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1 John 4:1-3 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (2) Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: (3) And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (KJV)
Strong’s definition for ‘try’: 1381 dokimazo (dok-im-ad'-zo); from 1384; to test (literally or figuratively); by implication, to approve: KJV-- allow, discern, examine, X like, (ap-) prove, try. Would you like to do a spiritual test to see if it makes the grade; then why not ask a spiritual question? What is one of the first things one asks when they wish to identify someone? How about the name, or what name they go by? A name will give the identity of a person, who they are and what their family lineage is. When you ask someone their name you will find that the first name they give is quite common with mankind, say for instance John. When I think of the name John, different people and personalities come to mind. However, when you ask them the rest of their name then it narrows the field and identifies them with a certain family. When one names the name of Jesus they speak of a common name among mankind, one that many have used. However, when you use the name of Jesus Christ you have now identified a man sent from heaven, a man now seated at the right hand of the Father making intercession for His people. By giving the complete name you now give an accurate complete account of who you are dealing with, the one and only name under heaven whereby we can obtain salvation. You know, this test that is being referred to, was given by another man, one I know passed it himself. Matthew 16:13-15 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? (14) And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. (15) He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? (KJV) As we see in the above verses someone else also gave a test to see who knew the true identity of the Son. As we see all these names were common among mankind, well known by many, yet not what our Lord was looking for. So what is the answer our Lord was revealing to His people and wishes to reveal to His people concerning Himself? Matthew 16:16-18 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. (17) And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. (18) And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (KJV) There’s that name again, the complete name that gives the whole answer that our Lord was looking for back then and is still looking for today, those that truly wish to serve Him in Spirit and in truth. You know what people, if Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever, then that name, the answer Peter gave, would still hold true today would it not? Furthermore, if you look at the source of where Peter got his response you see it came from a God who cannot lie and who thought it was important enough to make mention of it. A builder wouldn’t dare erect a building without having a firm foundation to build on, so why would God’s people try to build on anything less than what was approved by God? John 17:1-3 These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: (2) As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. (3) And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. (KJV) The Lord’s prayer shortly before His departure from this earth clearly spells out who He is and the one name that will give us eternal life. Again I reiterate that if this name was good enough for Him and got Him access to the heavenly realm as well as an eternal reward, would it not be good enough for you? If our own Lord and Savior used this name to describe Himself then obviously it is meant for us to use as well in order to gain access to the kingdom of God. Luke 2:25-32 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. (26) And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. (27) And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, (28) Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, (29) Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: (30) For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, (31) Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; (32) A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. (KJV) Interesting to see again what was revealed to Simeon by the Holy Spirit; something that made it complete. While most everyone was looking in the outward realm and saw a child named Jesus, the spirit was revealing Christ the inward man that would bring a spiritual enlightenment to a fallen world. What or who do you see when reading the scriptures, do you just see and acknowledge Jesus of Nazareth, or has God revealed something deeper, beyond the realm of the flesh for you to see also? Galatians 1:11-12 But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. (12) For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. (KJV) You know whether it was Peter, Paul, or our Lord Jesus Christ, they all had one thing in common, and one name that identified them with God. They all knew personally for themselves who our Lord is and what name He acknowledges as His. If someone comes your way this day to see where you stand, will you be able to pass the test, or will you end up like many, giving man’s answer to a heavenly question? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Williams New Testament translation for Matthew 6:4-6
4. so that your deed of charity may be secret, and your Father who sees what is secret will reward you. 5. "Also, whenever you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners, to attract the attention of people. I solemnly say to you, they already have their reward. 6. But whenever you, follower of mine, pray, you must go to your most private place, shut the door, and pray to your Father in secret, and your Father who sees what is secret will reward you. God’s realm is different than man’s realm, one is spiritual one is carnal. If you wish to operate in the realm of God then it will take a certain mindset to see into this secret or hidden realm, the mind of Christ. How do you look at people and determine who they truly serve; do you base your assumptions on the outward as many do, or do you look to the secret inward man to make your determination? When you attend an organization do you base your fellowship with them by the size of the building and how nice the people are, or are you looking for something deeper, something with some spiritual depth and truth? 1 John 4:1-4 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (2) Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: (3) And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (4) Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. (KJV) Actually there is a test, a simple way to truly determine if someone is of God or what could be categorized as a not exactly, close but this isn’t a game of horseshoes. Remember when the Lord said many are called but few are chosen? Well, we see in the above verses what has happened to the many and is still happening. Simple, but they just don’t pass the test, the spiritual discernment that separates the men from the boys, the can do people and the wannabes. If the teaching and preaching doesn’t focus on Christ, the inward spiritual Son of God that was leading and guiding a man named Jesus, then they haven’t come to a working knowledge of the mystery of the gospel; which sad to say is still a mystery to many. While many teach and preach in the name of Jesus, they in essence have got the cart in front of the horse, or in this case they put more emphasis on the outward than the inward. However if one goes through the New Testament and sees what the mystery of the gospel is and the name that was and still is revealed to God’s people, it goes way beyond just a man named Jesus the son of a carpenter. Those that confess that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh have a personal working knowledge of who the Son of God is and what is the only true hope that will get us access to His kingdom. When I hear people end their prayers in the name of Jesus and those that write books about all the power in his name, it tells me they don’t truly know God or His mystery, a secret that they are still in the dark about. The only way one can be whole and complete, to grow and mature in the things of God, is by knowing the mystery of the kingdom of God which is only found in Christ, while anything less is antichrist. Which if one is not for Him then they are against Him. 1 Timothy 2:5-7 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; (6) Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. (7) Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity. (KJV) You know, if the word of God says there is only one mediator between God and man, and our God is not one to lie, then anything else is just that, a lie. If you were to ask people today what their access code is to their bank account, most everyone would be able to tell you exactly what it is so that they can access it. But ask people what the spiritual access code is to heaven and you will find few that truly know the answer to this secret. Just like with an access code to a bank or a computer, if you leave out any part of it you don’t get access in. Is it any wonder then that the enemy is referred to as the spirit of antichrist and not anti Jesus? You wouldn’t leave any part of your code out to get into a bank account, why would you omit the most important part to get access into your spiritual account as well? Why be half right, when you could be all right? The fact that God used His people to write about His mystery and the sufferings they endured for it as well, it would do you well to give heed to His message and know that the scriptures were given for our benefit to see into His secret realm. 2 Corinthians 5:16-18 Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. (17) Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (18) And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; (KJV) Again we see that we should no longer be looking after the flesh or the outward, but rather into the inward new creation to find the answer to the mystery of the kingdom of God. The things of this fallen realm are old news, same o same o, it’s in Christ that all things are new because you have entered a new realm of the Spirit that is eternal. Remember God said that He is a Spirit and so is His Son; so if you are going to know Him and how to operate in His wisdom, it can only be accomplished through Christ that you can be a new creation in Him. God is not a God of the dead but of the living, so old things and old thinking needs to be passed away, dead and buried, so that a new man can resurrect in you. John 4:22-26 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. (23) But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. (24) God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (25) The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. (26) Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he. (KJV) Many today don’t pass when it comes to the heavenly test because what they call worship is mostly done in vain, something that looks good to the outward but does nothing to further the growth of the inward. Jesus had an answer to a secret, and that answer was in the direction of Christ, the inward new creation that was within Him and is within you also. Here is a test, a homework assignment if you would, go back through the scriptures and see if you can find a common denominator to what the Lord called Himself and what name He gives credence to. After all what better example could we have than the one that already passed the test from above and is now seated at the right hand of the Father? Test the Spirit and know this, that if you don’t know or are unable to pass it today don’t wait until it’s too late to know the secret that will get you access into God’s kingdom. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Mark 4:11-12 And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: (12) That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them. (KJV)
Isn’t it nice to know something or someone before you commit your life to it? Better yet isn’t it nice to know that you have salvation before it is too late and you committed the unpardonable sin, that being unbelief, where you stand before God some day and basically tell Him He is a liar? Unto you, yes you right now this day, it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God so that you personally can see and perceive the things He has for you. A mystery is something hidden, concealed, and covered up to mankind and his carnal thinking but readily revealed, open, and exposed to those that have their spiritual senses enlightened to the things of His realm. Mark 4:13 And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables? (KJV) If you are not able to comprehend and know for yourself the mystery of the kingdom of God then you will continue to be in darkness and unable to know the things of God and the meaning of His word. So what has been given to mankind that they need to know, and is there a common denominator that will enlighten me to the things of His realm? Ephesians 3:1-5 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, (2) If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: (3) How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, (4) Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) (5) Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; (KJV) Thayer’s definition for ‘mystery’: 3466 musterion- 1) hidden thing, secret, mystery a) generally mysteries, religious secrets, confided only to the initiated and not to ordinary mortals b) a hidden or secret thing, not obvious to the understanding c) a hidden purpose or counsel; secret will: 1) of men 2) of God: the secret counsels which govern God in dealing with the righteous, which are hidden from ungodly and wicked men but plain to the godly 2) in rabbinic writings, it denotes the mystic or hidden sense: of an Old Testament saying, of an image or form seen in a vision, of a dream What was made known to Paul by revelation and the knowledge he taught and spoke of was the mystery of Christ. Christ, the hidden inward man, the son of God dwelling within Jesus of Nazareth, who was leading and guiding Him in the things of God; who was dwelling within Paul giving him knowledge into the things of God as well. Many people I hear today who claim to be speaking on behalf of our Lord teach and preach in the name of Jesus without a working knowledge of who Christ is, something that obviously is still a mystery to them, something they haven’t had personally revealed to them either. Ever wonder why Paul had so much hardship and persecution? Ever wonder why the enemy of Christians is referred to as the spirit of antichrist, and not anti Jesus? Obviously there is a name and a revelation, a mystery the enemy would like to keep secret, locked up and kept from the people of God to tap into. Colossians 1:25-28 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; (26) Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: (27) To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: (28) Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: (KJV) The perfection, maturity, and completeness will only be found in Christ by those that come to a working knowledge of who they are in Him and how they too can access all these spiritual riches that are given for them to know. Verse 26 is clear to point out that this wisdom is manifest to the saints, the true saints of God that preach and teach in the name of Christ; while all the others are still operating according to their own understanding, basically standing on the outside trying to look in through a veil. Colossians 4:2-4 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving; (3) Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: (4) That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. (KJV) Our prayers today should be for those that are called to teach so that they can give utterance to this same mystery and speak words that will make manifest this mystery for all of God’s people to see and know for themselves. 1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. (KJV) The mystery of Christ, the Spirit that allowed Jesus of Nazareth to be justified by God and received up into glory seated at the right hand of the Father. Unto us it is given to know and not just guess what the answer of this mystery is; which is what every person will have to give someday before our Father. The question today is, do you know for sure? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:14-16 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ. (15) But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. (16) Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. (KJV)
Have you ever watched a show, a mystery where the main character is kept secret by not revealing their true identity until near the end of the program, then everything that was hidden all fits together and the mystery is solved? How about a work of art, a portrait of someone that was covered up until the unveiling, revealing the artist as well as who was portrayed in the painting. 2 Corinthians 3:14 [Which veil is done away in Christ.] It is only by acknowledging Christ that the darkness is removed, and the end and spiritual meaning of the law discerned. (from Adam Clarke Commentary) It takes a spiritual being to remove a spiritual veil, and that man is Christ, the one man that can give us an accurate portrayal of who God is and how we can worship Him in spirit and in truth. If any man has not the Spirit of Christ working in them, as well as a working knowledge of who He is, then the veil is still covering the heart and one is not able to see beyond their own carnal understanding. Thus why we see so many today still operating under the works of the old law and not understanding or discerning the spiritual meaning of it, and how it is done away in Christ. Christ is the end of the old law, having fulfilled all the law without sin and has come to introduce us to a new beginning in Him, a law of faith, a substance of things not seen by our fleshly sight but revealed to us through the Spirit. So today when we still see so many that are stuck on the works of the law, water baptisms, circumcisions or observing certain so called holy or holidays, we see the many that are blind to the truth and unable to truly access all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge which is only found in Christ. Romans 10:1-5 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. (2) For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. (3) For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. (4) For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. (5) For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. (KJV) You are not going to find life in the old law because that is not the realm where our Lord operates. In fact the Bible is very clear to point out that the letter of the law and those that hold to it actually kill the meaning of God’s plan of salvation for His people; only those that operate in the realm of the Spirit will find life. Paul used Israel as an example for his time, but as one looks around today we have many that are still trying to establish their own righteousness according to their outward understanding because they have not submitted themselves to Christ and let Him lead and guide them in their search. So the ignorance we see today is a result of those that are still veiled, unable to see beyond the realm of the flesh, and not allowing the light of the glorious gospel of Christ to shine within. Where are you looking today for the one true answer that will bring peace to your life, is it still stuck in a carnal law that is dead, died, and should be buried, or is it in a risen Christ that is alive and well, seated at the right hand of the Father waiting for you to utilize all that God has for you? John 10:7-10 Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. (8) All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. (9) I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. (10) The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (KJV) Many people today see and speak of a man named Jesus and the wonderful works God did through Him. I have found that few have a working knowledge of Christ, the Son of the living God that was working within Him, the hidden man. The enemy has no problem with religion and those that claim to know Jesus and try to imitate him, but it is those that know Christ and the power in His name that have now become a target because they are able to access the kingdom of God through His door. A spiritual door requires a spiritual access code to gain entrance, and only the complete name of Jesus Christ will get you into the new realm and allow you to see the kingdom of God unveiled. Ever wonder why it is termed antichrist, why the devil fights so hard to steal, kill, and destroy the true meaning of the power in the name of Christ and what His name truly gives you access into? People can pray and teach all they want in the name of Jesus which tells me they are only half right and still veiled; but those that know the name of Christ are the ones that are complete in Him and able to see beyond the veil. Luke 8:16-17 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light. (17) For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad. (KJV) Have you ever heard the advertisement for the motel chain that states that you are welcome and they will leave the light on? The light is on in heaven, and the true meaning of God’s word and plan of salvation is ready to be revealed to any and all that would enter in through His door so that they can see for themselves who they are in Christ. Everything that has been hid from mankind and kept secret because of sin is now readily accessible by the sacrifice of His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. It is a grand unveiling which not only unveils God’s true identity, but also shows you who you are in Christ and where you fit in concerning your place in the body of Christ. It is only a spiritual group of believers that will be able to understand a spiritual being and operate in accordance with His will and not by their own understanding. Romans 8:6-9 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. (7) Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. (8) So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. (9) But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. (KJV) As we clearly see it is our carnal mind and its understanding that is veiled and unable to access a life of peace. It takes the Spirit of Christ and an understanding of Him to access the kingdom of God and see all that has been hid in that realm. Without this Spirit of Christ we are none of His, but are just wandering around aimlessly in life, like the term ‘the blind leading the blind’. We have the mind of Christ, an enlightening of who we are in Him and the ability to access the kingdom of God through His name so that we no longer have to be on the outside of His kingdom looking in, but rather able to clearly see all that is available to His people. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. (18) But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. (KJV) Williams New Testament translation 2Corinthians 3:17-18 17. Now the Lord means the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18. And all of us, with faces uncovered, because we continue to reflect like mirrors the splendor of the Lord, are being transformed into likeness to Him, from one degree of splendor to another, since it comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. Are you able to access all that the Lord has for you this day through the only door that gives us access, Jesus Christ? The Bible is clear to point out that there is no other name under heaven that is able to give us this, but the name of Jesus Christ. It takes a spiritual being to reveal a spiritual God, and only His spiritual name will give you access into His spiritual realm. Do you know the name by heart or is it still a mystery to you, or should I say still covered up? God’s word clearly says that there is one mediator between Him and us, that being Christ Jesus; now if that was good enough for Him, would it not be for you as well? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 John 4:1-5 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (2) Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: (3) And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (4) Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. (5) They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. (KJV)
The Lord and His people have been warning us to be on the lookout for not just a few but the many false prophets, who like wolves, prey on the wounded and the weak of the flock. Too many Christians have let their guard down; and like an unsuspecting boxer, end up getting sucker punched by someone they thought was legit. When you listen to these sermons today they focus on worldly areas that many people struggle in; and like with many infomercials you see on TV they promise quick fix solutions to people still in bondage to spiritual ailments; which if they addressed those first, then the troublesome areas in these people’s lives would be more easily overcome. Rather than focus on the spiritual (which is why it is the spirit of antichrist), the one thing that would set them free is ignored; they keep giving worldly solutions to solve a spiritual need and many then end up falling short and discouraged. If any man has not the spirit of Christ, a working knowledge of the Son of God, then He is none of His. Greater is He, Christ in you the hope of glory, than he the spirit of antichrist which is roaming this planet like a roaring lion seeking whom he can devour with the cares and distractions of this life. Case in point, at times I see the headline about ministers who complain about opening their books to congress to give an account of their spending habits. These ministers claim government intrusion, the same government they bowed down to in order to get their tax exempt status. If you don’t want them intruding into your business then get out of theirs and just pay your fair share of taxes; which according to God’s word is the obligation of the Church. Wake up people and quit letting the fox guard the henhouse. Matthew 4:8-10 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; (9) And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. (10) Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. (KJV) Jesus Christ was faced with this spirit of antichrist which would have liked nothing better than to see Him change His message of salvation, soften His stance a bit, and maybe start compromising. Unlike many we see today that think they can mix and match like a buffet table, taking the things they desire and try to match them up with spiritual things, the Lord held His ground knowing that this life is temporary and that the message of salvation is eternal. The Lord knew He could not serve two masters because if He was double minded, like we see and hear in so many of mans’ sermons, then He would have become unstable and unable to receive the things of God. Are you holding fast your profession of faith this moment without wavering? Or have you been sucker punched by a worldly doctrine that you never saw coming because you weren’t watching and keeping your guard up? Ephesians 1:3-6 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: (4) According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: (5) Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, (6) To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. (KJV) With an unending priceless gift of spiritual blessings, have you even begun to explore all that is available to those in Christ? No wonder the devil comes a knocking. After all, he was at one time seated in the heavenly places but fell because of pride, and let go of his eternal reward. That spirit of antichrist would like nothing better than to keep you focused on the dead end things of this world so that you won’t look into the realm of the Spirit to see all that God has blessed you with. That joy and peace you have experienced is a result of an eternal plan of salvation God has for His people; and by His grace He has made it available for our benefit. So being that this plan originated in the heavenly realm and not this worldly one, then it would only be fitting to say that you can only continue in this new found joy and peace by looking to Christ and not this world. 1 Corinthians 7:32-35 But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: (33) But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife. (34) There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband. (35) And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction. (KJV) Here is an area where many let their guard down and get sucker punched. Rather than continue seeking the spiritual blessings in Christ they think the only way they will be complete is to have that special someone in their life. Now granted, God ordained marriage and it is a blessing when it is done according to who He joins together and not what our lower nature becomes attached to. Ever hear the term high maintenance? Well if you marry someone for the wrong reason, and they are still quite attached to the things of this world and not the things of God, you will find it nothing short of a distraction and a hindrance to your walk. I have seen many people who rather than realize they are complete in Christ, they try to fulfill a spiritual need with a physical one and end up bruised and beaten. Any time you look to the world or worldly people to find the answer, you will find that it did not come from God. It may look good and sound good to the outward man but inwardly it is a total abomination, a heartache that could have been avoided. Remember the devil will show you just the highlights and not the consequences. So when the party is over there will be a huge tab to pick up. 1 John 2:15-17 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. (16) For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. (17) And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. (KJV) The world and its ways are passing away, and so are those that hang onto them. Only those that do the will of God and seek those things which are above will experience a life of joy and peace above and beyond what this world could ever offer. So what is your priority today at this moment? Are you seeking the spiritual blessings or are you still chasing your tail stuck in this dead end realm of misery and heartache? Jesus Christ came that you would have life and have it more abundantly in Him so that you could avoid a world of hurt, and not end up with some cheap imitation of the devil. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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