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Williams New Testament translation for 2Timothy 2:15-19
15. Do your best to present yourself to God an approved workman who has nothing to be ashamed of, who properly presents the message of truth. 16. Continue shunning worldly, futile phrases, for they lead on to greater depths of godlessness, 17. and their message will spread like a cancer; men like Hymenaeus and Philetus, 18. who have missed the truth by saying that the resurrection has already taken place, are undermining some people's faith. 19. But God's foundation stands unshaken, with these inscriptions: "The Lord knows the people who belong to Him, "Everyone who bears the name of the Lord must abstain from evil." You know, when you became a child of God and embraced His message of love, it is at that point that we need to let go and discard things that lead to death, similar to a cancer spreading in the body. The reason many of these spiritual cancers spread is because someone chose to try and justify their lower fallen nature by twisting the word of God to fit their lifestyle rather than seeking to be justified in the eyes of the Lord. Remember that talk your parents had with you concerning the birds and the bees, and the one you need to have with your children concerning reproduction, what is and what is not approved by our Lord? Well it seems many who profess to be Christian or Christ like, naming His name, have not departed from iniquity but rather embrace it and find ways to justify their lack of diligence in the Word and self control of their temple. In other words a phrase that comes to mind, do as I say and not as I do. 1Thessalonians 5:22-23 Abstain from all appearance of evil. (23) And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (KJV) You know, it’s amazing how many people in the so called church realm, those that name and claim they are Christians, throw caution to the wind when it comes to relationships between a man and a woman. Rather than take the time to know that the person they are involved with is one they would marry, so many have the mindset that it is ok to shack up, live together outside of marriage. Times may have changed and the mindset of waiting till one is married to consummate this union seems so old fashioned, but let me tell you something that is much older in fashion, that is, living outside the realm which God blesses, sin, being under the curse. If you truly loved this person the way our Lord loves His church then you would respect that person enough to remain sanctified, spirit, soul, and last but not least folks, body as well. You wonder why there is a lack of trust in your relationship people, maybe the fact that the person you are involved with was so willing, and yes even easy with the body before the marriage; it makes you wonder what is going to be so faithful afterward doesn’t it? How about you guys, you know the one that is supposed to be the head of the woman, how much of Christ did you demonstrate and hold fast to beforehand, or did you cave in and give up without a fight? Oh but we’re just living together, God knows our heart. Yes He does, but what about others that are watching you now that you claim to be a Christian, especially when we should not even have the appearance of evil? 1 Corinthians 6:13-15 Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body. (14) And God hath both raised up the Lord, and will also raise up us by his own power. (15) Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid. (KJV) You know, some day you are going to have to stand before God and give an account of what you did with His temple, which you just happen to be. The devil made me do it, or everyone else was doing it, won’t get you into His kingdom, but rather it will get you an eternity of separation from God because you were willing to sell your soul for a feeling. Not to mention the other person involved that you led astray also; you know the warning we were given about a millstone being tied around the neck and cast into the sea? Oh it sounds so old fashioned to many out there in the world, but all one has to do is take a look around and see how backwards things have gotten because many choose to please their flesh more than a God in heaven. 1 Corinthians 6:16-20 What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh. (17) But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. (18) Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. (19) What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? (20) For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. (KJV) You may think a harlot is somebody standing on the corner looking for customers, but I got news for you, that nice so called Christian guy or gal that engages in sexual immorality, in other words anything outside of marriage, is considered a harlot as well. So guess what that makes you if you willingly partake in these practices? 1 Corinthians 8:12 But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ. (KJV) Whether it is a brother or sister in the Lord, if you are the one that has wounded and enticed them into sin, especially an area where they may be weak in, you are in essence sinning personally against Christ Himself. So before you decide to be so hap hazard in your decisions and throw caution up with the winds of doctrine that seem to be blowing through the Church amongst God’s own people, it’s time you re-realize the facts of life concerning how to posses your vessel in sanctification and honor. Ephesians 5:25-27 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; (26) That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, (27) That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. (KJV) In conclusion, if that person really loved you the way you, a child of God should be loved, then that person would be spending more time building you up in God’s word and not tearing you down in the world and its ways. Christian man or woman, if that person you are thinking about isn’t willing to wait and respect you before there is a marriage or even talk of one, then there would be no reason to think they would afterward either. If that so called Christian person thinks shacking up or taking a test drive before the marriage is fine then that should be warning enough for you to kick him or her to the curb. You want the blessing of God in the relationship or anything else that you do, then it’s His way or the highway, a not so highway that leads to a dead end. Remember that talk we were given when we were children about the birds and the bees, well it seems like there are a lot of childish people who call themselves Christians who need to be taught again some of the basic principles concerning their walk with Christ and the fact that He doesn’t change with the times. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. James 1:17-18 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. (18) Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. (KJV)
When God sends something our way it’s not only good but it is perfect, complete, supplying all our need, spirit, soul, and body. When God so loved the world seeing how mankind had fallen, He sent His Son on our behalf so that the fellowship with Him could be restored and we could be a kind of firstfruits or one of His offspring, adopted into the heavenly family in Christ. Psalms 107:20-21 He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions. (21) Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! (KJV) When you pray to your Father in heaven do you expect a complete answer and manifestation of that request you made, or do you expect bits and pieces, a partial answer to your request? In other words, with all that God has sent our way for our benefit, how much is being sent back His way in the form of praise and thanksgiving, presenting yourself to Him as a living sacrifice, thanking Him for what He has done on our behalf and not a what have you done for me lately attitude? Someday when you return to Sender and have to stand before your heavenly Father will you be able to give a complete answer to what you did with His plan of salvation, or will you be speechless and unable to give a full account of the gift of life that was given on our behalf? Ephesians 4:11-15 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; (12) For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: (13) Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: (14) That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; (15) But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: (KJV) Williams New Testament translation for Ephesians 4:11-15 11. And He has given some men to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, some to be pastors and teachers, 12. for the immediate equipment of God's people for the work of service, for the ultimate building up of the body of Christ, 13. until we all attain to unity in faith and to perfect knowledge of the Son of God, namely, to a mature manhood and to a perfect measure of Christ's moral stature; 14. so that we may not be babies any longer, or like sailors tossed about and driven around by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men through their cunning in inventing new methods of error. 15. But, on the other hand, we shall go on holding to the truth and in love growing up into perfect union with Him, that is, Christ Himself who is the Head. You know, with all that God has done and provided for us is there any excuse why there are so many that rather than grow and mature in the Lord, which is what perfecting is referring to, we still see many babies who are being spoon fed and still on the milk of the Word. Know this also, that as long as there is still a body of Christ then there are still apostles and prophets, they didn’t die out with the early Church; people, that is just childish doctrine. If you truly love the Lord and made pleasing Him a priority in your life then you would take the time to read His word and rightly divide the doctrine of Christ and not be so caught up in a bunch of man’s fairy tales and childish lies and deceptions. If you truly desire to grow up and mature in the Lord then quit emulating man and go right to the source. You know, by following some man or imitating some preacher you think is a godly man you limit and stunt your own growth because this man you are following is human and limited, whereas going to God through Christ you are able to tap into an unlimited treasure of wisdom and knowledge, having the mind of Christ yourself. Romans 6:20-23 For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. (21) What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. (22) But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. (23) For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (KJV) What have you done with the gift of God, and what is the first fruit you plan on bringing to His throne someday; will it be one that is spiritual, or will it be rotten fruit that you are ashamed of? If someone in your family or anyone else that was close to you saw that you were starving and your family was in need of food, only to find out later that the gift they provided to feed your family was never used but rather discarded and rotten, how would that make them feel? Or what if you gave someone close to you a gift, something that was vital, even lifesaving, only to find out it was not put to use but discarded, you probably would not be jumping for joy either. So today, have you done all to stand, standing on the foundation God has provided for you, Jesus Christ being the only foundation one can build firmly on, or have you forsaken the gift of life and exchanged it for a cheap knockoff imitation? Luke 8:14-15 And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. (15) But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience. (KJV) With all that our heavenly Father has sent our way and desires to send for our benefit, what are you sending in return? You wouldn’t offer someone rotten fruit, or fruit that hasn’t ripened yet, but rather something that was fit and ready. The question today is, when you return to Sender will you be able to bring something to His table that is good and perfect; you know, like the same measure that was measured your way? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 21:12-14 And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves, (13) And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves. (14) And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple; and he healed them. (KJV)
When you see the term ‘temple of God’ you should now be thinking about yourself; replacing the thoughts and ideas of buildings and religious organizations with the fact that you are the temple that God now occupies and wishes to work in and through. Once our Lord came into your life and basically turned your way of thinking upside down, what was once a house occupied with carnal thinking is now a communication center, a house of prayer between God and you, the believer. God sent His word and healed us so that we could be delivered from our destructions, letting His truth provide the freedom and way of escape. Now that the healing has taken place, including as we see in verse 14 bringing sight to the blind, it is vital that we allow the Lord to have His way so that we can continue to keep His house in order. Matthew 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. (KJV) Blessed are (not was or going to be, but right now this day blessed), those that are pure in heart; not losing sight of the victory we have in Christ but continuing in the faith hearing the message delivered by Christ and no longer walking according to the carnal senses. Without a vision the people perish. Without a pure heart being motivated by a love for God you will not be able to see God and His plan of salvation He has for you personally; but rather like with the blind, you will end up following what others are telling you. The Lord has removed the impurities in your life; things that were unhealthy to your walk have been cast out, like with cataract surgery, it improves the vision. It is up to you to hear the pure word of God for yourself; no longer relying on second hand versions or in many cases perversions, but exercising your spiritual senses, like a water filter, to keep yourself healthy. If you drew a glass of water and it was dirty and tainted, let alone the fact that it smelled awful, you wouldn’t drink it would you? Thus the reason why we have these senses; our physical ones, to keep our carnal bodies healthy; and spiritual senses to keep the spiritual one healthy and in order. Are you as diligent with your spiritual senses as you are with the physical? Knowing that the spiritual is so much greater than the physical do you honestly give more attention to the outward man or the inward one? How good is your vision today; is there division, blurriness, and double vision caused by being double minded and unstable? Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (KJV) Thayer’s definition for ‘pure’: 53 hagnos- 1) exciting reverence, venerable, sacred 2) pure a) pure from carnality, chaste, modest b) pure from every fault, immaculate c) clean I found this definition for pure rather interesting; definition ‘a’, referring to the fact that it is free from carnality. Our Lord is very specific in the book of John to point out that it is the Spirit that gives life, the flesh profits nothing; the words our Lord speaks are Spirit and they are life, free from any impurities or additives of mankind. Just as mankind has polluted its waters over the years which has resulted in unhealthy often times unseen small impurities, mankind has tainted and added their own versions to the word of God to fit their own fallen lifestyles rather than rising up and walking in the realm of the Spirit. But many times also it is just a matter of lazy complacent Christians who are described as the blind followers of the blind, whose spiritual senses are dull and what could be referred to as stupid to the things of their eternal life. Are you able today to confidently, boldly, know that you are walking the path of life our Lord intended for you, or are you blindly following the leading of others because your eyes have gotten heavy and you are sleepwalking? Matthew 13:13-16 Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. (14) And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: (15) For this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them. (16) But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear. (KJV) How is one able to see, but yet not see, how does that work? Have you ever heard the term ‘turning a deaf ear’, or how about looking the other way? Many read the scriptures but don’t see the spiritual meaning of them; they can hear what is being said but not know the meaning of it. Thayer’s definition for ‘gross’: 3975 pachuno- 1) to make thick, to make fat, to fatten 2) metaphorically, to make stupid (to render the soul dull or callous) Talk about grossing someone out! It is people who profess to know God but have closed their eyes and ears to the truth, that being their spiritual ones. People that should know the truth and grow stronger in the Lord and the power of His might are blindly walking around like a bunch of drunks in the middle of the night. He that has ears to hear, let them hear; blessed are your eyes because you have allowed the Lord to open the eyes of your understanding so that you could walk in the realm of the Spirit and do those things that are pleasing in His sight, which by the way His sight is spiritual, looking to the inward. Have you got your ears on good buddy, that is how one is asked when being called for on a CB radio; and only those that have their eyes and ears open to the spiritual realm will be able to see God and the meaning of His word, while all others will be in a ditch spinning their wheels. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. (7) And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (KJV)
Thayer’s definition for ‘careful’: 3309 merimnao- 1) to be anxious, to be troubled with cares 2) to care for, to look out for (a thing) a) to seek to promote one's interests b) caring or providing for Why should we not be careful? Which by the way, many people tell others to take care thus endorsing the behavior of doing just that. Yes we should take care, take it to the throne of God and leave it there; then let His peace rule in your situation and not what the outward is trying to dictate or distort. This peace of God goes beyond our own understanding, similar to when our Lord was actually sleeping in the bow of a boat while a storm was brewing all around Him. Rather than panic and abandon ship as many do, He calmly spoke the word of God and the winds stilled, and on He went to His destination. Wouldn’t that be a neat way to live? Well practice makes perfect, so learning to be faithful in small things will allow you to grow and be faithful in bigger areas of your walk. 1 Peter 5:5-7 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. (6) Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: (7) Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. (KJV) You know we hear about humility, being humble before our Lord, which as we see in the above verses is a good thing and one our Lord blesses. What is true humility? Well simply put it is casting all your care upon the Lord and then actually leaving it with Him, trusting in the Lord with all your heart and not leaning back to your own understanding. After all isn’t that the reason you sought the Lord in the first place, because you were looking for something better in your life, something complete that would supply all your need? What you found out was that the need was spiritual, something totally opposite to what you have been taught all your life, a life in the past that could only seek temporal things that only provided part of your answer but could never bring peace. God resists the proud because they are resisting Him thinking they know better. Anytime we cast something before our Lord only to take it back and try to fix things on our own we enter the realm of the proud, the haughty; you know, that pride that comes just before the fall? Sometimes the enemy gets people weighed down with cares and concerns, and then instead of being still and waiting upon the Lord they end up taking things to extremes thinking they can work themselves out of a situation, chasing a blessing or what they think is one and not letting the blessing overtake them. The reason many people miss out on a blessing and an answer to their prayers is because instead of being still they are off and running, like in football running out of bounds and not moving forward. Luke 10:38-42 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. (39) And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. (40) But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. (41) And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: (42) But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. (KJV) Which category are you under today? Are you one cumbered, which means to be distracted or overly occupied with, or are you one that seeks first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and then all that is needed is provided? Did you make it a priority to hear the word of God and make Him welcome into your house, which you just happen to be the temple our Lord dwells in, or were you trying to impress Him with your works? Mary chose that one thing that would not be taken from her, that being the peace of God; while we see Martha running herself ragged and not at peace. Are you chasing blessings thinking you will impress God with your works, or have you found that just weight and balance of hearing the Lord first and foremost for yourself then following the path He has set for you? Some people are just lazy and sit around waiting for others to do things for them, while others are high strung and ready to snap because the enemy has them running in circles. I have seen people involved in so called church organizations who are so caught up with projects they think will be beneficial to the congregation, when in reality the simple truth is for them to hear the word of the Lord and then present the truth that will set them free from any bondage the enemy is trying to keep them in. When one humbles themselves before the Lord then they are exalted and lifted up to His standards and able to get the results He intended, instead of running to and fro being blown around with every wind of doctrine. Some people get themselves in financial trouble and then think they can work their way out of it, sometimes racking up many hours of overtime that takes away from their time with the Lord. It is of utmost importance to find the just weight and balance the Lord is asking so that you are not too cumbered with the things of this life and missing out on the things of the eternal realm. Psalms 55:22 Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. (KJV) You have access to the throne of God today so that you can boldly enter into His realm and sit with our Lord at His feet, hearing the message He has for you this day. It is our Lord’s good pleasure to give us of His kingdom, a plan of salvation that is based on grace and not on our works so that none are able to boast. Have you truly cast your burden upon the Lord so that you can stay seated with Him in heavenly places, or have you taken it back and are running around this fallen realm thinking you can handle it? Give it to the Lord and leave it there so that you don’t have to be careful; how about peaceful instead? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 6:1-4 Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. (2) Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. (3) But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: (4) That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. (KJV)
Strong’s definition for ‘secret’: 2927 kruptos (kroop-tos'); from 2928; concealed, i.e. private: KJV-- hid (-den), inward [-ly], secret. Wanted, someone willing to serve a God in heaven because they love Him and are not concerned with what people think of them. This person must be highly motivated, willing to endure much grief and suffering because they hold God to be true to His word despite the many winds of doctrine of man and all their own carnal interpretations of salvation. The successful applicant must also be willing to worship God in spirit and in truth, no longer led by the desires of the flesh but led by the Spirit, being renewed on a daily basis. If interested, please respond by calling God through His Son Jesus Christ, the one mediator between God and man. When responding to an advertisement we see terms and conditions that are required in order to be a part of an organization or company. When responding to the call of the Lord you will find a God that looks in secret, or the secret inward part of man, the motives of our heart. If the Lord finds someone trustworthy, then He reveals His secret to them as well, similar to someone getting hired with a company and given access to the inward workings of it. What are your motives for serving the Lord? Is it based on love and commitment or are you doing it to be seen by man? If to be seen by man, then you have your reward and not our Father’s. Psalms 25:14-15 The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant. (15) Mine eyes are ever toward the LORD; for he shall pluck my feet out of the net. (KJV) When you see the word ‘fear’ it doesn’t refer to someone trembling and shaking, or knees knocking, but rather someone who reverences and respects the calling of God. We have all had secrets that we didn’t want everyone else to know because we didn’t trust them, so we would only reveal it to those we did trust, those that knew how to keep a secret. Did you know God has a secret; something He has kept concealed but now is readily revealed to His people, something that has been kept hidden from mankind? As I look around today I don’t see many that are aware of His secret, because obviously the motives of their heart are not right with the Lord. Most of what and who I see claiming to be speaking and teaching on behalf of the Lord are more of a people pleasing ear tickling lot, than a God pleasing one. Romans 16:25-26 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, (26) But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: (KJV) One of God’s true saints, someone that God entrusted with His word and secret was a man named Paul, who despite a shaky past had the right motivation for serving our Lord. When you read what God had Paul write concerning this secret, a mystery that is hidden to the carnal man but readily revealed to the spiritual one, we see once again His preaching was based on Christ, the hidden inward man. What a secret to reveal, and why this man endured such opposition; because the more God used this man to expose this mystery the more it exposed and still exposes those that are not of God, thus the term antichrist. Like the Lord Himself said, those that are not with Him are against Him, if two are not in agreement then they can no longer walk together. If you don’t know this secret, if you are not aware and have a working knowledge of this mystery, then you are still in darkness and unable to know the true spiritual meaning of the scriptures. Mark 4:21-23 And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick? (22) For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad. (23) If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. (KJV) The reason God revealed this mystery is so that His people could walk in the light and no longer kept in the dark. Jesus Christ is the true light that gives us knowledge and insight into the inner workings of God and His plan of salvation, while anything else is impossible without Him. This light was not meant to be hid, but rather openly displayed and manifested so that all could walk in it. Today I still hear many who teach and preach in the name of Jesus, but few look into the inward man which is Christ to find the true enlightenment and answer to this secret. Is the candle under your bed because you are still asleep or have you picked it up and started to walk again? Isaiah 45:3 And I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the LORD, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel. (KJV) The treasures of God have been kept secret, and mankind was kept in the dark until the sacrifice of Jesus Christ gave us the keys to unlock these hidden things and reveal it to His people. Can you think of anything that could be more treasured than to have our Lord call you personally by name and consider you one of His family? Where your treasure is there will your heart be. So when the Lord comes a knocking on your door will you open up to Him and let His light shine in, or will you be a shut in? The secret is out, given to mankind in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, have you received it? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 3:27-28 John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. (28) Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him. (KJV)
Back in the Lord’s short time here on this earth people were looking for a Messiah to manifest which they thought would take place in the outward realm; some wonderful spectacular event for all the world to see. While many continue today to look in the outward realm also, or as we see in the above verses at other men as their savior; few understand what was truly given to us from the Father which is manifested and brought to light through His Son, the hidden inward man. What are you receiving today; is your information and knowledge coming from above, or are you settling for second hand knowledge of man that is limited by their carnal thinking? Do you know for sure that the steps you take today are of faith; in other words those that God is asking of you, or are you following some man-made plan of salvation that doesn’t quite add up to our Lord’s standards? Salvation is a gift given to mankind from above, and just as you would be offended to give something of value to someone close to you only to find out it wasn’t appreciated or that they didn’t take the time to read the instructions before putting it to use; how it must hurt our Father to have so much to give to mankind only to see it ignored and discarded for a cheap imitation. Psalms 37:23-26 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. (24) Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand. (25) I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. (26) He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed. (KJV) Where are you heading today, and who is truly directing your path? Are you taking the time to receive your instructions from above knowing they are in order with our Lord, doing the things that are pleasing in His sight? Even though at times we do sin and fall short of the glory, the Lord is not casting us aside but rather like with a parent teaching a child to walk, He is there with His hand outstretched ready to pick us up again and get us back on the path of life. John 15:4-8 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. (5) I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. (6) If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. (7) If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. (8) Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. (KJV) Again we see the word nothing, which without the Lord’s leading and guiding in our walk we cannot do those things that are pleasing in His sight. As a branch grafted into the tree of life the only way we can live and continue in this new life is if we continue to receive our nutrients from the source. As newborn spiritual beings in Christ we need to receive and continue to nurture this new being inside us with spiritual food and drink in order to maintain a healthy relationship with our Father. Those that reject our Lord’s plan of salvation have broken off the line of communication with their Father; they are no longer receiving His living waters and they will dry up and die of thirst, eventually being burned. John 3:14-18 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: (15) That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. (16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (17) For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (18) He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (KJV) God gave us a Savior, and gave Him a name above all names so that those that received this revelation should not perish but have eternal life through this name. Verses 15&16 use the words ‘should not’ not ‘would not’, because the choice is still ours to choose this day who we will truly serve and whether or not we will truly receive the gift of God which is eternal life through His Son Jesus Christ. Acts 4:7-12 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this? (8) Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, (9) If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; (10) Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. (11) This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. (12) Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (KJV) God gave mankind access to eternal life, and only one name under heaven gives us this life so that we should not perish but receive our eternal reward as well. It’s a given to the people of God who our one mediator between us and God is; as well as the whole name that will make us whole and complete in Him, that being Jesus Christ. It’s a given, have you got it? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. James 1:17-18 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. (18) Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. (KJV)
Why should you expect the best? How about the fact that you serve the best, someone who always has your best interest at heart. When mankind was in dire need of a savior God gave us His best in the form of His Son Jesus Christ to restore the fellowship between us and Him, and give us the gift of life. When the answer to your prayers manifest you know it is of God because there is not a shadow of doubt that it came from Him and was just what you needed; at times above and beyond what you could have ever thought of or asked for. We have been reborn into a new realm of the Spirit by the word of truth so that we could tap into the tree of life and bring forth the fruit of the Spirit, now becoming rooted and grounded in the love of God which is shed abroad in our hearts. So when you come before the throne of God and make your requests, do you truly expect the best or are your prayers like throwing dice, hoping you will get a good roll? Romans 11:16-22 For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. (17) And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; (18) Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. (19) Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in. (20) Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: (21) For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee. (22) Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. (KJV) You know Church this tree you have been grafted into is not one of chance or luck, but rather a sure thing to those that partake of it. Actually you are grafted into the tree of life which is Christ so that you can now be an active participant in a new life. A branch can break off a tree because of high winds, or in the case of a believer winds of doctrine that blow through which causes one to doubt and speak words that cut them off from the source of life. What is the cause for the branch being broke off; simple unbelief. What allows you to continue to partake of the root and fatness of the tree; simple faith. The more one stays attached to this tree of life the more deeply rooted and grounded they become in it and bear the fruit of it as well. God is no respecter of persons and didn’t play favorites with His natural branches which were the Jews, and He has now allowed any and all that would call upon the name of the Lord to be saved and partake of this new life in Him. As long as you continue to remain rooted and grounded in the love of God partaking of this tree of life you to should be expecting the goodness of God in your life. Psalms 23:4-6 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. (5) Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. (6) Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. (KJV) There are times that our carnal minds wander in the depths of despair, a shadow of death because we have allowed something to block the light from shining in. As a true believer in Christ one should be retraining, renewing their mind to think like our Lord, reminding ourselves that we are the head and should quit acting like the tail end. So once one is able to get their mind out of the gutter, that valley or low point in their walk, and recover themselves they are able to clearly see the answer the Lord has for them in verses 5&6. We have all experienced heartache and frustration in the past; trying to find peace in the dead realm of the flesh, exerting so much energy only to end up frustrated and defeated. Now that we are grafted into this new realm of the Spirit, a realm of victory, we need to be confident in the fact that surely, not maybe or possibly, goodness and mercy is now a part of my life and continues to follow me all, not just some of, the days of my life. God has prepared a table for you in His heavenly realm and is now seeking those that wish to be seated with Christ and partake of the meat of His word on a daily basis. The more you stay seated with Him the less you will be caught up and entangled with the things of this life, so that like with a branch, the fellowship won’t be broken again. Quite simply put, now that you are a part of the tree of life bringing forth the fruit of the Spirit you should continue to expect the best from our Lord and not expect the results you used to get from your past. 2 Corinthians 5:17-18 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) You are a new creature, a new creation in Christ, old failures, old results, old excuses are now passed away and your life should be a totally new experience, one of confidence and peace as well as a newfound inner strength that you never knew existed before. When you pray and make your requests to God through Jesus Christ, where there was once a shadow of doubt there should now be a new expectation of confidence, boldness, and assurance that your prayers are heard and answered. What was once a life of a day late and a dollar short is now replaced by an assurance that in all things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us. Instead of being a loser and ending up with the short end of the stick, I can now expect my cup to be running over with living waters which flow from the heart and bring new life and shed light where there was darkness and despair. Are you living in the new today or are you still holding to the past, stuck in a valley looking for the way out? Do you really expect the best from God? Then start giving Him your best effort, because with what measure you give His way will come back your way. Sometimes the reason we don’t see our way out of a situation is because we don’t spend enough time seated in the heavenly realm to hear the message delivered by Christ and we end up stooping to the ways of the world. You need to spend enough time in the word of God renewing the mind so that you can take words like ‘I can’t’ or ‘it just isn’t possible’ out of your vocabulary and replace it with words like ‘I can do all things through Christ’ or ‘with God all things are possible’, and nothing I mean nothing is impossible to those that believe. A new creation in Christ means that what was impossible to man in his fallen realm is now possible and should be expected by those that are a part of this new realm, a new life made possible by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ our Lord. Isaiah 42:8-9 I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images. (9) Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them. (KJV) You know, when you read the news of the world it is not really news or anything new, but rather the same negative things resulting from a fallen world. People fighting and warring trying to find peace in a realm the Lord said was dead, and there is no life. When one partakes of the word of God they are able to partake of a totally new realm, actually a realm where the victory is guaranteed before hand, with a promise of goodness and mercy all the days of our lives. If you give God your best then you can expect the best in return, letting His word be your one true source of life. Expect the best, because after all you serve the best. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Psalms 37:3-4 Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. (4) Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. (KJV)
We have been talking lately about treasure and what it is the heart truly is set on; the things of God or the things of this life. Where your treasure is will determine where the heart is and which way it is going. As we have spent so much of our life in the past living in the realm of the flesh we were more concerned with our bank accounts here on earth than our spiritual welfare. We spent most of our time consumed with how to make deposits in our accounts so that we wouldn’t end up bankrupt. With a new heart will come a new desire; now our attention should be more on making a direct deposit into our spiritual bank account on a daily basis so that we have enough to supply the need. The enemy will try to access your account and rob you blind, so it is up to you to make sure you stay alert and keep a watch over your heart. It is the true riches of God that we have access to, and this is why the devil fights so hard to keep you from accessing these spiritual riches and would like nothing better than to keep you in bondage by chasing temporal riches. Proverbs 23:5 Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven. (KJV) While driving a few weeks ago we spotted eagles and other birds off the road working on some fresh road kill. When we slowed down to get a picture the eagles were the first to fly off and not present a close picture, but kept their distance. For those that are stuck in the realm of the flesh and seek worldly riches the same holds true. Although they come up with their own ways to get rich, and think they are getting close to the answer, it somehow eludes them and is outside their grasp. This is just the realm the enemy would like to see the people of God pursuing as well, getting caught up in the things of this life so they are not able to access the things of God and His true riches. Proverbs 8:17-21 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me. (18) Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. (19) My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver. (20) I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment: (21) That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures. (KJV) Which account have you been depositing into today; which one will have the sufficient funds in it if needed; or will your reality check bounce because of insufficient funds? Has the devil gotten into your account and replaced the true riches of God with a fake love and affection for the things of this life, funny money? Or have you held fast your profession of faith without wavering and found the fruit of the Spirit, the love, joy and peace of God above and beyond any gold or silver this earth has to offer? Remember, no man can serve two masters; you will hold to one and despise the other. So which one are you holding to today, or should I say which one has a hold on you? Proverbs 8:10-11 Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold. (11) For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it. (KJV) Remember that parable about putting new wine into an old wineskin? It doesn’t work; it ends up breaking and spilling the new wine. The same holds true with us, we cannot grasp and hang onto the new unless we are willing to let go of the old desires, replacing them with new heavenly ones. Once one partakes of the new they find out that the old just doesn’t satisfy anymore. In fact the more one partakes of the new the more they realize how they have been ripped off and were missing out on the true riches of God, and how God does richly give us all things to enjoy without the bondage. Proverbs 2:1-5 My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; (2) So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; (3) Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; (4) If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; (5) Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. (KJV) Remember all that effort you have been putting into your physical desires? Well the Lord said He would give you the desire of your heart if you would put that same effort and affection into the things of His realm. Remember, even though you thought you made progress in the realm of the flesh it still left you empty and not satisfied. Well the peace of God which passes our understanding gives us the true desire of our heart despite what our outward circumstances may try to dictate. Once one has truly tasted the goodness of God they find that it is the one thing they were always looking for just never able to achieve in the realm of the flesh and its carnal thinking. Psalms 119:127 Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold. (KJV) When you truly treasure the things of God more than the things of this realm that is when you will experience the love of God which is an eternal treasure. While so many teach and preach a prosperity message which limits them to the realm of the flesh, a few have found the true treasure chest which is located in the heavenly realm ready to be revealed to those that are willing to walk in the Spirit. Colossians 2:1-4 For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; (2) That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; (3) In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. (4) And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. (KJV) Why do you think Paul suffered such great conflict, and why the enemy did all he could to keep this truth from being preached? Is there anything more comforting than to know the true love of God; being able to have a full assurance and understanding of the mystery of God that has been hidden in Christ but now ready to be revealed and accessed by those that are more concerned with the eternal treasures? How many movies and books have been written that deal with treasure hunts and how those that seek it must follow the clues hidden in the maps to find it? These movies also show the opposition and how many thieves try to keep them from finding it, as well as attempting to steal it from them once it is found. You have a treasure map, and all the clues point to the Father who can only be accessed through His Son and a working knowledge of Christ where this treasure chest of spiritual wisdom and knowledge awaits those that seek it with all their heart. Ecclesiastes 5:10-12 He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity. (11) When goods increase, they are increased that eat them: and what good is there to the owners thereof, saving the beholding of them with their eyes? (12) The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little or much: but the abundance of the rich will not suffer him to sleep. (KJV) Ever hear of fools’ gold? Those that think something in this realm will ever satisfy a spiritual need will find themselves shortchanged and spiritually bankrupt, robbed blind. So while the world and its worldly preachers are asking what's in your wallet, the Lord is asking what is in the spiritual account, and what realm are you banking on? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Ephesians 5:5-8 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. (6) Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. (7) Be not ye therefore partakers with them. (8) For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (KJV)
The Bible gives warnings throughout on the dangers of coveting, which is described as a form of idolatry. This is a vital area, one that gets overlooked, and an area where many a good intentioned Christians ended up being deceived. Though in our past we were surrounded by this mindset and caught up in the things of this world, somehow there are many that think they can carry this over into the realm of God and get away with it. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Your ability to let go and trust in the Lord in the area of finances is vital if one is going to grow into a deeper knowledge and trust with our Father. Luke 16:9-11 And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations. (10) He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. (11) If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? (KJV) This is what separates the men from the boys; this is the proving ground for what a man will truly trust and believe. We have a parable of a man described as an unjust steward who made his living and prospered by taking advantage of others. Then one day it occurred to him that in order to be accepted into the eternal realm he would have to change his ways and find the just and equal balance. What many don’t realize, and especially for those that are entering ministry work, is that one has to prove faithful before the Lord in the area of finances, or riches as they are described, before the Lord will open up to them and show them His spiritual riches and then entrust them with it. What verse 10 describes as least ends up being the priority with many; if they are unjust in that area then its game over and they will not be moving ahead in their walk. We have people out there that claim to be of God yet when you listen to the message being delivered they speak more of this world than the realm of God because they haven’t been enlightened to the things of God, and therefore have not been entrusted with the true spiritual riches of God’s wisdom and knowledge which are only found in Christ. Luke 16:9 Riches promise MUCH, and perform NOTHING: they excite hope and confidence, and deceive both: in making a man depend on them for happiness, they rob him of the salvation of God and of eternal glory. For these reasons, they are represented as unjust and deceitful. (from Adam Clarke Commentary) 1 Peter 5:1-3 The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: (2) Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; (3) Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. (KJV) What kind of hope is being given to the people; a false hope in the deception of worldly riches, or is the flock of God being fed with the truth of God’s word that will set them free and allow Him to be their source? Many lord over the flock with guilt trips and pity party messages of how much more one could do for the Lord if they would just ante up. Those that are truly looking out for the spiritual welfare of the people will be more concerned with building the people up in the Lord, rather than having the people more concerned with a building and its upkeep. John 10:11-13 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. (12) But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. (13) The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. (KJV) The problem with hirelings, which is someone that is working for a wage, those that think ministry work is just an occupation, is that if the money runs out the hireling isn’t far behind. Our Lord set the example of how to live and walk in the Spirit, seeking more the spiritual welfare of others and not His own, thus why He was so effective. Today we see just the opposite; for many that enter the field of ministry work think it is a fun and exciting way to make a living, which is well documented by watered down messages that deal more with seeking the riches of this world than the true riches of God. Yes God does call people to full time ministry, and they get their support from the Lord and through the flock they oversee. The message the Lord is getting across is that His people need to be more concerned with the spiritual substance that will feed the flock, not the financial one that they are feeding themselves with. Isaiah 56:10-11 His watchmen are blind: they are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber. (11) Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter. (KJV) There are too many hirelings, false prophets and such who are only seeking their personal gain, and not what is best for the flock of God. This stuff has been going on for a long time and has continued to manifest, getting worse and worse. No man can serve two masters because he will hold to one and ignore the other; and the Bible is quite specific to say that we cannot serve God and mammon or worldly riches, which is idol worship. Titus 1:7-11 For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; (8) But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; (9) Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. (10) For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: (11) Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. (KJV) Many vain talkers alter the message of truth to fit their lifestyle, teaching things just for the sake of filthy lucre. Messages that point to hundredfold returns, the more you give the more you get, are nothing more than self serving cheap imitations for what the Lord intended for His people; thus why the Lord’s people perish for lack of knowledge. So do your own self inventory and make sure the things you treasure are in line with the things of God so that He can open up His spiritual treasure and allow you to be a partaker of His heavenly gift. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: (27) But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; (28) And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: (29) That no flesh should glory in his presence. (KJV)
Don’t be offended and don’t take it personal that the Lord didn’t call you based on your wisdom and strength. Salvation is not like filling out an application for a job, where the employer is looking for the most qualified employee based on their ability and wisdom. Just the opposite holds true with the Lord; His calling is based on the heart, and what the heart treasures and who the heart truly desires to serve. So don’t think that God chose you because you are the wisest person He could find or because of your standing in the world or in the community, but rather because you realized that you are weak and unable to attain salvation on your own. The more you keep this mindset, humility is another word that describes this, the more God is able to use you. 2 Corinthians 8:10-12 And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago. (11) Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. (12) For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. (KJV) God called you and accepted you for who you are, not for someone you think you should be; rather now you need to pattern your life according to His will, and walk in the realm of the Spirit. All God asks and will ask is that there is a willingness to follow His path based on His word, letting that be your strength, and not how man measures strength and ability. The more you realize how weak you really are on your own, the more you will find strength in what the Lord has done on your behalf; not like many others who think they are strong because they think they are doing so much on His behalf. 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. (8) For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. (9) And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (10) Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. (KJV) Paul had his own issues to deal with, which he described as a thorn in the flesh. What that thorn was, has been speculated for 2 thousand years. One thing we know, Paul had a past that dealt with mistreating Christians, and knowing from my own personal experiences the devil likes to remind people of their past and its shortcomings. So the fact that Paul was able to come to the conclusion that our salvation is based on grace and not of works, which leaves no room for boasting is one reason why God was able to use this man to write a good portion of the epistles. Now being weak doesn’t mean we run and hide, but rather you understand more and more that the Spirit is truly willing it’s our flesh, our carnal mind and understanding that is weak. Paul found his strength in the completed work Jesus Christ did on his behalf, and not the completed work many claim they are doing on the Lord’s behalf. It doesn’t matter how many scriptures you can quote, how many sermons you preach, or how big a congregation you have built, it all comes down to a simple loving obedience to our Lord, and the complete work He has done and is continuing to do within those that are willing to follow His example. You can have all knowledge and faith to move mountains but if you do not have love, a relationship based on trust and commitment with the Father, it will profit you nothing. So where is your strength coming from today; in what the word of God says, a path you are walking by faith, or are you leaning to your own understanding by what you think will make you strong, or should I say head strong as so many are? Galatians 4:12-14 Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all. (13) Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first. (14) And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus. (KJV) Obviously Paul had dealt with this infirmity, as we see it written about again, and was humble enough to let the people know that he was just as human as they were. Sometimes those that God has called think they have to come off as bulletproof and invincible which makes it hard for others to relate to them. Yes it is important to be strong in the Lord and the power of His might, but being able to relate to the people through your own experiences can be an inspiration as well as opportunity for them to open up and share things that they have had to deal with, their own infirmity and temptation in their flesh. Remember, when it came time for those without sin to cast the first stone no one did. So keep in mind the same compassion God has dealt you; how longsuffering and patience can go a long way to helping someone remove and get past their own thorns in the flesh. 1 Corinthians 9:20-23 And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; (21) To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. (22) To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. (23) And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you. (KJV) Now you don’t have to go back under the old law or become a Jew to relate to a Jew; but rather you hear the Lord, and put yourself in their place, where they are at, so that you can let the Lord minister through you effectively. To the weak; I am reminded myself of times when I have been weak, and how I trusted more in my own abilities and works than the working of the Lord that He was trying to work in me, or what I call the sins and shortcomings of my youth, when I used to let the devil paint a picture in my mind of all the things I was missing out on, and how much better my life would be if I could have the things I desired. The only problem is that the devil doesn’t show us the consequences, which when the tab comes it’s always much bigger and lasts much longer than the short term thrill ride we took in the flesh. Being weak; staying out of the way, not leaning to your own understanding is a good thing, and one that will allow you to see your calling more clearly, and let the Lord minister through you more effectively. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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