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Ezekiel 36:26-27 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. (27) And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. (KJV)
Now keep in mind that this heart transplant is referring to the spiritual realm, so in order to operate in it we need a new heart. Once you receive this new heart you will then be able to receive the things of God and walk in the realm of faith. A new spirit will open the eyes of our understanding and allow us to see the things of God. Ephesians 4:22-24 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; (23) And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; (24) And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. (KJV) Our old man was having heart attacks, unable to ward off the virus of sin which was corrupting him/her, and eventually would lead to death if not dealt with. So in order to restore spiritual health one needs to take out the old stony heart and its hardened arteries and replace it with a new heart which will renew the mind and keep the new man healthy. The old stony heart is like the old tablets that the Ten Commandments were written on which were heavy and hard to deal with. The new heart is like one of clay which the potter, our Lord, can mold and shape a lot better than the stony one. Our old heart was limited to the things of this fleshy realm and unable to see beyond it. The new heart is one of the Spirit and gives us access to the spiritual realm of God, one that is able to receive and give us an understanding into the things of God. Thayer’s definition for the heart: 2588 kardia- the heart a) that organ in the animal body which is the center of the circulation of the blood, and, hence, was regarded as the seat of physical life b) denotes the center of all physical and spiritual life a) the vigor and sense of physical life b) the center and seat of spiritual life 1) the soul or mind, as it is the fountain and seat of the thoughts, passions, desires, appetites, affections, purposes, endeavors 2) used of the understanding, the faculty and seat of the intelligence 3) used of the will and character 4) used of the soul so far as it is affected and stirred in a bad way or good, or of the soul as the seat of the sensibilities, affections, emotions, desires, appetites, passions c) used of the middle or central or inmost part of anything, even though inanimate Our new heart is able to take the life changing things of God and pump them through our body and into the mind so that we can keep ourselves renewed and reminded of who we are in Christ. A spiritual man requires a spiritual heart so that they can come to an understanding of how to live in the Spirit and no longer be in bondage to the things of the flesh. I think of the heart as being similar to a distributor in a car, it takes all the electrical energy and distributes it to the headlights and other electrical parts so that the driver can have a clear view of the path in front of them. Though many Christians still try to comprehend God from their own thinking, with limited head knowledge, it’s only those that serve Him from the heart, with a new heart, that will be able to see and understand how to walk effectively in this realm of the Spirit. Matthew 13:15-16 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) Thayer’s definition for wax gross: 3975 pachuno- 1) to make thick, to make fat, to fatten 2) metaphorically, to make stupid (to render the soul dull or callous) An interesting definition for the phrase ‘wax gross’. When the heart and its arteries thicken, it begins to slow or stop the life giving flow of blood to the rest of the body, which eventually will lead to the body shutting down, thus requiring a transplant. Unless there is a flow of the word of God continually going through your spiritual man you too will find the heart hardening, cutting off the flow from it also. Many people today still push and promote head knowledge and Bible memorization, thinking that will draw them closer to the Lord. But unless one has a change of heart and allows the word of God into their heart, they will not come to an understanding of who God is and what their place in the body of Christ is either. Proverbs 28:26 He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered. (KJV) When one trusts in his/her own heart, they are leaning back to their own understanding, and are about to fall. When one walks wisely in the wisdom of God they are able to keep the body in subjection to the Spirit and continue in the will of God, which is being delivered from this present evil world and not entangled with the affairs of it. Ephesians 3:17-19 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, (18) May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; (19) And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. (KJV) Without faith, the ability to hear the message delivered by Christ, you will not be able to come to an understanding or comprehend the love of God which is being shed abroad in your heart. Without faith it is impossible to please God, because rather than allowing Him into the heart you are still trying to comprehend and operate according to the old carnal fallen nature, which will leave one on the outside instead of a partaker of His love. This love of God and the fullness of it, go above and beyond anything we could ever ask or think; and once you have truly experienced it for yourself, it is not something you ever want to let go of or neglect. Psalms 37:4 Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. (KJV) With a new heart will come a new desire; not for the things of this life but for the things of God. These are the desires that God will give to those that love Him with all their heart, mind, and soul. Where your treasure is this day, right now, is where your heart will be, and will get rooted and grounded in, whether it is the things of God or the things of the world. Do you desire to partake of the new spiritual treasure that God has for His people? Then it will require a new heart with a whole new way of thinking in order to access this eternal treasure of the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Colossians 3:23-25 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; (24) Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. (25) But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. (KJV)
Here is a good frame of mind to be in for someone serving our Lord no matter how small or trivial it may seem to us; putting our whole heart into it, doing it heartily unto our Lord is all that matters for His approval. Even when making a bed, cleaning a room, or doing dishes. Think of the frame of mind you would be in if the president of the United States was coming over, or some famous celebrity or athlete. You would go out of your way checking and double checking making sure everything was in order and done right. Now, keep that same mindset concerning our Lord; if He was coming over personally would it be to His satisfaction, or would you cut corners and do a quick job just to get it done and out of the way, like we do with other people, even the Lord’s people? So how much more diligent would you be; how much more would you pay attention to details knowing the Lord Himself was going to do a personal inspection? Someday that scenario will take place before His judgment seat. If you have become accustomed to serving our Lord whole heartedly and are not ashamed now, then you can be confident you won’t have anything to be ashamed of when you stand before Him either some day. I have seen many in the workplace claiming to be one of God’s people who spend time talking about the Lord in one breath, then basically throw their testimony out the window by their half hearted efforts on the job. Instead of being an example of the believer, giving credence to their belief and the God they claim to serve, they overlook these simple areas of their walk; and by not being faithful in things they consider the least important they never move on in their walk with the Lord, and are unable to be trusted by Him for other things. Just like those that desire the office of a bishop, or any other elder, or overseer of the Church, if they overlook their home life, it being a wreck, then they will be unable to oversee the affairs of the Church. Titus 1:15-16 Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. (16) They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate. (KJV) The Bible says blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God. When one is not doing the will of God from the heart the motives are no longer pure, but there has been a breach in the heart, something unhealthy has gotten into it. It starts with little things, a lazy half hearted effort that eventually progresses more and more to the point of one becoming a reprobate, which means to be unapproved; unfit and rejected were also included in the definition of reprobate. So how pure are your motives; what is your reason for serving the Lord? Is your relationship with our Lord based on a love and understanding of His word and what He is asking of you, or are you lot more talk than walk? 1 Peter 3:1-4 Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; (2) While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. (3) Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; (4) But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. (KJV) I use the above example because it not only applies to the wives, but can be applicable for all Christians as well. The word conversation means behavior or conduct, which means that actions truly do speak louder than just words or vain lip service. Do you have enough confidence in your walk that you can be an example of the believers by your walk and not just the talk? The Bible talks about finding a just balance in our lives; and though many can quote scriptures and talk about the Lord they overlook the walk part, and at times when to just keep silent. Remember it’s not how man sees you according to the outward adorning or any other physical apparel, but rather that hidden new man within the heart is what the Lord is looking at; and in His sight a meek and quiet spirit is highly sought after and of great price, or precious is another way of putting it. Just like the old saying in reference to a pig, no matter how much makeup and lipstick you put on it, it is still a pig and will end up running back to the pigpen when given the opportunity. Many who claim to be Christians follow the same pattern; and it seems like the more one has to dress up and adorn the outward, the more they are trying to hide the true inward motives and intents of the heart. Psalms 62:7-8 In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. (8) Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah. (KJV) You wonder why at times the heart seems heavy and you are unable to keep yourself focused on the things of God? All that effort you have been putting into hiding from God, and justifying yourself before man is a waste of time and useless. Trusting in the Lord means that you open up to Him just like you would with someone close to you, or someone you have trusted, you now open up to Him and ask for help. Being that He already knows our heart and what our true motives are, only the truth will set us free; and that truth begins on our end also by acknowledging the issue and asking for His help. It’s okay to pour out your heart to God; remember this relationship is a two way street, and so in order to maintain a healthy partnership one needs to be open and honest. Our Father is a God of love and would like nothing better than to be able to give you His truth in the matter, and set you free so that you can serve Him whole heartedly, and not be bogged down with cares and concerns of this life. The Lord is standing at the door of your heart today and knocking, will you open up and let Him in, or are you keeping Him on the outside, looking through the peephole only to catch a glimpse? With what measure you give out is what will be measured back to you; simply put, the more you open up to Him the more He will open up to you. The more you allow Him into your life, into all of your decisions concerning your walk, the more rock solid the relationship becomes. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Proverbs 3:5-8 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. (6) In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (7) Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. (8) It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones. (KJV)
When I see the word ‘lean’ I think of someone wavering, ready to take a fall, or like a boxer who has just taken a punch and is having a hard time standing. If you cut off the blood flow to the brain eventually it will cause one to pass out. The same holds true in the spiritual realm if you cut off the source of life, the word of God from the heart to renew the mind, eventually you will start wavering and falling on your face. As the heart is such a vital organ to our physical man, it is just as vital to our spiritual being as well. Have you seen the green labels on food products that say they are heart smart, something that is healthy for us? The word of God is heart smart as well, because a healthy dose of it will keep reminding us of the truth, that God has not given us the spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind. Have you desired a closer relationship with the Lord wanting more of Him in your life? Have you given a whole hearted effort, or are you still hanging on to the things of this life, your own understanding, something to fall back on in case this Lord thing doesn’t quite work out the way you thought it should? The Bible says the Lord is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we could ask or think; the question is will you let Him? Proverbs 4:20-22 My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. (21) Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. (22) For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh. (KJV) Have you seen healthy people, how they eat right, exercise the body, and maintain the temple God gave them? For the Christian it begins in the heart with the word of God, which brings life to the spirit man and results in good health to the flesh. Who better to show us how to stay healthy, body, soul, and spirit, than the Creator Himself? The Bible makes reference to our lives as a race; a long distance race that we need to run with patience in order to endure to the end. If you have ever seen a marathon runner you notice they have maintained their temple, having eliminated any excess weight that would weigh them down and cause undue stress and strain on the heart. The same holds true with the Christian, many carry around excess spiritual weight, the cares and worries of things that they need to cast upon the Lord and leave them there. The fact that you wouldn’t see overweight or unhealthy people running a marathon race, or I should say enduring to the end, spiritually those that don’t train themselves on a daily basis to hear the Lord and let His word flow in the heart will not last long in the heavenly race either, enduring to the end. The more you train yourself in the things of God the more you will learn to keep your body in subjection to the Spirit and not end up dropping out of the race, being dehydrated due to a lack of living waters. Psalms 119:10-11 With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. (11) Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. (KJV) Have you ever tried to do something and your heart just wasn’t into it? Or how about the endless New Year resolutions people make, only to make the same ones the following year? How many people get caught up in the work out ads on TV where they show some young person in great shape who claims that they only had to work out for a few minutes a day to get these great results? So when the people end up buying these devices, for most, they find out that they make a great place to hang their wet laundry on. The same holds true with your spiritual walk, unless the word of God gets into the heart and becomes an actual way of life, it will soon be forgotten, put on the shelf, and you will end up back where you started, like as a runner with good intentions but never able to go forward. Again the word of God is just as vital as the flow of blood to and from the heart; which, without a healthy flow through us will result in the body shutting down, unable to function. Jeremiah 17:9-11 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? (10) I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings. (11) As the partridge sitteth on eggs, and hatcheth them not; so he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool. (KJV) So how does God judge this race, the course He has set for each of us to run? While many may look good and sound good in the outward realm, God is looking to the inward man to see what their motivation is and what it is that they truly treasure. Mankind is like a partridge, they are constantly hatching new methods and devices based on their own understanding, which is based more on a love of money, not the love of God. As an unhealthy diet and lack of exercise in the physical realm will cause the body to shut down in the physical, nothing will shut down the spiritual quicker than the love of money, or any other care of this life which drowns men in destruction, and chokes the life out of many. Just as an unhealthy flow of blood and oxygen will shut a runner down in his tracks, many a godly person that has answered the call of God in the beginning of their walk end up having a spiritual heart attack and keel over because of a lack of healthy doctrine to the heart. We have all been deceived and duped in the past by the cheap imitations of the devil trying to pull us back into the realm of the flesh by leaning to our own understanding. Where your treasure is, is where the heart will be also; and it will determine whether you have stayed on course, the path of life that God has set for you to run, or whether you are sidetracked by your own understanding which is deceitful, and have now placed your own desires above all other things, including the things of God. Ephesians 6:5-8 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; (6) Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; (7) With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men: (8) Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free. (KJV) Singleness of heart means it is not self seeking. So who are you seeking your approval from, and what are your true motives for everything you are doing today, this moment? Are you looking to the Lord to receive your reward seeking His approval only, or are you doing things to please man? Whatever your motive truly is, God already knows and is not fooled. The question is, do you truly know what is heart smart and able to keep you in good standing with our Father today? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 2 Timothy 2:23-26 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. (24) And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, (25) In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; (26) And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. (KJV)
As Christians, those who should be imitators of Christ, we should be avoiding foolish and unlearned questions about our faith, especially from those that are not truly seeking a closer relationship with the Lord, but rather are trying to discredit the sacrifice the Son gave of Himself for the salvation of the world. Secondly, no one wins an argument; the fact that you engaged in the situation puts you in a no win outcome because you have lowered your standards to those of the world, and have entered a realm that God doesn’t operate in. Does God need you to defend Him? When I look through the Bible I see where He has handled things just fine; and when He decides to get His point across He is more than capable of doing it without mans’ help or approval. The only way someone is going to recover themselves out of the snare of the devil is when they make a choice to serve the God of love and not some self righteous loud mouth who thinks they will be heard for their much speaking. You want to fight and argue, go on one of the shows similar to what was the Jerry Springer show. You want to serve the Lord, then quit engaging in silly dead end debates which only breed more strife and contention. Matthew 6:5-7 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. (6) But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. (7) But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. (KJV) Why all these silly debates about prayer in schools or any other public venues? If that is not enough, then they pull out the soapbox and stand in front of other public institutions and whine and debate over the Ten Commandments or the lack of them. Pick your battles folks and use some wisdom. The Bible says we are to pray without ceasing, so until this body gives up the ghost I am free to do that no matter what anyone else thinks or says. So why do you need an audience or a public venue to pray in, when the Bible tells us just the opposite? Are your prayers going to be more effective if you can say them in a schoolyard or in front of a government building? I don’t think so. Many run around and demand their constitutional rights, and ignore the wisdom of God and His instruction on how to live in this world and to keep oneself unspotted from it. You want to pray in public? Then you have your reward. If you wish to receive the reward of inheritance then do what the word of God says and avoid this foolishness and nonsense. 2 Timothy 2:3-5 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. (4) No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. (5) And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully. (KJV) Again, if you wish to receive the eternal crown of life which the Lord will give to His people then it can only be achieved by doing it according to what the word of God says in agreement with the law of faith. There are differences in battles and different strategies that will allow you to be victorious, knowing the difference and rightly discerning what is of God and what isn’t can save you from an old fashioned behind the woodshed beating. 2 Chronicles 20:13-15 And all Judah stood before the LORD, with their little ones, their wives, and their children. (14) Then upon Jahaziel the son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah, a Levite of the sons of Asaph, came the Spirit of the LORD in the midst of the congregation; (15) And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God's. (KJV) The difference in battles is simple, when you go into a situation on your own or should I say engaging in debates because of your self righteous attitude, you then become subject to defeat, a realm that is not a part of our Lord. However, if you enter a situation that the Lord is leading then you already know you are victorious; and a perfect love will cast out all fear and doubt. Given the fact that the Lord is undefeated and no one has knocked Him off His throne or even come close, why would someone think He needs us to defend Him? Why would God need us to defend Him when not only is He forever settled in heaven, so is His word? Ephesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (KJV) Why do you put a physical face on a spiritual situation and end up like Paul wrote, shadow boxing, one that beats against the air? If you spent your time in the word of God and prayer you wouldn’t be wasting so much time in endless foolish debates, and striving over things that are not only of this world, but you have now lowered yourself to the standard of this realm and are fighting a losing battle on your own. Matthew 12:18-20 Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles. (19) He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets. (20) A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory. (KJV) Matthew 12 verse 19: [He shall not strive ...] He shall not shout as a warrior. He shall be meek, retiring, and peaceful. Streets were places of concourse. The meaning is, that he should not seek publicity and popularity. (from Barnes' Notes) The Lord Himself is this servant that is being referred to, and He set a perfect example for all to follow. Even though the people tried to make Him a king at one time, He knew His kingdom was not of this world but that He was sent here to deliver a message of salvation. The more you realize that our calling is to deliver a message of salvation in meekness and love, the less likely you will find yourself getting caught up in a bunch of senseless not so great debates. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Galatians 1:3-4 Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, (4) Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: (KJV)
The word deliver in verse 4 means to rescue; and being that we live in a fallen world we are constantly surrounded by its influences and cheap imitations of what we think will bring peace and fulfillment to our lives. Where you look and what realm you look to, will be the determining factor of where you will spend your eternity. So will you continue looking to this world for the answer or will you seek those things which are above, to find an eternal one? It is the Lord’s will that none should perish but that all would come to repentance. So now the question is, are you willing to continue in this plan of salvation or have you been sidetracked with the cares of this life? What would you think if you saw one of your own children drowning and when you threw them the life preserver they ignored it and perished? Basically that is what mankind has done to their heavenly Father; they ignore His plan of salvation and His spiritual life preserver that was sent to us, and they end up over their head drowning in destruction and despair. So how are you doing today? Are you keeping the ship afloat and heading in the right direction, or have you gone off the deep end and going under? 1 Timothy 6:6-9 But godliness with contentment is great gain. (7) For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. (8) And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. (9) But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. (KJV) Have you forgotten how you arrived in this realm, wearing nothing but a smile? All those things you have been fussing and fighting over, not a one of them are going with you when it is time to depart this realm either. Have you learned to be content with the fact that today you have food and raiment? If not, just try going a day without them and see how overlooked and taken for granted some of these simple things we have are discounted as nothing. The food and raiment is not just limited to the physical either; have you taken the time to seek your spiritual meat as well as being dressed in the full armor of God so that you can quench all the fiery darts the wicked one will fire your direction? Stop and ask yourself this honest question, are the things that I am so concerned with today, the priorities I have established in my life, really leading me to a closer relationship with my Heavenly Father? Or is it something in this realm that may actually be drawing me away from Him; something that I am getting so wrapped up in, and has nothing to do with my eternal life? Matthew 16:25-26 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. (26) For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? (KJV) You have been blessed with all spiritual blessings in the heavenly realm in Christ, and yet do you hang onto the things in this world thinking it will fulfill and bring peace and joy? Can you even imagine for a moment what it will be like to stand before our Father some day and see all that was available in His kingdom only to find out that you missed out on it because you decided to hang onto the things of this life? Can you name one thing that is really worth hanging onto in this world that would keep you from inheriting your eternal reward? It’s only those that are willing to let go of their own life and desires that will find a new life in Christ and be able to inherit His eternal reward; those that were willing to look above and beyond what this world would ever have to offer. So can you honestly say that the will of God, His desire for you and your desire to serve Him are one in the same? Or are you still hanging onto something in this world that is choking the life from you slowly but surely? Is it worth exchanging your soul, which translates to eternal separation from God? A question that is not only being asked today, but one that will be asked again someday when we stand before Him and give an account of how we walked in His plan of salvation; was it truly a walk, or just a lot of talk. Ephesians 3:19-21 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. (20) Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, (21) Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. (KJV) You wonder why your life seems stagnant and unfulfilled at times, it’s simple, you keep looking to stagnant and unfulfilling things to bring you joy. Right now, this moment, there is a God who is able to do above and beyond what you could have ever thought or imagined; but how would you ever know this or experience this unless your priority is with the spiritual things which are above and beyond anything you will experience in this realm. When you pray and seek God and His answer, are you truly expecting the best, are you experiencing the love of Christ which goes way beyond our knowledge and limited carnal thinking? Do you know God hears you, and do you expect nothing short of victory in your life? Or are you still settling for the leftovers of this world and whatever they are willing to hand out? God has never failed His people and never will. So why are so many still hesitant to seek His counsel and deliverance from this present evil world; hanging onto the anchor instead of the life preserver? Are you yoked together with Christ today, letting Him handle the burdens, or have you unhooked yourself having decided you can handle things by yourself, and then wonder why you are so worn out and frustrated? Isaiah 55:8-9 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. (9) For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (KJV) Do you desire better results? Do you seek a more confident prayer life? Then start looking above and don’t limit yourself to this realm if you truly wish to have our Father’s results which are above and beyond anything we could ever ask for or think of. We as humans had been limited to this carnal realm, and could only operate according to what our outward vision and senses would dictate. But now in Christ we are able to see the things of God, and operate in a truly higher dimension; one that will bring joy, peace and an eternal victory to those of us that look to the Lord for His answer. Colossians 3:1-2 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. (2) Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. (KJV) In order to be risen with Christ it means you have let go of your life and its desires, and to have chosen a new life in Him. We are in this world, but we don’t have to be in agreement with it, or limit ourselves to what this world has to offer and its cheap imitations. Where your treasure is there will your heart be also. So if you wish to experience something that is out of this world, then start looking beyond this realm so that the Lord can open the windows of heaven and pour out for you a blessing above and beyond what you could have ever thought or asked for. 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. Matthew 23:1-5 Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, (2) Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat: (3) All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not. (4) For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers. (5) But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, (KJV)
What we see going on here in Matthew 23 is quite similar to what still takes place today. We have people that have exalted themselves to positions of authority within the Church, or what they envision a church to be. And we see those that are more concerned with outward appearances and pleasing people rather than building up the people; they are just building up their own egos. With many of these people they preach messages and tell people how they should be living a godly life of laying down their lives for the brethren; basically all the things they themselves are not willing to do. Although they are quiet adept at pointing out the faults and shortcomings of others, all the while at the same time they have a closet full of skeletons they think they are hiding. Matthew 23:6-12 And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, (7) And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi. (8) But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. (9) And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. (10) Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. (11) But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. (12) And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. (KJV) You don’t need a title or mans’ approval to share the gospel or live a godly life. You are the written epistle known and read of all men. So don’t wait around for some title of man before you get out into the field which the Lord said is already ripe for harvest. The church of God is not just limited to some building or some group of believers that are under the authority and rule of someone with mans’ title of ordination. After all who would have been more qualified for this title himself but our Lord and He didn’t take it, so why do others? Masters, Rabbi, all refer to honor, respect, or revered, which if it isn’t coming from our Lord then it’s a waste of time. In fact if you are seeking approval from man anyway, then you are already headed in the wrong direction. The Bible is very specific to point out that if they hated our Lord then they would hate those that imitate Him also. The Lord was trying to put a stop to this stuff long ago so that mankind wouldn’t be looking up to people and putting them on pedestals, but rather that those in position of authority would be more of a servant than expecting to be served. Respect, honor or approval is something that we should be seeking from our Father above, and not lowering ourselves to the standard of man. John 5:41-44 I receive not honour from men. (42) But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. (43) I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. (44) How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only? (KJV) Many limit God and their calling because they don’t have a title to back them up. Then you have those that base their foundation on the fact that they have a title from man and therefore they must be legit. The Lord Himself knew His calling and didn’t wait around for mans’ approval to fulfill His calling. Thank God He didn’t, otherwise we would still be waiting for a savior to bring a plan of reconciliation to mankind. In fact He instructs us just the opposite; mans’ titles are subject to man’s rules which will limit you from doing what He is asking. Ephesians 4:11-12 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: (KJV) Those that are answering their heavenly call know their place in the body of Christ and will do all things decently and in order. They don’t need a t-shirt or a neon sign that says they are an apostle or prophet, but know their place and calling in the body and carry it out in humility, serving and building up the saints instead of trying to build themselves up. Remember people, a church is not a building, it is the people that are the Church; like the Lord Himself said, ‘where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them’. So quit looking to outward things or titles of man to seek your approval or win the congregation over, but teach sound doctrine that will edify them in Christ. 1 Timothy 3:1-5 This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. (2) A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; (3) Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; (4) One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (5) (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) (KJV) Here’s a test for you, how well do you run your own home? If your own home life is a mess what business do you have trying to tell others how to live? Bishops, elders, deacons are all chosen to help the congregation and to lead by example. To whom much is given, much is expected; and these are the people that have walked with the Lord and are living proof by example to the younger Christians on how to live and walk in the Spirit. So whatever your calling is, being that it is the Lord calling, feel free to answer it, and don’t wait around for mans’ approval or title, but rather get to work. Matthew 20:6-7 And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle? (7) They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive. (KJV) If you read this chapter it refers to the parable of the vineyard. The owner of the vineyard, our Lord, keeps finding people standing around idle because they are waiting for some man to tell them what to do. When our Lord returns again someday to check out His spiritual vineyard where will He find you? Are standing around idle waiting for mans’ approval or title before you go to work, or will you answer your heavenly calling and receive the reward of inheritance? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 3:28-31 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. (29) Is he the God of the Jews only? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also: (30) Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith. (31) Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law. (KJV)
We have been talking this week about the difference between the old law or covenant, and the new law of faith which is established by our belief in the work Jesus Christ accomplished for mankind to bring reconciliation to a fallen world. There is still a law in place that even though we are under the new law we still need to obey the laws of the land. Despite the fact that we live by faith, we need to stay obedient and diligent to laws here on earth, so that we don’t end up with total chaos and be distracted by it. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; (2) For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. (KJV) We are reminded to keep all those in a place of authority in our prayers daily so that we can serve our time here in a quiet and peaceable life. Not only do we pray for them, but it is up to us to be doers of the word of God also; living honestly and in a godly manner, being examples of the believers that in nothing the ministry would be blamed. So remember, just because everyone else is going over the speed limit doesn’t mean you are excluded from the laws of the land; and if you get caught it is not pleasing to our Father either. Romans 13:1-5 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. (2) Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. (3) For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: (4) For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. (5) Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. (KJV) These powers and ordinances that are being referred to in the above verses are things like police, fire departments and other services that help keep order. God has established these services to render assistance and to try to protect society from being overtaken by ungodly people; which would get to the point of riot and total chaos if we didn’t have these departments in place. So remember, if you break the laws of the land, even if you don’t get caught the first time, Father is watching; and so to keep your conscience clear you need to obey them even when the authorities aren’t watching. I know that laws have changed over the years and that they bend with society and tend to favor certain individuals more than others, but it is the only way to maintain some kind of order here and even though it is not a perfect system it is better than none at all. The fact that they are ordained of God for our benefit, it is important that we establish these laws and abide by them. Romans 13:6-8 For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. (7) Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. (8) Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. (KJV) This is what I am going to call my sound off section, something that I see happening in the so called church that doesn’t line up with the word of God. The tribute mentioned in the verses above is referring to taxes. If we are receiving the above mentioned services, no matter who we are, or who we think we are, we are all required to pay for them. So how come we have religious organizations that have these tax free exemptions? If their building gets vandalized or it starts on fire, who are the ones they call for help? The Bible says the workman is worthy of his hire, and that we are not to withhold wages to them they are due; so the fact that these are ordinances of God, why are these religious organizations exempt? If what they are doing is truly the work of God, is He not capable of supporting it then? Or maybe it is just another loophole so that these wannabe preachers can pocket more of the loot. Was not the Lord Himself our example that we are to follow and if so, didn’t he pay taxes? Matthew 17:24-27 And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute? (25) He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers? (26) Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free. (27) Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee. (KJV) Here we see the Lord Himself didn’t argue or fuss about it, but knew who His source was and did what was required so not to offend. Let me ask this question; is there any group or organization that is more adamant on getting their fair share and supporting financially their ministers than the so called church we see today? It seems more and more the messages I hear coming from these groups focus more on the financial upkeep rather than the spiritual upkeep of the congregations. Truly where the treasure is, there will be the heart also. I see a total double standard; those that receive services that are ordained of God and require a financial upkeep are ignored by the people of God that should be living above the standard of man. The so called church and its preachers demand their fair share and in many cases well beyond that, and then neglect their duty to distribute what is fair for services rendered in their own communities, which is hypocritical. Proverbs 3:27 Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it. (KJV) Next time a preacher stands up and teaches on giving, on how important it is that you all do your part, ask him or her before you give to their organization, if they are doing their part and paying their taxes according to the word of God. Just because man says that it’s ok and finds a loophole in the system, doesn’t mean God says its right; in fact His word is quite clear where He stands. Jeremiah 22:13 Woe unto him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that useth his neighbour's service without wages, and giveth him not for his work; (KJV) Have you ever heard the phrase or muttered the words ‘where’s a cop when you need one’? Isn’t it nice to have someone to call when there is an emergency, that at times is life threatening? How about our war veterans that lay their lives down so that we can have the freedom to worship our Lord; are they not worthy of their hire? How many times have we seen in the news where they don’t get the medical services and such that is required for them because of a lack of funds; have they not earned this right? James 5:4 Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth. (KJV) Talk about frauds; you may have found loopholes in man’s systems, but it won’t get through Father’s system. And many of those that stand before Him and claim to be preachers and teachers of the word of God will find out that they sold their souls for cheap loopholes and didn’t practice what they preach. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Ecclesiastes 3:1-3 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: (2) A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; (3) A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; (KJV)
Did you know that as there are seasons in the outward realm, there are seasons in the spiritual realm also? In the spring a crop is planted, and later in the fall it is harvested, plucked up and put to use. When God chastens His people it can be grievous; like with chemotherapy it is a time to kill off old cancerous areas in our walk, so that it can bring forth healing to an area that is dying and would continue to spread if not dealt with. The fact that God created the heaven and earth, and set the outward seasons as He saw fit, would it not be fitting to let Him handle the spiritual seasons as well, and deal with His people the way He sees fit? Do you know what others have need of more than God? Are you able to see the way He sees, not just the outward but the inward motives of the heart? Too many people have become judge, jury, and executioner. Judging matters and making determinations on others, based on how they think people should live rather than letting the Creator make the determination. 1 Timothy 1:12-14 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; (13) Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. (14) And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. (KJV) If you were going to determine an apostle based on a job resume, then the example above would probably be the last person you would choose to be a part of your church or any organization. God knew that this person had a zeal for Him, but it was not based on His knowledge, and thus was described as being done ignorantly in unbelief. All sin is a result of unbelief, so at an appointed time, in an appointed place, God chose to deal with this individual and make the correction in a loving way so that he could be used of God. If left up to man, this person would have been the last one chosen, which ended up being the first one God chose. When you go back and read the above verses, you will find that this person is Paul the apostle. Acts 17:29-30 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device. (30) And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: (KJV) Times in verse 30 means season; and when it says ‘God winked’ it means He chose not to punish, or attend to it at this particular time. But there does come a time, a season when He no longer overlooks the situation with us, but will deal with us as individuals, where we are at personally in our walk, and make the correction in a loving, and sometimes grievous manner to our flesh, so that afterwards it can yield peaceable fruit in us. Being that God is longsuffering toward us, should we not be the same way in return to others, and not pass our own judgments onto them? Matthew 18:23-27 Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. (24) And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. (25) But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. (26) The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. (27) Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. (KJV) We all sin and fall short of the glory of God. We all as different members of the body of Christ have strong and weak points in our lives; which means all of us need to be dealt with individually, in a loving compassionate way. So just like in a hospital, not all patients are given the same diagnosis, but rather are given what is needed at the time for whatever the ailment is. The same holds true in the spiritual realm. Matthew 18:28-31 But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. (29) And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. (30) And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. (31) So when his fellow servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. (KJV) How did the Lord deal with you? How is He working with you today, and how are you working with others? Remember you were saved by grace through faith, and not of works. So why do many judge so harshly, forgetting what manner of man they were, and the compassion it took to allow them access into Father’s kingdom? How many people have been entrapped and falsely imprisoned, because they didn’t live up to manmade doctrines and judgments, which instead of setting them free put them in bondage? When did you decide it was time to carry out judgment; rather than showing the same compassion that was shown you, you decided it was open season and went on a self righteous hunting trip? You know what they say about paybacks don’t you? Matthew 18:32-35 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: (33) Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow servant, even as I had pity on thee? (34) And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. (35) So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses. (KJV) When you take the law into your own hands, you have a fool for a sheriff, and you now become open season for the wrath of God, and His righteous judgment. Galatians 6:9-10 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. (10) As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. (KJV) It’s just not fair, they got more than I did, or they can do whatever they want to and get away with it. Often time’s children think and speak this way, and make rash judgments based on emotions and not the Spirit. Are you willing to let the Lord take over and have His way and make judgments in your life, knowing what is best for you and your situation at this time, right now? The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few, so get back to work so that you can be outstanding in His field when He returns. Tis the season. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 12:33-35 Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit. (34) O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. (35) A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. (KJV)
In this day and age when one looks around, they can easily see what the motive of man is, and how much emphasis has been placed on material things. Mankind puts bottom lines, corporate values, and monetary figures above their love for each other, and in the end as it is written, the love of many has waxed cold. Sad to say, this mindset has entered into many organizations that claim to be representing God, thus corrupting themselves as well as those that attend and support their folly. Matthew 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. (KJV) Try as many do, you can only serve one master at a time. Though many claim to be a servant of God, in order to truly stay one, you have to sell out totally to God and not to the things of this life. The root of all evil is the love of money, and where their treasure is, there will be the heart also, as well as their messages which are based more on monetary value rather than spiritual. And rather than tell people what they really need to hear, and teach what really needs to be taught, most have sold out and would rather teach and preach things that keep the seats filled, not to mention their own wallets, rather than the heart. 1 Timothy 6:3-5 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; (4) He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, (5) Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. (KJV) That’s all I hear lately, these money pitches and promises of prosperity and wealth. You know Church, you have been blessed with all spiritual blessings; a treasure chest of wisdom and knowledge from above so that you can walk in this confidence and not some false confidence based on money. Just because they have sold out, doesn’t mean you have to. So when they pitch this stuff at you about gain, which means money, getting acquisition, instead of looking for your wallets, that’s when you should start looking for the exit. Wake up people, out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks; and it doesn’t take long if one is listening, to tell where someone is coming from, and what the true motive of their heart is. You have been grafted into the tree of life which is able to give you an eternal inheritance. So don’t be misled, and don’t allow your relationship to be broken off and wither away because you chose to follow some empty doctrine which promises much and delivers nothing but heartache and misery. Proverbs 23:4-6 Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom. (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. (6) Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats: (KJV) Ever try to catch a bird? When I was younger I would try to sneak up on birds in the yard and see if I could catch one. Though at times it would seem I got close, they always made their escape and eluded me. The same holds true with these birdbrain doctrines of man; they claim to be sharing the bread of life, but the only bread they truly desire is what they can get the congregation to cough up, and how much they can get out of them. I have heard it said ‘a fool and his money are soon parted’; and obviously many corrupt individuals have figured this out and brought it into the religious realm; having found out that, rather than take the time to hear the Lord for themselves and establish a foundation for salvation, many would take the word of some cheap huckster and let him dictate to them how to live and at what cost, which by the way keeps going up. 1 Peter 1:22-23 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: (23) Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. (KJV) It’s the truth of God’s word that brought you into His kingdom, and it is only His incorruptible Word that will keep you in it. The riches of this life are short lived, but the riches and glory that is available to those that put their trust in the Lord will abide forever. See that you walk in love as our Lord is love; and those that are truly His will be preaching and teaching an uncompromised message of love based on your spiritual outcome and not their own financial one. Matthew 12:34 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. (KJV) Do you know what a viper is? It refers to a poisonous snake, which usually is unseen, but sneaks up on its prey quietly before it strikes. Many unsuspecting, oftentimes newborn Christians, find themselves in a snake pit as well, and don’t realize the poisonous doctrines that are striking them in the heart, which can paralyze and lead to death. Unless one takes the time in the word of God and makes it their priority in life, they too may end up getting bit with the venom of the enemy, and never see it coming because they became lazy and dull of hearing. Ephesians 4:29-30 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. (30) And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. (KJV) Those that know the Lord and love Him with all their heart are those that do not wish to do anything displeasing to our Father or His people. Our motives and our words should be only to build up others and bring them closer to the Lord, not mislead them with empty self serving doctrines. If you continue to grieve the Holy Spirit and not do those things that are pleasing to God, don’t expect to be too pleased with your outcome either when you go to seek His reward come the day of reckoning. You have a choice this day, right now, and what comes out of the mouth will expose what your true motivation is. Will you speak of the Lord and lift Him up, or will you lower yourself and your standards and speak of the devil? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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