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Philippians 4:10-13 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity. (11) Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. (12) I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. (13) I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. (KJV)
Independent of external circumstances is what the word content means, someone who doesn’t let outward things dictate the inward, but rather the inward dictates the outward response and result. Are you a person that has learned to be content, allowing the peace of God to rule in your life, or are you constantly looking for something in the outward fallen realm to satisfy, or you think can satisfy a spiritual need? Paul learned to be content, it wasn’t something that just happened over night but it became a way of life for him, an example each and every believer can learn from. Paul knew that His strength was in Christ; the inner man working in him is the same one working in you also so that you can learn to be content with who you are in Christ, looking more to the inward and less to the outward. So how do you judge your life? Is it by a job, possessions, houses, cars, or do you judge things by your inward, growing stronger in the Lord on a daily basis learning to hear the Word of God and trust more in Him? Greater is the life of God within me than anything or anyone that is still in this fallen world. So don’t be taken in by the cheap imitations of the enemy, but rather seek first the kingdom of God and what He is asking of you this day, then all that is needed will be provided as He promised. 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) What man considers important and what God says is wholesome is as different as night and day, because while many still chase after the things of this life thinking it will bring them peace, the doctrine of Christ clearly enlightens us to the things of the inward man, the things that are eternal and not temporal. Without a wholesome diet many become sick and weakly, frail and ready to perish because of a lack of proper nourishment in the Word of God. Temporal things can only provide a temporary answer while those that seek Spiritual things and make it their priority will find their eternal answer and strength that will allow them to endure to the end. 1 Timothy 6:6-8 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. (KJV) What do you think of when you think about making great gain or as some refer, making great strides in their walk? A leap of faith is another phrase that comes to mind. Some would think starting a church would impress God, or spending days and weeks studying the Bible would cause one to make great gain in their walk. How about something so simple as learning to be content, content with the fact that today I have salvation, today right now my name is written in the Lamb’s book of life and knowing that nothing else really matters. Have you forgot how you entered this world wearing nothing more than a smile, and how you are going to depart this world with nothing more than you came in with? Yet with all this in mind, is all the fussing and fighting over worldly things really worth the time and effort when all the Lord is asking of us is to fight the good fight of faith? I personally have never seen or heard of a child born with a U-haul trailer, which holds true for the hearse as well when we leave. With that in mind have you learned to be content? Have you taken the time to thank God for the food and raiment He has provided for you today, or are you like the children of Israel already out and about gathering manna for tomorrow? I will give you a hint; if you wish to be content then the first food and raiment you will be seeking on a daily basis will involve more of the spiritual and less of the physical. When one trains themselves in the things of the Lord they are able to learn to be content with who they are in Christ and where He has placed them in the body of believers. Williams New Testament translation for James 4:13-15 13. Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we are going to such and such a city and stay a year, go into business and make money," 14. although you do not have the slightest knowledge of tomorrow. What is the nature of your life? It is really nothing but a mist which appears for a little while and then disappears. 15. Instead, you ought to say, "If the Lord is willing, we shall live and do this or that." Have you forgotten how long we are going to be here in this realm, on this planet as compared to eternity? How about the fact that we are just passing through this world and should not get so entangled in the affairs of this life? Next time you spray something into the air, think of your life and how short it really is, and how if it ended right now it would seem like just a moment. Now for a moment stop and ask yourself honestly, have I really learned to be content, or do I still overlook some of the simple things in the Word of God that would make my walk so much simpler? Williams New Testament translation Hebrews 13:5-6 5. You must have a turn of mind that is free from avarice; you must be content with what you have, for God Himself has said, "I will never fail you, I will never forsake you." 6. So we can confidently say: "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can men do to me?" Hebrews 13:5-6 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. (6) So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. (KJV) You know why you no longer fear what man does? Because you are not looking to the outward to find peace and contentment with God, but rather looking inwardly, and letting that peace rule. Who really has the final say in your decisions, God or man? So rather than letting outward situations and circumstances dictate your walk turn your attention to the inward so that you won’t be left out of God’s realm and plan of salvation that He has for you. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 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. Romans 11:33-36 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! (34) For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor? (35) Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? (36) For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. (KJV)
Williams New Testament translation Romans 11:33-36 33. How fathomless the depths of God's resources, wisdom, and knowledge! How unsearchable His decisions, and how mysterious His methods! 34. For who has ever understood the thoughts of the Lord, or has ever been His adviser? 35. Or who has ever advanced God anything to have Him pay him back? 36. For from Him everything comes, through Him everything lives, and for Him everything exists. Glory to Him forever! Amen. Have you ever seen people that claim if someone gives to God or some of His so called preachers that God now owes them a hundredfold return? Hmmm, sounds deep don’t it, but not very deep in the true things of God, rather deep in something that requires hip boots to keep one unsoiled. Nobody has, ever will, and can truthfully claim they gave something first to God, and now God was indebted to them, because that would fall under the category of works and not grace which is what the true plan of salvation is based on. God is not limited by physical boundaries as man is, but rather has opened a treasure chest of wisdom and knowledge to any and all that would like to tap into it. While mankind has been the Lord’s personal advisor, or so they think, God is revealing Himself to those that are willing to worship Him in Spirit and according to His truth; those that know the only way to please God is by being willing and obedient to what He is asking and not what mankind keeps trying to dictate according to their own fallen nature and understanding. 1 Corinthians 2:6-7 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: (7) But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: (KJV) Iron sharpens iron; so when you speak of the wisdom of God you are speaking something that is hidden to the carnal man but clearly understood by those that are perfect, mature in the realm of the spiritual. The things of God are foolish to those of the world, thus we are told not to cast our pearls before the swine because they will not receive it, rather they mock the worthy name by which we are called by. So rather than going out and about thinking you will be heard for your much speaking and witnessing, learn when and how to speak and share the word of God so that you don’t do more harm than good, because once the swine are done with the pearls they will then turn and tear you to pieces as well. Ever wonder why the Lord kept silent when brought before his accusers, because He understood the wisdom of God and didn’t give them any more ammunition for them to use against Him. Ephesians 3:16-19 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; (17) 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) What do you think of when you think of someone strong, do you picture some muscle bound person, those that are depicted as invincible? The true strength of God comes from the Spirit; the inner man that is rooted and grounded in the love of God which is only found in Christ. This is a deep knowledge that goes way beyond that of the flesh or carnal realm, one that few truly tap into and remain grounded in. The love of God passes and is way beyond our knowledge, as high as the heavens are above the earth, so much higher is this wisdom we have access to. Your strength is developed by how much you know the love of Christ, because the more you know of Him the more you see the true riches of God which is in our inner man, the confidence, assurance and boldness that we are one of His. 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 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. (10) But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (KJV) There was a song in the seventies that went “how deep is your love”; a question every Christian needs to know for themselves; just how deep is their love and commitment with the Father. While many today talk about Jesus and portray him according to their carnal understanding, few know of Christ, the inner man that strengthened him and showed him how to operate in the wisdom and knowledge of God. If you wish to establish a deeper more personal relationship with the Father you too will need to come to a working knowledge of who Christ is, the inner man which takes you into the inner workings of God, the realm of the Spirit. Many talk of Jesus and base their belief according to the flesh, but those that wish to go deeper can only do so by a personal revelation of Christ, the only rock and foundation that the true Church is built on. It’s not the outward appearance that describes a person, but the hidden inward one is what determines who that person really is; so while many still see a man named Jesus after the flesh, it’s only those that know Christ that can truly define who He is and who they really are. So where are you looking for the answer to the mystery of the kingdom of God, is it in the outward or are you looking deeper within to find the true meaning? Colossians 1:25-29 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: (29) Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. (KJV) When one thinks of riches, one thing that comes to mind is a mine, where they have to dig deep to get to them. The riches of God are hid in Christ and in order to access them it has to be done through Him. The things of God, His wisdom and knowledge are hid from mankind; it is a mystery to those on the outside, but perfectly clear and visible to those that operate inside or inwardly. The mystery of God is, Christ, the unseen inward man working mightily in those who trust that greater is He that is within me than anyone or anything in the world. Do you desire to be strong in the Lord and the power of His might? Do you wish to know God on a deeper more intimate level, growing stronger and becoming more rooted and grounded in His word? Then one need only look inwardly to find the answer which is hid in Christ but ready to be revealed to any and all that would call on the Father through His Son. The things of God, His wisdom, knowledge, mercy and love are so much deeper and higher than anything we could ever think or imagine, so start digging. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 4:23-24 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. (24) God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (KJV)
We have all seen pictures and paintings of how man sees God and tries to portray Him, mostly based on a physical interpretation. Many people claim they are worshipping God, which is carried out in many different ways, sometimes in songs or hymns, or other times I have seen people look to the ceiling and wave their arms thinking that is a form of worship. The fact is that God is a Spirit; a totally different realm than the one we are accustomed to, something mankind cannot comprehend on his own, but rather needs a personal revelation in order to understand God. Worshipping God is not some song and dance as many think, but rather in order to truly worship or reverence Him it has to be done in deed, or in other words it has to become a way of life in order to have fellowship with Him. Not only is God true to us in His word and promises, but He expects us to be true to Him as well, serving Him in love with the right motive of the heart. While many depict our Lord according to their own understanding, and compare God to man’s standards of how things are accomplished, God’s ways are so much higher and better than ours; something few experience because of their lack of trust in Him. Jesus Christ was a true worshipper of God because He walked according to the Spirit of Christ which led and guided Him on His path of life and brought a message of truth to a fallen mankind, thus the reason for all the opposition. Isaiah 55:8-11 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. (10) For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: (11) So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. (KJV) God’s thoughts, His ways, His timing, is so much higher and better than ours; now the question is, how many will be still long enough to hear His voice and then act on what He is asking, even if it means patiently waiting as well? While the Spirit is willing and is at peace, it is our flesh and its impatient nature that says we need to act now; or with many they think their prayers were not answered because the results didn’t happen the way they thought it should. With many others they follow a predetermined path that is based more on their outward sight than their spiritual insight, thus keeping God in a denominational box and limiting Him. In order to walk in the Spirit you have to start thinking in the Spirit; a realm that is so much higher than ours, and totally different and contrary to the carnal way of thinking. How much more could God work through His people, and give them the confidence and assurance that they are one of His, if only they would let Him? We have all prayed about certain things in our life and were absolutely sure that we couldn’t live without them, so when it didn’t manifest the way we thought it would we think we are failures. Was it so much that you were a failure, or maybe that thing you were requesting wasn’t really what you needed or wasn’t beneficial to your walk, but rather would have been more of a detriment? As one matures in life they realize that there is a big difference between what they want and what they truly need, something the Lord knows and knew before the foundation of the world when He chose a place for us in His body of believers. Now the questions is, will you trust in the Lord with all your heart and not lean to your own understanding, letting His peace rule in all your decisions and not the outward appearance of things? Galatians 5:16-18 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. (17) For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. (18) But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. (KJV) Just because you were born again and had a personal experience with the Lord that brought you peace doesn’t mean you are on easy street, rather it is just the beginning of a brand new way of life. While the ways of man are limited by the flesh and its way of thinking, the Spirit of God is unlimited and without any boundaries. Now it is a matter of renewing your mind on a daily basis so that you can see more and more into the spiritual realm and allow God to do a work in you that no other man can do. We have the mind of Christ so that we are no longer under the law of sin and death, but rather under a law of faith which allows us access into the realm of the Spirit which is unlimited and unending to those that continue in it. While the disciples of our Lord were limited in their thinking and told Him they would have to go back to town and get provisions, it was the Spirit of Christ within Jesus of Nazareth that trusted that loaves of bread and a few fish would suffice. While some questioned our Lord concerning His timing and why He didn’t show up in time to save Lazarus, in the end God had a perfect plan and demonstrated His power and love through Jesus of Nazareth, so that not only did Lazarus resurrect from the dead, but it brought life to some of the others that were there and witnessed it as well. So what are you holding to as truth today, will you let God be true, and hold His word above and beyond what man says, or are you leaning more to your own understanding and doubting His word? The Spirit and the flesh are totally contrary one to the other, like a tug-of-war, only you have to decide for yourself which one you will hold to. 1 Corinthians 2:12-14 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. (13) Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. (14) But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. (KJV) Do you spend time daily in prayer and in the word of God so that you can let Him renew your mind and receive the things of His realm? God does not take spiritual things and give them to carnal people, because it is foolish to them. However, He does take spiritual things and compares or interprets it with spiritual people who are willing to walk in the Spirit and hold Him to be true, worshipping Him in spirit and in truth. There are many that claim to be of God and speaking on His behalf, that operate according to the natural man and its way of thinking, and may even have big followings also. But remember, that which is highly esteemed among mankind, in others words popular people pleasing doctrines, are an abomination in the sight of God. And what may have started out with good intentions is nothing more than the blind leading the blind into an eternal ditch. Psalms 92:4-6 For thou, LORD, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands. (5) O LORD, how great are thy works! and thy thoughts are very deep. (6) A brutish man knoweth not; neither doth a fool understand this. (KJV) A brutish man is referring to a stupid one; someone who thinks they know better than our Lord. Anytime we decide to lean to our own understanding we limit God as well. Have you ever had a small child contradict something you knew to be true, no matter what you said, they thought they knew better? Now compare that with the Lord; in other words, the creation telling the Creator He doesn’t know what He is talking about, or you know a better way, which would fall under the category of brutish. Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (KJV) Are you tired of walking in circles or like on a treadmill, lots of effort but you end up in the same place? Or maybe you are bound and determined to have things your way no matter what the Lord thinks, then you wonder why your walk with Him is stale or at a standstill. In order to walk in the Spirit you need to think in the realm of the Spirit, and be willing and obedient to what the Lord is asking despite what the outward would dictate, or how foolish it may seem to the many that hold to popular opinions and doctrines of man. God’s ways and thoughts are so much higher than ours with victory guaranteed beforehand; isn’t it time you mount up and start looking above for your answer? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. (8) For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. (9) And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (10) Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. (KJV)
It is beneficial to the Church when one can accurately share their experiences with the Lord for the benefit of the body and not just a testimony to make themselves look special. A true man of God will point the people to the Lord and His work, and not toward mankind and what they claim they are doing for God. Paul was able to accurately describe his own personal experiences and insights with the people because it was done in humility and love, and not to build up his own following. Some think just because they have had a personal experience with the Lord that they are something special, and what was based on grace is now of works, or so they think. Some people hear the Lord through other people that God chose to speak through and thus base their salvation on the person, or denomination they belong to, rather than realizing it is God that was personally reaching out to them. And then we have those that think just because they spoke a word that brought life to someone, or even led to their conversion, it was their doing; thus causing them to think that in order to hear the Lord they have to listen to them. It’s the grace of God that allowed you to have access to His kingdom in the first place; and only His grace that will keep you there. So the more you realize this, the better relationship you will establish with the Father. Galatians 1:13-16 For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it: (14) And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers. (15) But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace, (16) To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood: (KJV) Paul realized for himself that when he tried to establish a relationship with the Father based on his own works and zeal, what he thought was profitable, was actually a hindrance to the Lord’s plan of salvation. Once he realized that his calling was of grace and not of works then he was able to allow the Lord to make the changes necessary in order to walk with Him. Is your walk today based in Spirit and in truth or are you still holding to traditions that actually draw one away from the Lord rather than closer? Is it God’s plan of salvation still, or have you come up with an alternate plan or route that you think will draw you closer? Acts 9:3-6 And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: (4) And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? (5) And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. (6) And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. (KJV) Acts 9:5 [It is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.]. This is a proverbial expression, which exists, not only in substance, but even in so many words, both in the Greek and Latin writers. Kentron (grk 2759), signifies an ox goad, a piece of pointed iron stuck in the end of a stick, with which the ox is urged on when drawing the plow. The origin of the proverb seems to have been this: sometimes it happens that a restive or stubborn ox kicks back against the goad, and thus wounds himself more deeply: hence, it has become a proverb to signify the fruitlessness and absurdity of rebelling against lawful authority, and the getting into greater difficulties by endeavouring to avoid trifling sufferings. (from Adam Clarke Commentary) Maybe that thorn in your flesh, the thing or area in your own walk that keeps you from drawing closer to the Lord, is just your own stubbornness and ideas; things you think will be pleasing to God. You know, if you left the ox on their own they wouldn’t plow a very straight path but rather end up doing more harm than good, thus why they need someone to keep them in line. You may not always like the path the Lord is leading you on, but rather than fuss and rebel it is simple obedience that is pleasing in His sight. Sometimes one becomes unequally yoked with unbelievers and the world’s way of thinking, and rather than working in the field they end up off course and confused. Is it the grace of God through faith that is guiding you, or are you zealous and set in your own ways on how things should be done and end up kicking against the goad yourself; the more frustrated you become the harder you kick? I know for myself when I truly look honestly at some of the things I have done or ways I thought would be pleasing to the Lord, I cringe at how foolish my thinking was at the time and yet humbled that I am still a part of His inheritance despite myself. Actually sometimes when I have thought back on some things I am actually embarrassed to think that my right standing with God had anything to do with my own strength or abilities, which can at times prick the heart and be a healthy reminder of our own weaknesses. So I can understand that when Paul looked back on some of the things he did, and then was willing to share those experiences, it could have easily been described as a thorn in the flesh and yet a reminder of how weak one is when left to their own devices. Not that we spend our time in the past, but sometimes it can be a healthy reminder, or like the Lord described humility, coming to Him as a child. Titus 3:1-7 Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, (2) To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. (3) For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. (4) But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, (5) Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; (6) Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; (7) That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. (KJV) Today can be described as a bit of a reminder of where we came from and how we got to this point in our walk. It is good to keep in mind what your source of strength truly is, and that your salvation has never been nor ever will be based on your works, but according to a plan that was developed for you by a loving merciful God of grace that allowed us to be partakers of His divine nature by the perfect sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ our savior. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 2 Corinthians 12:1-5 It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. (2) I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven. (3) And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) (4) How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. (5) Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities. (KJV)
Paul the Apostle, a man God used to write a good portion of the New Testament, a man who had some up close and personal experiences with the Lord; from his conversion on the road to Damascus as well as what we see described in the above verses. What some refer to today as an out of body experience, which could have occurred when Paul was stoned and left for dead; which back in his time was usually the case with those that suffered a stoning; and we see Paul didn’t base his strength or glory in his abilities and boast about these experiences, but rather in his infirmities or weaknesses he did glory in the Lord. While many base their strength in what they claim they are accomplishing for the Lord, Paul realized that there is strength in humility; the more he stayed out of the way, the more the Lord was able to work in and through Him. So what source are you drawing your strength from today? Is it according to your abilities, or are you drawing strength from a well of living waters which should be springing up and flowing through you? 2 Corinthians 12:6-10 For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me. (7) And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. (8) For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. (9) And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (10) Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. (KJV) Did you ever imagine that your strength would be made perfect in weakness? Talk abut a total contradiction to what we have been taught all of our lives, especially when it deals with the image of what a real man is; take it like a man, be strong. How many action movies have you seen growing up where the main character is depicted as a humble servant, one that takes pleasure in weaknesses and infirmities? Most of these depictions are those of someone who is muscle bound and bullet proof, someone who relies on their own strength and abilities and certainly not on anyone else. Paul realized that when he was weak, then he was strong. Our carnal minds are what is enmity with God and what leads to doubt and confusion with those that rely on their own strength. If you want something to glory in, how about our infirmities; how the grace of God allowed someone like me into His kingdom and to be a partaker of His inheritance, despite myself and all the ways I thought I could help Him out. Are you being led by the Spirit of God today or are you the one trying to lead and guide Him, telling the Lord how He should be providing your way of escape from whatever may be a thorn in your flesh, or as some refer, a pain in the backside? When you share the word of God with people are you able to give an accurate account of what the Lord has done in your life or are you like so many who act like they have done so much for the Lord and that He literally couldn’t operate without their help? James 1:2-5 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; (3) Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. (4) But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. (5) If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. (KJV) When you have prayed about a situation that requires attention in your walk, which at times is painful, do you wait on the Lord and His way of escape or do you try to figure out an alternate plan based on your own thinking? This is the trial of your faith, an area where the Lord is working in you and desiring to see you move forward in your walk, while at the same time the enemy is doing all he can to keep you in bondage. So when the enemy comes in like a flood and tries to keep you from being set free in an area you have been seeking an answer in, the question is, ‘now will you endure patiently and wait on the Lord to find the answer and renew your strength or will you take an alternate route and end up on a dead end path’? Do you let the peace of God rule in your decisions and don’t make a move until you have that peace and confidence, or do you look for a quick fix that is less hassle? Remember, there is only one way, by the truth that will set you free and allow you to partake of the life of God which is given to those that walk by faith and not by sight. 1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. (KJV) Remember the old song ‘make the world go away’? While many look for quick fixes and escapes from reality the Lord teaches us that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. The more you rely on the Lord and the power of His might, the more you learn to deal with life in this fallen world and become an overcomer despite the daily temptations that surround you. So whatever the thorn in the flesh Paul was referring to, whether it was something from his past that was pulling him down or the devil reminding him of his shortcomings, Paul patiently endured and waited on the Lord for His way of escape and learned to bear it and not let it stop him. So this thing you have sought the Lord for, are you waiting and enduring patiently on His way of escape, or are you plotting your own way which will eventually lead you right back where you started from? Do you glory in your weaknesses; a phrase I like to use is ‘despite myself God still considers me one of His’, or are you one of those that think they are doing God a favor by what they are doing for Him? Galatians 4:12-14 Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all. (13) Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first. (14) And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus. (KJV) You know, believe it or not, the people God used throughout the Bible are no different than you and I; but like we just read we all have the same common human infirmities to work through and overcome. Despite how mankind teaches that strength is something derived from our own doing, the truth be known, that when we are weak it is then that we truly are strong in the Lord and the power of His might. While many may think God used Paul because of his own abilities the truth be known, it was just the opposite; Paul realized there is much strength in humility. 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) Talk about a possible thorn or thorny issue to have to deal with; the very people you persecuted in the past are the ones you are now preaching to. God did not have Paul cut and run from the situation, but rather gave him the strength to deal with it so that what was once a hindrance to the body of Christ had now become a real asset to the body. So what are you dealing with today and what source will you draw your strength from? His grace is sufficient to make a way of escape no matter what the circumstance is. 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. 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. Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. (7) And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (KJV)
Many have a weight problem in this country, which is actually a result of a Spiritual wait symptom. Instead of waiting on the Lord and letting His answer manifest, you know that request you made unto our Lord, many jump the gun and are off and running after an imagination that the enemy planted. The word ‘careful’ also means anxious, and as we see the number of things that we should be taking thought for and concerned about is zero. Now if I was to ask a show of hands, which yes mine would go up as well, how many could say that they were really anxious or concerned for nothing? Deuteronomy 28:1-2 And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth: (2) And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God. (KJV) As one looks around and observes the world around us, we see how fast paced things have become, many people chasing after imaginations; you know those things that the enemy tried to entice our Lord with, the kingdoms of this world and short lived glory of them? Now that you have become accustomed to the Lord and His way of doing things, are you being still long enough so that the blessings can catch up to you and overtake you, or are you two steps ahead thinking that they are in reach? Ever see a child try to run away from a parent when all the parent was trying to do was reach out and assist him or her? Sounds like a lot of Christians who didn’t realize it, but little by little the enemy got them on the run, thinking that they could help the Lord out with their thoughts and ways. Hebrews 12:1-2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, (2) Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. (KJV) Actually, the truth be known is that when you see people that have packed on some weight in the outward realm it is actually a reflection of their spiritual walk, having allowed the enemy to pack on some things that they thought they could manage. People that enter the Lord’s race course have entered a realm that is totally opposite to the one that we have been accustomed to in the past, and one that you will need to relearn a whole new meaning of the term patience. Isaiah 40:28-31 Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding. (29) He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. (30) Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: (31) But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (KJV) You know, when you turned your cares and concerns over to the Lord, yeah, you gave it to someone who was much more qualified than you to handle them. So if that is the case, then why did you take those cares and concerns back and re-examine them thinking that you could speed the process up? Many have a weight problem in this country, or should I say a wait one? Many are under wait spiritually, which results in an overweight situation outwardly. So let’s eliminate the over, under, and find that just weight and balance that the Lord would have His people operate in. Remember, the just shall live by faith. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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