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When God Gives You a Warning (Part 2) – Consequences of Ignoring a Warning

28 Wednesday Oct 2015

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If you have ever taken the moment to conduct self-reflection, you may have pondered the many aspects of your life that involved a bad decision and its outcome. Perhaps someone warned you not to do or even say something that would ultimately be to your detriment. In haste and blatant defiance, you do the very opposite of what someone suggested that you don’t.

During your period of reflection, you may feel a sense of regret over your life’s choices. All of us can attest to a time in which we were warned not to do something and yet, in our own pride we bypassed a word of wisdom and reason. The consequences of doing so usually meant an unpleasant experience or even a negative impact relating to your life as a whole.

The fact is that when we are warned of a matter and we ignore a heed to avoid a calamity, there will always be a negative consequence. Some believe that by taking a risk and sticking to what is believed to be the best route, that nothing bad will happen. However, more often than not, the decision to ignore a warning results in the reception of a calamity.

In the book of Jeremiah chapter 25, we can see that the prophet Jeremiah is once again speaking to the people of Judah. As mentioned in the previous blog post, Jeremiah along with other prophets had been tasked with telling the nation of Judah to repent and turn from their sinful ways. As the scripture says in verse 4, the prophets who were assigned to relay God’s message, did so over and over again.

In verses 4-6, Jeremiah tells the people of Judah that they have essentially ignored the many messages that were given by the prophets. However, the consequences of such ignorance is displayed in the next few verses of chapter 25.

Verses 7-9:

(NLT) ““But you would not listen to me,” says the Lord. “You made me furious by worshiping idols you made with your own hands, bringing on yourselves all the disasters you now suffer. And now the Lord of Heaven’s Armies says: Because you have not listened to me, I will gather together all the armies of the north under King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, whom I have appointed as my deputy. I will bring them all against this land and its people and against the surrounding nations. I will completely destroy you and make you an object of horror and contempt and a ruin forever.”

In the above verses, God’s message to the people of Judah is clear in that, because of their disobedience, their land would be utterly destroyed. The people of Judah had committed many forms of idolatry in addition to living in rebellion. Essentially, the fate that the nation of Judah suffered was that of destruction at the hands of King Nebuchadnezzar’s military which later resulted in the people of Judah being held captive by the Babylonians for 70 years according to verse 11.

The point is that, the people of Judah not only ignored the many warnings that God had given, but they eventually experienced negative repercussions as a result of it. Whenever God sends a person to warn or relay His message, those who do not obey will always suffer from negative consequences.

This is why our global society is constantly in a state of confusion and degradation. It is because of the rebelliousness and sinful ways of humanity that our world groans. Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose again so that we could be saved from condemnation. In addition to this, God has a standard of Holy living which is predicated upon our obedience unto Him.

When we are obedient and we choose to reject our sinful nature, we are then in the safety of God’s parameters. Satan does not want those who are in sin to understand that wickedness contributes to being in a place of vulnerability. When you are outside of the will of God, you are then open to anything that can and will happen. However, when your life is submitted unto God in obedience, you are no longer vulnerable but you are held in God’s safety.

To ignore a warning is not only unwise but it is allowing your human pride to lead the way to destruction. In our sinful nature, we are all prideful. Pride is what signifies self-sufficiency. It is the mentality that one knows best. Secular humanism does not give credence to God nor does it honor Him. Instead, the secular humanist believes that we as humans are our own god.

However, when a person adheres to this philosophy, the warnings that God gives to us daily are ignored and eventually it leads to a destructive end. Just like the people of Judah were held captive by the Babylonians and also destroyed, the world around us today is showing the same signs of destruction and captivity.

One example of captivity has to do with the growing issue of drug abuse. In America, and even around the world, there is a growing number of cases in which drugs are openly used and abused. Those who fall in that category are captive to the demonic force which satan has deployed. Despite all of the calls for strict drug laws and a reformation of our world system, the fact is that without God, we as humans are left in captivity.

As far as destruction is concerned, we can see the very element of our family structure being destroyed daily. It is because of the choice to embrace homosexuality and even ‘changing your gender’ that we are continuing to see a decline in God’s original order. Even heterosexual couples are seeing the negative effects of divorce for a myriad of reasons.

However, the key is that many warnings have been given over time for humanity to repent and turn back to God. Many prophets, evangelists, and pastors have given God’s Word to the masses for decades. Yet, many choose to ignore the Word of the Lord. With such ignorance, there are consequences. The violence and the eruption of chaos we see is directly tied to the rebellion and choice to ignore God’s warnings.

What is the solution to all of this? The solution is to adhere to God’s warnings by submitting yourself to Jesus Christ. If you don’t know Jesus in the pardon of your sins, God has made a way for you to escape His wrath. God wants to have fellowship with you through Christ, but it can only occur when you have accepted Jesus Christ’s sacrifice. Then you must repent of your sins and turn from your wickedness.

For those of us who are in Christ, we must also be aware that we are not immune to God’s judgment. God desires that we too are obedient and heed His warnings. God loves humanity, because if He did not, then we would not be warned before a looming disaster. Those who are wise and those who are willing will accept God’s warning and turn to Him in repentance.

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.

Overcoming a Generational Curse Through the Power of Jesus Christ

19 Monday Oct 2015

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Everyone has a family history that contains various traits that signify the genealogy and its uniqueness from others. Such traits often include physical characteristics such as skin color, hair color, and even eye color. A person is identified based on their genes and their family lineage. Family history also includes a person’s medical history which involves diseases and other conditions that are within the family structure.

In many cases, what a person’s familial history represents is a continuation of various behaviors or traits that are directly taken from the lineage in question. Often, a person is predisposed to medical illnesses and even personality traits because of the lineage that they exist within. It is as if a person’s heritage dictates who they are and certain aspects of their life that will show forth in the future.

Spiritually speaking, you and I were born into sin because of Adam and Eve’s disobedience. The bible says in Romans chapter 5, verses 12-21 that sin entered through one man. Adam’s disobedience is what caused sin to enter into this world. It was at that point that Adam passed sinful nature down to every human being that would be born. This means, that we automatically inherit sin as our nature because of Adam.

However, if you read further in this scripture, the Apostle Paul points out that it is Jesus Christ who has given us the opportunity to be reconciled to God rather than being condemned in sin.

Verses 18-19:

(NLT) “Yes, Adam’s one sin brings condemnation for everyone, but Christ’s one act of righteousness brings a right relationship with God and new life for everyone. Because one person disobeyed God, many became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many will be made righteous.”

What the above scripture shows us is that although we were born into sin, there is an escape and the one who gives us that open door is Jesus Christ. It is the acceptance of Jesus Christ that turns the tide and breaks the power of sin. There are many who remain bound because of their current sinful position, however, the advocate who is Jesus Christ died on the cross to save you from your sin.

Even as it relates to the aspect of a generational curse, the same power of Jesus Christ can nullify and change one’s original destiny. What is a generational curse? In its most simplistic definition, a generational curse is an ongoing occurrence of misfortune and malady. It is the constant state of being under the influence of a curse which usually results in a poor quality of life.

In order for a generational curse to be formed, there must be a seed or seeds sown into a lineage. Throughout human history, there have been many examples of seeds sown that later produced generational curses within family lines. For example, in the book of Exodus chapter 20, God gives a stern warning of what occurs when sin is allowed to remain within a family structure.

In this passage of scripture, God is speaking to the children of Israel when He says the following:

Verses 2-5:

(NLT) “I am the Lord your God, who rescued you from the land of Egypt, the place of your slavery.“You must not have any other god but me. “You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind or an image of anything in the heavens or on the earth or in the sea. You must not bow down to them or worship them, for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God who will not tolerate your affection for any other gods. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children; the entire family is affected—even children in the third and fourth generations of those who reject me.”

Notice that in this passage, God gives the children of Israel the command not to have any other gods but He alone. Also, God says directly that the sins of the parents are essentially placed upon the children. At that time, idolatry among other sins was actively practiced among previous generations. As a result, those who were born were already predisposed to not only the same sinful acts but also the punishment that God would inflict.

Verse 6 however, gives the children of Israel an opportunity to have their potential punishment expunged:

(NLT) “But I lavish unfailing love for a thousand generations on those who love me and obey my commands.”

God is saying in this verse that those who choose to love Him and obey Him will be among those who experience His great love. Essentially, they will be spared from the punishment that comes with disobedience. What occurred during the Old Testament was that children who were born within families that committed sin would experience punishment based on what their parents had done. However, this was usually because of the choice to sin.

Just like we have been born into sin because of Adam and Eve’s disobedience, the same sinful nature resides within each familial structure. This means that because we are already predisposed to certain sins, then the likelihood that we would act in the same sinful manner as those who came before us is quite probable. However, this is determined based on the choice to succumb to the sin within our family heritage.

At the end of the day, you and I have a choice to make. Just as the children of Israel were given an opportunity to obey the commands of God and to love Him, we have the option to do the same. Sin is the same as a seed in that when a sinful seed is planted, it will eventually resurface at a later date.

When the seeds of sin are planted throughout generations, then it can become a generational curse to others at a later point in time. The fact is, in my family and in yours, there are those who have sinned which means there are certain weaknesses that have the ability to invade our lives. However, the good news is that you and I can avoid such curses and predispositions through Jesus Christ.

Only in Christ can we break the generational curses that exist within our family structure. For example, if your Father was a habitual user of drugs, then you would be in the trek to do the same thing. However, by choosing Christ as your Lord and Savior, the generational curse and the possibility of committing the same sin can be broken.

Satan wants all of us to be bound by the sins of our parents and family members, or even to be bound by our own sins. However, the power of Jesus Christ can break every chain. You must realize that the choice not to follow the same sinful pattern of your parents is completely up to you. The seeds planted within your family structure do not have to define your destiny.

In fact, seeds of salvation, blessings, and obedience can be planted if you are willing to surrender to Jesus Christ. Do you know Jesus Christ as your Lord & Savior? If not, then you are already planting seeds that are based on sin. To turn the tide, there must be a decision to accept Christ and to have a relationship with God through Christ. If you are enduring a generational curse in your family, it can only be broken through Christ. Today is the day to break the chains through the power of Jesus.

God – The Righteous Judge

08 Thursday Oct 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

06 Tuesday Oct 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Verses 17-18:

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

Verses 19-21:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Defending the Faith

28 Monday Sep 2015

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

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

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

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

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

Verses 14-16:

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

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

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

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

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

“yet do it with gentleness and respect”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Call to Repentance and Turning Away from Your Sin

28 Monday Sep 2015

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

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

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

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

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

Verse 6:

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

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

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

Verses 7-9:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day and Night – Recognizing the Difference Between the Two

24 Thursday Sep 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Death by Pride – The Consequences of Ignoring Your Sin

14 Monday Sep 2015

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Have you ever given someone a piece of advice that would have proven to be beneficial and yet the individual scoffed and ignored your words? If so, you might have noticed that at some point the individual who chose to ignore you ended up in a situation that would have been avoided had they listened to your advice. It is the ignorance of a matter that often causes much of the blunders in our lives and even throughout our world. Time and time again, there are warnings that resound in our life and yet such warnings are not taken seriously.

The reason why is because of the element called ‘pride.’ Pride in its most basic definition is the disposition of self-sufficiency. It is to hold to the belief that you know what is best rather than seeing another person’s point of view. In our world today, the element of pride has taken root, more so now than ever. We live in a world in which the very essence of existence is now surrounded by secular humanism or better known as ‘human pride.’ If you look at various television commercials, you will notice that there has been an increase in the rise of human innovation with a focus on technology.

Essentially this means, many are now looking within themselves for inventive ideas rather than recognizing that we as humans do not have the intellectual capacity to do or invent without the direction and power of God. In the book of Proverbs chapter 16, the topic of pride is addressed. Throughout the book of Proverbs, pride and Godly wisdom are mentioned multiple times because King Solomon who was the writer of Proverbs, wanted the reader to understand that a life that is ruled by pride rather than wisdom is a life that is destined for failure.

Proverbs chapter 16 verses 1-5 says the following:

(NLV) “The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the thoughts of the heart. Trust your work to the Lord, and your plans will work out well. The Lord has made all things for His own plans, even the sinful for the day of trouble. Everyone who is proud in heart is a shame to the Lord. For sure, that one will be punished.”

In this scripture, the first thing we can extract is that we as humans suffer from pride because it is within our very nature. In the first part of verse 2 King Solomon says “All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes” which is meant to suggest that naturally because of our sinful nature, we are more self-reliant rather than reliant upon God. So, in the very heart of you and I is where pride exists. However, it is through the remission of sin and acceptance of Christ’s sacrifice that our prideful nature is altered.

When you and I make the decision to surrender our life unto God through Christ, we are laying down our pride and our own way of living. If you look at our world you can see the consequences which are born out of pride. Many see their way of living as ‘pure’ just as the scripture says in Proverbs chapter 16. Essentially, many ignore their sin because they are spiritually blind to their sin in addition to being resistant to the spiritual things of God.

The lawlessness and the consequences that come with an abundance of sin is based on humanity’s willingness to embrace human pride. If you read further into Proverbs chapter 16 you will see that there is evidence of what happens when pride reigns in the life of a person who chooses not to submit to God.

Verse 5:

(NLV) “Everyone who is proud in heart is a shame to the Lord. For sure, that one will be punished.”

Another translation of the Bible which is the English Standard Version (ESV) uses the word ‘abomination’ rather than shame. In God’s view, it is abominable or shameful for we as humans to operate in our own pride. The reason is because pride is rooted in selfishness which means that God does not have the freedom to reign in our lives. Pride is one of the many sins that were passed down from Adam & Eve unto us as we were born into this world. It is the person who is prideful who does not repent before God. They believe that their actions are not sinful but rather their actions are in purity.

However, our world shows us the very things that occur when each generation operates in blatant un-repentance and pride. Why is it that there is so much gun violence that is occurring in America? Why is it that countries around the world are experiencing governmental upheaval and economic uncertainty? One of the main symptoms is human pride. There is such a concentration on how ‘we’ as humans can build our own empires and solve our own problems.

However, every time we think that we can operate separately from God it becomes a reality that not only is God displeased with us, but that He leaves us to our own devices which usually means demise. King Solomon says that the person who is proud is the person who will meet punishment from God. Another verse confirms this notion.

Verse 18:

(NLV) “Pride comes before being destroyed and a proud spirit comes before a fall.”

The ultimate ending for a person who is prideful and ignores their sin is destruction. There are many who are given the opportunity to accept Jesus Christ as their Lord & Savior, and yet they ignore the call of God unto Himself through repentance. It is the proud person who says, ‘I am a good person.’ or ‘What I do isn’t that bad.’ However, the actions and words of a person can tell you just what is in their heart. Many have forsaken the ways of the Lord in exchange for their sinfulness. Most don’t want anyone to tell them how to live their own life. Many want to be unaccountable, but the truth is, on the day of judgment, God will give every person what they deserve.

However, you have an opportunity to avoid the penalty that comes with living in sin. Verse 6 of Proverbs chapter 16 says,

(NLV) “Sin has been paid for by loving-kindness and truth. The fear of the Lord keeps one away from sin.”

King Solomon says that your sin and my sin has already been paid for by God’s loving-kindness and His truth. The way that this has occurred is through Jesus Christ and His sacrifice. The sacrifice of Christ on the cross is sufficient to remove the stain of your sin, however, you must be willing to take God’s way out to be saved. Secondly, there must be a fear of the Lord. ‘Fear’ also means reverence in this context. Many (even those who claim Christianity) continue to operate in sinful behavior because they don’t fear God.

Without a reverential disposition towards God then you will believe that your own standard is what brings salvation and the solution to life’s problems. However, God wants you and I to come to Him to lay down our pride. The term ‘death by pride’ essentially means that both a spiritual and physical destruction result from a life steeped in pride. If you don’t believe that it can happen to you, simply peer through the windows of our society and notice how immoral and godless humanity has become. In fact, if you decide to reject God’s decrees and embrace a prideful stance, then you will personally see the negative results.

Humanity has become its own undoing, however, the solution is Jesus Christ. If you don’t know Jesus as your personal Lord & Savior, today is the day to relinquish your pride. God wants to know you and He wants to be your lifeline through Christ in these uncertain times. Pride runs rampant in our society, but the remedy to such pride is to bow down in humility before Jesus Christ. Only in doing so will you experience true freedom and the answer to life’s challenges.

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.