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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. Romans 4:1-5 What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? (2) For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. (3) For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. (4) Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. (5) But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. (KJV)
Williams New Testament Romans 4:1-5: 1. Then what are we to say about our forefather Abraham? 2. For if he was considered in right standing with God on the condition of what he did, he has something to boast of, but not before God. 3. For what does the Scripture say? "Abraham put his faith in God, and it was credited to him as right standing with God." 4. Now when a workman gets his pay, it is not considered from the point of view of a favor but of an obligation; 5. but the man who does no work, but simply puts his faith in Him who brings the ungodly into right standing with Himself, has his faith credited to him as right standing. When you really stop and think about God’s plan of salvation aren’t you glad it is not based on works? Or how about our reward of inheritance, that too is something that I wouldn’t want to be based on a debt, something I had to earn. If we all got what was coming to us or what we truly deserved based on works, then we would be back under the old grueling law, a place our Lord doesn’t desire for anyone anymore. Actually if we all got what was coming to us we would still be under a death sentence, separated from God, thus why He sent His Son to bring reconciliation to mankind. So what work did Abraham do to be in right standing with God, which is what the word righteousness means? If you said nothing (however, he was willing to believe in someone greater than himself), then you too would be headed in the right direction to be in right standing with God as well. Personally I am relieved, glad that salvation isn’t left up to me or my way of thinking, and certainly not according to my strength or abilities, but rather I can cast all my cares upon the Lord and let Him do the caring for me. In fact long before it ever occurred to me to cast my cares His way, even before the foundation of the world, God made a plan for my life, a path He chose for me as well as anyone else who was willing to simply believe in Him. Yet with that in mind, the simplicity of this plan by a God whose ways and thoughts are so much higher than mine, why at times do we still doubt or think we need to be doing something other than putting our faith in God and trusting in what He is able to do if only we will let Him? 1 Corinthians 3:18-21 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. (19) For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. (20) And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain. (21) Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; (KJV) Strong’s definition for fool: 3474 moros (mo-ros'); probably from the base of 3466; dull or stupid (as if shut up), i.e. heedless, (morally) blockhead, (apparently) absurd: KJV-- fool (-ish, X -ishness). Now before you go out and start acting like one of the above definitions because you just read where Paul said ‘let him become a fool, that he may be wise’ keep in mind that many think they can instruct God on how His plan of salvation works which they base more on works than on believing. I mean, if mankind is so smart and intelligent then why when the word of God specifically tells us there is one Lord and one faith, that in this country alone we have thousands of different so called faiths; now talk about blockheads. What man calls wisdom! Especially the wisdom of this world and its worldly preachers who base their salvation on works and not a simple belief in the completed work Jesus Christ has done on our behalf. While many profess themselves to be wise, they are in essence fools when teaching any other doctrine than the doctrine of Christ and the work He has begun and desires to do within the believer. So when someone tries to tell you that you have to do something in order to be in right standing with God, which most of the time means giving more money to their organizations, simple truth is that it is your ability to believe in the message being delivered by Christ to His people on a daily basis is what will keep one strong in the Lord and the power of His might. How can two walk together unless they be in agreement? It would be to your advantage to build a relationship with the Father through Jesus Christ so that you can hear His message of faith firsthand and no longer seek the glory of mankind. Nothing is more foolish, absurd, heedless and stupid than to see a bunch of people patting themselves on the back and boasting about all the things they are doing for God, and not the other way around. John 14:8-11 Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us. (9) Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father? (10) Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. (11) Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works' sake. (KJV) Here is a different take on salvation, did you ever stop and think that this man Jesus of Nazareth had to rely on hearing and obeying in order to attain salvation for himself? While some claim he was God, the simple fact is that he was a man just like us believers seeking to please our Father; and that in order for him to inherit eternal life he too had to be willing and obedient to what God had planned for his life. Jesus was a man who was anointed with the Holy Ghost and with power so that he could manifest God’s plan of salvation and be an example of how to live a life that is pleasing to Him. The same Spirit that worked in Him is in us as well. Now it is a matter of hearing the words of God and learning to speak not of ourselves but what the Spirit within is speaking. Jesus of Nazareth was the first born, or the first born again man into the realm of the Spirit, to demonstrate a life based on the grace of God through faith and not that of himself; willing to lay down His life for us. Are you in the Father this day and is His word working mightily in you? Are you believing in Him because of what He is doing or are you trying to base your salvation on your own works? In order to operate in the wisdom of God one needs to realize how futile and foolish their own thinking is. Matthew 6:31-34 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (32) (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) Once you come into agreement with God’s plan of salvation, and the more you remain in that realm, the more you see it contradicts the way of the world. First and foremost one needs to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness then all that is needed is added after we hear His take on it. While many seek to take care of the outward man first which is foolish, few are willing to enter into the realm of God, cease from their own works, and allow Him to be their source. The Spirit is willing, it is the flesh and its carnal thinking that is weak and futile. God’s gift is of grace not based on our works; which is so simple and yet so hard for many to let go and trust in the Lord with all their heart and no longer lean unto their own understanding. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Ephesians 2:7-10 That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. (8) For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: (9) Not of works, lest any man should boast. (10) For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. (KJV)
Here is a fool proof plan of salvation that eliminates our works and gives credit where the credit is truly due. Some today boast of their works they claim to be doing for God; in fact now I see where they use the infomercial approach, hand picking people to do interviews that say what they want said concerning their ministries, which by the way is just that, their ministries and not the Lord’s. If the Lord is not leading you this day, if you are not walking in the Spirit in the work He had ordained for you to do, then you are none of His. Are you letting the peace of God rule in all your decisions and the path you are walking this day or are you following one that is more people pleasing? Now if you really wish to boast about something then why not boast about the work that the Lord is doing and has done for His people, and the joy and peace you are experiencing because of His good work. A true minister of God is one that will point the people to the Lord and teach them all that is available in Christ, while many pretenders are just patting themselves on the back and diverting the attention toward their own works and what they think they are accomplishing for the Lord, like He really needs our help. Last time I looked, we being all mankind, were like helpless sheep headed for the slaughter until God so graciously sent His Son on our behalf to redeem us from our destructions. Remember a guy named Job, who when he kept his mouth shut long enough was able to hear his answer from the Lord when God basically asked him if he knew better than He did. Job chapter 38 on gives a good account of what happens when man thinks he can now instruct God and give Him counsel and advice. 1 Corinthians 1:27-31 But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; (28) And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: (29) That no flesh should glory in his presence. (30) But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: (31) That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. (KJV) Strong’s definition for glory & glorieth: 2744 kauchaomai (kow-khah'-om-ahee); from some (obsolete) base akin to that of aucheo (to boast) and 2172; to vaunt (in a good or a bad sense): KJV-- (make) boast, glory, joy, rejoice. God chose the foolish things, things that are nought or nothing, to work through and manifest Himself in. God didn’t choose you because you were so smart or because you had your life so together, but rather just the opposite was true. Many people don’t think they need God in their life and consider it a sign of weakness when others seek the Lord for strength. The wisdom of God is foolish to mankind because their carnal mind is enmity with God and unable to see or comprehend the things of His realm, many times because it is just so simple. If you are looking for something to glory in, or even boast about, then why not boast about what the Lord is doing and give Him the credit not only for the good work He has begun in you, but is willing to perform in you unto the end. I am wearied with all these religious organizations and their larger than life performances, which remind me of the movies that come out these days with all the special effects, and portray their imaginary account and views of salvation that are not based on reality. Psalms 34:1-4 I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. (2) My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. (3) O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together. (4) I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. (KJV) God so graciously gave us access into His kingdom which is based on His love and mercy and certainly not by our own merit. Pride always proceeds a fall; so rather than being humble and keeping that mindset many decide to take back control of their lives again and end up worse than they were in the beginning. God has a perfect plan for each and every person who is willing and obedient to walk a narrow and straight path that leads to eternal life. Many think they can help God and make His plan more effective by their works. While God’s word is quite specific to point out throughout the Bible that His word has gone forth throughout the whole world, mankind thinks it is their duty to deliver His message through satellites and TV, and that God is waiting for them to deliver it before the Lord returns. Didn’t we have an example of this back at the tower of Babel when man thought they could get closer to God through their own devices? God is not waiting on or relying on mankind to deliver His message, or carry out His plan of salvation, however, He is able to speak through those that are humble enough and realize their salvation is based on grace and certainly not of their works. God knew the one man He could send and rely on to deliver His message and lay down His life for the perfect sacrifice, that being Jesus Christ. So when God chooses to use man to speak or manifest His plan of salvation, He does it through Jesus Christ and those that hear His message and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. Titus 2:11-14 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, (12) Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; (13) Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; (14) Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. (KJV) I know, I know, someone you saw on TV or heard on the radio said you need to give money to their organization so that they could go to a place where no one has heard or had to opportunity to hear the word of God. And yes I know we have been given the great commission to go into all the world. Now it is a matter of hearing the Lord of where our place in the body of Christ is, what office He is calling us to, and then learning how and where to deliver His message so it will prosper in the thing where He sent it. The good works we should be zealous of is the good work that He has begun within and desires to perform and perfect in all the believers. The teaching and the message we need to be delivering should be pointing the people to God the Father through His Son Jesus Christ and not toward mankind and its fallen nature and ideas. 2 Corinthians 10:17-18 But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. (18) For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth. (KJV) Many are called and seek their approval and praise from mankind, while few are left that God has chosen to work in and through to deliver His message of love. It wasn’t mankind that got you into the kingdom of God, and it is certainly not mankind that will keep you in that realm, but rather a love for the Lord based on what He has done and not what others try to take credit for. So let’s give credit where the credit truly is due; I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me because truly He that is within me is so much greater than those that are still stuck in the realm of the world and its fallen ways. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (KJV)
Romans 6:23 [But the gift of God is eternal life] A man may MERIT hell, but he cannot MERIT heaven. The apostle does not say that the wages of righteousness is eternal life: no, but that this eternal life, even to the righteous, is to (grk 3588) charisma, the gracious gift of God. And even this gracious gift comes through Jesus Christ our Lord. He alone has procured it; and it is given to all those who find redemption in his blood. A sinner goes to hell because he deserves it; a righteous man goes to heaven because Christ has died for him, and communicated that grace by which his sin is pardoned and his soul was made holy. The word opsoonia (grk 3800), which we here render "wages", signified the daily pay of a Roman soldier. So, every sinner has a daily pay, and this pay is death; he has misery because he sins. Sin constitutes hell; the sinner has a hell in his own bosom; all is confusion and disorder where God does not reign: every indulgence of sinful passion increases the disorder, and consequently the misery of a sinner. If people were as much in earnest to get their souls saved as they are to prepare them for perdition, heaven would be highly populated, and devils would be their own companions. (from Adam Clarke Commentary) Salvation is a gift, it is not something one can earn, but rather something someone has already done on their behalf and given them access to. God’s plan of salvation comes to us through His Son Jesus Christ, that one mediator that was set up at the right hand of the Father to give us our daily instructions on how to walk in this plan. While many claim they are doing things for God, the reality is that only a few actually allow God to work in and through them to do those things that are pleasing in His sight. Philippians 2:12-15 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. (13) For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. (14) Do all things without murmurings and disputings: (15) That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; (KJV) Strong’s definition for ‘work out’: 2716 katergazomai (kat-er-gad'-zom-ahee); from 2596 and 2038; do work fully, i.e. accomplish; by implication, to finish, fashion: KJV-- cause, to (deed), perform, work (out). To work out your own salvation means that you come to a working knowledge of God’s plan of salvation for you personally; what He is asking of you as well as your place in the body of Christ. You realize it is God that has begun a good work in you and desires to continue this good work so that you can receive His reward of inheritance. What I have seen with many Christians over the years is that when they come to the Lord they think they have to discard their own personality and unique characteristics that God gave them to present His word to others. What I see is a lot of religious clones, robotic images of what man wants them to be and not the unique individuals they are. So rather than let God work with them and refine these Godly characteristics, they become a cheap imitation of who they truly are in Christ; more like a cookie cutter assembly line product rather than the one our Creator had intended them to be. So don’t be taken in by a bunch of holier than thou goodie two shoes who think they are impressing God with their works rather than letting God work through them to deliver His message. We are the clay, God being the potter, so enter into His rest, cease from your own works, and let Him fashion and work with you the way He intended and not what others think. Philippians 2:16 Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. (KJV) While we have so many different religions and doctrines of man that keep running in circles and in vain (which means empty or useless), don’t be like the many who still think they are earning their way to heaven based on their works. How would you like to run an endurance race and suffer all the heartache and pain that goes with it only to find out in the end you were disqualified for running the wrong course or trying to take a short cut? That is exactly what is happening to many that run in vain, who base their salvation on what others are doing and not on a personal relationship with God through His Son Jesus Christ. Salvation is a gift, a gift of God which was given to mankind for their benefit; now it is a matter of how many are willing to receive it and operate according to His plan for their life, or walk a dead end path of destruction based on their own desires and not His. 2 Corinthians 6:1-2 We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (2) (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) (KJV) This is a joint venture, a joint partnership with our Father, a gift given to us by the completed work of His Son Jesus Christ. Right now, today, are you hearing the message of God delivered by Christ so that you can walk the path of life He has established for you before the foundation of the world, or have you decided you know a better way? Basically that is what many are telling God, that they know better than Him how His plan works. Did you come to the Lord in the first place because you had your life so together and in control, or was it because you were in a tailspin, spiraling downward and ready to perish? If the latter of the two is the case, then at what point did you decide to take over the plan of salvation God intended for you and establish your own? This is exactly what happens when a gift based on grace is discarded and replace by one of works, dead vain works that promise so much and deliver nothing. Colossians 1:29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. (KJV) Our work, our labor should be to cease from our own thoughts and ideas and let someone who is mighty, work mightily in us. God is a Spirit and He is seeking those that are willing to worship Him in Spirit and truth, those that trust more in the work He is doing within them and not the works they are trying to do without Him. Your strength, confidence, boldness, as well as assuredness comes from what you allow the Lord to work in and through you by keeping your body in subjection to His spirit and keeping your own thoughts and ideas buried, not what you think you are doing for Him. After all, Jesus Christ is a tough act to follow, so it’s not like you’re going to do anything that is going to impress God, being the fact that our Lord did everything needed to restore our fellowship. Obedience is truly better than sacrifice, because a perfect sacrifice has already been presented and accepted by our Father; now He is asking us to receive His plan of salvation being presented to us through His Son. Hebrews 13:20-21 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, (21) Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. (KJV) Those that mature or are made perfect, are those that are willing to yield to the will of God so that they can be well pleasing in His sight despite anything or anyone that sees different. If salvation is a gift, then it is not something that can be earned, but rather appreciated for what has been given and what has been done on our behalf, not on what we think we need to be doing on God’s behalf. It’s an unmerited favor that is being delivered to us on a daily basis by our hearing the message of Christ and following through to the end with what He is asking so that we have not run nor labored in vain. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Peter 1:7-9 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: (8) Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: (9) Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. (KJV)
Wasn’t the whole idea for accepting God’s plan of salvation into your life was to make it to the end and receive His eternal reward of inheritance? Having gone through the trial of this life which one can only be an overcomer by faith, it is the salvation of your soul that is of the utmost importance, especially when the day comes that you stand before God and give an account of your life; this life of faith in the message delivered by Christ. Jesus Christ is the first and the last; it was His word of life that brought you into the Kingdom and He will have the last say concerning your entrance into His eternal one. He is the author and finisher of our faith as well, so if you have been resurrected into the realm of the Spirit and are confident that the message you preach and follow came from the Father through the Son, then you will not be ashamed when it is time to be resurrected into His eternal realm forever. You may have entered this race with good intentions, but it is so vital that you continue and endure to the end so that you will be saved and receive the eternal inheritance. While many think all they have to do is answer some alter call to be saved, the truth be known, that is just the beginning; now you need to continue in the faith grounded and settled and don’t be moved away from the only hope of the gospel, which is Jesus Christ and His message of faith to the believers, a faith without which we cannot be pleasing to Him. Matthew 7:21-23 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. (22) Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? (23) And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. (KJV) Do you know what the worst part about reading the above verses is, that the people described were actually believers, those that had a zeal for God but obviously it wasn’t according to His knowledge; God’s people perishing for lack of knowledge. Take note of the fact that we are not just talking about a few here, but verse 22 is quite clear to point out that it is many that end up being deceived and do not receive the reward of inheritance, the salvation of their own souls. Somewhere along the line in their walk they were no longer communicating with the Father, but rather the father of lies who comes to steal the truth, kill the life within them, and then watch their soul eternally destroyed in the lake of fire. Are you totally sure of the message you are hearing today is of God? Does it line up with His word or have you been sidetracked and are now following a different protocol? Are there question marks in your life concerning your walk? When you stand before God someday you will know and not guess you are one of His? Remember the word of God tells us that whatsoever is not of faith is sin, so if it isn’t the Lord directing your steps then you are none of His. Those that wish to enter into the Lord’s eternal inheritance need to let the Lord in their life now, today, so that there will be no doubt or question marks concerning their reward of inheritance. Simply put people, if you don’t let the Lord into your life then He is not going to let you into His either. What rightfully belonged to people who were at one time children of God was stolen from them without them even knowing it, because somewhere along the path of life they started out on they turned and followed a different path that led to destruction. Matthew 7:13-14 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: (14) Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. (KJV) There is only one path that leads to eternal life; and sad to say, only a few who find it. Years ago there was on old song that said ‘there’s a whole lot of people going home’, however the truth be known only a few will actually make it in, while many will be rejected. There is only one path, one Lord, and one faith that lead us unto life; and without this knowledge of who, what, and where this path is for you, you will not receive your eternal reward. Have you ever heard the statement ‘all paths lead to the same place’? Well that’s true, because when it involves any other way into the Kingdom besides the one our Lord said would get you in, then all those other ways are that of a thief and a robber, which is widely known as the path of destruction. Don’t be deceived into thinking that just because you joined some religious organization, or because you tithe twice a week or any other of our own works, you have your ticket stamped. Without faith, as the Bible says the just shall live by faith, without hearing this message on a daily basis then acting on what is heard you will end up eternally on the outside wishing in, knowing what was yours and what you had access to only to let it slip away from your grasp. 1 Corinthians 15:53-57 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. (54) So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. (55) O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? (56) The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. (57) But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (KJV) You know folks, this once saved always saved doctrine just doesn’t fly. Oh it sounds good and sure is an ear tickler which gives many a warm feeling inside, but the truth be known your salvation is based on your ability to hear the message delivered by Christ, then being a doer and not a hearer only unto the end. Your born again experience was just the beginning, now we will see if you will truly allow Jesus Christ to be the author and finisher of your faith so that you can receive your eternal inheritance. Again as we notice in the above verses, that it is not until we are given a new incorruptible body are we then allowed access into God’s kingdom; then and only then will we escape the second death which is eternal separation from the Father. So before you kick back in your easy chair and think you got this thing licked, heed the warnings in the word of God so that you can continue in the love of God and spend your eternity with Him. Revelation 2:11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death. (KJV) Strong’s definition for overcometh: 3528 nikao (nik-ah'-o); from 3529; to subdue (literally or figuratively): KJV-- conquer, overcome, prevail, get the victory. You know the Lord just didn’t ask us to squeak by or hope we are one of His, but rather we should be an overcomer and walk in victory. It is our faith in what Christ has begun in us and continues to do that gives us this victory and will give us access to His eternal reward so that we can spend eternity doing a victory lap in His kingdom. Don’t be fooled Church, don’t be lulled back into a spiritual sleep and entombed into the realm of the flesh again, but hold fast your profession of faith without wavering, a message coming from the only author who will lead you to victory. Hebrews 10:35-39 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. (36) For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. (37) For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. (38) Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. (39) But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. (KJV) In this fast paced world patience is not something that is often spoke of, let alone put into practice. But by letting patience have its perfect work we can mature in the Lord, lacking nothing. You have been reborn, resurrected to a new life in Christ, which is just the beginning. Continue in the faith, letting the good work that our Lord began in you to continue to the end so that you can receive what is rightfully yours, the salvation of your soul. Romans 6:22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. (KJV) My prayer for each and everyone is that the end of this trail here will result in the beginning of their eternal reward with our heavenly Father. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:14-17 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. (KJV)
When you pick up your phone and a stranger makes a crank call, one that tries to get us into the realm of fear, you can be assured that message is not coming from God. Those that are led by the Spirit will be able to quickly identify the caller on the other end and know whether it is in their best interest to take the call and receive the message or quickly hang up. This same principle holds true in the spiritual realm, God is calling His people and has promised that He would never leave us or forsake us, so now the question is whether the line of communication is still open and you are still getting good reception to hear the message. If you notice the voice on the other end is not as clear as before or you are having a hard time getting good reception, maybe you are not in the place you need to be to get good reception, like a tunnel or a tomb. If that is the case then you need to move back to the realm of the Spirit if you wish to be a joint heir, a continuing partnership with the Lord. You know when we were children in this world growing up we needed parents or someone older to supervise us and give us the provisions needed to sustain life. Even though some of us would threaten to run away when we were younger, by the time dinner rolled around that plan was abandoned and forgotten. Spiritually you are a child of God, and it is vital that we stay close to our heavenly Father and get the provisions we need as well as the instructions in our walk so that we can sustain this relationship with Him and continue in the deliverance He provided from our own destructions. Hebrews 12:25-29 See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven: (26) Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, Yet once more I shake not the earth only, but also heaven. (27)And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. (28) Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: (29) For our God is a consuming fire. (KJV) Williams New Testament translation of Hebrews 12:25-29 25. See to it that you do not refuse to listen to Him who is speaking to you. For if they did not escape, because they refused to listen to him who warned them here on earth, how much less can we, if we reject Him who is from heaven? 26. Then His voice shook the earth, 27. but now His promise is, "Once more I will make not only the earth but heaven itself tremble." Now that expression, "Once more," signifies the final removal of the things that can be shaken, to let remain the things that cannot be shaken. 28. Let us, therefore, be thankful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and in this way continue to serve God acceptably in reverence and fear; 29. for our God, indeed, is a consuming fire. You know this kingdom that cannot be shaken is a spiritual one, one that is not of this world. The kingdom of God is now within you, so when everything else around us is shaken isn’t it comforting to know that you don’t have to be. It is important that we keep the line of communication open to receive this message of salvation which is founded on a rock solid foundation which is Christ, one that cannot be shaken. So where do you stand today; are you on a rock solid footing that is not being moved, one that is established by our heavenly Father or are you standing out in the wilderness having a hard time getting good spiritual reception because of all the winds of doctrine blowing around you? John 18:36 Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. (KJV) If the Lord’s kingdom is not of this world, then why do so many today still pattern their walk and thinking according to this world and its fallen way of thinking? You have access to His kingdom which is not of this world and is not accepted of this world; and yet with this in mind why do so many still fight with the world over worldly things and issues that have nothing to do with our eternal salvation. But we have rights, yes you do, you have direct access to the throne of God through His Son Jesus Christ to hear His message of faith delivered personally to you so that you won’t be shaken and all stirred up with the cares of this life and deceitfulness of riches which many are chasing after and no longer able to hear the message of Christ clearly. Romans 10:16-18 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? (17) So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. (18) But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. (KJV) Williams New Testament translation for Romans 10:16-18 16. However, they have not all given heed to the good news, for Isaiah says, "Lord, who has put faith in what we told?" 17. So faith comes from hearing what is told, and hearing through the message about Christ. 18. But may I ask, They had no chance to hear, did they? Yes, indeed: "All over the earth their voices have gone, to the ends of the world their words." Again I like using the Williams translation for these verses; faith is our ability to hear for ourselves personally the message delivered by Christ. The more you give ear to this message, the less you will be giving ear to the mess that is going on around us in the world, and the less likely you will be shaken by the outward. While many think that only certain people in certain parts of the world are able to hear the message of God, the Bible is quite clear to point out that this message has gone forth throughout the whole world. After all, the Bible is quite clear to point out that God has given to every man the measure of faith. The question now is how many are receiving it, as well as the fact that He is no respecter of persons? He is quite clear to also to point out that His spirit was poured out upon all flesh, not just some. So now the question is, who is listening to the voice of God and His message being delivered by Christ; and who is willing to walk by faith and not by sight or any other physical senses that are contrary to our spiritual senses? In fact to the carnal man the things of God make no sense, but are foolish to those in the realm of the flesh, those that continue to live according to their fallen nature and not partakers of the divine one. Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (KJV) When a situation arises in your life is God the first one you seek for your instructions or do you look elsewhere first and then wonder why you got so shook up? Once you ask the Lord, will you be still long enough to hear the answer and know that He is God so that you can proceed forward in your walk with confidence and boldness? Expect the best, because you serve the best, and you will not be shaken in mind or spirit, but rather steadfast and unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. John 1:10-13 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. (11) He came unto his own, and his own received him not. (12) But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: (13) Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. (KJV)
Strong’s definition for received: 3880 paralambano (par-al-am-ban'-o); from 3844 and 2983; to receive near, i.e. associate with oneself (in any familiar or intimate act or relation); by analogy, to assume an office; figuratively, to learn: KJV-- receive, take (unto, with). A heavenly call has gone forth to all mankind to resurrect them from the tomb of the realm of the flesh into a new realm which is spiritual. Mankind has been entrapped in the realm of sin and death which has kept them separated from God until the time of reconciliation, which was accomplished through Jesus Christ our Lord. Now that you have heard the call it is vital that you keep the line of communication open between you and your heavenly Father so that you can hear His instructions on a daily basis, and follow the path He chose for you before the foundation of the world. God has let mankind know throughout the Bible that He would send the Messiah for the salvation of the world; and as we see in the example from John, many did not recognize Him let alone receive the message God was sending through Him. But to those that do receive Him, they are able to walk in the same power of God, which is Christ, because of their belief in His name. Where many today still have issues with God is in their unwillingness to believe in the Son and allow Him to rule and reign within them. Many don’t receive the things of God because they are not willing to let go and trust more in Christ and less in their own abilities or understanding; which if one is leaning to their own way of thinking they will fall. Galatians 3:1-5 O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? (2) This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? (3) Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? (4) Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain. (5) He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? (KJV) While the Lord is calling His people, the devil is out and about making crank calls doing all he can to distract and deceive. Rather than believing in the message of Christ, many are trying to perfect it in the flesh by the works of the law through the traditions and doctrines of man, thus having been distracted and deceived. Paul is asking the people a simple question, was your rebirth and resurrection into the realm of the Spirit done by works, or was it by simply hearing the word of God and receiving it as truth? He then goes on to basically ask the people ‘if this is how you entered this new life then would not the simplicity of hearing of faith be what keeps you in this realm?’ In fact he goes so far as to call them foolish, ‘something that has begun in the Spirit is now going to be perfected by the flesh?’ God’s call is simple, receive His message by faith, then walk according to what you hear from Him and not what so many others claim is necessary, especially the works of the law and its dead end rituals. You started out so good people, but now you have disconnected the heavenly line and are listening to the voice of a stranger, no longer able to receive the things of God. It’s kind of like football, they have receivers that run a route and are expected to catch the pass and move forward toward the goal line. If a receiver runs the wrong route or the ball is thrown his way and he drops it, the team will not progress forward. You are expected to huddle up with the Lord on a daily basis and learn the route He has for you that day so that you can receive His message and progress forward toward the mark of the prize of His high calling. Keep in mind though, that the more you learn to receive the things of God and progress forward toward the goal, the more of a target you become to the opposition who’s only goal is to keep you from the goal line. So take the time on a daily basis to learn the playbook, and receive God’s plan for you that was drawn up before the foundation of the world. 1 John 4:4-6 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. (6) We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. (KJV) Are you willing to turn your life over to someone much greater than yourself and receive His plan of salvation? To many it sounds like a no brainer, and yet the simple fact is that this is where so many fall short, unwilling to trust their spiritual senses more than their own physical outward ones. Are you hearing the message personally, or is this Bible stuff something that only happens to certain special people? You have a Spirit far greater than anything in this life, who is waiting for you to pick up the spiritual receiver and hear His message so that you can achieve the eternal goal God has for His people. Hebrews 12:2 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) Let me ask this question, can you think of someone else you would want writing a script for your life than Jesus Christ who is now seated at the right hand of the Father? Not only did He write the beginning for you, He even wrote the ending which is intended to have you end up in the same place He did. But how will you know this unless you make it a priority on a daily basis to hear His message and respond in faith, believing that what He promises His people He is able to do exceeding and abundantly above all that we could ask or think. Is Jesus Christ truly the author of your life today? If not, you surly won’t like the ending. Are you receiving the things of God that are necessary to sustain you spiritually so that you can continue forward on the path of life? You too will endure opposition and shame from those of the world, but I pray it is not enough to deter you from answering and receiving your heavenly instructions. You too will have to pick up your own cross and crucify your own desires if you wish to continue in this faith; but before you throw a pity party, consider our Lord and what He endured to get this message to His people. With all that has been done on your behalf isn’t it time you start receiving more of the good news of the gospel of Christ and less of the old news of this fallen world? Isaiah 46:9-11 Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, (10) Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure: (11) Calling a ravenous bird from the east, the man that executeth my counsel from a far country: yea, I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it. (KJV) Again I ask you, are you able to declare the end of something before it happens, accurately one hundred percent of the time? If not, then why would you doubt someone that can, someone much greater than you and I who is living within us waiting to be resurrected again if only we would let Him? Don’t be like so many others that don’t receive from God what is rightfully theirs because of doubt and unbelief, but rather hold fast your profession of faith without wavering, knowing that what God promises He is able to do; in fact He even declares it a done deal before it happens. Do you know somebody else with that good of a proven track record? Isaiah 42:6-9 I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles; (7) To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house. (8) I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images. (9) Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them. (KJV) The Lord is calling His people, which you are one of His; now will you receive His message and believe more in what He has done and accomplished, and less in your own thoughts and works? Believed and received; be not deceived, God bless. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 11:11-14 These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep. (12) Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well. (13) Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep. (14) Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead. (KJV)
God’s word was made flesh and dwelt among us in the form of Jesus Christ, who was sent from God to deliver mankind from a death sentence to one of eternal life. The things our Lord did and demonstrated are still available to His people today; those that God sends to speak words of life and wake people up from their spiritual stupors. When you see the phrase sleep it does refer to death also. Lazarus is someone we can identify with ourselves. And as we read yesterday, a man who was stuck in darkness, bound up in grave clothes whose life stunk, and was being resurrected from his sleep by the word of the Lord. We too were dead in sin and trespasses but are now made alive again so that we are able to walk in newness of life in the Spirit, no longer bound by the desires of the flesh. Ephesians 5:14-16 Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. (15) See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, (16) Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (KJV) Many think and are taught that someday there will be a wonderful resurrection to a new eternal life with Christ, and for many of them they can hardly wait for that day to come. Those that have their spiritual senses exercised today know that now it is time to awaken from our spiritual stupor, arise from the dead and walk in the light of the glorious gospel of Christ and the path He chose for us before the foundation of the world. Thayer’s definition for awake: 1453 egeiro- to arouse, to cause to rise a) to arouse from sleep, to awake b) to arouse from the sleep of death, to recall the dead to life Romans 13:11-14 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. (12) The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. (13) Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. (14) But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. (KJV) Have you woken up from the dead; are you arising now and heeding the spiritual calling, or are you all caught up in the striving and cares of this life? Now it is high time; time for you to be seated in the heavenly places with Christ, and not stuck in this dead end realm of the flesh with its dead end results. Your salvation is near, the Lord Himself is standing at your door knocking on the heart to see if you will let Him in and give you new life. Like with the example of Lazarus, He is ready to roll away the old stony heart and set you free to the only liberty you will find, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. So are you heeding the call of our Lord; are you stepping out in faith into a new realm so that you can be partakers of the heavenly gift that God sent to us through His Son Jesus Christ? Now is the day of salvation, now it is much nearer than you thought; so will you get up from your spiritual hangover and answer the call, or will you sleep in and miss out on an eternal heavenly reward which is rightfully yours for the taking? Have you put on the whole armor of God which is Jesus Christ so that you will no longer be taken down by the fiery darts of the enemy and put back to sleep? Walk in the Spirit of Christ so that you no longer have to be in bondage to the lusts of the flesh, fulfilling its deadly desires which are contrary to our Lord’s desire for you. 1 Corinthians 15:31-34 I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. (32) If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. (33) Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. (34) Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame. (KJV) Paul himself realized that in order to resurrect daily to this new life in Christ he would have to die on a daily basis. The outward or the old man continues to perish on a daily basis, because we are now walking by faith and relying more on our spiritual sight than the physical one. Our inward man should be renewed on a daily basis so that we stay awake and alert spiritually, and are not ambushed by the enemy. Are the eyes of your understanding enlightened to the things of the Spirit, or are they becoming heavy and you are drifting back to sleep again? Take heed to the warning in verse 33, because Paul did not say that evil communication might corrupt, but rather would corrupt good manners. These warnings are not put in the Bible just to fill in pages or finish a paragraph, but are there for the benefit of His people so they won’t be deceived back to sleep again, but rather stay awake and alert to the things of God. Some people are not aware of these things that many may consider little and trivial, but remember it only took a little leaven to leaven the whole lump, and for those that don’t operate in this knowledge, like Paul said, he speaks this to their shame. It’s one thing if the people of the world decide to ignore the word of the Lord and perish; it’s another to see God’s people perish because of their lack of knowledge in spiritual matters; which in the end is all that truly matters. 1 Corinthians 11:27-30 Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. (28) But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. (29) For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. (30) For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. (KJV) The Bible says that we all need to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling, coming to an understanding of God’s plan of salvation for ourselves so that we no longer have to guess, but know who we are in Christ, and find our place within the body. Many that have had a spiritual awakening at some time, end up falling back to sleep, this after becoming weak and sickly. It’s because of their lack of discernment and diligence, as well in making the Lord their priority that they ended up in this condition. The Bible warns us of the many false prophets that shall come preaching damnable heresies to the point of denying the Lord, and they bring upon themselves swift destruction. Not only will the false prophets suffer eternal consequences because what should have been the bread of life was actually polluted and full of deadly spiritual diseases which eat like a cancer, but those that follow them and lend their support to them will also suffer the same consequences as well. So wake up Church; you have a Bible and you have access to the throne of God so that you can sit together with Christ on a daily basis and hear His words firsthand; they are spirit and they are life to those that hear. Don’t fall asleep at the wheel again and end up in a ditch spinning your wheels, but stay alert and follow the only path that leads to eternal life, the same path our leader and forerunner Jesus Christ followed Himself. God bless and keep the faith. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 5:23-25 That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. (24) Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. (25) Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. (KJV)
Father, Son, Son, Father, a package deal, we can’t have one without the other; they work in unison to bring us a plan of salvation, a deliverance from the death sentence that was imposed on mankind because of sin. If one does not know the Son then they will not be able to access the Father; thus the Father will not be able to access us if we don’t come into agreement with His plan of salvation delivered through the Son, Jesus Christ our one mediator. Once a person is able to hear this message for themselves they are then passed from this death sentence and are now set free to a life of liberty in Christ; no longer a servant to sin and its consequences. The hour is now, for those that have been spiritually dead to be able to hear the voice of the Son so that this sentence of death can now be passed from them and erased, blotted out so they don’t have to be blotted out of our heavenly Father’s register, His book of life. Thayer’s definition for condemnation: 2920 krisis (kree'-sis); 1) a separating, a sundering, a separation; b) sentence of condemnation, damnatory judgment, condemnation and punishment Romans 8:1-4 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (2) For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. (3) For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: (4) That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (KJV) Where are you at right now in your walk? Do you know the Son so that you can access the Father and continue to be innocent, or are you still seeking to find freedom in the realm of the flesh, the area that is enmity with God and caused the separation in the first place? Did you know right now, that if you are in Christ there is no condemnation; but at this moment, today, you have passed through the gates of hell, the prison that kept us in bondage waiting for our death sentence to be carried out, having been declared innocent by the sacrifice of God’s only begotten Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. The law of sin and death is spiritual; and I was carnal sold to sin, stuck in a realm of misery and hopelessness. It took a new law, a law of faith in the work that Jesus Christ did on my behalf to set me free so that I no longer have to live in bondage to sin and death. If you notice verse 4, this is an ongoing process, one that began in the Spirit and needs to end that way in order for one to gain their permanent inheritance into the kingdom of God. 1 John 3:18-24 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. (19) And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. (20) For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. (21) 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. (24) And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us. (KJV) In the Old Testament they had the ten commandments as well as the old law, which if one goes back to the Old Testament they will see how complicated it was. The Lord has given us a new commandment, a simple one to keep us free from sin and no longer be under a death sentence. Sometimes we do stray, and if our heart condemns, which in this case is referring to convict, then one needs to heed to the voice of God so that they can restore the confidence back toward God. God will prick the heart and let us know when we have gotten off His path and are trying to establish our own righteousness, which in His sight is referred to as filthy rags. Once this confidence is restored again we are able to do those things that are pleasing in His sight, and not have to be concerned with how mankind sees or perceives us. The simple commandment is to believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ so that the love of God can continue to be shed abroad in our heart, and that we can know and not just guess or hope that He is still abiding in us. So how are you accessing the Father today? Are you going to Him through His Son Jesus Christ, the one mediator between God and us, or are you trying to climb up some other way which is the way the devil would like you to go, back to his realm? The Bible says that if you try to access the Father any other way but through the Son, then you are like a thief and a robber, robbing God the opportunity to work in your life and present His plan of salvation to you to set you free from condemnation and guilt. Once you have been delivered and set free from your sentence of death don’t think for a moment that the enemy is not out to have you retried and convicted of sin again. So it is of utmost importance that one continues in the faith grounded and settled, and in no way giving place to the enemy. John 3:17-19 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (18) He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (19) And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. (KJV) God didn’t send His Son to scare you into the kingdom with messages of hell and death, but rather a message of love. It is your choice to believe in the message He is delivering and continues to deliver through His Son, and to believe in His name. God sent His Son Jesus Christ, a name which is above every name, the only name given under heaven whereby we can be saved and enabled to continue in His plan of salvation enduring to the end. With all that is in the name of Jesus Christ, are you using the full name, or are you leaving it out of your prayers? Some people think it is all in the name of Jesus and leave out Christ. Ever wonder why it is called the spirit of antichrist, the spirit that now works in the sons of disobedience? If you wish to establish a personal relationship with the Father, then it can only be through the Son where there is no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus our Lord. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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