnings before calamity arrives at our doorstep.

If you look throughout the Bible, there are many examples of God issuing a warning before His judgment and wrath fell. Biblically, the nation of Israel was a major example in the Old Testament regarding God’s warnings and what would occur if sin persisted. However, in the book of Jeremiah chapter 25, the prophet Jeremiah is speaking to those in the nation of Judah.

Judah was historically a nation that was sinful as it related to the people choosing to reject God’s decrees. In this chapter, particularly verses 2-8, Jeremiah once again gives a message to the people of Judah for their rebellion against God and their idolatry. Here is what Jeremiah says:

Verses 2-3:

(NLT) “Jeremiah the prophet said to all the people in Judah and Jerusalem, “For the past twenty-three years—from the thirteenth year of the reign of Josiah son of Amon, king of Judah, until now—the Lord has been giving me his messages. I have faithfully passed them on to you, but you have not listened.”

Verses 4-6:

(NLT) “Again and again the Lord has sent you his servants, the prophets, but you have not listened or even paid attention. Each time the message was this: ‘Turn from the evil road you are traveling and from the evil things you are doing. Only then will I let you live in this land that the Lord gave to you and your ancestors forever. Do not provoke my anger by worshiping idols you made with your own hands. Then I will not harm you.’”

In these above verses, Jeremiah makes it clear that he and other Prophets had been tasked with the responsibility of speaking to the same sinful and rebellious individuals. He uses the words, “again and again” when describing the many times that Jeremiah was told to prophesy to the nation of Judah.

The fact is that Judah had ignored the many warnings that were sent through the various prophets that God had anointed to convey His message. Throughout many years, God had used prophets, including Jeremiah, to warn those who were idolatrous and unabashedly disobedient.

What the above verses shows us is that God always gives us a warning or even multiple warnings before His judgement falls upon us. If you look at our world today, there are many signs and warnings that God has and continues to give to us. Daily, there are many elements of the warnings that God makes available.

These warnings are not meant for our destruction, but they are meant as a way to give us an opportunity before destruction comes. Just like any indicator within a vehicle signifies a potential problem before it happens, God’s warnings serve the same purpose.

By looking at your local and national news, you can see the warning signs that God is giving to every human being. For those of us in Christ, the warnings are given so that we are urged to spread the Gospel to every person who is not in Christ. Our mission as Christians should be to share God’s love but also His truth with a world that is lost. Too often, many Christians have lived in silence or have not understood the urgency of the times that we are living in.

Our lives are meant to be a beacon of Christ’s light and this involves actively spreading the Good News so that any sinner can be saved. For those of you who are not in Christ, the warning has been given to you by virtue of the fact that you are reading this blog post. However, this post may not be the only warning but perhaps you have heard someone else sharing the Gospel with you.

If you are not in Christ, then you cannot afford to see the warnings and not heed them. The warnings that God gives is for every person because God does not desire that we experience destruction. The Bible says in 2 Peter 3:9, that God wishes that no one perish. It is not His will that you and I succumb to satan’s ploys or his traps.

Instead, God’s love for you and I is so great that He warns us before disaster strikes. Just as many scriptures indicate, a prophet or a messenger was always sent to warn those in sin about the penalty that would occur. Such penalties could have been avoided had obedience been the course of action for those in their sin. However, the result of a steady direction of disobedience will always be that of chaos and demise.

It is important to understand that God’s purpose for giving each person a warning is so that we can be spared from negative repercussions. How great is it to know that God would take the time to warn you before you suffer the consequences? Even in our sin and rebellion, God does not refuse to warn us. Just as Jeremiah and other prophets showed us in scripture, there are many signs and indicators of destruction that will come upon those who embrace wickedness.

The sins that we see in our world today all have consequences that are attached. The violence in the Middle East and even violence within our own nation is an outward manifestation of the warnings that God sends to us. We should not take it for granted when we see abnormal conditions within our world. Even weather patterns that are catastrophic serve as a warning and as a call for every person steeped in sin to repent and turn to God through Jesus Christ.

Do you know Jesus Christ as your personal Lord & Savior? If not, then you are already in rebellion and in sin. Jesus came to die on the cross for your sins so you could be redeemed instead of condemned. Today is the day to hear the Word of the Lord and surrender your life unto Jesus Christ. When God gives you a warning, it is always best to take it as a sign of His love and a chance to amend your ways through the acceptance of Jesus Christ. Even those of us who are in Christ must be reminded that God warns us, which means that we too have an opportunity to avoid calamity.

There is Only One Way to God – Jesus Christ

22 Tuesday Sep 2015

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ID-10071822The world that you and I live in is diverse in its population. There are various belief systems, cultures, religions, and ethnic groups. With such diversification, there has been an introduction of what resides within our world’s culture. In our modern day, it is nearly impossible to live in a nation that has not seen some sort of diversity in one form or another. While there are nations that are considered to be autocratic or heavily opposed to diverse thinking and living, most nations and the people within them have become exposed to some degree. Much of the reason for that is because of technology and how it has become a global means for communication.

With all of the diversity within our world, many have begun to become more open to the idea of ‘global unity.’ This means that there has been a concerted effort to unify humanity regardless of one’s background or belief system. It has even come to the point in which some have even made the statement that ‘there are many ways to God.’ This belief and false doctrine has been one of the many tools that satan has used to deceive even those who claim to be in Christ. However, God’s Word gives you and I the basis for absolute truth.

In John chapter 14, Jesus is speaking to His Disciples as He admonishes them not to be troubled but to have faith in God. It was at this point in which Jesus was explaining to His Disciples that He was soon to be crucified but that He would later return. The Disciples were in a quandary about where Jesus would be going, but He gives them comforting words throughout this chapter. In verses 1-4 of John chapter 14, Jesus says the following:

(NLT) “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going.”

What Jesus is saying in these verses is that He is leaving in order to prepare a place of residence for those who follow Christ as He told His Disciples. He says to the Disciples that they already know the way and to where Jesus is going. The ‘way’ that Jesus mentions is the path to His crucifixion and ascension into Heaven with God the Father. However, Thomas did not understand this which is evident in His question in verse 5. Jesus says to Thomas in verse 6:

(NLT) “Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”

The answer to Thomas’s question about the way to the place where Jesus would eventually go (which was to Heaven with God the Father) was and is through Jesus Christ. Jesus makes it clear in verse 6 that He is the only way to get to God. Our world has presented a multitude of lies which come directly from satan himself.

We are living in a time in which you can believe what you desire, and it can be taken as absolute truth. Now, there is a movement in which the embrace of various religions has become more of the norm. If you are a Muslim, Buddhist, atheist, agnostic, or of any other belief outside of Christianity it is now seen as morally and socially acceptable. However, the interesting fact is that slowly but surely, those who are truly in Christ are becoming marginalized.

Jesus says in John chapter 15 in verses 18-19 the following:

(NLT) “If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you.”

What Jesus says here should be the way that we who are in Christ approach the subject of ‘global unity.’ The emphasis of such unity is for satan to get everyone who will, to agree with his agenda as long as it does not include the truth of Jesus Christ. Basically, it is satan’s goal to get the world to embrace every sort of sin and belief outside of God’s Word. We who are in Christ should keep in mind that we are not to be accepted or embraced by this world. We should also understand that we who are in Christ are not to accept or believe in the false doctrine of those who are apart of this world system.

If we are hated or scorned by the world, then we are in such a position because Jesus Christ was hated first. Our world is now pushing forth the lie that there are many ways to God or to salvation. However, Jesus Christ is the only way. Satan has used the media to indoctrinate both today’s youth and even adults into believing that you can and should accept the various ways that exist in this life.

The truth of the matter is that you and I are free to choose what path we shall take and what we will believe. However, with such choices there are either positive or negative consequences. Choosing to abide by the false doctrine of believing that there are many ways to God will lead to destruction. Jesus Christ is the only way to God and the only way to salvation.

Many have now said that America is a pluralistic society which in many respects is absolutely true. As a nation, America has embraced just about any sort of sinful lifestyle and belief system that you can think of. However, with such a pluralism, there is a degradation and moral decay that exists. Many cannot understand how it is that crime continues to increase, and why we see tragedies that occur daily.

It is because America as a nation and even the world around us has embraced moral relativism and even more so our world has embraced sin in its very embodiment. However, the answer to our world’s problems is Jesus Christ. Christ is the way to receive eternal salvation. Hell is a place that is reserved for those who choose not to follow Christ but to accept sinful living. However, the gift of Jesus Christ is everlasting life.

There are many choices that you and I can make in this life. The world continues to offer the perceived way to happiness and to salvation. However, the way of a world that is in darkness is the way that leads to spiritual and moral decadence. What the media has said and continues to suggest is nothing more than false doctrine. The truth of Jesus Christ and God’s Word is what will last and it is the only truth to stand on.

Do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord & Savior? If you are not in Christ, then you are on a path that leads to a life of uncertainty and a destiny that leads to destruction. However, Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose again so that you would have life and have it abundantly. Confess your sins and believe in your heart that He is Lord. For those of us who are in Christ, we must ensure that we are not deceived and that we know God’s Word and that we have the Holy Spirit to teach us how to navigate through the world’s deceptions. Jesus Christ is the only way to God.

Tools to Equip Every Believer

11 Friday Sep 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hebrews chapter 4 verse 12 says,

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

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

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

Philippians 4:6 says,

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

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

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

Hebrews 10:25 says,

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

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

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

The Ultimate Ruler – God’s Standard for Humanity

04 Friday Sep 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Verses 20-23:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Staying Focused – Keeping Your Eyes on God

10 Monday Aug 2015

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ID-100279863The 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.

The Illusion – Disguised as the Truth

03 Monday Aug 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Acts 2: 1-4

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

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

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

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

John continues in 1 John Chapter 4:

Verses 2-3:

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

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

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

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

Are You Fighting on the Winning Side?

28 Tuesday Jul 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Genesis 3:15:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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