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1 Timothy 6:6-8 But godliness with contentment is great gain. (7) For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. (8) And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. (KJV)
Remember what you brought with you when you arrived into this world? If you are not sure you can try to ask someone that was there when you were born, or you could spend some time around the maternity ward to see what is brought into this realm by newborns. According to the word of God there will be no carry-on luggage, which includes your departure from this world also. So with this in mind, what is it you were fussing and fretting about today; was it really something that involved your spiritual life, or are you still consumed and being eaten alive with the cares of this life? Sound silly, to simple, well believe it or not that is the part most people miss and stumble over, the simplicity of the gospel. According to God’s itinerary, the same things you arrived into this world with are also what you will depart with in the end. The question is will you be bringing something spiritual with you on your way out? In other words we came into this world with nothing, but we have the opportunity to leave with everything, the catch is that it has nothing to do with this world. I use the phrase catch, because I still see so many who claim they are one of the Lord’s who say they are totally committed to Him only to see them still caught up and snared with the things of this world, which are drowning them in destruction and despair. Have you learned to truly be content, or will you be content some day when you get everything you think you need or desire? After all you may not think having food and raiment is such a big deal, and are more interested in other things. So let me point this fact out, just try going a day, a few days, or even a week without food and raiment, and then let’s see if it is not such a big deal. Suddenly everything you have taken for granted and overlooked is now more appreciated, with a few thank-you’s added in for good measure. 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) Talk about going off the deep end, how would you feel if you had just pulled a drowning person out of the water only to see them jump back in again? God’s plan of salvation is to deliver His people from this present evil world, which we see in the verses above is described as being the love of money, only to see them turn around and jump right back into the cesspool of this fallen world again. Now stop and think how you would feel if that person you saw jumping back into water and drowning again was one of your own children? How quickly mankind jumps ship; the only problem is the ship they jump into has some major holes in its doctrines and is ready to go under. Will you stay afloat and rise above the cares and concerns of this world, or will you end up going deep sea diving for fool’s gold and miss your lifeboat when it comes by? Matthew 6:23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! (KJV) God’s plan of salvation is a way of escape, an escape from this present evil world into a realm of the righteousness of God. How is one ever going to find this path of life, let alone ever stay on it, unless they make it a priority in their walk? A spiritual path requires a spiritual light, and without the true light shining in their heart it will be replaced with a false one. Matthew 6:19-24 The lamp of the body, that which receives and dispenses the light, is the eye. If the eye, used here figuratively for one's spiritual understanding, be single (opposite of "twofold"), not afflicted with double vision in this matter of treasures —an affliction which is evil —then the individual can regard riches in their proper perspective. The impossibility of serving two masters in a slave relationship is a graphic illustration. Mammon. Though its derivation is uncertain, it appears to be an Aramaic word for wealth, here personified. Note that Jesus condemns not wealth but enslavement to wealth. (from Wycliffe Commentary) Many are called, but few are truly chosen by our Lord because many a well-intentioned Christians have replaced their love for the Lord with another love. So like with a cheating spouse in a marriage relationship, or drinking and driving, eventually there is going to be a heck of a wreck. Some of these piercings and sorrows you are experiencing have been a result of your shield of faith, or lack of it, which is allowing the enemy to have a clear shot at the heart with his fiery darts, starting a fire in a place that has dried out because of a lack of living waters. 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) The point of this week’s studies is a reminder of the simplicity of the gospel and how important it is to learn to be content. Yes we are in this world, and there are needs that have to be dealt with, both spiritual and physical, the point is getting and keeping your priority right so the things of this life don’t become too big of a distraction. God promises His people He will supply all their need, and as a parent you would never forget your children, so what makes you think God does His? The Bible is specific in how we are to access God and get the provisions needed, which first and foremost it needs to be spiritual, thus why many miss the mark, getting it backwards, or the cart before the horse. Your message for today is to keep in mind that your arrival and departure are similar in the fact that you came here with nothing and will depart with the same luggage as well. So with this in mind why are you so concerned with things you can’t take with you, instead of with something that you can, that being eternal salvation? John 19:23-24 Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. (24) They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did. (KJV) This man that is described for us in the above verses is now seated at the right hand of God; and as we see He didn’t leave much behind when He left, at least not in the physical realm. Jesus Christ didn’t entangle Himself with the affairs of this life, which allowed Him to partake of the new life, the one that lasts for eternity. Now it’s your turn, what do you truly treasure, and where is it leading you today? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Proverbs 16:11 A just weight and balance are the LORD's: all the weights of the bag are his work. (KJV)
The just or justified shall live by faith; so in order to find the proper balance or rightly divide the word of truth one needs to hear the Lord for themselves on how to remain justified on a daily basis in order to do those things that are pleasing in His sight. What the world says is righteous is often determined by the outward and not the inward, and what our Lord considers righteous is determined by the inward and not the outward, the secret hidden man within where our Lord chooses to operate. When a person is able to see clearly through the eyes of the Lord it is at that point that they are able to see the one path that He is asking them to walk this day, right now, the one and only path that leads to salvation. Matthew 6:19-21 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: (20) But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: (21) For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (KJV) Moth and rust usually gathers and builds up on things that are no longer in use, but have been discarded. The reason these things end up discarded is because you are now off and running, chasing after something else you think will make you whole. That thief that has broken into your house and is in the process of stealing, that thief is spiritual in nature, a fallen one actually, one who has influenced you to chase after temporal things, and not seek the eternal things of God. So a new life you told the Lord would be your only treasure is now replaced with some cheap imitation of the enemy, fool’s gold comes to mind, something that looks good and glitters on the outside but is worthless on the inside. Matthew 6:22-24 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. (23) But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! (24) No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. (KJV) What happens when a person gets double vision? Things start to get blurry, unrecognizable and distorted. That path of life you were once following is gone, out of sight, replaced with some wide super highway leading to destruction. What you thought would be the so called light at the end of the tunnel is actually leading you into a darker realm, like the blind leading the blind and everyone ends up in a ditch. So whose eyes are you seeing with today, and what is enlightening your path? Is it truly the light of the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ, or is something else getting more of your attention? Proverbs 27:19-20 As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man. (20) Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied. (KJV) Why does man keep looking to man to find the answer to salvation when our Lord tells us specifically that all the true treasures of wisdom and knowledge are in Christ? No matter how many times you look into the water the only reflection you will see is what is in front of it. No matter how many times you go to mankind and their ways all you will ever get is a carnal answer to a spiritual question. No matter how many times you look at situations in your life and try to analyze it according to your carnal thinking it will never satisfy and provide a peaceable solution. We have talked this week about the word content, which godliness with this contentment is great gain. So if you are still more apt to be treasuring the things of this life and looking to find fulfillment in this realm you will never be satisfied. However, if one chooses and makes it more of a priority to seek the things of God then they will find the one true joy and peace, spiritual satisfaction they were looking for. Years ago a famous rock band sang a song called “I can’t get no satisfaction”, which became a big hit for them, and still is. These were people that had all the fame, fortune, and anything else this fallen world has to offer, and yet with all that they still didn’t find satisfaction. And how could they when our Lord said it isn’t in this realm. Sad to say we have many standing in pulpits preaching a prosperity message that is based on the same premise, getting people all caught up in a fallen realm instead of the one our Lord intended for His people to operate in. James 1:5-8 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. (6) But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. (7) For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. (8) A double minded man is unstable in all his ways. (KJV) No man can serve two masters; oh and don’t forget what happens to a house divided, yeah it takes a tumble as well. When I think of someone double minded, someone wavering back and forth it reminds me of someone in a drunken stupor. How quick are you going to be handing over responsibility or something of importance to someone who is falling down drunk and staggering around in confusion? Well our Lord doesn’t consider that a very good place to be in either. Someone that should be walking by faith is getting a beat down by winds of doctrines of mankind, choosing temporal over eternal riches. I know for myself I am not one that enjoys a ride on a ship, especially when there is a storm blowing, because it can toss one back and forth, let alone make them nauseous. 1 Timothy 6:8-11 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. (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. (11) But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. (KJV) If your vision is distorted and is what is described as evil then the root of all that stems from the love of money. Your love for the Lord, which is what you pledged to Him in the beginning of your walk, is now growing colder and being replaced with something else, something that will never satisfy or bring peace. You are no longer content with food and raiment, the bread of life and the armor of God, but rather looking elsewhere in a fallen dead realm to find life. In closing today keep in mind, that which is highly esteemed or a priority with man, is an abomination in the sight of God. Our Father’s vision is single, and so are His children’s, those who would rather follow a path that leads to life, and not some dead end cheap imitation that many are following to destruction. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. (KJV)
Our Lord came so that we could have life and have it more abundantly. What our Lord considers abundance is far from what man thinks is an abundant life, a life only found in the realm of the Spirit. Words which are spiritual and brought life and enlightenment to the believers were spoken by our Lord, and He is still speaking to those that have ears to hear, seeking to hear the spiritual meaning and intention of the scriptures where this new life is found. There is a whole new realm of unending joy and peace, enlightening the heart and bringing life to those that find the true meaning of what our Lord is speaking to them about, and why He spoke the things He did. Have you found this life for yourself? Here’s a hint, you won’t find it in the old law, but rather by hearing the law of faith, one that will build you up and bring life to those that were once dead spiritually. 2 Corinthians 3:6 Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life. (KJV) In order for you to be an able minister of our Lord you have to take the time to let the Lord minister unto you personally. Those that are chosen by our Lord to speak and teach on His behalf are those that are operating in the new life which is in the spiritual realm, and not according to the old laws and rituals. Those that hold to the literal meaning of the word of God miss the mark and kill the true interpretation of the message of Christ. You won’t find life in a graveyard or a morgue, nor will you find it in the letter of the old law and its rituals. In fact our Lord said that He is a God of the living and not the dead. So anyone that continues to hold onto the old law will not find the life God intended for them. When one takes the time to rightly divide the word of truth and hear God’s spiritual meaning of His word then it quickens or gives life to their inward man, while our flesh and its way of thinking darkens the true meaning of the message. Many think they can please a spiritual God with carnal ordinances, and they fall short of what our Lord intended for His people. Your ability to be an effective example of the believers, whether in word or in deed, will only be accomplished as you learn to speak words that will bring spiritual meaning and life to those around you. Out of your belly or the heart should be a river of living waters pouring out and bringing life; while many others are raining bitter waters of the letter of the law which kills any new growth. Romans 7:1-3 Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law,) how that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth? (2) For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. (3) So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man. (KJV) Another way of describing the letter of the law and its ordinances is like a woman with a husband, who is bound by an oath and commitment to that husband as long as he is alive. Once that husband has died, then she is released from that law and allowed to remarry. The death of the husband released her from that old law so that she could partake of a new life, making a commitment to a new man. Romans 7:4-6 Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. (5) For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. (6) But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. (KJV) When one becomes married they commit their life to that person and the two now become one. Someday there will be a culmination of the marriage between Christ and the Church. So for now while we are on this earth we need to honor our commitment in spirit and in truth if we wish to be true worshippers of our Lord. If you desire to do those things that are pleasing in the sight of our Lord then it can only be accomplished by those that worship or reverence Him in Spirit, walking in this realm and by the truth that sets us free to do so. The children of Israel were delivered from a terrible bondage, only at times to doubt the Lord and wish to return back to Egypt. In essence many Christians do the same thing. They are delivered from the law only to return back to it to find life, like looking for the living in a morgue. Why do people still keep hanging onto things that held them back and kept them separated from God rather than letting go so that they can walk in a newness of life? How many times have you seen people that were stuck in a relationship or situation with an overbearing person and your only thought is why don’t they just leave? How it must hurt our Father to watch His people still in bondage to dead things when He sent His Son and made a way of escape for them. The Lord provided our deliverance, a path that is located in the realm of the Spirit, and only those that hear His words of Spirit and life will find that path and walk out of Egypt. Romans 8:2-4 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) You have a clear path, a way of escape, a new law that trumps the old one and brings life to those that find it. A new law of faith is in Christ Jesus bringing a spiritual enlightenment so that you can see God’s true intention for you personally, not what He required for those under the old law. The flesh profits nothing and is no help in our walk, so quit following that path and get on the spiritual path that brings life. Romans 8:4-8 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (5) 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. (8) So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. (KJV) It’s a crime and a shame to see what God provided for His people only to see them revert back to their old ways and thinking. All the evidence is provided for each and every believer in Christ, and it all points to the Spiritual realm and not the fallen fleshly one. Where are you walking today, and what path are you following? Is it one of escape, or are you walking backwards toward a graveyard? There is a God who is bringing His people words that are Spirit and that are life; a new life in Christ which each and every believer should be partaking of on a daily basis. Get out of the old and get into the new. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Philippians 3:13-15 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, (14) I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (15) Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you. (KJV)
Strong’s definition for ‘press’: 1377 dioko (dee-o'-ko); a prolonged (and causative) form of a primary verb dio (to flee; compare the base of 1169 and 1249); to pursue (literally or figuratively); by implication, to persecute: KJV-- ensue, follow (after), given to, (suffer) persecute (-ion), press forward. Williams New Testament translation Philippians 3:13-15 13. Brothers, I do not think that I have captured it yet, but here is my one aspiration, so forgetting what is behind me and reaching out for what is ahead of me, 14. I am pressing onward toward the goal, to win the prize to which God through Jesus Christ is calling us upward. 15. So let us all who are mature have this attitude. If you have a different attitude, God will make it clear to you. When pressing or moving forward in your walk with the Lord, sometimes or some situations you will find it a struggle, at times overwhelming to the mind. Like with a long distance runner, at times it seems like their body just can’t take anymore but they know they have to continue moving forward if they wish to attain their goal at the finish line. You will find your walk at times with the Lord similar in the aspect that the Lord is asking you to move forward, whether a job situation, a different fellowship, or He is asking you to answer your own calling in an area He sees as your place in the body even though you may see different. Remember, the Spirit is willing it’s our flesh and our carnal thinking that is weak and limited; so for a season whatever the new area is that the Lord is moving you into it may take a while for your understanding to catch up with the Lord. What’s that saying, “no pain no gain”, well at times change seems painful, grievous; never the less afterward you will see the peaceable fruit of the Spirit manifest as long as you persevere. In order to continue moving forward in your walk with the Lord you will find that some of the old ways and old thoughts that you got by with in the past are no longer effective anymore and thus the need for change is in order to mature. So like we see Paul explaining, he was forgetting things which were behind him, old thoughts and ways that were no longer beneficial to his spiritual growth, and reaching forth or looking forward to find his new life in Christ. The point is, just because you have entered a place in your walk where it may seem to be a struggle for the time being, know that as you persevere and continue seeking the things of God you will adapt to what the Lord is asking, or where He is asking you to operate, and it will yield peaceable fruit. Luke 3:4-6 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. (5) Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; (6) And all flesh shall see the salvation of God. (KJV) Ever hear the term “making a mountain out of a molehill”? Well those that endure and continue in their walk with the Lord are able to see the mountain turn into a molehill. Things that you thought in the past were impossible are now possible with Christ; and areas in your life that seemed so rough are now smooth and easy to walk in. Now that the valleys are filled in and that thing in your life that seemed like such a mountain is brought low the path is much steadier and your life is not such a roller coaster ride of emotional highs and lows anymore. Just like with a runner, the more they exercise and keep the body fit and built up the more they are able to endure the race that is before them as well as remain healthy. Spiritually these same principles work, by keeping your body in subjection to the Spirit you are able to endure this day the path the Lord has for you and make it to the finish line the way He intended you to. Yes there will be opposition and persecution along this path of life, and there may be times you get knocked down, but it’s not how many times you get knocked down that matters it is how many times you get back up and continue forward, that is what counts. Matthew 17:18-21 And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour. (19) Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? (20) And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. (21) Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting. (KJV) A mountain can be anything that is in your path that appears to be a huge obstacle and hard to get past. Sometimes what seems simple to one person can be a huge distraction to another; while others struggle in things and are unable to move forward because they are still holding onto beliefs from their past. Whatever the situation is, it is important to pray one for another that they may be healed and find the comfort and deliverance through Christ. You will find your answer in prayer, continuing to communicate with the Father on a daily basis, seeking your answer in His word. Many fail to stay in communication with the Lord; rather they wait till a crisis arises before they seek His answer, a crisis that could have been avoided had the lines of communication stayed open. While fasting can refer to going without food it also refers to abstaining from anything that is feeding an area of our flesh that needs to be subdued and put into subjection. So rather than starve the flesh one spends more time feeding the flesh and its desires, then wonders why doubt and fear have crept in and kept them from achieving their goal. The more one feeds the Spirit the more they will see spiritual results that cannot and will not happen according to the carnal way of thinking and its dead ways. For you to grow and mature in the Lord you will be constantly going through changes in your life as you continue to step into the new realm the Lord has for you. Now the question is, ‘will you let go of the old childish things in order to press forward in your walk’? 1 Corinthians 13:10-11 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. (11) When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. (KJV) When you are able to see and come to a perfect (mature) understanding of what the Lord is asking and requiring of you in order to move forward in your walk with Him, then that which is in part or any obstacle that has been impeding your sight is done away. Many people fail and fall short of the glory of God because they put their hand to the plow but keep looking back to find peace rather than pressing forward and maturing in the things of the Lord. So today, even though something may seem like a huge obstacle or mountainous in size, by pressing forward in your walk and persevering in the Lord you will find that you can do all things through Christ who is strengthening you. Those that have and continue to walk the path of life and grow up into the Lord find that many things that at one time were a distraction and an obstacle were nothing more than a mirage, an optical illusion of the devil. Just like watching old monster movies when I was a child I used to be frightened by the illusions of these movies, but as I grew up and matured I was able to see the cheap silly special effects of imaginary events and beings. God bless and press on. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:48-50 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. (49) And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. (50) Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. (KJV)
Someday a total transformation will take place with all the believers that chose to hold God to be true and man the liar, including their own carnal thinking. By the way, you don’t have to wait until the day of judgment to bear the image of the heavenly which is Christ in you now, the one and only hope of glory. What we clearly see in the above verse is quite simple, two realms that differ as much as night and day. While mankind still holds to the flesh and blood realm which keeps them in darkness, those in Christ have found His enlightenment to be their source of a new life without fear or a shadow of doubt. Flesh and blood, and its way of thinking, cannot enter nor be an inheritor of the kingdom of God; neither is God going to allow something corruptible into His incorruptible realm as well. How you access God and His kingdom today will determine how well you know the Lord and how well known you are of Him. Galatians 1:15-17 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: (17) Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus. (KJV) Paul not only makes the distinction that his relationship with the Lord was not based on any man but also the fact that he went straight to the source. He is very emphatic to point out that he didn’t run to the apostles that were before him, who actually walked with the Lord while He was here on earth, but rather he was able to hear first hand for himself who the Lord is and how to access His kingdom. Today many people claim to have the answer which they base more on a large following or the approval of mankind rather than on a personal revelation of who Christ is and how important it is to teach His name. Are you one of those who are more apt to chase after mankind or something or someone you can see, or are you going to be still and hear the Lord for yourself, and know that He is Lord of your life? Galatians 1:18-20 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. (19) But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother. (20) Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not. (KJV) I am certain that Paul was told by many that he should go find the apostles of the Lord so that he could learn from them; thus the reason why he was so emphatic to write that the things he was speaking were not a lie. In fact if you go read the account of what happens when Paul does meet up with Peter some 14 years later you see that there was a confrontation between the two of them, and the point Paul was making was in line with God. The point is that it took boldness and confidence to confront one of the Lord’s apostles and tell him he was out of line, and then to deliver the correction as well; a confidence and boldness that did not come from any flesh and blood man but rather first hand from a Spiritual source. Matthew 16:15-17 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? (16) 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. (KJV) Are you still looking in the flesh and blood realm to find the answer that our Lord is asking all mankind; and has that answer been revealed to you personally? If you think someday you are going to gain access to a heavenly realm with a carnal answer you will find yourself on the outside looking in, eternally, knowing what was available and why you sold out. A spiritual kingdom has a spiritual access code or name, and only one name will get you into His realm today so that you can enter the eternal joy of the Lord, and that He can say well done good and faithful servant. While I hear so many preach and teach in the name of Jesus, which by the way is a common name among mankind, I hear a very few that know the name of Christ and the power of it. Could it be that there are just so few that have given heed to this revelation and have allowed the spiritual to have more of an influence than the physical? Could this be the reason why there is so much opposition to this name, even to the point of why the enemy is referred to as a spirit of antichrist and not anti Jesus? You say the name of Jesus and you are referring to a man that walked this earth and to many a man that still go by this name, but you add the name of Christ to it and you have now accessed a totally new and different realm, one the enemy doesn’t desire to see you get into. Philippians 2:8-11 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. (9) Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: (10) That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; (11) And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (KJV) By the way that name which is above every name and the one every tongue should be confessing and needs too in order to access the kingdom of God is Jesus Christ. While many claim it is just Jesus, the only reason He was able to live a life without sin and present himself a living acceptable sacrifice was by the leading and guiding of the spirit of Christ within Him, which made it a complete package. Without Jesus of Nazareth having the Spirit of Christ within Him to allow Him to be the first born or born again into this realm, He would not have been able to make reconciliation for a fallen dead world. If you personally do not have the Spirit of Christ working in you as well as a working knowledge of who the Son of God is for yourself you are none of His, but rather walking blindly in a dark carnal realm with which it is impossible to please God in. 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) The most important factor, the most important piece of a spiritual puzzle is Christ. Because once one is able to see who they are in Him then they are able to see the plan of salvation for themselves. A carnal flesh and blood man cannot relate to a spiritual being without the Spirit of Christ to bear witness and allow His spiritual light to shine in our hearts. Many people go to God through different names and paths that they think will enlighten them, but the word of God is quite clear to point out which name will get them into His kingdom and allow them to continue in it bringing forth the fruit of the Spirit to perfection, full maturity. Has God revealed Himself to you personally through His Son so that you can in turn access His kingdom and find out who you are in Christ? This is the one and only name that is above all others, and the only name that will make you complete in Him; while anything else will leave you stuck in the fallen realm of mankind and dead end rudiments and traditions. Acts 4:10-12 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. (11) This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. (12) Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (KJV) Mankind advertises many packages and things that they try to back up with guarantees, hoping this will entice others to buy into it. The word of God is quite clear on what name will get you access into His kingdom and allow you to continue in His spiritual realm rooted and grounded and not moved away. Jesus Christ is the complete package, the complete name that will make you whole; while anything less is based on a flesh and blood interpretation that is not exactly, and not what our Father acknowledges. Don’t be half right, let the truth and the whole truth set you free and keep you free indeed. God bless and His best to all this day. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 3:3-4 For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? (4) God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged. (KJV)
How about a new motto for all believers, I now let God be true and man the liar. What if everyone else tells you something contrary to sound doctrine, will you bend and give in to peer pressure or are you grounded enough to let the word of God rule in your walk? Maybe you think this is not possible, well remember a guy named Noah, he had a choice to listen and follow the rest of the world, or to let one be true in his life that being God and His word. Remember it’s by our words we will either be justified or condemned, so as long as your words and God’s word are one in the same then you will remain in good standing with our Father. What if some around you don’t believe, maybe even those that you have been close to in the past, will you let that influence you or will you continue in the faith grounded and settled and not moved away? Discernment, rightly dividing the word of truth knowing the difference between the pure word of God and its spiritual meaning and interpretation, and mankind’s take on things. The reason man changes the meaning and distorts the truth is so that they can justify their lower fallen nature, which may fool some, but will be openly exposed to those that have their spiritual senses exercised to discern between good and evil intentions of the heart. Luke 18:24-27 And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! (25) For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. (26) And they that heard it said, Who then can be saved? (27) And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God. (KJV) Have you ever stopped to think about a couple of words used throughout the Bible, those being possible and impossible? What mankind calls possible God says is impossible, and what man says is impossible to God it is just another day at the office; in fact His word says that with Him all things are possible. Did you realize that once you were born again into the realm of the Spirit you now entered a realm with no boundaries or limitations, a realm where God is able to do above and beyond all that you could have ever asked or thought of? Oh but how often man comes along and tries to talk you out of that realm with words of doubt and fear because of their limited carnal thinking, trying to justify and make excuses for their fallen nature. While mankind judges according to the outward and many claim that by being rich they are blessed of God, the Lord had a different take on it when confronted with the rich man in the above verses. Back in those times, just as it is today, the rich are looked up to in this world and given special privileges, while in reality all our Lord is concerned with is the motive of our heart. While mankind has come up with thousands and thousands of denominations and interpretations for God’s plan of salvation, the word of God is quite clear to point out that there is only one Lord and one faith that will be accepted by our Father. Knowing the difference between what God says is possible, and what man says is a life and death matter. Because in the end only one interpretation will allow you access to your eternal inheritance, while anything else will be turned away at the door. Luke 18:28-30 Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee. (29) And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, (30) Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting. (KJV) We see Peter being a bit concerned where he stands with the Lord, having just found out that being rich was not all it was cracked up to be, especially when so many of the greedy Scribes and Pharisees had been preaching it. Is there a doctrine, teaching, or ritual you are still holding to that is contrary to what you know is truth, even if it is something that is popular with the world? Is there something or someone you see in verse 29 that is holding you back in your walk, something that still has more of an influence on you than God does? I bring this up for the same reason the Lord did, because no man can serve two masters, or as the word of God points out, a house divided will fall. When the word of God refers to receiving more in this present time, are you looking to the outward and judging according to that realm, or are you thinking in line with what the Lord intends for His people, all the treasures of His wisdom and knowledge? You wonder why your walk with the Lord seems stale and at a standstill at times, or maybe right now? It may be time to do a personal inventory, to make sure that something you may still be holding onto that our Lord is saying is impossible for you to move forward with, is now something you may possibly need to let go of in order to receive a full reward from Him. But know this, the enemy is going to fight you to hang onto these dead things, trying to get you to focus on what you are missing out on, and not on the blessings God has in store for your obedience. Know this too, that the longer you hang onto something our Lord says is dead the more you become like the thing He is asking you to let go of, or forsake. Hebrews 11:6-7 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. (7) By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. (KJV) Mankind has developed so many religions and different ways which they think they can please God with; when in reality it simply comes down to faith, your ability to personally hear the message of God delivered by Christ, and let His spirit lead and guide you through this present evil world. We see a man named Noah and read the account of how he built this ark, but did you ever stop and think of the ridicule and persecution this man must have endured? Talk about letting God be true and man the liar, it was only Noah and his family, eight souls that made it through the flood because He chose faith. Doesn’t the word of God describe the end times and the coming of our Lord as being similar to the days of Noah; so if it was faith in what man said was impossible, would it not be possible to say that only faith today will provide the deliverance as well? Romans 9:31-33 But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. (32) Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone; (33) As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. (KJV) Even God’s original chosen people continue this day to try to worship our Lord according to the works of the law and not by faith; which the Lord said without faith it would be impossible to please Him. As I look around today I still see many who hold to outward laws and rituals, some claiming that you have to show up to certain buildings on certain special days or you won’t be saved. Bottom line, unless you have a personal relationship with God through a working knowledge of His Son Jesus Christ you are none of His, but rather operating in a realm our Lord clearly says is impossible to please Him in. With God, all things are truly possible to them that believe, while anything else is telling God He is the liar and man is true, yikes. Matthew 12:30 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad. (KJV) There is truly a difference between what man says is possible and what God has to say on the matter; now the question is, who will you hold to? If there is anything or anyone you are trying to hold onto that has more of an influence on you than God, then it will be impossible to serve Him. However if you are willing to sell out from the ways of the world and all its worldly people then you will find that all things are now possible for you, because you are willing to believe in someone greater in you than he that is within the world. Someday all mankind is going to find out that God is true, it was mankind and his fallen nature that chose to believe the lie, so why not let that be today? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. James 1:17-18 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. (18) Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. (KJV)
Why should you expect the best? How about the fact that you serve the best, someone who always has your best interest at heart. When mankind was in dire need of a savior God gave us His best in the form of His Son Jesus Christ to restore the fellowship between us and Him, and give us the gift of life. When the answer to your prayers manifest you know it is of God because there is not a shadow of doubt that it came from Him and was just what you needed; at times above and beyond what you could have ever thought of or asked for. We have been reborn into a new realm of the Spirit by the word of truth so that we could tap into the tree of life and bring forth the fruit of the Spirit, now becoming rooted and grounded in the love of God which is shed abroad in our hearts. So when you come before the throne of God and make your requests, do you truly expect the best or are your prayers like throwing dice, hoping you will get a good roll? Romans 11:16-22 For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. (17) And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; (18) Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. (19) Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in. (20) Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear: (21) For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee. (22) Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off. (KJV) You know Church this tree you have been grafted into is not one of chance or luck, but rather a sure thing to those that partake of it. Actually you are grafted into the tree of life which is Christ so that you can now be an active participant in a new life. A branch can break off a tree because of high winds, or in the case of a believer winds of doctrine that blow through which causes one to doubt and speak words that cut them off from the source of life. What is the cause for the branch being broke off; simple unbelief. What allows you to continue to partake of the root and fatness of the tree; simple faith. The more one stays attached to this tree of life the more deeply rooted and grounded they become in it and bear the fruit of it as well. God is no respecter of persons and didn’t play favorites with His natural branches which were the Jews, and He has now allowed any and all that would call upon the name of the Lord to be saved and partake of this new life in Him. As long as you continue to remain rooted and grounded in the love of God partaking of this tree of life you to should be expecting the goodness of God in your life. Psalms 23:4-6 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. (5) Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. (6) Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. (KJV) There are times that our carnal minds wander in the depths of despair, a shadow of death because we have allowed something to block the light from shining in. As a true believer in Christ one should be retraining, renewing their mind to think like our Lord, reminding ourselves that we are the head and should quit acting like the tail end. So once one is able to get their mind out of the gutter, that valley or low point in their walk, and recover themselves they are able to clearly see the answer the Lord has for them in verses 5&6. We have all experienced heartache and frustration in the past; trying to find peace in the dead realm of the flesh, exerting so much energy only to end up frustrated and defeated. Now that we are grafted into this new realm of the Spirit, a realm of victory, we need to be confident in the fact that surely, not maybe or possibly, goodness and mercy is now a part of my life and continues to follow me all, not just some of, the days of my life. God has prepared a table for you in His heavenly realm and is now seeking those that wish to be seated with Christ and partake of the meat of His word on a daily basis. The more you stay seated with Him the less you will be caught up and entangled with the things of this life, so that like with a branch, the fellowship won’t be broken again. Quite simply put, now that you are a part of the tree of life bringing forth the fruit of the Spirit you should continue to expect the best from our Lord and not expect the results you used to get from your past. 2 Corinthians 5:17-18 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (18) And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; (KJV) You are a new creature, a new creation in Christ, old failures, old results, old excuses are now passed away and your life should be a totally new experience, one of confidence and peace as well as a newfound inner strength that you never knew existed before. When you pray and make your requests to God through Jesus Christ, where there was once a shadow of doubt there should now be a new expectation of confidence, boldness, and assurance that your prayers are heard and answered. What was once a life of a day late and a dollar short is now replaced by an assurance that in all things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us. Instead of being a loser and ending up with the short end of the stick, I can now expect my cup to be running over with living waters which flow from the heart and bring new life and shed light where there was darkness and despair. Are you living in the new today or are you still holding to the past, stuck in a valley looking for the way out? Do you really expect the best from God? Then start giving Him your best effort, because with what measure you give His way will come back your way. Sometimes the reason we don’t see our way out of a situation is because we don’t spend enough time seated in the heavenly realm to hear the message delivered by Christ and we end up stooping to the ways of the world. You need to spend enough time in the word of God renewing the mind so that you can take words like ‘I can’t’ or ‘it just isn’t possible’ out of your vocabulary and replace it with words like ‘I can do all things through Christ’ or ‘with God all things are possible’, and nothing I mean nothing is impossible to those that believe. A new creation in Christ means that what was impossible to man in his fallen realm is now possible and should be expected by those that are a part of this new realm, a new life made possible by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ our Lord. Isaiah 42:8-9 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) You know, when you read the news of the world it is not really news or anything new, but rather the same negative things resulting from a fallen world. People fighting and warring trying to find peace in a realm the Lord said was dead, and there is no life. When one partakes of the word of God they are able to partake of a totally new realm, actually a realm where the victory is guaranteed before hand, with a promise of goodness and mercy all the days of our lives. If you give God your best then you can expect the best in return, letting His word be your one true source of life. Expect the best, because after all you serve the best. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 11:33-36 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! (34) For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor? (35) Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? (36) For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. (KJV)
Williams New Testament translation Romans 11:33-36 33. How fathomless the depths of God's resources, wisdom, and knowledge! How unsearchable His decisions, and how mysterious His methods! 34. For who has ever understood the thoughts of the Lord, or has ever been His adviser? 35. Or who has ever advanced God anything to have Him pay him back? 36. For from Him everything comes, through Him everything lives, and for Him everything exists. Glory to Him forever! Amen. Have you ever seen people that claim if someone gives to God or some of His so called preachers that God now owes them a hundredfold return? Hmmm, sounds deep don’t it, but not very deep in the true things of God, rather deep in something that requires hip boots to keep one unsoiled. Nobody has, ever will, and can truthfully claim they gave something first to God, and now God was indebted to them, because that would fall under the category of works and not grace which is what the true plan of salvation is based on. God is not limited by physical boundaries as man is, but rather has opened a treasure chest of wisdom and knowledge to any and all that would like to tap into it. While mankind has been the Lord’s personal advisor, or so they think, God is revealing Himself to those that are willing to worship Him in Spirit and according to His truth; those that know the only way to please God is by being willing and obedient to what He is asking and not what mankind keeps trying to dictate according to their own fallen nature and understanding. 1 Corinthians 2:6-7 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: (7) But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: (KJV) Iron sharpens iron; so when you speak of the wisdom of God you are speaking something that is hidden to the carnal man but clearly understood by those that are perfect, mature in the realm of the spiritual. The things of God are foolish to those of the world, thus we are told not to cast our pearls before the swine because they will not receive it, rather they mock the worthy name by which we are called by. So rather than going out and about thinking you will be heard for your much speaking and witnessing, learn when and how to speak and share the word of God so that you don’t do more harm than good, because once the swine are done with the pearls they will then turn and tear you to pieces as well. Ever wonder why the Lord kept silent when brought before his accusers, because He understood the wisdom of God and didn’t give them any more ammunition for them to use against Him. Ephesians 3:16-19 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; (17) That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, (18) May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; (19) And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. (KJV) What do you think of when you think of someone strong, do you picture some muscle bound person, those that are depicted as invincible? The true strength of God comes from the Spirit; the inner man that is rooted and grounded in the love of God which is only found in Christ. This is a deep knowledge that goes way beyond that of the flesh or carnal realm, one that few truly tap into and remain grounded in. The love of God passes and is way beyond our knowledge, as high as the heavens are above the earth, so much higher is this wisdom we have access to. Your strength is developed by how much you know the love of Christ, because the more you know of Him the more you see the true riches of God which is in our inner man, the confidence, assurance and boldness that we are one of His. 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. (10) But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. (KJV) There was a song in the seventies that went “how deep is your love”; a question every Christian needs to know for themselves; just how deep is their love and commitment with the Father. While many today talk about Jesus and portray him according to their carnal understanding, few know of Christ, the inner man that strengthened him and showed him how to operate in the wisdom and knowledge of God. If you wish to establish a deeper more personal relationship with the Father you too will need to come to a working knowledge of who Christ is, the inner man which takes you into the inner workings of God, the realm of the Spirit. Many talk of Jesus and base their belief according to the flesh, but those that wish to go deeper can only do so by a personal revelation of Christ, the only rock and foundation that the true Church is built on. It’s not the outward appearance that describes a person, but the hidden inward one is what determines who that person really is; so while many still see a man named Jesus after the flesh, it’s only those that know Christ that can truly define who He is and who they really are. So where are you looking for the answer to the mystery of the kingdom of God, is it in the outward or are you looking deeper within to find the true meaning? Colossians 1:25-29 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; (26) Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: (27) To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: (28) Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: (29) Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. (KJV) When one thinks of riches, one thing that comes to mind is a mine, where they have to dig deep to get to them. The riches of God are hid in Christ and in order to access them it has to be done through Him. The things of God, His wisdom and knowledge are hid from mankind; it is a mystery to those on the outside, but perfectly clear and visible to those that operate inside or inwardly. The mystery of God is, Christ, the unseen inward man working mightily in those who trust that greater is He that is within me than anyone or anything in the world. Do you desire to be strong in the Lord and the power of His might? Do you wish to know God on a deeper more intimate level, growing stronger and becoming more rooted and grounded in His word? Then one need only look inwardly to find the answer which is hid in Christ but ready to be revealed to any and all that would call on the Father through His Son. The things of God, His wisdom, knowledge, mercy and love are so much deeper and higher than anything we could ever think or imagine, so start digging. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. John 4:23-24 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. (24) God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. (KJV)
We have all seen pictures and paintings of how man sees God and tries to portray Him, mostly based on a physical interpretation. Many people claim they are worshipping God, which is carried out in many different ways, sometimes in songs or hymns, or other times I have seen people look to the ceiling and wave their arms thinking that is a form of worship. The fact is that God is a Spirit; a totally different realm than the one we are accustomed to, something mankind cannot comprehend on his own, but rather needs a personal revelation in order to understand God. Worshipping God is not some song and dance as many think, but rather in order to truly worship or reverence Him it has to be done in deed, or in other words it has to become a way of life in order to have fellowship with Him. Not only is God true to us in His word and promises, but He expects us to be true to Him as well, serving Him in love with the right motive of the heart. While many depict our Lord according to their own understanding, and compare God to man’s standards of how things are accomplished, God’s ways are so much higher and better than ours; something few experience because of their lack of trust in Him. Jesus Christ was a true worshipper of God because He walked according to the Spirit of Christ which led and guided Him on His path of life and brought a message of truth to a fallen mankind, thus the reason for all the opposition. Isaiah 55:8-11 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. (9) For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (10) For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: (11) So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. (KJV) God’s thoughts, His ways, His timing, is so much higher and better than ours; now the question is, how many will be still long enough to hear His voice and then act on what He is asking, even if it means patiently waiting as well? While the Spirit is willing and is at peace, it is our flesh and its impatient nature that says we need to act now; or with many they think their prayers were not answered because the results didn’t happen the way they thought it should. With many others they follow a predetermined path that is based more on their outward sight than their spiritual insight, thus keeping God in a denominational box and limiting Him. In order to walk in the Spirit you have to start thinking in the Spirit; a realm that is so much higher than ours, and totally different and contrary to the carnal way of thinking. How much more could God work through His people, and give them the confidence and assurance that they are one of His, if only they would let Him? We have all prayed about certain things in our life and were absolutely sure that we couldn’t live without them, so when it didn’t manifest the way we thought it would we think we are failures. Was it so much that you were a failure, or maybe that thing you were requesting wasn’t really what you needed or wasn’t beneficial to your walk, but rather would have been more of a detriment? As one matures in life they realize that there is a big difference between what they want and what they truly need, something the Lord knows and knew before the foundation of the world when He chose a place for us in His body of believers. Now the questions is, will you trust in the Lord with all your heart and not lean to your own understanding, letting His peace rule in all your decisions and not the outward appearance of things? Galatians 5:16-18 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. (17) For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. (18) But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. (KJV) Just because you were born again and had a personal experience with the Lord that brought you peace doesn’t mean you are on easy street, rather it is just the beginning of a brand new way of life. While the ways of man are limited by the flesh and its way of thinking, the Spirit of God is unlimited and without any boundaries. Now it is a matter of renewing your mind on a daily basis so that you can see more and more into the spiritual realm and allow God to do a work in you that no other man can do. We have the mind of Christ so that we are no longer under the law of sin and death, but rather under a law of faith which allows us access into the realm of the Spirit which is unlimited and unending to those that continue in it. While the disciples of our Lord were limited in their thinking and told Him they would have to go back to town and get provisions, it was the Spirit of Christ within Jesus of Nazareth that trusted that loaves of bread and a few fish would suffice. While some questioned our Lord concerning His timing and why He didn’t show up in time to save Lazarus, in the end God had a perfect plan and demonstrated His power and love through Jesus of Nazareth, so that not only did Lazarus resurrect from the dead, but it brought life to some of the others that were there and witnessed it as well. So what are you holding to as truth today, will you let God be true, and hold His word above and beyond what man says, or are you leaning more to your own understanding and doubting His word? The Spirit and the flesh are totally contrary one to the other, like a tug-of-war, only you have to decide for yourself which one you will hold to. 1 Corinthians 2:12-14 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. (13) Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. (14) But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. (KJV) Do you spend time daily in prayer and in the word of God so that you can let Him renew your mind and receive the things of His realm? God does not take spiritual things and give them to carnal people, because it is foolish to them. However, He does take spiritual things and compares or interprets it with spiritual people who are willing to walk in the Spirit and hold Him to be true, worshipping Him in spirit and in truth. There are many that claim to be of God and speaking on His behalf, that operate according to the natural man and its way of thinking, and may even have big followings also. But remember, that which is highly esteemed among mankind, in others words popular people pleasing doctrines, are an abomination in the sight of God. And what may have started out with good intentions is nothing more than the blind leading the blind into an eternal ditch. Psalms 92:4-6 For thou, LORD, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands. (5) O LORD, how great are thy works! and thy thoughts are very deep. (6) A brutish man knoweth not; neither doth a fool understand this. (KJV) A brutish man is referring to a stupid one; someone who thinks they know better than our Lord. Anytime we decide to lean to our own understanding we limit God as well. Have you ever had a small child contradict something you knew to be true, no matter what you said, they thought they knew better? Now compare that with the Lord; in other words, the creation telling the Creator He doesn’t know what He is talking about, or you know a better way, which would fall under the category of brutish. Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (KJV) Are you tired of walking in circles or like on a treadmill, lots of effort but you end up in the same place? Or maybe you are bound and determined to have things your way no matter what the Lord thinks, then you wonder why your walk with Him is stale or at a standstill. In order to walk in the Spirit you need to think in the realm of the Spirit, and be willing and obedient to what the Lord is asking despite what the outward would dictate, or how foolish it may seem to the many that hold to popular opinions and doctrines of man. God’s ways and thoughts are so much higher than ours with victory guaranteed beforehand; isn’t it time you mount up and start looking above for your answer? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:14-16 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ. (15) But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. (16) Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. (KJV)
Have you ever watched a show, a mystery where the main character is kept secret by not revealing their true identity until near the end of the program, then everything that was hidden all fits together and the mystery is solved? How about a work of art, a portrait of someone that was covered up until the unveiling, revealing the artist as well as who was portrayed in the painting. 2 Corinthians 3:14 [Which veil is done away in Christ.] It is only by acknowledging Christ that the darkness is removed, and the end and spiritual meaning of the law discerned. (from Adam Clarke Commentary) It takes a spiritual being to remove a spiritual veil, and that man is Christ, the one man that can give us an accurate portrayal of who God is and how we can worship Him in spirit and in truth. If any man has not the Spirit of Christ working in them, as well as a working knowledge of who He is, then the veil is still covering the heart and one is not able to see beyond their own carnal understanding. Thus why we see so many today still operating under the works of the old law and not understanding or discerning the spiritual meaning of it, and how it is done away in Christ. Christ is the end of the old law, having fulfilled all the law without sin and has come to introduce us to a new beginning in Him, a law of faith, a substance of things not seen by our fleshly sight but revealed to us through the Spirit. So today when we still see so many that are stuck on the works of the law, water baptisms, circumcisions or observing certain so called holy or holidays, we see the many that are blind to the truth and unable to truly access all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge which is only found in Christ. Romans 10:1-5 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. (2) For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. (3) For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. (4) For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. (5) For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those things shall live by them. (KJV) You are not going to find life in the old law because that is not the realm where our Lord operates. In fact the Bible is very clear to point out that the letter of the law and those that hold to it actually kill the meaning of God’s plan of salvation for His people; only those that operate in the realm of the Spirit will find life. Paul used Israel as an example for his time, but as one looks around today we have many that are still trying to establish their own righteousness according to their outward understanding because they have not submitted themselves to Christ and let Him lead and guide them in their search. So the ignorance we see today is a result of those that are still veiled, unable to see beyond the realm of the flesh, and not allowing the light of the glorious gospel of Christ to shine within. Where are you looking today for the one true answer that will bring peace to your life, is it still stuck in a carnal law that is dead, died, and should be buried, or is it in a risen Christ that is alive and well, seated at the right hand of the Father waiting for you to utilize all that God has for you? John 10:7-10 Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. (8) All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. (9) I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. (10) The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (KJV) Many people today see and speak of a man named Jesus and the wonderful works God did through Him. I have found that few have a working knowledge of Christ, the Son of the living God that was working within Him, the hidden man. The enemy has no problem with religion and those that claim to know Jesus and try to imitate him, but it is those that know Christ and the power in His name that have now become a target because they are able to access the kingdom of God through His door. A spiritual door requires a spiritual access code to gain entrance, and only the complete name of Jesus Christ will get you into the new realm and allow you to see the kingdom of God unveiled. Ever wonder why it is termed antichrist, why the devil fights so hard to steal, kill, and destroy the true meaning of the power in the name of Christ and what His name truly gives you access into? People can pray and teach all they want in the name of Jesus which tells me they are only half right and still veiled; but those that know the name of Christ are the ones that are complete in Him and able to see beyond the veil. Luke 8:16-17 No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light. (17) For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad. (KJV) Have you ever heard the advertisement for the motel chain that states that you are welcome and they will leave the light on? The light is on in heaven, and the true meaning of God’s word and plan of salvation is ready to be revealed to any and all that would enter in through His door so that they can see for themselves who they are in Christ. Everything that has been hid from mankind and kept secret because of sin is now readily accessible by the sacrifice of His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. It is a grand unveiling which not only unveils God’s true identity, but also shows you who you are in Christ and where you fit in concerning your place in the body of Christ. It is only a spiritual group of believers that will be able to understand a spiritual being and operate in accordance with His will and not by their own understanding. Romans 8:6-9 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. (8) 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. (KJV) As we clearly see it is our carnal mind and its understanding that is veiled and unable to access a life of peace. It takes the Spirit of Christ and an understanding of Him to access the kingdom of God and see all that has been hid in that realm. Without this Spirit of Christ we are none of His, but are just wandering around aimlessly in life, like the term ‘the blind leading the blind’. We have the mind of Christ, an enlightening of who we are in Him and the ability to access the kingdom of God through His name so that we no longer have to be on the outside of His kingdom looking in, but rather able to clearly see all that is available to His people. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. (18) But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. (KJV) Williams New Testament translation 2Corinthians 3:17-18 17. Now the Lord means the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 18. And all of us, with faces uncovered, because we continue to reflect like mirrors the splendor of the Lord, are being transformed into likeness to Him, from one degree of splendor to another, since it comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. Are you able to access all that the Lord has for you this day through the only door that gives us access, Jesus Christ? The Bible is clear to point out that there is no other name under heaven that is able to give us this, but the name of Jesus Christ. It takes a spiritual being to reveal a spiritual God, and only His spiritual name will give you access into His spiritual realm. Do you know the name by heart or is it still a mystery to you, or should I say still covered up? God’s word clearly says that there is one mediator between Him and us, that being Christ Jesus; now if that was good enough for Him, would it not be for you as well? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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