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2 Corinthians 2:17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ. (KJV)
Thayer’s definition for ‘which corrupt’: 2585 kapeleuo- 1) to be a retailer, to peddle 2) to make money by selling anything a) to get sordid gain by dealing in anything, to do a thing for base gain b) to "trade" (traffic) in the word of God; to try to get base gain by teaching divine truth c) to corrupt, to adulterate; peddlers were in the habit of adulterating their commodities for the sake of gain So if many have been called then why are there so few left to deliver God’s message of love? Could it be there is a different love and affection that has snuck in and taken over, a method that isn’t approved of God but a big hit with mankind? Even in the time of Paul’s ministry we see the word of God corrupted and peddled to the highest bidder; those that were called of God are now answering to mankind and catering to the highest bidders. As we see in the above verses it just wasn’t a few doing this stuff but many had sold out and allowed a breach in the Spirit, a spiritual virus that was infecting the early Church; and quite frankly as I look around today, has only gotten worse. Matthew 6:19-21 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: (20) But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: (21) For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (KJV) When looking at these verses one can see two points being made and the comparison being implied, like a parable. As moth and rust corrupt the physical riches over time, by getting caught up in this doctrine one has allowed the thief to break through spiritually and steal the truth, replacing it with heartache and misery. As rust can eat away and distort riches, so does the love for them eat away and distort our vision of what will truly bring peace and joy to the believer. So where your treasure is will determine the direction of the heart and its true intentions will be manifest. Matthew 6:22-24 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. (23) But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! (24) No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. (KJV) If your vision is not kept single, seeking only the things of God that will bring joy and peace, as well as a confidence and boldness to speak His word, then one will be walking in darkness; and what many have thought would bring them the answer ends up to be a dead end. The word of God is quite specific that no man can serve two masters because a double minded man is unstable and unable to receive the things of God or be entrusted with the truth to be used of Him. Remember it is the love of money, not money itself that is the root of all evil; and those that look to the things of this realm to find joy and peace will find that they have erred from the faith and are now drowning in destruction and despair. John 2:13-16 And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, (14) And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money sitting: (15) And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money, and overthrew the tables; (16) And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise. (KJV) Since when did the temple of God become a place of trade? The Lord set the example and quite emphatically let the people know where God stood on this doctrine of making merchandise of His word. And yet today as I look around, or flip through the religious channels, it is quite apparent that mankind has decided to set the tables back up with their endless money pitches and gimmicks. Folks if it didn’t work back then why would one think that God approves of this nonsense today? Remember that you are the temple of the living God and He dwells within you. So what is your true love today, and what is it you truly treasure in your life? Just because mankind decides that it’s okay, and just because someone has a big TV following doesn’t make it right; and according to the word of God it is not something our Father approves of either. 2 Peter 2:1-3 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. (2) And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. (3) And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not. (KJV) Oops, remember the many that were called? Well now we are seeing what happened to their calling and how they chose to respond. When I see the word feigned which means to fabricate, I think of all these phony hundredfold return doctrines that are promised to people that donate to these ministries preaching them; which in simple layman’s terms is nothing more than a pyramid scheme, where those on top get rich, and well we all know what runs downhill. Just because others have sold out and set up their tables in the temple doesn’t mean you have to fall for their guilt trips and pity party sermons of how much more they could do if they only had the loot, when they should be answering God’s call and teaching the people what God has already done on their behalf. Titus 1:9-11 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. (10) For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: (11) Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. (KJV) You know folks, you can’t buy your way into the kingdom but you can sell out. What is it going to profit you if you gain the whole world but lose your soul for an eternity? Many that have been called of God may have begun in the Spirit with good intentions, but tried to perfect it in the flesh by supposing gain was godliness, which the Bible says we should withdraw from, which includes our support. So put away your TV remote control and grab your Bible; start partaking of the true riches of the kingdom of God and don’t be taken in by these cheap hucksters who promise liberty but they themselves are the servants of corruption. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Proverbs 8:17-21 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me. (18) Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness. (19) My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver. (20) I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment: (21) That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures. (KJV)
What is the driving force in your life today, right now? Is it the things of God and His realm, or do the things of this life still have more pull and favor in your walk and your decisions? Although we are surrounded with the influences of a fallen world and so many cheap imitations of what will bring peace and contentment to one’s life, the true riches and honor are only found with God, the things of the Spiritual realm. Those that seek Him early, like the first thing in the day, will find the peace and confidence to take on the day victoriously no matter what the outward circumstances try to dictate. You will inherit a substance, a now faith confidence and assurance of things hoped for because you chose to follow and believe in the evidence of things not seen to the carnal man but readily revealed to those that are led of the Spirit. Where your treasure is will determine where your heart is. So are you seeking the durable riches of God’s wisdom and knowledge which are hid in Christ, or are you still under the assumption like so many others that the riches of this world will solve all your problems? Luke 4:1-2 And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, (2) Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered. (KJV) Have you seen those bumper stickers, T shirts, and other things that ask the question ‘what would Jesus Do’? Well the Bible gives us an accurate account of what He did; simply put, this man Jesus of Nazareth lived a life without sin, being obedient to His heavenly Father because He chose to be led by the Spirit of Christ within Him. So if people want to know ‘what would Jesus do’ all they have to do is open their Bibles and find out what He did. Now the question is, what are you going to do, and what is the driving force in your walk? We read in the Bible how Jesus would rise early in the day and spend time alone in prayer. The account in Luke shows what He did before beginning His public ministry, and the forty days preparing for it. How do you prepare for a day, do you spend enough time being still so that you can know God and what He is asking of you today? Don’t be so discouraged just because the tempter comes your way and tries to detour you back to the path of the flesh, because this is a true sign that you are on the right path and you are in good company. So many times we think just because there is opposition we have done something wrong; looking at the above illustration in Luke that is a lie and just what the enemy would like you to believe. So hold fast to your profession of faith today without wavering for God is faithful, and has promised that He would never leave us nor forsake us. Romans 8:14-18 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. (15) For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (16) The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: (17) And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (18) For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (KJV) Thayer’s definition for led 71 ago- 1) to lead, to take with one a) to lead by laying hold of, and this way to bring to the point of destination: of an animal b) to lead by accompanying to (into) a place c) to lead with oneself, to attach to oneself as an attendant d) to conduct, to bring 2) to lead, a) to lead, to guide, to direct b) to lead through, to conduct (to something) c) to move, to impel: used of forces and influences on the mind We read about the Lord and His preparation for the ministry God was asking Him to fulfill, and we also know the end result of it, that it was not well received by mankind, especially the religious crowd that claimed to be God’s followers. Today it hasn’t changed, in fact the Bible says perilous times await us because mankind’s fallen nature has manifested to the point where people are more in love with themselves and their own works than with the work of God that He accomplished on our behalf. So the more you are led of the Spirit the more you will be paddling up stream against the current, and that being the new wave doctrines of man that appeal to the flesh and not to the Spirit. But keep in mind that these light afflictions are what will seem like a moment compared to our eternal reward that awaits us. So don’t be discouraged or think that you did something wrong, that you brought this on yourself, but rather rejoice in the Lord and in the power of His might. 1 Peter 4:11-14 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. (12) Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: (13) But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. (14) If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. (KJV) When you speak the things of God you don’t have to try to impress anyone with some deep knowledge of the word of God or how the end times will play out, but rather speak from the heart in love the things that will edify and build up the body of Christ. And don’t think it so strange if the devil launches a fiery dart your way, but rather rejoice because you are in good company. The more you come to an understanding of the mystery of the gospel through the name of Christ the more reproach and evil will be spoken against you. But just like a soldier, the closer you get to the front line of battle, and the higher in rank you are, the more of a target you become to the enemy. So keep in mind that we all are still partakers of the spiritual blessings which are in Christ; but with this also comes the opposition to those that allow themselves to be led of the Spirit and are no longer in bondage to the desires of the flesh. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 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. Matthew 12:33-35 Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by his fruit. (34) O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. (35) A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. (KJV)
In this day and age when one looks around, they can easily see what the motive of man is, and how much emphasis has been placed on material things. Mankind puts bottom lines, corporate values, and monetary figures above their love for each other, and in the end as it is written, the love of many has waxed cold. Sad to say, this mindset has entered into many organizations that claim to be representing God, thus corrupting themselves as well as those that attend and support their folly. Matthew 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. (KJV) Try as many do, you can only serve one master at a time. Though many claim to be a servant of God, in order to truly stay one, you have to sell out totally to God and not to the things of this life. The root of all evil is the love of money, and where their treasure is, there will be the heart also, as well as their messages which are based more on monetary value rather than spiritual. And rather than tell people what they really need to hear, and teach what really needs to be taught, most have sold out and would rather teach and preach things that keep the seats filled, not to mention their own wallets, rather than the heart. 1 Timothy 6:3-5 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; (4) He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, (5) Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. (KJV) That’s all I hear lately, these money pitches and promises of prosperity and wealth. You know Church, you have been blessed with all spiritual blessings; a treasure chest of wisdom and knowledge from above so that you can walk in this confidence and not some false confidence based on money. Just because they have sold out, doesn’t mean you have to. So when they pitch this stuff at you about gain, which means money, getting acquisition, instead of looking for your wallets, that’s when you should start looking for the exit. Wake up people, out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks; and it doesn’t take long if one is listening, to tell where someone is coming from, and what the true motive of their heart is. You have been grafted into the tree of life which is able to give you an eternal inheritance. So don’t be misled, and don’t allow your relationship to be broken off and wither away because you chose to follow some empty doctrine which promises much and delivers nothing but heartache and misery. Proverbs 23:4-6 Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom. (5) Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven. (6) Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats: (KJV) Ever try to catch a bird? When I was younger I would try to sneak up on birds in the yard and see if I could catch one. Though at times it would seem I got close, they always made their escape and eluded me. The same holds true with these birdbrain doctrines of man; they claim to be sharing the bread of life, but the only bread they truly desire is what they can get the congregation to cough up, and how much they can get out of them. I have heard it said ‘a fool and his money are soon parted’; and obviously many corrupt individuals have figured this out and brought it into the religious realm; having found out that, rather than take the time to hear the Lord for themselves and establish a foundation for salvation, many would take the word of some cheap huckster and let him dictate to them how to live and at what cost, which by the way keeps going up. 1 Peter 1:22-23 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: (23) Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. (KJV) It’s the truth of God’s word that brought you into His kingdom, and it is only His incorruptible Word that will keep you in it. The riches of this life are short lived, but the riches and glory that is available to those that put their trust in the Lord will abide forever. See that you walk in love as our Lord is love; and those that are truly His will be preaching and teaching an uncompromised message of love based on your spiritual outcome and not their own financial one. Matthew 12:34 O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. (KJV) Do you know what a viper is? It refers to a poisonous snake, which usually is unseen, but sneaks up on its prey quietly before it strikes. Many unsuspecting, oftentimes newborn Christians, find themselves in a snake pit as well, and don’t realize the poisonous doctrines that are striking them in the heart, which can paralyze and lead to death. Unless one takes the time in the word of God and makes it their priority in life, they too may end up getting bit with the venom of the enemy, and never see it coming because they became lazy and dull of hearing. Ephesians 4:29-30 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. (30) And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. (KJV) Those that know the Lord and love Him with all their heart are those that do not wish to do anything displeasing to our Father or His people. Our motives and our words should be only to build up others and bring them closer to the Lord, not mislead them with empty self serving doctrines. If you continue to grieve the Holy Spirit and not do those things that are pleasing to God, don’t expect to be too pleased with your outcome either when you go to seek His reward come the day of reckoning. You have a choice this day, right now, and what comes out of the mouth will expose what your true motivation is. Will you speak of the Lord and lift Him up, or will you lower yourself and your standards and speak of the devil? God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 13:44-46 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. (45) Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: (46) Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. (KJV)
What would you do if you won the lottery? You would double, triple, quadruple check your winning numbers over and over, again and again, making sure it was real. You would then imagine the new life you could be living, a life of freedom to do what you want when you want however you want with no concern about the cost. You might hire a lawyer, seek financial counsel, basically you would do all you could to collect on the winnings, and protect your investment. Spiritually you have a winning ticket, Jesus Christ is the first born of many brethren, which gives you access to all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge from above, an eternal life of joy, peace and freedom, your debt completely paid in full. How much do you treasure this gift, and what are you willing to do to maintain your winning ticket? Are you willing to sell out and let go of anything and anyone that would stand in your way and hinder you from collecting your winnings? Which do you hold in higher esteem, the short term self interest rewards of this earth, or the eternal things of the spiritual realm? Where your treasure is there will your heart be. Hebrews 6:4-6 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, (5) And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, (6) If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame. (KJV) Could you imagine if you were poor and struggling trying to raise a family, knowing you had a winning lottery ticket that would take care of all your financial need, only to find out you misplaced it or lost it by neglect, and could not collect on the reward? Now think of the spiritual realm which is much greater than this physical one, to have access to an eternal inheritance, only to find out that you let it slip through your hands, and be blown away with winds of doctrines? You too would be put to an open shame, knowing what you had access to, what was rightfully yours, knowing it was your choice to fall away and not follow through with the terms and conditions set forth to receive your reward of inheritance. Salvation is there for the taking, this day, right now. Have you done all to stand this day and follow through with what He requires so you won’t fall away? Just like with a lottery ticket, no one is going to print you up a new one; the same holds true with salvation, the Lord is not going to rewrite His plan, or bend and change so you can fit in. God is not going to send another Saviour. If you don’t accept His plan, you don’t get His reward. Luke 16:8 And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. (KJV) If you wish, you may go back and read the whole account of the unjust steward, it basically refers to a person who had control of a rich man’s finances, and how he was wasting it. So when the time came to give account of it, he had to correct it by being diligent with what he was in charge of. I use verse 8, because of the second part of it, comparing the children of the world to the children of light. We as Christians are the children of light; what a statement to make to the Church; yet it is due to our own lack of diligence at times for the gift of life we have been given. Let me share this example… Luke 16:8 [Children of light] Those who have been enlightened from above-- who are Christians. This may be considered as the application of the parable. It does not mean that it is more wise to be a worldly man than to be a child of light, but that those who "are" worldly show much prudence in providing for themselves; seize occasions for making good bargains; are active and industrious; try to turn everything to the best account, and thus exert themselves to the utmost to advance their interests; while Christians often suffer opportunities of doing good to pass unimproved; are less steady, firm, and anxious about eternal things, and thus show less wisdom. Alas! this is too true; and we cannot but reflect here how different the world would be if all Christians were as anxious, and diligent, and prudent in religious matters as others are in worldly things. (from Barnes' Notes) Have you ever seen the casinos in Las Vegas, how well protected they are. They have to upgrade their security on a daily basis to keep up with the con men and thieves of this world. How diligent they are to protect their riches, and how quick they are to confront and remove those that would try to steal from them. And yet for the gift we have been given, are we as a Church anywhere near as diligent, to protect ourselves with the armor of God, and quick to confront and cast out anything that would try to come into the Lord’s temple and steal our treasure? How about a bank, with all the security and bank vaults, how well protected they keep their banks to insure themselves from being robbed. Unless one stays alert and upgrades their spiritual protection on a daily basis, they will end up being robbed and pilfered of all the treasures the Lord gave His life for to provide for His children. So what is it you truly treasure this day, and what are doing with your winning ticket to heaven? Luke 16:9-11 And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations. (10) He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. (11) If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? (KJV) If you are still hanging on to the things of this life, you will not be able to inherit those of the next one. Do you choose personal wealth over the wealth of others? If you had a choice of a multimillion dollar lottery ticket or a ticket to heaven, which one would you really choose? Which would you consider of more value? Are you willing to let go of the old so that you can partake of the new? Many fail because they choose the things of this life over those of the next one; loving money and falling into covetousness which the Bible says is idolatry. What would the Church be like if we were as diligent to protect our spiritual assets, as the world is to protect its financial ones? Which prize are you truly pressing toward, and are you willing to do all that is required to receive it? It’s your pick. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 2 Corinthians 8:9 For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. (KJV)
What our Lord considers rich compared to what man thinks, is as different as night and day. Matthew 6:19-21 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is there will your heart be also. (KJV) There is a spiritual thief who would like to break into our spiritual house today and rob the Church blind by diverting mans’ attention from above back to this world again. Your heart will only treasure what you put into it and that will determine which realm you will love the most. Matthew 6:22-24 The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. 23 But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! 24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. (KJV) The enemy today has many deceiving and being deceived because they have turned a blind eye to the truth thinking something in this carnal realm could ever supply all their need. Given the fact that we came into this world with nothing and we can’t take anything with us upon our departure, why are so many still chasing the cheap carnal mirages of the enemy? Matthew 6:25-27 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are ye not much better than they? 27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? (KJV) The theme of this week has been our own thoughts and ways, and how foolish they really are as compared to what our Lord has to offer. Why would you spend so much time and heartache chasing things that God said He will provide for His people? If He says He feeds the fowls of the air, then will he not provide for you also? James 2:5 Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? (KJV) Hey Church, I know this sounds a bit contrary to all the other stuff you have been getting bombarded with, but why not become rich in something you can actually take with you, being rich in faith. You want a hundredfold return? Well, I would rather have the Lord’s reward of eternal life anytime, compared to what man has to offer which is just the mammon of this life that is highly flammable to say the least. Luke 12:26-28 If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest? 27 Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 28 If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith? (KJV) You know all these money pitches that man keeps putting on the front burner, making it appear to be so important? The reality is that in our Lord’s realm this should be the least of your concerns. Luke 16:10-11 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. 11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? (KJV) Why not let God be true today and every man a liar? That’s the least we can do. God bless dearly loved, and have a very prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 6:21-23 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. 22 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! (KJV)
There is no escaping the simple fact that as a man thinks in his heart, so is he. I listen to many who claim to be Christian, however, they sound just like the world when they think the treasures of this life exceed those that are now available in Christ. They are of the world and they speak just like those of this fallen world. Ephesians 1:17-19 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what the hope of his calling is, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, (KJV) The Lord lit a candle in heaven and then told His people that there is nothing hid anymore, but all that He has is available to us. Once you have been enlightened and made aware of this it is vital that you continue your search above, singular, and no longer settle for things below. Notice that what you get to partake of is some real powerful stuff which is considered riches. If you had a winning lottery ticket you would be all over it and cashing it in? Why not cash in on your spiritual ticket, you know the only one that will get you an eternal reward? Proverbs 27:19-20 As in water face answers 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) No matter how many different ways you look at carnal waters, you are only going to get the same carnal reflection. Why not take a look at some living waters and see who is looking back at you? Wouldn’t it be a blessing if the reflection you see is Christ Himself looking back at you? Colossians 3:1-3 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sits on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. (KJV) We end this week where we began, setting our affection on things above no longer trying to serve two masters. Thayer's definition for 'affection': 5426 phroneo- (1) To have understanding, to be wise (2) to be of the same mind, that is, agreed together, to cherish the same views, to be harmonious. 1 Corinthians 2:15-16 But he that is spiritual judges 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) Have you ever tried instructing the Lord thinking you knew better? That is called sin and something we all are guilty of and fall short in. Why not just reverse that order and see how to operate in the wisdom and knowledge of God, not only in word, but in deed also. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. James 3:13-16 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? Let him show out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. 14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom descended not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. (KJV)
Throughout the Word when you see the term wise and wisdom it refers to skilled, those that know how to be doers and not hearers only. Knowledge is what you know and have been made aware of; it’s being able to walk in it, and that is the part that alludes many. Sometimes a wise man can become not so wise and derailed when they get a bit puffed up and think that the wisdom they have attained came from any other source than Christ Himself. I have seen strife rear its ugly head with those that knew better at one time, which then leads to a lot of confusion and things that are not of God. Psalm 15:1-3 LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in thy holy hill? 2 He that walks uprightly, and works righteousness, and speaks the truth in his heart. 3 He that backbites not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor takes up a reproach against his neighbor. (KJV) The whole idea of salvation is that you abide with our Lord to the end. In fact the Word is very specific that only those that endure to the end will be saved. Many begin in the Spirit and walk in wisdom for a season; however, many get taken back down with a root of bitterness when they begin to wrestle with flesh and blood. You may hear and see things in others that you know is not of the Lord, however, the wisdom that is from above may be asking you to hold your tongue rather than making a public proclamation to others. Matthew 7:2-5 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. 3 And why behold thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considers not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shall thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. (KJV) Maybe the reason you have been demoted is because something you saw in someone else was something you have been ignoring in your own walk. Maybe instead of rejoicing with someone who you thought was not worthy of a breakthrough or victory in their walk is something you need to look in your spiritual mirror for the answer as to why it is rubbing you the wrong way like sandpaper on an open wound. Galatians 6:1-3 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 2 Bear you one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. 3 For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. (KJV) Why doesn’t the Lord use me instead of them, am I not more spiritual than others? Well not if you are still leaning to your own wisdom. 1 Corinthians 3:3-4 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? 4 For while one says, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollo’s; are ye not carnal? (KJV) The wisdom from above will keep you from falling for childish things which keep many in a daycare facility rather than moving on to maturity in Christ. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Colossians 4:5-6 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. 6 Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. (KJV)
I have looked at the term wisdom and knowledge throughout the Bible, and have at times wondered what the difference is. I think of wise when looking at wisdom, and I see the word know in knowledge. Many may come to an understanding of salvation and what our Lord has done on their behalf which is knowledge; however, how many have the wisdom to actually walk in it and get results? Colossians 1:9-10 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; (KJV) Being doers of the Word and not hearers only is what gets results in your walk. You should be fruitful daily and not just once in a while like salvation is some hit or miss plan. Many hear things and learn about what the Lord and His people have experienced throughout the Bible, but few know how to really walk in victory consistently expecting nothing short of it. 1 Corinthians 1:17-19 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. 18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. 19 For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. (KJV) Today the preaching of the cross, dying to self and no longer leaning to your own carnal limited understanding, is foolish to many. It is up to you personally to get to know our Lord and then step out in faith despite how foolish it may seem to you at times. Faith without works is dead. Proverbs 3:5-7 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 7 Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. (KJV) Well nothing seems to be happening in my walk lately, or I just sense that the Lord is not answering my prayers. Because many are not willing to let go of their carnal comfort zones and step out in faith is why the standstill is taking place. You seem to want to lean more to your outward senses than your inward ones which is why there is no progress taking place. 1 Corinthians 3:18-20 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seems to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He takes the wise in their own craftiness. 20 And again, The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain. (KJV) It all comes down to the simple fact that you cannot grab hold of the new life until you let go of the old one. So if you desire to walk in our Lord’s wisdom then you will have to walk away from your own. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Matthew 6:19-21 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: 20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: 21 For where your treasure is there will your heart be also. (KJV)
When you limit your attention to the things of this world you are getting robbed and ripped off by the enemy. Even though you may have made a commitment to our Lord and walked in victory for a season, that season comes to an end when you revert your attention back to the things of this life. Colossians 2:2-3 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. (KJV) No wonder the enemy is up in arms and making such a fuss; look at all that is on the table and there for the taking for the Christian; a full assurance of understanding; wow that’s something I wasn’t able to experience in my past life; and an acknowledgement of the mystery, something that has been hidden, but is now made manifest for God’s people to partake of. Verse 3 gives us a clear illustration of what the greatest treasure there is available in this universe, that being the wisdom and knowledge in Christ. Is this something you really treasure or do you think that this is something that is only available to your pastor, or other people? Colossians 2:3-4 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) These Spiritual treasures are hidden just like earthly treasures, and need to be dug out and diligently searched for; and as soon as you go looking to our Lord for this treasure, the thief as is in verse 4 will come along and do all he can to talk you out of your reward. Proverbs 2:1-3 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 cry after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; (KJV) The Bible is specific in which realm we need to seek first on a daily basis, and that would be the kingdom of God. It’s when you make our Lord your first priority that then He in turn makes your requests a priority. Many get this order backward, thinking they will find something in the outward first and then get to the God stuff later. Proverbs 2:4-5 If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; 5 Then shall thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. (KJV) Mankind stops at nothing in their pursuit of carnal things, yet just think what kind of church we would have if the order was reversed, seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness? Why not find out for yourself what God considers to be real treasure instead of settling for all the vain religious nonsense the majority settles for. Romans 10:1-4 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 everyone that believeth. (KJV) I have encountered many who appear to have a zeal for God, you know the ones that sing and dance, and can jump a pew? However, all that is a waste of time without knowing who they are in Christ and then operating according to His wisdom. Many of these folks still claim they are saved by grace, and then become a disgrace when they revert back to the silly, dead, lifeless works of the law. Proverbs 2:6-8 For the LORD gives wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding. 7 He lays up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly. 8 He keeps the paths of judgment, and preserves the way of his saints. (KJV) Without faith, or another way of looking at it, without operating in the wisdom and knowledge of God it is impossible to please Him. So please give more ear to the things above and you won’t be let down by the things below. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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