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Psalms 37:3-4 Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. (4) Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. (KJV)
We have been talking lately about treasure and what it is the heart truly is set on; the things of God or the things of this life. Where your treasure is will determine where the heart is and which way it is going. As we have spent so much of our life in the past living in the realm of the flesh we were more concerned with our bank accounts here on earth than our spiritual welfare. We spent most of our time consumed with how to make deposits in our accounts so that we wouldn’t end up bankrupt. With a new heart will come a new desire; now our attention should be more on making a direct deposit into our spiritual bank account on a daily basis so that we have enough to supply the need. The enemy will try to access your account and rob you blind, so it is up to you to make sure you stay alert and keep a watch over your heart. It is the true riches of God that we have access to, and this is why the devil fights so hard to keep you from accessing these spiritual riches and would like nothing better than to keep you in bondage by chasing temporal riches. Proverbs 23:5 Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven. (KJV) While driving a few weeks ago we spotted eagles and other birds off the road working on some fresh road kill. When we slowed down to get a picture the eagles were the first to fly off and not present a close picture, but kept their distance. For those that are stuck in the realm of the flesh and seek worldly riches the same holds true. Although they come up with their own ways to get rich, and think they are getting close to the answer, it somehow eludes them and is outside their grasp. This is just the realm the enemy would like to see the people of God pursuing as well, getting caught up in the things of this life so they are not able to access the things of God and His true riches. Proverbs 8:17-21 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me. (18) Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. (19) My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver. (20) I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment: (21) That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures. (KJV) Which account have you been depositing into today; which one will have the sufficient funds in it if needed; or will your reality check bounce because of insufficient funds? Has the devil gotten into your account and replaced the true riches of God with a fake love and affection for the things of this life, funny money? Or have you held fast your profession of faith without wavering and found the fruit of the Spirit, the love, joy and peace of God above and beyond any gold or silver this earth has to offer? Remember, no man can serve two masters; you will hold to one and despise the other. So which one are you holding to today, or should I say which one has a hold on you? Proverbs 8:10-11 Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold. (11) For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it. (KJV) Remember that parable about putting new wine into an old wineskin? It doesn’t work; it ends up breaking and spilling the new wine. The same holds true with us, we cannot grasp and hang onto the new unless we are willing to let go of the old desires, replacing them with new heavenly ones. Once one partakes of the new they find out that the old just doesn’t satisfy anymore. In fact the more one partakes of the new the more they realize how they have been ripped off and were missing out on the true riches of God, and how God does richly give us all things to enjoy without the bondage. Proverbs 2:1-5 My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; (2) So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; (3) Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; (4) If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; (5) Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. (KJV) Remember all that effort you have been putting into your physical desires? Well the Lord said He would give you the desire of your heart if you would put that same effort and affection into the things of His realm. Remember, even though you thought you made progress in the realm of the flesh it still left you empty and not satisfied. Well the peace of God which passes our understanding gives us the true desire of our heart despite what our outward circumstances may try to dictate. Once one has truly tasted the goodness of God they find that it is the one thing they were always looking for just never able to achieve in the realm of the flesh and its carnal thinking. Psalms 119:127 Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold. (KJV) When you truly treasure the things of God more than the things of this realm that is when you will experience the love of God which is an eternal treasure. While so many teach and preach a prosperity message which limits them to the realm of the flesh, a few have found the true treasure chest which is located in the heavenly realm ready to be revealed to those that are willing to walk in the Spirit. Colossians 2:1-4 For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; (2) That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; (3) In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. (4) And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. (KJV) Why do you think Paul suffered such great conflict, and why the enemy did all he could to keep this truth from being preached? Is there anything more comforting than to know the true love of God; being able to have a full assurance and understanding of the mystery of God that has been hidden in Christ but now ready to be revealed and accessed by those that are more concerned with the eternal treasures? How many movies and books have been written that deal with treasure hunts and how those that seek it must follow the clues hidden in the maps to find it? These movies also show the opposition and how many thieves try to keep them from finding it, as well as attempting to steal it from them once it is found. You have a treasure map, and all the clues point to the Father who can only be accessed through His Son and a working knowledge of Christ where this treasure chest of spiritual wisdom and knowledge awaits those that seek it with all their heart. Ecclesiastes 5:10-12 He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity. (11) When goods increase, they are increased that eat them: and what good is there to the owners thereof, saving the beholding of them with their eyes? (12) The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little or much: but the abundance of the rich will not suffer him to sleep. (KJV) Ever hear of fools’ gold? Those that think something in this realm will ever satisfy a spiritual need will find themselves shortchanged and spiritually bankrupt, robbed blind. So while the world and its worldly preachers are asking what's in your wallet, the Lord is asking what is in the spiritual account, and what realm are you banking on? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Ephesians 5:5-8 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. (6) Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. (7) Be not ye therefore partakers with them. (8) For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (KJV)
The Bible gives warnings throughout on the dangers of coveting, which is described as a form of idolatry. This is a vital area, one that gets overlooked, and an area where many a good intentioned Christians ended up being deceived. Though in our past we were surrounded by this mindset and caught up in the things of this world, somehow there are many that think they can carry this over into the realm of God and get away with it. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Your ability to let go and trust in the Lord in the area of finances is vital if one is going to grow into a deeper knowledge and trust with our Father. Luke 16:9-11 And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations. (10) He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. (11) If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? (KJV) This is what separates the men from the boys; this is the proving ground for what a man will truly trust and believe. We have a parable of a man described as an unjust steward who made his living and prospered by taking advantage of others. Then one day it occurred to him that in order to be accepted into the eternal realm he would have to change his ways and find the just and equal balance. What many don’t realize, and especially for those that are entering ministry work, is that one has to prove faithful before the Lord in the area of finances, or riches as they are described, before the Lord will open up to them and show them His spiritual riches and then entrust them with it. What verse 10 describes as least ends up being the priority with many; if they are unjust in that area then its game over and they will not be moving ahead in their walk. We have people out there that claim to be of God yet when you listen to the message being delivered they speak more of this world than the realm of God because they haven’t been enlightened to the things of God, and therefore have not been entrusted with the true spiritual riches of God’s wisdom and knowledge which are only found in Christ. Luke 16:9 Riches promise MUCH, and perform NOTHING: they excite hope and confidence, and deceive both: in making a man depend on them for happiness, they rob him of the salvation of God and of eternal glory. For these reasons, they are represented as unjust and deceitful. (from Adam Clarke Commentary) 1 Peter 5:1-3 The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: (2) Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; (3) Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. (KJV) What kind of hope is being given to the people; a false hope in the deception of worldly riches, or is the flock of God being fed with the truth of God’s word that will set them free and allow Him to be their source? Many lord over the flock with guilt trips and pity party messages of how much more one could do for the Lord if they would just ante up. Those that are truly looking out for the spiritual welfare of the people will be more concerned with building the people up in the Lord, rather than having the people more concerned with a building and its upkeep. John 10:11-13 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. (12) But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. (13) The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. (KJV) The problem with hirelings, which is someone that is working for a wage, those that think ministry work is just an occupation, is that if the money runs out the hireling isn’t far behind. Our Lord set the example of how to live and walk in the Spirit, seeking more the spiritual welfare of others and not His own, thus why He was so effective. Today we see just the opposite; for many that enter the field of ministry work think it is a fun and exciting way to make a living, which is well documented by watered down messages that deal more with seeking the riches of this world than the true riches of God. Yes God does call people to full time ministry, and they get their support from the Lord and through the flock they oversee. The message the Lord is getting across is that His people need to be more concerned with the spiritual substance that will feed the flock, not the financial one that they are feeding themselves with. Isaiah 56:10-11 His watchmen are blind: they are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber. (11) Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter. (KJV) There are too many hirelings, false prophets and such who are only seeking their personal gain, and not what is best for the flock of God. This stuff has been going on for a long time and has continued to manifest, getting worse and worse. No man can serve two masters because he will hold to one and ignore the other; and the Bible is quite specific to say that we cannot serve God and mammon or worldly riches, which is idol worship. Titus 1:7-11 For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; (8) But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; (9) Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. (10) For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: (11) Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. (KJV) Many vain talkers alter the message of truth to fit their lifestyle, teaching things just for the sake of filthy lucre. Messages that point to hundredfold returns, the more you give the more you get, are nothing more than self serving cheap imitations for what the Lord intended for His people; thus why the Lord’s people perish for lack of knowledge. So do your own self inventory and make sure the things you treasure are in line with the things of God so that He can open up His spiritual treasure and allow you to be a partaker of His heavenly gift. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 John 4:1-5 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (2) Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: (3) And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (4) Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. (5) They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. (KJV)
Here we see the many again and how they responded to the calling of God. God is calling to our hearts, a spiritual calling which requires a spiritual response. So how do you know the difference? Those that have come to a working knowledge of the mystery of God are those that teach in the name of Jesus Christ, and are more concerned with the spiritual needs of the people. They are the ones that know the doctrine of Christ, and are willing to lay down their lives for the brethren so that they can teach them who they are in Christ and the completed work He has done on our behalf. Those that have not answered the call of God the way He intended are described in verse 5 as more concerned with the things of this world, putting the physical ahead of the spiritual. While they love to promise the people a better life in this world they overlook the spiritual realm and end up settling for their reward here, loving the praise of men more than God. Nothing plays to the emotions of the people and tickles the ears more than promising prosperity; which these false prophets have determined to be measured by amounts of money rather than the spiritual prosperity which is only found in Christ, the unequalled treasures of His wisdom and knowledge we have access to through His name. Luke 6:43-45 For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. (44) For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes. (45) A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh. (KJV) The heart will truly reveal its intentions and motives because the abundance of what is in it will be spoken by the mouth. A good tree has not been corrupted, has not allowed the thief to break through and steal the word of God from the heart; therefore their only motive and true intention is teach and preach sound doctrine. A false prophet and teacher will reveal their true motive also; so if they are not teaching and preaching the mystery of the gospel through a working knowledge of Jesus Christ then somewhere along the line there has been a breach of spirit which has gotten in and corrupted the heart. No matter how they try to twist and turn the truth, manipulate and fabricate the word of God, they have been corrupted and the heart is proclaiming an evil treasure instead of an eternal one. A tree is truly known by its fruit; just as apparent as it is in the outward realm of revealing what the tree truly is, it is just as obvious to those that have taken the time to rightly divide the word of truth; they are able to see through these false doctrines and phony intentions of the heart. Micah 3:11-12 The heads thereof judge for reward, and the priests thereof teach for hire, and the prophets thereof divine for money: yet will they lean upon the LORD, and say, Is not the LORD among us? none evil can come upon us. (12) Therefore shall Zion for your sake be plowed as a field, and Jerusalem shall become heaps, and the mountain of the house as the high places of the forest. (KJV) The Bible says there is nothing new under the sun, and that is why we need to heed the warnings, make sure we are prepared and not giving credence to things that are not of God. The Lord has been dealing with cheap hucksters throughout the Bible, so basically it is the same sin today, just different disguises. Like with a thief when they go to pull off a heist, they put on a mask so they won’t be identified. Those that know the truth and have a working knowledge of the doctrine of Christ will be able to see through these masks and easily identify the thief, and not allow him to rob them blind. Jeremiah 6:13 For from the least of them even unto the greatest of them every one is given to covetousness; and from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely. (KJV) Thayer’s definition for covetousness: 4124 pleonexia- greedy desire to have more, covetousness, avarice As we see again, many that have been called have decided they were more interested in building and establishing a kingdom in this world rather than establishing a firm foundation for the eternal realm. God has warned us and continues to remind us to be on the lookout for this false doctrine which has gotten in, and sad to say corrupted many of His own. Colossians 3:5-7 Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: (6) For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: (7) In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. (KJV) If you ever go through the Old Testament you will see that idolatry was practiced by many of God’s people and caused them to err, and led to their destruction. Today we see idolatry spring forth in the form of covetousness, an evil root that cannot produce good fruit no matter how it is spun, or who is preaching and teaching these doctrines. This is something we used to pursue in our old way of thinking, as verse 7 refers to, and it is something that should not be incorporated into our new life. So how are you answering the call of God today? Are you responding in the Spirit, or are you still looking for some cheap shortcut that mankind claims will bring peace and security? 1 Thessalonians 2:3-6 For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile: (4) But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts. (5) For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: (6) Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. (KJV) Paul was used of God, and answered the call of God in sincerity and in truth. He did not disguise his intentions under a cloke of covetousness, but rather was able to be used of God as he was allowed of God, because God could entrust him with His gospel. How trustworthy are you today? Can God use you and open His truth to you also because you have chosen to answer His calling in sincerity and in truth, or are you still hanging onto things of this life that are breaking through and clouding your spiritual vision? Anything or anyone we hold in higher regard than our heavenly Father is similar to idolatry, and will not pass the heavenly test, or be someone that God can use to deliver His message. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 2 Corinthians 2:17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ. (KJV)
Thayer’s definition for ‘which corrupt’: 2585 kapeleuo- 1) to be a retailer, to peddle 2) to make money by selling anything a) to get sordid gain by dealing in anything, to do a thing for base gain b) to "trade" (traffic) in the word of God; to try to get base gain by teaching divine truth c) to corrupt, to adulterate; peddlers were in the habit of adulterating their commodities for the sake of gain So if many have been called then why are there so few left to deliver God’s message of love? Could it be there is a different love and affection that has snuck in and taken over, a method that isn’t approved of God but a big hit with mankind? Even in the time of Paul’s ministry we see the word of God corrupted and peddled to the highest bidder; those that were called of God are now answering to mankind and catering to the highest bidders. As we see in the above verses it just wasn’t a few doing this stuff but many had sold out and allowed a breach in the Spirit, a spiritual virus that was infecting the early Church; and quite frankly as I look around today, has only gotten worse. Matthew 6:19-21 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: (20) But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: (21) For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (KJV) When looking at these verses one can see two points being made and the comparison being implied, like a parable. As moth and rust corrupt the physical riches over time, by getting caught up in this doctrine one has allowed the thief to break through spiritually and steal the truth, replacing it with heartache and misery. As rust can eat away and distort riches, so does the love for them eat away and distort our vision of what will truly bring peace and joy to the believer. So where your treasure is will determine the direction of the heart and its true intentions will be manifest. Matthew 6:22-24 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. (23) But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! (24) No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. (KJV) If your vision is not kept single, seeking only the things of God that will bring joy and peace, as well as a confidence and boldness to speak His word, then one will be walking in darkness; and what many have thought would bring them the answer ends up to be a dead end. The word of God is quite specific that no man can serve two masters because a double minded man is unstable and unable to receive the things of God or be entrusted with the truth to be used of Him. Remember it is the love of money, not money itself that is the root of all evil; and those that look to the things of this realm to find joy and peace will find that they have erred from the faith and are now drowning in destruction and despair. John 2:13-16 And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, (14) And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: (15) And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables; (16) And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise. (KJV) Since when did the temple of God become a place of trade? The Lord set the example and quite emphatically let the people know where God stood on this doctrine of making merchandise of His word. And yet today as I look around, or flip through the religious channels, it is quite apparent that mankind has decided to set the tables back up with their endless money pitches and gimmicks. Folks if it didn’t work back then why would one think that God approves of this nonsense today? Remember that you are the temple of the living God and He dwells within you. So what is your true love today, and what is it you truly treasure in your life? Just because mankind decides that it’s okay, and just because someone has a big TV following doesn’t make it right; and according to the word of God it is not something our Father approves of either. 2 Peter 2:1-3 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. (2) And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. (3) And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not. (KJV) Oops, remember the many that were called? Well now we are seeing what happened to their calling and how they chose to respond. When I see the word feigned which means to fabricate, I think of all these phony hundredfold return doctrines that are promised to people that donate to these ministries preaching them; which in simple layman’s terms is nothing more than a pyramid scheme, where those on top get rich, and well we all know what runs downhill. Just because others have sold out and set up their tables in the temple doesn’t mean you have to fall for their guilt trips and pity party sermons of how much more they could do if they only had the loot, when they should be answering God’s call and teaching the people what God has already done on their behalf. Titus 1:9-11 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. (10) For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: (11) Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. (KJV) You know folks, you can’t buy your way into the kingdom but you can sell out. What is it going to profit you if you gain the whole world but lose your soul for an eternity? Many that have been called of God may have begun in the Spirit with good intentions, but tried to perfect it in the flesh by supposing gain was godliness, which the Bible says we should withdraw from, which includes our support. So put away your TV remote control and grab your Bible; start partaking of the true riches of the kingdom of God and don’t be taken in by these cheap hucksters who promise liberty but they themselves are the servants of corruption. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Proverbs 8:17-21 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me. (18) Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. (19) My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver. (20) I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment: (21) That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures. (KJV)
What is the driving force in your life today, right now? Is it the things of God and His realm, or do the things of this life still have more pull and favor in your walk and your decisions? Although we are surrounded with the influences of a fallen world and so many cheap imitations of what will bring peace and contentment to one’s life, the true riches and honor are only found with God, the things of the Spiritual realm. Those that seek Him early, like the first thing in the day, will find the peace and confidence to take on the day victoriously no matter what the outward circumstances try to dictate. You will inherit a substance, a now faith confidence and assurance of things hoped for because you chose to follow and believe in the evidence of things not seen to the carnal man but readily revealed to those that are led of the Spirit. Where your treasure is will determine where your heart is. So are you seeking the durable riches of God’s wisdom and knowledge which are hid in Christ, or are you still under the assumption like so many others that the riches of this world will solve all your problems? Luke 4:1-2 And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, (2) Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered. (KJV) Have you seen those bumper stickers, T shirts, and other things that ask the question ‘what would Jesus Do’? Well the Bible gives us an accurate account of what He did; simply put, this man Jesus of Nazareth lived a life without sin, being obedient to His heavenly Father because He chose to be led by the Spirit of Christ within Him. So if people want to know ‘what would Jesus do’ all they have to do is open their Bibles and find out what He did. Now the question is, what are you going to do, and what is the driving force in your walk? We read in the Bible how Jesus would rise early in the day and spend time alone in prayer. The account in Luke shows what He did before beginning His public ministry, and the forty days preparing for it. How do you prepare for a day, do you spend enough time being still so that you can know God and what He is asking of you today? Don’t be so discouraged just because the tempter comes your way and tries to detour you back to the path of the flesh, because this is a true sign that you are on the right path and you are in good company. So many times we think just because there is opposition we have done something wrong; looking at the above illustration in Luke that is a lie and just what the enemy would like you to believe. So hold fast to your profession of faith today without wavering for God is faithful, and has promised that He would never leave us nor forsake us. Romans 8:14-18 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. (15) For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (16) The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: (17) And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (18) For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (KJV) Thayer’s definition for led 71 ago- 1) to lead, to take with one a) to lead by laying hold of, and this way to bring to the point of destination: of an animal b) to lead by accompanying to (into) a place c) to lead with oneself, to attach to oneself as an attendant d) to conduct, to bring 2) to lead, a) to lead, to guide, to direct b) to lead through, to conduct (to something) c) to move, to impel: used of forces and influences on the mind We read about the Lord and His preparation for the ministry God was asking Him to fulfill, and we also know the end result of it, that it was not well received by mankind, especially the religious crowd that claimed to be God’s followers. Today it hasn’t changed, in fact the Bible says perilous times await us because mankind’s fallen nature has manifested to the point where people are more in love with themselves and their own works than with the work of God that He accomplished on our behalf. So the more you are led of the Spirit the more you will be paddling up stream against the current, and that being the new wave doctrines of man that appeal to the flesh and not to the Spirit. But keep in mind that these light afflictions are what will seem like a moment compared to our eternal reward that awaits us. So don’t be discouraged or think that you did something wrong, that you brought this on yourself, but rather rejoice in the Lord and in the power of His might. 1 Peter 4:11-14 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. (12) Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: (13) But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. (14) If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. (KJV) When you speak the things of God you don’t have to try to impress anyone with some deep knowledge of the word of God or how the end times will play out, but rather speak from the heart in love the things that will edify and build up the body of Christ. And don’t think it so strange if the devil launches a fiery dart your way, but rather rejoice because you are in good company. The more you come to an understanding of the mystery of the gospel through the name of Christ the more reproach and evil will be spoken against you. But just like a soldier, the closer you get to the front line of battle, and the higher in rank you are, the more of a target you become to the enemy. So keep in mind that we all are still partakers of the spiritual blessings which are in Christ; but with this also comes the opposition to those that allow themselves to be led of the Spirit and are no longer in bondage to the desires of the flesh. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 12:33-35 Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit. (34) O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. (35) A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. (KJV)
In this day and age when one looks around, they can easily see what the motive of man is, and how much emphasis has been placed on material things. Mankind puts bottom lines, corporate values, and monetary figures above their love for each other, and in the end as it is written, the love of many has waxed cold. Sad to say, this mindset has entered into many organizations that claim to be representing God, thus corrupting themselves as well as those that attend and support their folly. Matthew 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. (KJV) Try as many do, you can only serve one master at a time. Though many claim to be a servant of God, in order to truly stay one, you have to sell out totally to God and not to the things of this life. The root of all evil is the love of money, and where their treasure is, there will be the heart also, as well as their messages which are based more on monetary value rather than spiritual. And rather than tell people what they really need to hear, and teach what really needs to be taught, most have sold out and would rather teach and preach things that keep the seats filled, not to mention their own wallets, rather than the heart. 1 Timothy 6:3-5 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; (4) He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, (5) Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. (KJV) That’s all I hear lately, these money pitches and promises of prosperity and wealth. You know Church, you have been blessed with all spiritual blessings; a treasure chest of wisdom and knowledge from above so that you can walk in this confidence and not some false confidence based on money. Just because they have sold out, doesn’t mean you have to. So when they pitch this stuff at you about gain, which means money, getting acquisition, instead of looking for your wallets, that’s when you should start looking for the exit. Wake up people, out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks; and it doesn’t take long if one is listening, to tell where someone is coming from, and what the true motive of their heart is. You have been grafted into the tree of life which is able to give you an eternal inheritance. So don’t be misled, and don’t allow your relationship to be broken off and wither away because you chose to follow some empty doctrine which promises much and delivers nothing but heartache and misery. Proverbs 23:4-6 Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom. (5) Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven. (6) Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats: (KJV) Ever try to catch a bird? When I was younger I would try to sneak up on birds in the yard and see if I could catch one. Though at times it would seem I got close, they always made their escape and eluded me. The same holds true with these birdbrain doctrines of man; they claim to be sharing the bread of life, but the only bread they truly desire is what they can get the congregation to cough up, and how much they can get out of them. I have heard it said ‘a fool and his money are soon parted’; and obviously many corrupt individuals have figured this out and brought it into the religious realm; having found out that, rather than take the time to hear the Lord for themselves and establish a foundation for salvation, many would take the word of some cheap huckster and let him dictate to them how to live and at what cost, which by the way keeps going up. 1 Peter 1:22-23 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: (23) Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. (KJV) It’s the truth of God’s word that brought you into His kingdom, and it is only His incorruptible Word that will keep you in it. The riches of this life are short lived, but the riches and glory that is available to those that put their trust in the Lord will abide forever. See that you walk in love as our Lord is love; and those that are truly His will be preaching and teaching an uncompromised message of love based on your spiritual outcome and not their own financial one. Matthew 12:34 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. (KJV) Do you know what a viper is? It refers to a poisonous snake, which usually is unseen, but sneaks up on its prey quietly before it strikes. Many unsuspecting, oftentimes newborn Christians, find themselves in a snake pit as well, and don’t realize the poisonous doctrines that are striking them in the heart, which can paralyze and lead to death. Unless one takes the time in the word of God and makes it their priority in life, they too may end up getting bit with the venom of the enemy, and never see it coming because they became lazy and dull of hearing. Ephesians 4:29-30 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. (30) And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. (KJV) Those that know the Lord and love Him with all their heart are those that do not wish to do anything displeasing to our Father or His people. Our motives and our words should be only to build up others and bring them closer to the Lord, not mislead them with empty self serving doctrines. If you continue to grieve the Holy Spirit and not do those things that are pleasing to God, don’t expect to be too pleased with your outcome either when you go to seek His reward come the day of reckoning. You have a choice this day, right now, and what comes out of the mouth will expose what your true motivation is. Will you speak of the Lord and lift Him up, or will you lower yourself and your standards and speak of the devil? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 19:24-26 And again I say unto you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. 25 When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, who then can be saved? 26 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, with men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. (KJV)
Given the fact that salvation was God’s plan in the first place, it would be safe to say that He is the only one that can get us home. Today lotteries are real popular with mankind because they make it appear to be the end of all to their problems. This mindset seems to have carried over into the so called church because their doctrines are based on the same principal, once you give enough and get a hundredfold return you have it made. Well, our Lord illustrates quite clearly throughout the Bible that this get rich scheme of man will not fly through His radar, and if you are not led by the Spirit then you will not make it to your eternal reward. Philippians 3:7-8 But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. 8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, (KJV) Do you really desire to grab all things? And no, I’m not talking about the things of this world, but all the things that our Lord died to give us access to. Well if you want all these things, then you need to let go of all things here on earth. Seems like there is always a catch doesn’t it? 1 Timothy 6:17-19 Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy; 18 That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; 19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. (KJV) God gives us richly all things to enjoy, because now we can do it in the liberty we have in Christ and not be in bondage to this world. We enjoy all things because we no longer take things for granted because we realize a price was paid for all of it. Remember, it is not money itself that is the root of all evil because it is something we all need to deal with, rather it’s when our love and affection is shifted from the things above to the things here on earth that we put a distraction between us and our Lord. Hebrews 11:6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (KJV) Where are you going to find love, joy, and peace anywhere else other than in our Lord? If you truly desire to get a hold of all things new then let go of all the old baggage and you will find a much better life. By letting the peace of God rule in your walk you will have that peace based on the inward realm of faith and not the fluctuating outward realm of this world. Don’t let outward things dictate your walk any longer. 1 Timothy 6:5-7 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. 6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. (KJV) Paul realized the things man said were of great gain were really a dead end. If you desire to make forward strides in your walk you will find that the only place you will discover joy and peace is in Christ and not in outward things anymore. God bless dearly loved and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 2 Corinthians 8:9 For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. (KJV)
What our Lord considers rich compared to what man thinks, is as different as night and day. Matthew 6:19-21 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is there will your heart be also. (KJV) There is a spiritual thief who would like to break into our spiritual house today and rob the Church blind by diverting mans’ attention from above back to this world again. Your heart will only treasure what you put into it and that will determine which realm you will love the most. Matthew 6:22-24 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. 23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! 24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. (KJV) The enemy today has many deceiving and being deceived because they have turned a blind eye to the truth thinking something in this carnal realm could ever supply all their need. Given the fact that we came into this world with nothing and we can’t take anything with us upon our departure, why are so many still chasing the cheap carnal mirages of the enemy? 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 feeds them. Are ye not much better than they? 27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? (KJV) The theme of this week has been our own thoughts and ways, and how foolish they really are as compared to what our Lord has to offer. Why would you spend so much time and heartache chasing things that God said He will provide for His people? If He says He feeds the fowls of the air, then will he not provide for you also? James 2:5 Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? (KJV) Hey Church, I know this sounds a bit contrary to all the other stuff you have been getting bombarded with, but why not become rich in something you can actually take with you, being rich in faith. You want a hundredfold return? Well, I would rather have the Lord’s reward of eternal life anytime, compared to what man has to offer which is just the mammon of this life that is highly flammable to say the least. Luke 12:26-28 If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest? 27 Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 28 If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith? (KJV) You know all these money pitches that man keeps putting on the front burner, making it appear to be so important? The reality is that in our Lord’s realm this should be the least of your concerns. Luke 16:10-11 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. 11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? (KJV) Why not let God be true today and every man a liar? That’s the least we can do. God bless dearly loved, and have a very prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 26:38-41 Then saith he unto them, my soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. 39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. 40 And he cometh unto the disciples, and found them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? 41 Watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. (KJV)
We all go through struggles and trials at times when the Lord asks us to take up our spiritual cross and die to something or someone that may be hindering our walk. What you will find is that the spirit is willing; it’s our flesh that is weak and cannot comprehend the things of God. The carnal mind is our enemy because it is limited in its capacity and is unable to see beyond what it considers to be possible. By renewing your mind you will be able to operate in a realm that you thought was impossible. 2 Corinthians 8:9-12 For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. 10 And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago. 11 Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. 12 For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. (KJV) Here’s a prosperity message you can sink your teeth into, becoming rich. No, we’re not talking about the riches of this world; we’re talking about becoming rich in faith. The Lord became poor as far as the world was concerned so that He could rely solely on God to be His source. This does take a willing mind, renewed daily to the things of God, so that you don’t go back chasing the things of this world. The Lord called you and accepted you for who you are and not for what you may think or what others may try to make you think. So don’t think less of yourself just because you are not a pastor of some big congregation. Hebrews 13:17-18 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. 18 Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly. (KJV) I recently experienced a situation where I knew that I would need permits from the County to make some improvements to our property. I had people tell me to just play dumb or basically hope no one sees it. When I didn’t find peace with that, I just went to the County with the proposal and was amazed at how friendly and enthusiastically we were treated. When I had prayed about playing dumb the Lord asked me if I wanted Him to play dumb with me concerning my prayer requests. If you desire to have a clear conscience then you need to be willing to do all things from the heart knowing someone above is always watching out for you. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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