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Ephesians 3:8-12 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; (9) And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: (10) To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, (11) According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: (12) In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. (KJV)
Why did Paul describe the riches of Christ as being unsearchable? Mainly because you won’t find the riches of Christ in the realm of the flesh, which is where many are still looking for the answer, and are still being deceived into thinking they will find it in the riches of this life. Where else and what price tag can you put on having a boldness and access to the throne of God with a confidence because of your faith in Christ? Nowhere else could this be found, nothing else could come remotely close to giving you this kind of peace and joy; a perfect love which casts out all our fear. This is the manifold wisdom that the devil has been fighting against the Church to try to detour us from this truth which sets us free and allows us to see and understand the fellowship of this mystery, which is hid to the carnal man but revealed to the spiritual man in Christ. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so great is this mercy and the riches of this wisdom to those that seek and find it with all their heart. Ephesians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: (KJV) While we were running around on this earth chasing our tail in destruction and misery before our conversion in Christ, we were missing out on all the spiritual blessings that are in Christ. Haven’t you spent enough time knowing that the things of this life are nothing more than a dead end? So why do so many try to incorporate the riches of this life with the riches of God? Like Paul said, ‘have we suffered so many things in vain if it yet be in vain?’ When you try to mix and match you end up corrupting the original living waters with man-made additives that pollute and distort the original intention. While I hear of so many testimonies of people that limit blessings to this realm, mostly how God has blessed them financially, I rarely hear of those that have come to a true understanding of the mystery of the gospel where all the treasures of God’s wisdom and knowledge are hid in Christ, and those that have a working knowledge of the Son. The things of this life are temporal, which refers to temporary, but the things of God are eternal, and only those that build their foundation on the name of Jesus Christ will be able to tap into all these spiritual blessings in Him. So why settle for less Church? If you desire the things of God then you need to start looking in His realm, on His turf, which is spiritual and located in the heavenly places. If you wish to seek the riches of this life then go get the Wall Street Journal. Luke 6:24-26 But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation. (25) Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep. (26) Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets. (KJV) Those that have settled for the riches of this life have their reward; and as we brought nothing into this world, they have nothing to take with them once they depart. Because they chose to have a good time while they were here they will spend an eternity mourning and weeping over the fact that they neglected the true riches and spiritual blessings that were in Christ because they listened to and supported a bunch of people pleasing ear tickling hucksters who claimed to be prophets of God. So when all men speak well of them watch out, because obviously they were no threat to the devil but rather were speaking on his behalf under the pretense of religion. While many think the so called church of today is so strong and growing rapidly, the devil doesn’t mind if mankind has religion as long as it doesn’t involve the truth which will set them free. After all the enemy has been playing mankind for a chump since the garden of Eden by talking mankind out of partaking of the tree of life, which is Christ, and settling for a cheap imitation for something of this life. While many are building their monuments which they claim are in the name of the Lord, then have the nerve to name the ministries after themselves which truly shows you whose ministry it really is; very few are building the people up in the name of Jesus Christ, the only name under heaven whereby we may be saved. Ephesians 3:14-19 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, (15) Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, (16) That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; (17) That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, (18) May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; (19) And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God. (KJV) Again, what price tag can you put on the riches of this inner strength that is only available to those that know our Lord Jesus Christ and how to access Him? To be able to have a faith in Him rooted and grounded in the love of God, like a tree planted by the river of life so that no matter what storms we endure we will not be blown over with winds and self serving doctrines of man, is priceless. This is a love, a confidence and strength that goes beyond anything we could have ever imagined or thought of, one that can’t be bought or found with the riches of this life but is freely given to those that seek it in the heavenly realm. The Lord’s riches of His glory are eternal. The riches of this life are only temporal and have an eternal price tag of misery and destruction to those that chose to limit themselves to them. Matthew 13:22-23 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful. (23) But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. (KJV) The seed is the word of God which is Christ; and those that nurture and water it with the living spiritual waters will see it grow and produce a spiritual crop, all the spiritual blessings God intended for you to partake of. Those that choose the things of this life will find themselves deceived in the end and forever regretting what they ignored and were talked out of. So where is your treasure today, and what realm are you seeking it in? Are you settling for something of this realm, or are you looking above and beyond this one into the heavenly realm to find the unsearchable riches in Christ so that the eyes of your understanding can be enlightened to a working knowledge of this mystery? 1 Timothy 6:9-10 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. (10) For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. (KJV) The root of all evil can be traced back to one thing, the love of money. So where does your root system lead to, the love of God, or to the love of money? What source are you drawing from today will determine your true intents and motives of the heart, and where you are going to spend your eternity. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 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. 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. 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: (27) 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. (KJV)
Don’t be offended and don’t take it personal that the Lord didn’t call you based on your wisdom and strength. Salvation is not like filling out an application for a job, where the employer is looking for the most qualified employee based on their ability and wisdom. Just the opposite holds true with the Lord; His calling is based on the heart, and what the heart treasures and who the heart truly desires to serve. So don’t think that God chose you because you are the wisest person He could find or because of your standing in the world or in the community, but rather because you realized that you are weak and unable to attain salvation on your own. The more you keep this mindset, humility is another word that describes this, the more God is able to use you. 2 Corinthians 8:10-12 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) God called you and accepted you for who you are, not for someone you think you should be; rather now you need to pattern your life according to His will, and walk in the realm of the Spirit. All God asks and will ask is that there is a willingness to follow His path based on His word, letting that be your strength, and not how man measures strength and ability. The more you realize how weak you really are on your own, the more you will find strength in what the Lord has done on your behalf; not like many others who think they are strong because they think they are doing so much on His behalf. 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) Paul had his own issues to deal with, which he described as a thorn in the flesh. What that thorn was, has been speculated for 2 thousand years. One thing we know, Paul had a past that dealt with mistreating Christians, and knowing from my own personal experiences the devil likes to remind people of their past and its shortcomings. So the fact that Paul was able to come to the conclusion that our salvation is based on grace and not of works, which leaves no room for boasting is one reason why God was able to use this man to write a good portion of the epistles. Now being weak doesn’t mean we run and hide, but rather you understand more and more that the Spirit is truly willing it’s our flesh, our carnal mind and understanding that is weak. Paul found his strength in the completed work Jesus Christ did on his behalf, and not the completed work many claim they are doing on the Lord’s behalf. It doesn’t matter how many scriptures you can quote, how many sermons you preach, or how big a congregation you have built, it all comes down to a simple loving obedience to our Lord, and the complete work He has done and is continuing to do within those that are willing to follow His example. You can have all knowledge and faith to move mountains but if you do not have love, a relationship based on trust and commitment with the Father, it will profit you nothing. So where is your strength coming from today; in what the word of God says, a path you are walking by faith, or are you leaning to your own understanding by what you think will make you strong, or should I say head strong as so many are? 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) Obviously Paul had dealt with this infirmity, as we see it written about again, and was humble enough to let the people know that he was just as human as they were. Sometimes those that God has called think they have to come off as bulletproof and invincible which makes it hard for others to relate to them. Yes it is important to be strong in the Lord and the power of His might, but being able to relate to the people through your own experiences can be an inspiration as well as opportunity for them to open up and share things that they have had to deal with, their own infirmity and temptation in their flesh. Remember, when it came time for those without sin to cast the first stone no one did. So keep in mind the same compassion God has dealt you; how longsuffering and patience can go a long way to helping someone remove and get past their own thorns in the flesh. 1 Corinthians 9:20-23 And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; (21) To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. (22) To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. (23) And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you. (KJV) Now you don’t have to go back under the old law or become a Jew to relate to a Jew; but rather you hear the Lord, and put yourself in their place, where they are at, so that you can let the Lord minister through you effectively. To the weak; I am reminded myself of times when I have been weak, and how I trusted more in my own abilities and works than the working of the Lord that He was trying to work in me, or what I call the sins and shortcomings of my youth, when I used to let the devil paint a picture in my mind of all the things I was missing out on, and how much better my life would be if I could have the things I desired. The only problem is that the devil doesn’t show us the consequences, which when the tab comes it’s always much bigger and lasts much longer than the short term thrill ride we took in the flesh. Being weak; staying out of the way, not leaning to your own understanding is a good thing, and one that will allow you to see your calling more clearly, and let the Lord minister through you more effectively. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Acts 2:36-38 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. (37) Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? (38) Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. (KJV)
Jesus of Nazareth was made a little lower than the angels and was born into this realm, having been a partaker of flesh and blood. The Bible states clearly that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God. So after His death, burial and resurrection, He was then glorified by God having accepted the blood sacrifice for the sin of the world and is now elevated to the position of Lord and Christ, the one mediator between God and man, seated at the right hand of the Father making intercession for us. Matthew 26:63-65 But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God. (64) Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven. (65) Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy. (KJV) When we see the reference to Christ the Son of God as well as the Son of man sitting on the right hand and coming in the clouds, the statement is truth, making reference to what we just saw in Acts 2:36, of these two God has made one new man so making peace, which culminates in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. There is now no condemnation to those that are in Christ; and those that choose to follow the same leading of the Holy Spirit will find an abundance of peace in the new man God is forming within them also. 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) We too have access to the same Spirit. And the more we allow this Spirit to bear witness to our spirit, the more we are reminded of our inheritance in Christ, and how we too can receive the reward of inheritance and a glorified body so that we can be together with Him for an eternity. The more you receive this witness from above the more you realize that you are truly a son of God and will start acting like one of His also. So who is it or what is it you are bearing witness with? Because the Bible clearly states that whatsoever is not of faith, the message delivered by Christ, is sin. Without faith and this Spirit bearing witness with our spirit then it is impossible to please God, we end up thieves and robbers trying to access the Father by our flesh and blood carnal thinking which cannot inherit His kingdom. Galatians 4:19-21 My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you, (20) I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice for I stand in doubt of you. (21) Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law? (KJV) It pained Paul to see the people who were born again into the realm of the Spirit by their simple hearing of faith, only to see them fall back to their old ways by the works of the law. There is a new creation within you, ready to birth and come to life within you so that you can be a new creation in Christ and leave the old man and its old ways dead and buried behind you. So are you nurturing that new man within you by giving it a steady daily dose of the word of God, or are you trying to feed him with old dead, decaying, unhealthy doctrines of man? Colossians 2:8-10 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. (9) For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. (10) And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: (KJV) If any man has not the Spirit of Christ working within them and bearing witness to them of who they are in Christ, then they are none of His. Our Lord Jesus Christ was resurrected from the dead, and having received a glorified body is now a part of the Godhead. Some refer to the Godhead as the trinity; the Bible speaks of three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost, which these three agree in one and operate in unison together as one. We too become one with God through Christ, and we are complete in Him when we receive His witness as truth and let that set us free from the traditions and rudiments of this fallen world. Our Lord Jesus Christ is an active part of this Godhead, having taken His place at the right hand of the Father; and by His sacrifice has prepared a place for us with Him as well. Ephesians 2:11-12 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; (12) That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: (KJV) A Gentile is a reference to an unbeliever, someone outside the realm of faith and not walking in God’s plan of salvation. Some have tried to link the mystery of the gospel as the Jew and Gentile coming together as one, which is based on the outward and not the inward. The mystery of the gospel is Christ in you and me, someone that was on the outside of salvation, an unbeliever who was in the flesh and only knew how to operate in that realm, but who has now been reconciled to God by His Son and His Spirit within us. Ephesians 2:13-16 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. (14) For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; (15) Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; (16) And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: (KJV) It began with the Son of man, a child born unto us Jesus of Nazareth, and it culminated into the Son of God, Christ, the Son given. Of these two God made one new man so that we could be more like Him, Christ like, and continue in the peace of God. Is there new life springing forth in you also, are you letting His Spirit bear witness with your spirit so that you can be one with Him and be that new creation in Christ? You have the mind of Christ; and the more you let Him witness to your mind the more you stay one with Him and in agreement to what God is asking of you today. It’s when we become double minded that we end up unstable and are no longer receiving the things of God. Who’s number one? We are, if we continue to let this new man take over and leave our old nature in the graveyard. God bless. And have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 16:13-15 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? (14) And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. (15) He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? (KJV)
If you go into any city and take the time to look into a phone book under the title of churches you will find pages and pages of different so called faiths and denominations. In others words, when posed with the same question we see in the above verses mankind is still rendering many different opinions on who this Jesus of Nazareth was and what to call this man. In fact some two thousand plus years ago some were trying to associate him with the Baptist, which being the fact that he didn’t acknowledge himself to be one back then I don’t know why so many today are still trying to pin that label on him. We do see him acknowledging himself as the Son of man, having partaken of flesh and blood, but as we are about to see, something else will come into play and expand the field so to speak. Matthew 16:16-18 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. (17) And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. (18) And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. (KJV) Christ, the Son of the living God, not God as many claim, but His Son. The fact that God Himself is a Spirit it would only be fitting that His Son, Christ, is of that realm also. Not only was this Jesus born of the flesh but he was also reborn of the Spirit and is Spirit also; the same Spirit of Christ that led this man Jesus of Nazareth is the same Spirit that is abiding in you and what should be leading you as well. This rock foundation is spiritual, and the only foundation that will withstand and prevail against the gates of hell. It is this Spirit of Christ within the believer that allows each of us to be a part of the family of God so that we too can receive the adoption of Sons. We see our Lord acknowledging the two births again, that which is born of flesh is flesh, Jesus of Nazareth, and that which is born of Spirit is Spirit, Christ, which if any man has not His Spirit he is not of God, which now makes it a complete package, Jesus Christ the Son of the living God. 1 Corinthians 10:2-5 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; (3) And did all eat the same spiritual meat; (4) And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. (5) But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. (KJV) Even in the Old Testament we see the Son of God, Christ, alive and well, His Spirit working among the people. Back then it was providing water that fed the flesh, today it provides us living spiritual water that quenches our spiritual thirst. This is the only name, the rock solid name of the Son of God that our Father acknowledges as one of His and the only name that you can get your prayers through to our Father. Though many claim that Christ was born in Bethlehem, it was Jesus the son of man that was born, Christ always was and always will be, or as He put it I AM. Again that which is born of flesh is flesh, and that which is born of Spirit is Spirit; you must be born again with this Spirit of Christ or you cannot see the kingdom of God. Colossians 1:26-29 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: (27) To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: (28) Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: (29) Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. (KJV) Paul described this revelation of Christ as a mystery, something hid and kept secret but now made manifest. To those that operate solely in the realm of the flesh this continues to be a mystery. And like we saw with the question asked in Matthew 16:13-15, many are still answering this question according to popular opinion and not by a personal revelation and relationship with God in the Spirit. So no matter what man thinks or how many labels and titles they try to put on Him, His word is quite specific on how His plan of salvation works and who it is that is working in His people. So people, before you jump on these bandwagons of popular beliefs and doctrines take the time in the word of God and prayer, and see for yourself who the Lord truly is and by what name does He go by and acknowledges Himself to be. The only teaching and the only way to present the believer perfect, mature in all wisdom, will only be accomplished by the wisdom of God through the knowledge of His Son, Jesus Christ. 1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. (KJV) This is a great mystery and continues to be because it is hid to the carnal man and his way of thinking, and only revealed to the spiritual man and those that desire to worship God in spirit and in truth. God truly was manifest in the flesh, His plan of salvation and the miracles that He worked through Jesus of Nazareth were only accomplished by the Spirit of Christ within Him and His willingness and obedience to follow that leading. As this Jesus Christ is known also as the Son of God, so are you if you continue your relationship with the Father by basing your walk on what the Spirit of Christ working within you dictates and not by the box mankind tries to stick Him in and label Him with. It takes one to know one; so if you want to resemble your Father in heaven then you need to follow the example of the Son and the Spirit of Him, Christ, if you wish to receive the reward of inheritance. We will continue with this topic of the Son of God, so keep the faith grounded and settled within you, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:5-7 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. (6) For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. (7) Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. (KJV)
Listen to a person talk and it only takes a few minutes or less to hear what realm they are operating in, and what their priorities in life truly are. We have been talking this week about the things of God which are spiritual, and the things of man which only deal with the physical realm. Once you are born anew into the realm of the Spirit it takes a daily dose of prayer and the word of God to keep your mind renewed on the things of God, or else one will fall back into the things of this fallen realm looking for peace and fulfillment in things the Lord has asked you to let go of. The mind is the battle ground for the believer because that is where they will either hold God to be true and man the liar, or they will fall into the category of where man tells God that He is the liar because of simple unbelief in His word. Romans 8:8-10 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. (9) But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. (10) And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. (KJV) So what do you think? What is your mind being filled with today? If your priority is in this realm and pleasing those of this fallen one, then it will not be pleasing to God. If you don’t have the Spirit of Christ and a working knowledge of the spiritual realm of the Son of God, then you are none of His. Are you listening to the good news of the gospel of Christ, or are you spending all your time caught up in the news of the world which is old news and leads to a dead end to those stuck in it? With an election year coming upon us, and so many promises of liberty and freedom, in the end no matter what man tries to accomplish in the flesh as long as there is still mans’ fallen lower nature ruling these people, things will continue to spiral downward until the Lord returns and sets things in His order. 1 Corinthians 2:14-16 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. (15) But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. (16) For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. (KJV) The mind is a terrible thing to waste; and what a waste it will be to those that find out what they had access to and how they neglected the gift of God, and ended up settling for some cheap imitation of the devil. Christ in you is the only hope of glory. So the more you step out and operate in His realm, the more you will think on the things that He does and truly be an imitator of Him and not of man. Christ is the Son of the living God, and so are you if you continue in the faith grounded and settled in the things of the Spirit, not letting your outward senses rule and dictate your outcome, but rather allow His word to accomplish the things that are pleasing in God’s sight. So how do you see things today, at this moment? Are you looking at life and expecting the best, confident your outcome is victorious and complete knowing you have done all to stand in the things of God, or are you still coming up short and frustrated because you are still leaning to your own understanding, and limiting God? Philippians 4:7-8 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (8) Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (KJV) Do you desire to keep this peace of God working in your life? Then what are you meditating on today? Do you see victory and confidence in your walk the way Christ Jesus was able to walk, or are you thinking the worst and just hoping someday it might happen, or some people have all the luck? By the way, that word luck should not be a part of a Christian’s vocabulary, which sad to say still is. The word luck means chance, and leaves one on iffy ground rather than operating in the blessings of God which are a sure thing. So if you are waiting for a lucky break to come along in your life, the only break you will end up with is between you and your heavenly Father; trying to serve a spiritual God on fleshly terms and conditions which are not on His turf. Keep your mind out of the gutter, and keep it in the heavenly realm (verse 8) if you wish to get the desired results you have prayed for. 1 Peter 4:1-2 Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; (2) That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. (KJV) When an army goes into a battle zone they make sure ahead of time that they are prepared and armed for the situation so that they can protect themselves. With the access to the things of God which He has provided us, why would you enter your day not taking the time to arm yourself also? The devil and his workers are still launching fiery darts so that they can inflame our lower nature, and try to get our old lusts burning again. Like with wildfires, the fire department will stay around and keep dousing the hot spots so that they don’t flare up again and cause more death and destruction. The same holds true in the spiritual realm, our shield of faith which is kept up and running by the renewing of the mind will continue to keep those darts quenched with living waters. Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. (2) And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (KJV) There are a lot of talkers, who claim to be of God and know Him, but they act just like the people of this world, and are still stuck in the realm of the flesh because they haven’t renewed their mind with the things of God. It takes one to know one; so if you want to act like a man of God then you need to get to know One personally so that you can break free from this fallen realm and operate in a higher dimension of the Spiritual one. If you don’t have the mind of Christ then you are none of His, and unable to walk in the Spirit. It’s a God thing, and it is available to any that are willing to forsake the things of this life and walk in the things of His. God bless and expect the best because you serve the best. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 2:9-12 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. (10) But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (11) For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. (12) Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. (KJV)
With everything that we have access to, the opportunity to tap into an unlimited source of power and strength, a vast treasure chest of wisdom and knowledge, why would anyone settle for anything less? Mankind wallowed in sin and misery under the old law for thousands of years until the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon all flesh. The Spirit of God which is within the believer is willing to show you all things which are no longer limited to this realm. And now we are able to see and operate within the spiritual realm so that we can know the things of God. How much time do you spend on a daily basis seeking the things of God? How much of a priority have you made God in order to come to an understanding of how these things are put into practice, and are a reality in your life? Is the Bible an account of how God has worked in other people’s lives, people we thought at times were special and above reproach? Or are you able to read the accounts in the word of God and relate to them because they are something you too have put into practice within your life? John 16:12-15 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. (13) Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. (14) He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. (15) All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you. (KJV) Remember what it was like when you would hear people talk of the Bible? Or even having read some of it before you were saved and came to a knowledge of the truth? For me it was boring stories of a bunch of thou shalts and thus saith the Lord, which to me had no meaning and substance without having the Spirit of truth to enlighten. Once I accepted the Lord’s plan of salvation I was given a new heart and able to tap into the things of God which gave me an understanding of things above and beyond this realm. I also began experiencing a joy and peace as well as a confidence I had not known before, above and beyond what I could have ever asked or thought of. But it takes time on a daily basis to stop what you are doing so that you can hear the Lord and His daily instructions; so that He can personally speak to you and give you His spiritual insight. The Holy Spirit is like having an interpreter when the Lord is speaking to you; He will take the things of God and explain it to you in a simple way so that you can understand for yourself what God is asking of you this day, and how to walk in the Spirit and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. Another way to put it, it’s like people that are deaf who attend lectures; there is a person speaking and someone next to them doing sign language to deliver the message. We were deaf to the things of God in the past because of sin and unbelief, but now we have the Holy Spirit within us to take the message of God and bring it to our understanding so that we can partake of the things of God. 1 John 2:26-27 These things have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you. (27) But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him. (KJV) The devil and his workers are out and about with their seducing spirits and doctrines which will lead one astray if they do not become rooted and grounded in the truth of God’s word. The more you are able to hear the Lord for yourself and let Him reveal his plan of salvation to you personally, the stronger you become and the less likely you will be taken in by the wiles of the devil. The Lord does use His people to deliver His message, but beware it is the message we need to focus on and what the Lord is speaking in it, and to not become too caught up with the messengers, putting them on pedestals that they don’t belong on. It is the truth that sets you free. And the more you allow the Spirit to teach you this truth the more you will abide in Him and not be swayed with any winds of doctrine. Acts 10:38-39 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. (39) And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: (KJV) That same anointing which God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with is within you; ready, willing and able to teach you the things of God so that you too can go about doing good and bring a message of healing to a sick and dying world. God is with you; for greater is He that is within you, than he that is in the world. So the more you rely on your inward vision, the less likely you will be swayed by outward circumstances. Verse 39 talks about those that were witnesses of how He was able to do all things, not just things of this realm but able to demonstrate the things of the spiritual realm as well. Now you need to take the time to hear His message of deliverance so that you too can demonstrate how you are allowing God to work through you, and not be oppressed of the devil and his lies. 1 John 2:20-21 But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. (21) I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth. (KJV) What a comfort to be able to know the truth and have access to all things, not just the physical realm but the spiritual also. Think of the Holy Spirit as a water filter, it filters out the impurities and we are left with pure healthy water. For myself I was indoctrinated with a lot unhealthy worldly things which kept me in bondage to fear and confusion. The more I spent time in the word of God and let the Spirit of God show me the things of His realm, the more I was able to filter out the old and allow the new to become a reality in my life. Is the light of the glorious gospel of Christ illuminating your path today, or are you walking in darkness and not sure where you are headed? Colossians 2:8-10 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. (9) For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. (10) And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: (KJV) Do you desire the complete package? Then why not go to the guy that completed the mission of salvation for all mankind, who is now seated at the right hand of the Father ready to reveal Himself too all that wish to partake of His eternal inheritance. The word complete means to make whole, to furnish, to supply and finish. So if you desire to endure to the end then why not seek the counsel and instruction from someone who has already run this race to the end, and who is willing to show you all the things that it takes for you to complete your walk in the Spirit and receive the crown of life. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Galatians 1:3-4 Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, (4) Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: (KJV)
The word deliver in verse 4 means to rescue; and being that we live in a fallen world we are constantly surrounded by its influences and cheap imitations of what we think will bring peace and fulfillment to our lives. Where you look and what realm you look to, will be the determining factor of where you will spend your eternity. So will you continue looking to this world for the answer or will you seek those things which are above, to find an eternal one? It is the Lord’s will that none should perish but that all would come to repentance. So now the question is, are you willing to continue in this plan of salvation or have you been sidetracked with the cares of this life? What would you think if you saw one of your own children drowning and when you threw them the life preserver they ignored it and perished? Basically that is what mankind has done to their heavenly Father; they ignore His plan of salvation and His spiritual life preserver that was sent to us, and they end up over their head drowning in destruction and despair. So how are you doing today? Are you keeping the ship afloat and heading in the right direction, or have you gone off the deep end and going under? 1 Timothy 6:6-9 But godliness with contentment is great gain. (7) For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. (8) And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. (9) But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. (KJV) Have you forgotten how you arrived in this realm, wearing nothing but a smile? All those things you have been fussing and fighting over, not a one of them are going with you when it is time to depart this realm either. Have you learned to be content with the fact that today you have food and raiment? If not, just try going a day without them and see how overlooked and taken for granted some of these simple things we have are discounted as nothing. The food and raiment is not just limited to the physical either; have you taken the time to seek your spiritual meat as well as being dressed in the full armor of God so that you can quench all the fiery darts the wicked one will fire your direction? Stop and ask yourself this honest question, are the things that I am so concerned with today, the priorities I have established in my life, really leading me to a closer relationship with my Heavenly Father? Or is it something in this realm that may actually be drawing me away from Him; something that I am getting so wrapped up in, and has nothing to do with my eternal life? Matthew 16:25-26 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. (26) For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? (KJV) You have been blessed with all spiritual blessings in the heavenly realm in Christ, and yet do you hang onto the things in this world thinking it will fulfill and bring peace and joy? Can you even imagine for a moment what it will be like to stand before our Father some day and see all that was available in His kingdom only to find out that you missed out on it because you decided to hang onto the things of this life? Can you name one thing that is really worth hanging onto in this world that would keep you from inheriting your eternal reward? It’s only those that are willing to let go of their own life and desires that will find a new life in Christ and be able to inherit His eternal reward; those that were willing to look above and beyond what this world would ever have to offer. So can you honestly say that the will of God, His desire for you and your desire to serve Him are one in the same? Or are you still hanging onto something in this world that is choking the life from you slowly but surely? Is it worth exchanging your soul, which translates to eternal separation from God? A question that is not only being asked today, but one that will be asked again someday when we stand before Him and give an account of how we walked in His plan of salvation; was it truly a walk, or just a lot of talk. Ephesians 3:19-21 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. (20) Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, (21) Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. (KJV) You wonder why your life seems stagnant and unfulfilled at times, it’s simple, you keep looking to stagnant and unfulfilling things to bring you joy. Right now, this moment, there is a God who is able to do above and beyond what you could have ever thought or imagined; but how would you ever know this or experience this unless your priority is with the spiritual things which are above and beyond anything you will experience in this realm. When you pray and seek God and His answer, are you truly expecting the best, are you experiencing the love of Christ which goes way beyond our knowledge and limited carnal thinking? Do you know God hears you, and do you expect nothing short of victory in your life? Or are you still settling for the leftovers of this world and whatever they are willing to hand out? God has never failed His people and never will. So why are so many still hesitant to seek His counsel and deliverance from this present evil world; hanging onto the anchor instead of the life preserver? Are you yoked together with Christ today, letting Him handle the burdens, or have you unhooked yourself having decided you can handle things by yourself, and then wonder why you are so worn out and frustrated? Isaiah 55:8-9 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. (9) For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (KJV) Do you desire better results? Do you seek a more confident prayer life? Then start looking above and don’t limit yourself to this realm if you truly wish to have our Father’s results which are above and beyond anything we could ever ask for or think of. We as humans had been limited to this carnal realm, and could only operate according to what our outward vision and senses would dictate. But now in Christ we are able to see the things of God, and operate in a truly higher dimension; one that will bring joy, peace and an eternal victory to those of us that look to the Lord for His answer. Colossians 3:1-2 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. (2) Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. (KJV) In order to be risen with Christ it means you have let go of your life and its desires, and to have chosen a new life in Him. We are in this world, but we don’t have to be in agreement with it, or limit ourselves to what this world has to offer and its cheap imitations. Where your treasure is there will your heart be also. So if you wish to experience something that is out of this world, then start looking beyond this realm so that the Lord can open the windows of heaven and pour out for you a blessing above and beyond what you could have ever thought or asked for. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 John 4:1-5 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (2) Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: (3) And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (4) Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. (5) They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. (KJV)
The Lord and His people have been warning us to be on the lookout for not just a few but the many false prophets, who like wolves, prey on the wounded and the weak of the flock. Too many Christians have let their guard down; and like an unsuspecting boxer, end up getting sucker punched by someone they thought was legit. When you listen to these sermons today they focus on worldly areas that many people struggle in; and like with many infomercials you see on TV they promise quick fix solutions to people still in bondage to spiritual ailments; which if they addressed those first, then the troublesome areas in these people’s lives would be more easily overcome. Rather than focus on the spiritual (which is why it is the spirit of antichrist), the one thing that would set them free is ignored; they keep giving worldly solutions to solve a spiritual need and many then end up falling short and discouraged. If any man has not the spirit of Christ, a working knowledge of the Son of God, then He is none of His. Greater is He, Christ in you the hope of glory, than he the spirit of antichrist which is roaming this planet like a roaring lion seeking whom he can devour with the cares and distractions of this life. Case in point, at times I see the headline about ministers who complain about opening their books to congress to give an account of their spending habits. These ministers claim government intrusion, the same government they bowed down to in order to get their tax exempt status. If you don’t want them intruding into your business then get out of theirs and just pay your fair share of taxes; which according to God’s word is the obligation of the Church. Wake up people and quit letting the fox guard the henhouse. Matthew 4:8-10 Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; (9) And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. (10) Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. (KJV) Jesus Christ was faced with this spirit of antichrist which would have liked nothing better than to see Him change His message of salvation, soften His stance a bit, and maybe start compromising. Unlike many we see today that think they can mix and match like a buffet table, taking the things they desire and try to match them up with spiritual things, the Lord held His ground knowing that this life is temporary and that the message of salvation is eternal. The Lord knew He could not serve two masters because if He was double minded, like we see and hear in so many of mans’ sermons, then He would have become unstable and unable to receive the things of God. Are you holding fast your profession of faith this moment without wavering? Or have you been sucker punched by a worldly doctrine that you never saw coming because you weren’t watching and keeping your guard up? Ephesians 1:3-6 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: (4) According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: (5) Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, (6) To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. (KJV) With an unending priceless gift of spiritual blessings, have you even begun to explore all that is available to those in Christ? No wonder the devil comes a knocking. After all, he was at one time seated in the heavenly places but fell because of pride, and let go of his eternal reward. That spirit of antichrist would like nothing better than to keep you focused on the dead end things of this world so that you won’t look into the realm of the Spirit to see all that God has blessed you with. That joy and peace you have experienced is a result of an eternal plan of salvation God has for His people; and by His grace He has made it available for our benefit. So being that this plan originated in the heavenly realm and not this worldly one, then it would only be fitting to say that you can only continue in this new found joy and peace by looking to Christ and not this world. 1 Corinthians 7:32-35 But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: (33) But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife. (34) There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband. (35) And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction. (KJV) Here is an area where many let their guard down and get sucker punched. Rather than continue seeking the spiritual blessings in Christ they think the only way they will be complete is to have that special someone in their life. Now granted, God ordained marriage and it is a blessing when it is done according to who He joins together and not what our lower nature becomes attached to. Ever hear the term high maintenance? Well if you marry someone for the wrong reason, and they are still quite attached to the things of this world and not the things of God, you will find it nothing short of a distraction and a hindrance to your walk. I have seen many people who rather than realize they are complete in Christ, they try to fulfill a spiritual need with a physical one and end up bruised and beaten. Any time you look to the world or worldly people to find the answer, you will find that it did not come from God. It may look good and sound good to the outward man but inwardly it is a total abomination, a heartache that could have been avoided. Remember the devil will show you just the highlights and not the consequences. So when the party is over there will be a huge tab to pick up. 1 John 2:15-17 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. (16) For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. (17) And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. (KJV) The world and its ways are passing away, and so are those that hang onto them. Only those that do the will of God and seek those things which are above will experience a life of joy and peace above and beyond what this world could ever offer. So what is your priority today at this moment? Are you seeking the spiritual blessings or are you still chasing your tail stuck in this dead end realm of misery and heartache? Jesus Christ came that you would have life and have it more abundantly in Him so that you could avoid a world of hurt, and not end up with some cheap imitation of the devil. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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