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Matthew 6:25-27 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? (26) Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? (27) Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? (KJV)
Stop, freeze, put your hands up; now honestly ask yourself, what were you just thinking about, was it something that would be of benefit to you or something that you will end up throwing a fit about if you continue to try to figure it out? It’s time to embark on a new spiritual exercise program, one where you start out in small things and with practice you become perfect, mature in the things of our Lord. How often do you spend time thinking about the things of this life more than the things of the new life we have access to in Christ? How many different scenarios do you play out in your mind on a daily basis trying to figure things out that you claim to have given over to the Lord in prayer? Does it all sound to simple, to easy and elementary for those that claim they are walking in the Spirit, when all along they still have some leaven left over in the bread of life that will continue to rise and infect the whole lump if not dealt with. It is a total retraining program and so opposite from the realm we have lived in, and walked in for so many years where the focus was solely on the things of the flesh, but now we have turned it over to an unseen God in heaven who is asking us to let His thoughts and ways be ours as well. Matthew 6:28-31 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: (29) And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. (30) Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? (31) Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (KJV) Instead of the physical raiment we wear, how concerned were you today with your spiritual raiment, you know the armor of God that you should be wearing for your protection? How well dressed are you today, and did you take the time to double check to make sure you were ready before you left? With all the riches and wealth that Solomon possessed and the incredible things he built with it, how many would stop and truly observe something as simple as a lily and see the beauty of God? How much more could you grow spiritually if you did a lot less toiling and spinning in circles thinking about things that the Lord said He would give to His people? Something to think about. Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (KJV) Now really, did you think for one moment that God forgot about you, or maybe He forgot to write down your request? Sound silly or farfetched, but isn’t that what we are saying when we start allowing doubt and fear into His temple, which we happen to be? You know as a parent, or those who have been and raised children, was there ever a day that went by that you forgot about one of your own? Is there a day that goes by even when they are gone that you don’t still think about them and wonder how it is going with them as well as holding them up in prayer? How much more do you think your heavenly Father has considered His people, being the fact that He created you and planned your life before the foundation of this world, and then we have the nerve to doubt Him? Psalms 139:17-18 How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! (18) If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee. (KJV) How about this, you have a heavenly Father that never sleeps, that is on duty all of the time and His thoughts toward us are nothing but precious, providing His people the good and perfect gift from above, access to His plan of salvation through Jesus Christ. With this in mind and more importantly keeping this in mind, do you really know someone else that could do a better job watching out for us? When you really stop and think about it, wouldn’t you rather have someone like that in control, someone that can guarantee victory before it takes place? So now I ask you again, what were you thinking? Philippians 4:6-8 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. (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) How much better, how much more peace would there be in your life if you could just keep your thoughts in line with the Lord’s? No wonder the Lord said that His burden was easy and His yoke was light, because the more you give to Him the less you have to carry around yourself. For myself, sometimes I have acted like the Lord was a hit or miss thing, like He has let me down so many times in the past and that once in a while it would be nice to catch a break, when the reality is that I am the one that had let Him down and He was longsuffering enough and patiently waiting for me to come into agreement with Him. So for today, if you are thinking or entertaining any other thoughts than what is described in verse 8, let it go; sift through what is of God and what is of your own understanding so that you can move forward in your walk and not be weighed down by unnecessary baggage that causes more doubt than confidence. Psalms 116:1-2 I love the LORD, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. (2) Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live. (KJV) You know God heard your request the first time you made it; so now it is not a matter of asking over and over again, but thanking Him for His answer and patiently waiting for it to manifest. The enemy will try to introduce reasonable doubt into your mind during this trial of your faith, so it is a matter of you keeping your mind renewed with the truth so that you don’t end up letting a little doubt get in and distort the truth. Matthew 6:32-34 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. (33) But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (34) Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. (KJV) While the world and its worldly people are blindly running in circles chasing things of this life, the Lord is showing His people a better way of life by seeking those things which are above. The just shall live by faith; so if your first priority is the Lord then everything else that is needed will be added, completely opposite of everything we have learned in the past. Before you start thinking about tomorrow, you haven’t finished today yet, so stay alert and don’t get ambushed by thoughts and ideas that are not of God and are not peaceful. So now, this moment, what are you thinking? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 John 5:14-15 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: (15) And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him. (KJV)
That thing you petitioned the Lord about, was it something that would draw you closer to Him or was it something aimed more at the carnal realm, something that just might cause you more heartache than edification? True confidence in our Lord is to know, not just guess that He has heard you; actually knowing your petition has been heard; knowing you have what you desired of Him because you are doing what He is desiring of you. Simply put, are the things I desire of Him in line with what is best for my walk, or is it something that will have me walking in the opposite direction? James 4:3-4 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. (4) Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. (KJV) If you have petitioned the Lord concerning a matter and the answer was no, then be confident in the fact that it wasn’t beneficial to your walk with Him. Rather than asking the Lord for something that would feed and benefit the spiritual, you are seeking after something that is resurrecting the carnal old man, something the world and its people are more apt to seek and pursue. The more you remain in this fallen realm and become friendly with the world’s way of thinking, the less confident you will be in the things of the Lord; and rather than being an asset to His body you are just an ass set in your own ways. The will of God is for His people to be delivered from this present evil world, the love of money being the root of all evil. So to remain confident in the realm of the Spirit one needs to be walking in accordance to the will of God, then they will know their petitions are heard because their desire and the Lord’s will be one in the same. 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) You know, when the Lord provides His answer to His people there is no doubt about the fact that it came from Him. When the Lord does something, there is no variation or any shadow of doubt, but everywhere you look you see that what was needed was supplied by Him in a way above and beyond what you could have ever asked or thought. That job you were seeking, the Lord opened a door in a place you hadn’t even thought of, something you were best suited for. When the Lord opens the door and the petitions we requested of Him manifest, it comes upon the person and overtakes them without their own doing. Some people try to make things happen, fabricate situations and events to make something appear to be happening from the Lord, rather than letting patience have its perfect work so that they are not lacking anything, especially confidence. 1 John 1:3-5 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. (4) And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. (5) This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. (KJV) There are no gray areas with our Lord; and there should not be doubt and confusion with His people. If your fellowship with the Father is true then you know that it can only be established through His Son Jesus Christ so that the joy of the Lord is full, not just partial or some of the time. True communion with our Father, which is what fellowship means, is to communicate with Him, to stay in communication and continue building a confident relationship based on trust and commitment, similar to a marriage. Two cannot walk together unless they be in agreement and stay that way; otherwise there will be a parting of ways. So don’t settle for anything less than our Lord’s perfect answer from above when making petitions, because the enemy is looking to throw you a changeup and get you swinging at the wrong pitch. John 9:31 Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth. (KJV) A true worshipper of God is one that is a doer of His word and not just a hearer. Those that truly know the Lord worship and reverence Him seven days a week in spirit and in truth, not just standing in some building looking up to the ceiling and waving at it on Sunday mornings. Again we see the same pattern, if one desires to have their petitions heard then they need to hear the Lord and respond to His petitions for His people also. If you wish to provoke others to love and good works, then a confident lifestyle in what the Lord is doing through you will be more edifying than all the song and dance, the so called worship that goes on, basically people doing their alms before each other. My take on all this silly singing and hands in the air so called worship is that spiritually empty people are trying to make up for their lack of knowledge by some outward show. And here is another thing, why do so many so called preachers think the only way they can deliver God’s message is in a fancy three piece suit? Most of these three piece suits are putting out two bit doctrines, though the outward may look good to man, God is still seeking the true inward one to work through. Remember the old song ‘You’re So Vain’, well so is all this nonsense people think impresses God. Proverbs 10:9 He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known. (KJV) You can talk to God all you want, and make as many petitions to Him as you want, but if you truly want them answered then you need to answer His call and do the walk. Personally I like knowing my petitions are heard, and I like knowing that I can walk in the light of the Lord, knowing surely that goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life so that my walk doesn’t end up like the soap opera ‘Days of Our Lives’, a continual pattern of heartache and misery. Psalms 84:11-12 For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. (12) O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee. (KJV) When the sun is shining it is much easier to see the path of life than in the darkness. What a blessing it truly is to those that trust in the Lord; a confident relationship built by learning to walk in the Spirit and no longer living according to the flesh. Jeremiah 5:25 Your iniquities have turned away these things, and your sins have withholden good things from you. (KJV) If your confidence has been waning lately, if that light that was shining in the heart has gotten dimmer, if you are not sure that your petitions are being heard, then it is time to do a spiritual inventory and find out if you are in the place you need to be, seated in a heavenly place with Christ and not so entangled with the affairs of this life. Remaining confident in the Lord is based on remaining seated with Christ and not moved away from the hope of glory in Him. Psalms 15:1-3 LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? (2) He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. (3) He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. (KJV) Abide means to continue; so if you wish to continue with the Lord then it is contingent on being a doer and not just a hearer. Talk is cheap, but a walk with our Lord is deep, and will bring you into a deeper relationship with Him if you are willing and obedient. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (KJV)
Williams New Testament translation for Hebrews 4:16 16. So let us continue coming with courage to the throne of God's unmerited favor to obtain His mercy and to find His spiritual strength to help us when we need it. Have you ever seen in a show on TV where someone is walking towards the office of an important person and along the way someone tries to stop them from entering? And rather than heed the warnings the person marching through the hallway walks right in despite being told not to? This somewhat illustrates the boldness we should be walking in as well; a confidence that despite the principalities and powers in heavenly places that would try to keep you from going unto God’s throne of grace, especially in a time of need, you have every right as a child of God to go before His throne of grace with your requests, not only for yourself but for other members of the body, and receive His answer to them as well. So despite the opposition you will encounter, especially the closer you get to God, the more determined and bold you should be to anyone or anything that would try to impede your progress. So continue operating in the manifold wisdom of God, and remind any principality or any prince of the power of the air who you are in Christ and to step aside, as you are going to obtain the mercy and grace you are looking for. Fight that good fight of faith and don’t give in so easily or take a fall, but rather keep moving forward and don’t let anyone talk you out of the answer to your need this day. Hebrews 10:19-24 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, (20) By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; (21) And having an high priest over the house of God; (22) Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. (23) Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) (24) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: (KJV) Strong’s definition for boldness: 3954 parrhesia (par-rhay-see'-ah); from 3956 and a derivative of 4483; all out-spokenness, i.e. frankness, bluntness, publicity; by implication, assurance: KJV-- bold (X -ly, -ness, -ness of speech), confidence, X freely, X openly, X plainly (-ness). You know that if you had legally bought and paid for a ticket to the theatre and the usher tried to stop you from entering, I would imagine you would be quick to point out your right and authority to enter in. Are you as confident, bold, and assured of your right to come before God’s throne of grace through His Son Jesus Christ or are you just hoping that maybe your requests will get through? Your right to the throne of grace has been bought and paid for in blood by the sacrifice of His Son; so now you have every right to draw near to God with a true heart in full of assurance of faith in what His Son accomplished on our behalf. However, if you are not sure and are not holding fast to this profession of faith without wavering, then you will have doubts and fears that your requests are not being heard or responded to. You know this confidence you are building and demonstrating, it can definitely be an inspiration to the brethren also, provoking them unto a love for God and being a doer of His good work. This access, this plan of salvation is yours for the taking, today, right now, so don’t let anything or anyone stop you or your prayers from being heard and responded to by our heavenly Father. Romans 8:35-39 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? (36) As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. (37) Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. (38) For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, (39) Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (KJV) Paul knew His rights and authority in Christ and was bold and confident in the fact that no one or no circumstance was going to separate him from the love of God and His eternal reward of inheritance. While some people wallow in pity parties thinking we are just sheep being led to a slaughter, Paul was quick to remind and provoke the brethren unto love and goods works, that in all things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us, that love which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. So while others may struggle at times and forget the rights and authority we have by the name of Jesus Christ, we are reminded that one of the ways to provoke unto love and good works is to remind and encourage one another of the victory we have by His name. I can tell you boldly, that the people of this world who engage in lotteries and end up with a winning ticket will stop at nothing when it comes time to cash it in and collect on what is theirs. God’s desire for His people is that they would be just as bold and confident to come before His throne of grace as well and receive the spiritual blessings He has for His people which are rightfully theirs, those that call upon His name and respond in faith. 1 John 2:28-29 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. (29) If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him. (KJV) Again we see that being a doer of the word accompanies our confidence we have in the Lord. You won’t have one without the other; so the more you practice what you preach, the more proficient you become at it. Practice makes perfect, a perfect love which casts out all fear and allows one to continue in a confident relationship with the Father based on a love and trust in His word. So what are you holding fast to today, and what are you confident in, your own works or the good work your Father has begun and would like to continue to perform in you? Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: (KJV) Your love and good works that you are building a confidence in, is what Jesus Christ has begun; and I pray is continuing to perform within in you, enduring to the end. So today if you sense that confidence is waning, or maybe you are not quite as sure of what you should be doing, maybe you need to let go and let someone else be in control, letting Him increase and your own thoughts and ways decrease. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Thayer’s definition for confidence:
3954 parrhesia- 1) freedom in speaking, unreservedness in speech a) openly, frankly, that is, without concealment 2) free and fearless confidence, cheerful courage, boldness, assurance Confidence, boldness, assurance; where do these come from and how can I maintain this in my walk, knowing who I serve and how to be an example of the believers? Is this something that just happens once in a while or is this something I have access to all the time? Is having confidence in the Lord and the good work He has begun in me something I can continue in or was it just something I experience periodically, is it just for certain special people? Be assured Church, that God would like nothing better than to see His people operate in a boldness and assurance, as well a confidence in their walk and in their prayers so that they can know that not only are they being heard, but answered also. 1 John 3:21-23 Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. (22) And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. (23) And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment. (KJV) You know all those prayer requests you make to God, well He requests things in return, like being a doer of the word of God and not a hearer only. Verse 22 is clear to point out our responsibility in order to receive our requests. Are you as quick to respond to God and His word as you want Him to be when you request His help? Remember, this relationship you have with your heavenly Father is a two way street. He answers you and desires for you to answer Him also. You wonder at times why your prayers don’t seem to be getting answered or maybe you don’t have much confidence in what you are doing. Maybe you are not in place you need to be or maybe you are pursuing a matter that is drawing you away from God instead of closer. The more you are a doer of the word of God, a go to guy that responds to the call of our Father, the more confidence you will have when you make your requests to Him also. Simply put, with what measure you give out is given back your way; so if nothing seems to be coming your way you may need to find out if you are going the right way. Nothing in the realm of God just happens by chance or luck, which by the way none of these two words should be a part of any Christians vocabulary, but rather all the promises of God are a definite done deal to those that are willing and obedient to His word. You will find that the more you respond to God and draw near to Him the more He draws near to you as well; and the closer you get to Him the more confident you become in His word and promises. The farther away from Him you are the harder it is to hear His voice and to know what He is asking of you. So the farther away from Him you are, the more you are removed from the confidence and boldness you may have once had in His word, like the term dull of hearing. Williams New Testament translation for 1John 3:20-23 20. because if our consciences do condemn us, God is greater than our consciences, and He knows everything. 21. Dearly beloved, if our consciences do not condemn us, we come with perfect confidence to God, 22. and we obtain from Him whatever we ask for, because we practice obedience to His commands and do what pleases Him. Before you get all worked up or think God doesn’t answer your prayers because He loves you less, the truth be known He is desiring for you to get to know Him better and accomplish His perfect will in you. However, He does expect you to practice what you preach, to follow through with your commitment with Him. The same diligence you have shown in the past to achieve your earthly desires should now be aimed at His desire and what is pleasing in His sight. You wish to have confidence in your walk with the Lord, then answer His call and walk by faith, and you will find the Lord answering your requests as well. 1 John 5:13-15 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. (14) And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: (15) And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him. (KJV) When one believes on the name of the Son of God, Jesus Christ, then they believe that truly He that is within them is greater than anyone or anything in this fallen world. You trust in the name which is above all names, the only name in which you can have salvation as well as access to the throne of God. Your confidence is built on the completed work Jesus Christ has done on your behalf, and now your only desire is to do those things that are pleasing to God, which is why you know He hears you. You are also confident in this fact that God said that there is one mediator between Him and mankind, that being Jesus Christ. So if I come to my Father through that name, then I now can come boldly to His throne, holding Him to be true to His word. The more you hold God to be true and man the liar, the more confidence and trust you will build with our Father. While most of the world and worldly people are more apt to hold man’s word and interpretations above God, we can clearly see why they are not confident in their walk with Him and why their prayer life is not effective at all. Ephesians 3:10-12 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, (11) According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: (12) In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. (KJV) Talk about hitting the tri-fecta, there is definitely three things every Christian should have in their walk, boldness and access with confidence. Again we see this is all a result of the Lord’s purpose for our life, which is being purposed to us through Christ Jesus our Lord. Now be forewarned, you will experience opposition when trying to access the Father, especially from the principalities and powers that would like to keep you in darkness. But it is up to the Church, those that know who they are in Christ and their rights and authority they have by that name, to continue to operate in the manifold spiritual wisdom of God and walk according to His purpose. In all things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us; so rather than giving ear to the voice of the enemy and withdrawing, tell him to step aside and get behind you, as you are going to proceed forward and not draw back. The devil is a liar and the father of them; you know the truth that has set you free, so don’t be afraid to remind the enemy who you are in Christ and confidently remind your opponents the victory you have by that name. Ephesians 6:11-13 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. (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. (13) Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. (KJV) The closer you get to God, the more opposition you will find getting there. Similar to a football team driving down the field to the end zone, they may move the ball fairly well on one side of the field, but once they get close to the goal line they will find the defense stiffens and will put up a goal line stand. Those that have a heavenly game plan, following the purpose of our Lord, will know the name that will get them past the goal line and into the realm of the Spirit, while others will find themselves sacked and thrown for a loss. Romans 13:14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. (KJV) The armor of God is spiritual, by putting on Jesus Christ you are putting on God’s uniform and protective gear, while anything less will leave you exposed and open to injury. Jesus Christ has already punched a trail past the goal line by following God’s plan; now the question is ‘will you follow the same path of a winner, or will you end up a whiner?’ God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Peter 1:7-9 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: (8) Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: (9) Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. (KJV)
Wasn’t the whole idea for accepting God’s plan of salvation into your life was to make it to the end and receive His eternal reward of inheritance? Having gone through the trial of this life which one can only be an overcomer by faith, it is the salvation of your soul that is of the utmost importance, especially when the day comes that you stand before God and give an account of your life; this life of faith in the message delivered by Christ. Jesus Christ is the first and the last; it was His word of life that brought you into the Kingdom and He will have the last say concerning your entrance into His eternal one. He is the author and finisher of our faith as well, so if you have been resurrected into the realm of the Spirit and are confident that the message you preach and follow came from the Father through the Son, then you will not be ashamed when it is time to be resurrected into His eternal realm forever. You may have entered this race with good intentions, but it is so vital that you continue and endure to the end so that you will be saved and receive the eternal inheritance. While many think all they have to do is answer some alter call to be saved, the truth be known, that is just the beginning; now you need to continue in the faith grounded and settled and don’t be moved away from the only hope of the gospel, which is Jesus Christ and His message of faith to the believers, a faith without which we cannot be pleasing to Him. Matthew 7:21-23 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. (22) Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? (23) And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. (KJV) Do you know what the worst part about reading the above verses is, that the people described were actually believers, those that had a zeal for God but obviously it wasn’t according to His knowledge; God’s people perishing for lack of knowledge. Take note of the fact that we are not just talking about a few here, but verse 22 is quite clear to point out that it is many that end up being deceived and do not receive the reward of inheritance, the salvation of their own souls. Somewhere along the line in their walk they were no longer communicating with the Father, but rather the father of lies who comes to steal the truth, kill the life within them, and then watch their soul eternally destroyed in the lake of fire. Are you totally sure of the message you are hearing today is of God? Does it line up with His word or have you been sidetracked and are now following a different protocol? Are there question marks in your life concerning your walk? When you stand before God someday you will know and not guess you are one of His? Remember the word of God tells us that whatsoever is not of faith is sin, so if it isn’t the Lord directing your steps then you are none of His. Those that wish to enter into the Lord’s eternal inheritance need to let the Lord in their life now, today, so that there will be no doubt or question marks concerning their reward of inheritance. Simply put people, if you don’t let the Lord into your life then He is not going to let you into His either. What rightfully belonged to people who were at one time children of God was stolen from them without them even knowing it, because somewhere along the path of life they started out on they turned and followed a different path that led to destruction. Matthew 7:13-14 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: (14) Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. (KJV) There is only one path that leads to eternal life; and sad to say, only a few who find it. Years ago there was on old song that said ‘there’s a whole lot of people going home’, however the truth be known only a few will actually make it in, while many will be rejected. There is only one path, one Lord, and one faith that lead us unto life; and without this knowledge of who, what, and where this path is for you, you will not receive your eternal reward. Have you ever heard the statement ‘all paths lead to the same place’? Well that’s true, because when it involves any other way into the Kingdom besides the one our Lord said would get you in, then all those other ways are that of a thief and a robber, which is widely known as the path of destruction. Don’t be deceived into thinking that just because you joined some religious organization, or because you tithe twice a week or any other of our own works, you have your ticket stamped. Without faith, as the Bible says the just shall live by faith, without hearing this message on a daily basis then acting on what is heard you will end up eternally on the outside wishing in, knowing what was yours and what you had access to only to let it slip away from your grasp. 1 Corinthians 15:53-57 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. (54) So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. (55) O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? (56) The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. (57) But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (KJV) You know folks, this once saved always saved doctrine just doesn’t fly. Oh it sounds good and sure is an ear tickler which gives many a warm feeling inside, but the truth be known your salvation is based on your ability to hear the message delivered by Christ, then being a doer and not a hearer only unto the end. Your born again experience was just the beginning, now we will see if you will truly allow Jesus Christ to be the author and finisher of your faith so that you can receive your eternal inheritance. Again as we notice in the above verses, that it is not until we are given a new incorruptible body are we then allowed access into God’s kingdom; then and only then will we escape the second death which is eternal separation from the Father. So before you kick back in your easy chair and think you got this thing licked, heed the warnings in the word of God so that you can continue in the love of God and spend your eternity with Him. Revelation 2:11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death. (KJV) Strong’s definition for overcometh: 3528 nikao (nik-ah'-o); from 3529; to subdue (literally or figuratively): KJV-- conquer, overcome, prevail, get the victory. You know the Lord just didn’t ask us to squeak by or hope we are one of His, but rather we should be an overcomer and walk in victory. It is our faith in what Christ has begun in us and continues to do that gives us this victory and will give us access to His eternal reward so that we can spend eternity doing a victory lap in His kingdom. Don’t be fooled Church, don’t be lulled back into a spiritual sleep and entombed into the realm of the flesh again, but hold fast your profession of faith without wavering, a message coming from the only author who will lead you to victory. Hebrews 10:35-39 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. (36) For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. (37) For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. (38) Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. (39) But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. (KJV) In this fast paced world patience is not something that is often spoke of, let alone put into practice. But by letting patience have its perfect work we can mature in the Lord, lacking nothing. You have been reborn, resurrected to a new life in Christ, which is just the beginning. Continue in the faith, letting the good work that our Lord began in you to continue to the end so that you can receive what is rightfully yours, the salvation of your soul. Romans 6:22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. (KJV) My prayer for each and everyone is that the end of this trail here will result in the beginning of their eternal reward with our heavenly Father. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Philippians 3:12-15 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. (KJV)
Paul didn’t claim to be perfect but he was mature in Christ and was able to grow up into Him in all things. Paul had quite a past, one that included his involvement in persecuting the Church and wasting it. We all have our own past and for every different believer there is a different one. But as we clearly see, Paul found that his answer was before him, the path in front of him this day, right now. How much easier would your path be if you only dealt with the things God has for you this day, at this moment; not thinking on things behind, neither getting caught up with things too far down the road ahead of you. Are you open to change and willing to walk a new path of life the Lord has for you, or are still trying to get results by doing things the same old way? Does your life seem stagnant at times; like on a treadmill, you keep exerting energy but don’t get anywhere and always end up at the same place you started from? If you keep doing the same thing trying to get to your spiritual destination by old watered down doctrines you will find yourself coming up short and missing the mark. If you desire new results it will require a new mindset and a willingness to walk in it as well. 2 Corinthians 5:17-19 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. (KJV) The reason Paul was able to forget the past is because the old things were passed away and he wasn’t reliving them over and over again. The reason many Christians have a hard time forgetting their past and moving forward is because they are not willing to let go of the old so that they too can walk a new path in Christ. Similar to a movie that came out years ago called Groundhog Day; the character in the movie kept living the same day over and over again and getting the same results. When something is passed away it should be buried and left there. So if there is someone or something reminding you of your past get out of the cemetery and move on to a new life the Lord has for you. Is every day a new experience for you? One of joy and peace, with a confidence and trust in the Lord that builds you up more and more on a daily basis, or are you being let down again because you expected to get new results from your old ways? A new life means you will need to walk a new path, one that draws you closer to the Lord not further away. Romans 7:4-6 Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. (KJV) Paul was well versed in the Old Testament and the things of the old law. It was his zeal in holding to the law that caused him to be at odds with the early Church. It was his willingness to let go of the old ways that set him free to walk in the newness of the Spirit; and in the end he went from being one of the Church’s worst enemies to one of its best assets. Is there something you are hanging onto from the past that keeps you from walking in the new instead of being a new creation in Christ, walking in the victory afforded you? Are you hanging onto something from your past and because of this you can’t get past the hindrance in your walk that keeps you buried in defeat? 2 Kings 5:9-12 So Naaman came with his horses and with his chariot, and stood at the door of the house of Elisha. And Elisha sent a messenger unto him, saying, Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt be clean. But Naaman was wroth, and went away, and said, Behold, I thought, He will surely come out to me, and stand, and call on the name of the LORD his God, and strike his hand over the place, and recover the leper. Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean? So he turned and went away in a rage. (KJV) Naaman was a great captain of Syria and had leprosy. He was instructed to go to Elisha a man of God to find a cure. Naaman was angry at the answer he received because he had his own preconceived ideas and notions on how God should provide the answer. Sound familiar? Ever wonder how in reading the Old Testament our own lives correlate with these situations, and how similar our old way of thinking is at times? How we at times have been trapped in our own spiritual leprosy and are unable to be set free because we were not willing to follow through with the spiritual prescription God had for us. If you desire something new, then you have to let go of the old; otherwise, instead of leaving the past behind we end up left behind, and falling short of the mark of the prize. 2 Kings 5:13-14 And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean? Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean. (KJV) If the Lord sends someone to give you sound advice, will you give heed to it or throw a hissy fit and keep trying your old stagnant ways? Will you walk in a newness of life today, walking by faith and not by sight, a faith in that which the Lord has promised? He is more than able to deliver, but only on His terms and conditions, which are at times so much different than our way of thinking. You have a Bible, the word of God, full of first-hand accounts of what the Lord is ready, willing, and able to provide for any that are willing to leave the past behind and partake of the river of life that will make them clean and renewed. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (KJV)
There is something hidden, ready to be revealed in the Spirit, and all the evidence is pointing that way. We have a Father in heaven. But did you know He has an accomplice, someone working with Him, someone who is very vital in solving this mystery? It will take your spiritual senses to solve the case, and bring you into the realm where it takes place. Matthew 11:25-27 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. (26) Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight. (27) All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him. (KJV) No man knows the Son or the Father, unless it is personally revealed to them. You can’t have one without the other, they work in unison together. Ever wonder why there are so many different denominations and so called faiths out there; so much false evidence without substance that misleads and causes confusion? Despite all the different names and titles given to the Father, He has spelled out who He truly is to those that are truly seeking Him, those that desire to worship Him in spirit and in truth. Definition for reveal (from Thayer’s): 601 apokalupto- 1) to uncover, to lay open what has been veiled or covered up, to disclose, to make bare 2) to make known, to make manifest, to disclose what before was unknown 2 Corinthians 3:14-17 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ. (15) But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. (16) Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. (17) Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. (KJV) Up to this point there has been something covering the evidence, and blinding the minds of those seeking to find it. Today that same spiritual vail covers the heart and is only taken away in Christ. So despite where the word of God points us to, no matter what labels and titles they try to give to the Father, He is quite clear to let us know that all the evidence is pointing us to Christ, the Son of God; and those that come to a personal knowledge of Him will unlock the mystery of the gospel. Luke 2:25-32 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. (26) And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. (27) And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, (28) Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, (29) Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: (30) For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, (31) Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; (32) A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. (KJV) To this day many still see a child named Jesus. In fact in December every year there are many nativity scenes that depict this. Isn’t it interesting that the one person that was led by the Spirit was able to see the Lord’s Christ; in other words, he was being pointed to something other than the outward appearance of what everyone else saw, a personal revelation brought forth by the Spirit of God. Many in temples today seek their answer to the mystery of the gospel in the outward realm, and miss the clues that are unlocked from within. Colossians 2:2-3 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. (KJV) Definition for mystery (from Thayer’s): 3466 musterion- 1) hidden thing, secret, mystery a) generally mysteries, religious secrets, confided only to the initiated and not to ordinary mortals b) a hidden or secret thing, not obvious to the understanding c) a hidden purpose or counsel; secret will: All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hid in Christ. This revelation is the key that will unlock this hidden treasure and allow you to have access to God’s eternal spiritual riches. To have this comfort and assurance, to remove the vail that blinds the heart, one needs to come to a working knowledge of Christ in order to access the Father. It’s a package deal, and you can’t have one without the other. It’s like having a great looking car but no engine underneath the hood; it’s time to open the hood and check beneath the exterior to make sure you have the power to run this race. Galatians 1:11-12 But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. (12) For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. (KJV) All the evidence is pointing to the Father. However, in order to access the Father you have to know His Son. Like Paul wrote, that is when it becomes personal. The plan of salvation was originated in the heavenly realm and manifested to us through the Son; the one mediator between God and man. Unless you are able to see this revelation for yourself, you will not know the Father or His Son, and will find yourself in darkness and confusion. Galatians 1:16-17 To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: (17) Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. (KJV) Paul found that the answer to this mystery came straight from the source; and instead of running to man he received the message first hand, which is why the Lord used him to write many of the epistles. Unless you take the time to hear Father first hand, and be willing to let Him reveal Himself to you personally, you will never come to an intimate relationship with Him, but rather the Bible will be just interesting accounts of how God worked in other people’s lives and not yours. When the word of God becomes real and personal, you will find that in your studies you can relate to those who God used in the Bible because you are able to see how it relates to you as well. Similar to reading a mystery novel, you are able to see the clues hidden within, and understand which way the author is pointing to solve this mystery and keep you on the right path. Colossians 1:25-28 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; (26) Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: (27) To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: (28) Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: (KJV) While many run to and fro looking to man to find the answer to this mystery, Paul found that it was within him all the time; and by looking within and accessing the Father through the Son he was able to see what had been hid to the outward man, but revealed to the inward one. All wisdom refers not only to this realm, but a wisdom that is from above, to allow us to see beyond the vail of the flesh into the spiritual; which is how we may present ourselves perfect, mature in Christ Jesus also. Ephesians 3:8-9 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; (9) And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: (KJV) As we can see again, Paul writes of his conversion and the calling he was asked to fulfill. Paul was well versed in the old law, and how so many were trying to tap into the unsearchable riches of Christ through it and the works of it. Simply put, his calling was to make all men see and be able to partake of this mystery which has been hid from the beginning, but now the answer is ready to be revealed to all those that seek God with a pure heart. It’s a package deal; a two for one special; no man knows who the Father is unless it is revealed to them through the Son. And until you come to a working knowledge and find the answer to this mystery it will continue to be hid (to those that seek anywhere else but in the realm of the Spirit). So grab your spiritual magnifying glass and take a closer look into the word of God, and find out where the evidence is leading you, and get an eyewitness first-hand account into this mystery. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Hebrews 11:1-2 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (2) For by it the elders obtained a good report. (KJV)
Ever watch a detective show where someone shows up at the scene and uses their senses to determine what took place. To unravel a mystery, the clues they look for may be things that are unseen to the naked eye, but revealed with the use of special tools to help them identify the evidence. A microscope can magnify and identify things that were right there all the time but unseen to the naked eye; if properly put to use it can point them in the right direction. Consider yourself a spiritual detective; from this point on you are now assigned to find out the mystery of the gospel, to determine for yourself God’s plan of salvation, and know the difference between the guilty and the innocent. God’s plan of salvation has been hidden to the carnal man, but is ready to be revealed to the spiritual one that is willing to seek Him with all their heart. The word substance means assurance and confidence in the right evidence, which will make it more evident as one matures. 1 Corinthians 2:7-9 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: (8) Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. (9) But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. (KJV) This narrows the list of suspects down and points us in the right direction. Try as so many do, and as we all have been taught prior to our conversion, the answer to this mystery is not in the realm of man. So many have judged things according to their outward sight and vision, which can only give them a partial glimpse at the evidence, and not a complete vision which will keep them on the right trail. 1 Corinthians 2:10-12 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (11) For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. (12) Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. (KJV) Sometimes it can only take some small piece of evidence to crack the case wide open and unravel the mystery that was hidden. Some piece of evidence that was there all the time, yet overlooked and rejected because it seemed too simple or insignificant; basically the way our Lord was treated when He brought this plan of salvation to mankind. Now as verse 12 points to, this evidence is of a spiritual nature and can only be solved by those that operate and walk by a faith; unseen to the outward eye, but quite evident to the inward. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. (17) For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; (18) While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. (KJV) Don’t give up; keep on the trail, your headed in the right direction. The enemy will try to detour you with lies and deceptions, planting false evidence that looks enticing but leads to a dead end. As long as you keep gathering the evidence on a daily basis you will build a case that is rock solid and will hold up in God’s court. Remember to keep looking in the eternal realm so that you can allow faith (our ability to believe in the message delivered by Christ) to lead and guide you on the path of life that will bring a victorious conclusion to your case. Will you let His spirit be the deciding factor in all your decisions? Or will you follow man made planted evidence left by a thief and a robber? Luke 10:21-24 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. (22) All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him. (23) And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see: (24) For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them. (KJV) A crime took place thousands of years ago; mankind disobeyed the Creator and was imprisoned in the physical realm and cut off from our spiritual Father. God in turn was longsuffering and kind enough to send us His Son, to give us an eyewitness account of the reconciliation that would be manifest in the spiritual realm. When a detective is assigned to a case the first thing he does is try to find an eyewitness so that he can get an accurate account of what took place, and then begin his investigation from this report. Although the evidence may not always point us in a direction we think looks right, it takes confidence and an assurance in the account of what was given in order to stay on the right path. Where are you looking for your answers? Are you still trying to comprehend things with your own thinking, or are you willing to look into the spiritual realm in order to build a solid case that will not fall apart in time of trial? Galatians 3:1-4 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? (2) This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? (3) Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? (4) Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. (KJV) Another crime took place some two thousand years ago. God sent us an eyewitness to His kingdom to reveal His plan of salvation, only to have mankind crucify Him for speaking the truth. Today, many still crucify His doctrine and give out false information, pointing people in the wrong direction by claiming to be walking a spiritual path of life, when in reality they are being misled with false carnal evidence. The devil and his workers continue to try to cover up their crimes, leading people further from the truth which was intended to set them free from the prison of sin. Ephesians 1:17-20 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: (18) The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, (19) And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, (20) Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, (KJV) Jesus Christ is your spiritual magnifying glass to magnify the truth in Him, and bring an enlightenment of the wisdom and knowledge of God; which is hid to the carnal man, but quite evident and spiritually eye opening to the inner one. For when the time we ought to be teachers, (for those that have been on the case and have had ample opportunity to solve it and bring an accurate account of God’s plan of salvation to His people with the spiritual evidence that will clear them and set them free) many have ignored His eyewitness account and built their case on flimsy circumstantial evidence that will not hold up. God hid his plan of salvation in plain sight for those that wish to seek Him with their heart and not their carnal mind. Keep looking; continue digging and you will find the clues that will unlock the mystery that eludes mankind, but is ready to be revealed to all that are willing to seek in the realm of the Spirit. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good morning dear brethren, in the January 2015 issue of The Costco Connection was the article below about being positive, persevering, and remaining in now.
By Wally Amos: Be Positive DON’T QUIT. This idea came to me this morning during my prayer time. It felt like a plea. In Napoleon Hill’s legendary book Think and Grow Rich (Napoleon Hill Foundation 2012: not available at Costco), he writes about a miner who quit inches away from one of the richest gold strikes of that time. Acres of Gold. How many times have you quit just inches away? You will never know. Not quitting means you constantly live where the action is, in the now. There simply is no place like now. It is the only time there is. You cannot get out of now. Also, the only place you can ever be is here. Wherever you go, that is where you are: here. To me that means you have everything to gain if you keep going, and nothing to lose. If you keep going you will not live a life of regret, saying, “if only,” or “I wish I had.” That is living in the past, which is nothing, and gives no rewards. Life is about constantly making positive decisions here and now, in the present. For me, this last year has been a year of one setback after another during the launching of another cookie company. The Cookie Kahuna. Often it felt like I would climb up the hill, almost reach the top, then slide back down. There have been some disappointing times, but at no time did I consider quitting. I knew if I quit it would be a definite “no, it’s over.” Yet, if I just found the courage and fortitude to keep going, I knew I would succeed. Which is exactly what happened. Life is never what it appears to be; it is always more. Just hold on to your vision, and have faith. We are human beings, doing things. My company is now up and selling cookies online, and all kinds of great things are happening because I refused to quit. Whatever you are working on, please, don’t quit! (Article from Costco Connection, January 2015) Now, although this was in pursuit of something in the physical sense, Wally was encouraged to press forward and not to quit; but how much more are we encouraged to do the same daily for spiritual things? Those things that will build you up spiritually and encourage you in pursuit of peace, and to walk by faith and not sight so that you can overcome your old fleshly nature and walk in victory. Remember the example given us; our Lord Jesus Christ who through faith pressed forward against all that was contrary to God, and having suffered for us He overcame the world victoriously and is now seated at the right hand of God our Father. 2 Corinthians 6:2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) Hebrews 1:11 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (KJV) Let your faith be in the ‘now’; live in right now, today, this moment where His strength is and… Matthew 6:34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. (KJV) Don’t be anxious about all of the tomorrow’s that haven’t yet come as it steals from the strength that you have been given to get through today. Keeping your focus on today will enable you to hear the Lord’s counsel for what you have need of in the ‘now’ so that you are strengthened and encourage to hold fast; to move forward having your steps directed by Him; and to press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Brethren, now, don’t let the external circumstances disappoint, overtake or sway you, and please don’t quit as you might just be inches away from victory. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold of eternal life and don’t’ let go. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Mark 16:16-18 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. 17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. (KJV)
When one is truly baptized (spiritually) into Christ, it will bring life to the believer and show them how to be more than a conqueror through Him that loved us. Instead of being taken in by any deadly doctrine of the serpent, which is how the enemy is described, you will bruise his head with your heel as you keep moving forward. You will speak with a new tongue because of the new heart you were given when born again and baptized into Christ. The words that you are now speaking will be spirit and life so that those who are spiritually sick can make a full recovery. Galatians 6:14-15 But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. 15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availed any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. (KJV) The whole purpose of the teachings the last couple of weeks is to get you to look beyond the old outdated rituals, and to see the true meaning of how to walk in the Spirit today, right now. These old rituals represent something far greater which is now within you; something that needs to continue working in you in order for you to be saved. We see that the crucifixion that we are partakers of is something that is ongoing so that a new creature can manifest and resurrect in you. Mankind crucified our Lord and left Him for dead, and many are still doing that again and again with their fallen doctrines. Will you let Him out of the tomb so that He can show Himself alive and real in you? 2 Corinthians 5:16-18 Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. 17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; (KJV) If you are not on the inside, then you are outside. If you quit looking at things after the flesh, then you will be in Christ and that new man will come to life by keeping the old one dead and passed away. Again, we see the true meaning of baptism; one dies so that they can resurrect into a new man, in a new realm of life. I John 3:1-3 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. (KJV) Can you even begin to comprehend what a privilege and honor it is to be considered a son of God, a member of His royal family in Christ? Well, you are not going to find out what the true and pure meaning of His word and purpose is that He has for you until you step out of the old and into the new. Do you truly desire to be pure in His sight? How about baptizing yourself in the living spiritual waters, and leave those old, dead rituals behind. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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