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1 Corinthians 1:26-29 For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: (27) But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; (28) And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: (29) That no flesh should glory in his presence. (KJV)
Don’t be offended and don’t take it personal that the Lord didn’t call you based on your wisdom and strength. Salvation is not like filling out an application for a job, where the employer is looking for the most qualified employee based on their ability and wisdom. Just the opposite holds true with the Lord; His calling is based on the heart, and what the heart treasures and who the heart truly desires to serve. So don’t think that God chose you because you are the wisest person He could find or because of your standing in the world or in the community, but rather because you realized that you are weak and unable to attain salvation on your own. The more you keep this mindset, humility is another word that describes this, the more God is able to use you. 2 Corinthians 8:10-12 And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago. (11) Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. (12) For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. (KJV) God called you and accepted you for who you are, not for someone you think you should be; rather now you need to pattern your life according to His will, and walk in the realm of the Spirit. All God asks and will ask is that there is a willingness to follow His path based on His word, letting that be your strength, and not how man measures strength and ability. The more you realize how weak you really are on your own, the more you will find strength in what the Lord has done on your behalf; not like many others who think they are strong because they think they are doing so much on His behalf. 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. (8) For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. (9) And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (10) Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. (KJV) Paul had his own issues to deal with, which he described as a thorn in the flesh. What that thorn was, has been speculated for 2 thousand years. One thing we know, Paul had a past that dealt with mistreating Christians, and knowing from my own personal experiences the devil likes to remind people of their past and its shortcomings. So the fact that Paul was able to come to the conclusion that our salvation is based on grace and not of works, which leaves no room for boasting is one reason why God was able to use this man to write a good portion of the epistles. Now being weak doesn’t mean we run and hide, but rather you understand more and more that the Spirit is truly willing it’s our flesh, our carnal mind and understanding that is weak. Paul found his strength in the completed work Jesus Christ did on his behalf, and not the completed work many claim they are doing on the Lord’s behalf. It doesn’t matter how many scriptures you can quote, how many sermons you preach, or how big a congregation you have built, it all comes down to a simple loving obedience to our Lord, and the complete work He has done and is continuing to do within those that are willing to follow His example. You can have all knowledge and faith to move mountains but if you do not have love, a relationship based on trust and commitment with the Father, it will profit you nothing. So where is your strength coming from today; in what the word of God says, a path you are walking by faith, or are you leaning to your own understanding by what you think will make you strong, or should I say head strong as so many are? Galatians 4:12-14 Brethren, I beseech you, be as I am; for I am as ye are: ye have not injured me at all. (13) Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first. (14) And my temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus. (KJV) Obviously Paul had dealt with this infirmity, as we see it written about again, and was humble enough to let the people know that he was just as human as they were. Sometimes those that God has called think they have to come off as bulletproof and invincible which makes it hard for others to relate to them. Yes it is important to be strong in the Lord and the power of His might, but being able to relate to the people through your own experiences can be an inspiration as well as opportunity for them to open up and share things that they have had to deal with, their own infirmity and temptation in their flesh. Remember, when it came time for those without sin to cast the first stone no one did. So keep in mind the same compassion God has dealt you; how longsuffering and patience can go a long way to helping someone remove and get past their own thorns in the flesh. 1 Corinthians 9:20-23 And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; (21) To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. (22) To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. (23) And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you. (KJV) Now you don’t have to go back under the old law or become a Jew to relate to a Jew; but rather you hear the Lord, and put yourself in their place, where they are at, so that you can let the Lord minister through you effectively. To the weak; I am reminded myself of times when I have been weak, and how I trusted more in my own abilities and works than the working of the Lord that He was trying to work in me, or what I call the sins and shortcomings of my youth, when I used to let the devil paint a picture in my mind of all the things I was missing out on, and how much better my life would be if I could have the things I desired. The only problem is that the devil doesn’t show us the consequences, which when the tab comes it’s always much bigger and lasts much longer than the short term thrill ride we took in the flesh. Being weak; staying out of the way, not leaning to your own understanding is a good thing, and one that will allow you to see your calling more clearly, and let the Lord minister through you more effectively. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 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. Strong’s definition for ‘will’:
NT:2307 thelema (thel'-ay-mah); from the prolonged form of NT:2309; a determination (properly, the thing), i.e. (actively) choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination: KJV - desire, pleasure, will. Thayer’s definition for ‘will’: 1) What one wishes or has determined shall be done
As you can see, it can be your will or God’s will but it can’t be both. You are either with Him and in His will, or you are against Him and not in His will. You cannot server God and mammon. You cannot serve your own will as well as His, they are contrary to one another. One will get you into His kingdom and righteousness and the other (your will) will leave you on the outside looking in. It is your choice. John 6:38-40 For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. (39) And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. (40) And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. (KJV) John 5:30-32 I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me. (31) If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true. (32) There is another that beareth witness of me; and I know that the witness which he witnesseth of me is true. (KJV) Jesus Christ was sent here to do our heavenly Father’s will…His will be done in earth as it is in heaven. It is His will that we would do the same. That of all that our Father has given us, that we should lose nothing but the son of perdition (our old nature), and be raised up a Spiritual being that can be raised up the last day and presented unto our Father without spot or blemish, wearing our robe of righteousness, our wedding garment adorned in Christ. Deuteronomy 30:19-20 I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: (20) That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him: for he is thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them. (KJV) Those shall have life that choose it: those that choose the favour of God and communion with him for their felicity, and prosecute their choice as they ought, shall have what they choose. (Matthew Henry’s Commentary) Shall have what they choose (1Corinthians 3:21-22, Matthew 16:19, 16:24-28). Life or death, the choice is yours. What’s on your shopping list? Those that come short of life and happiness must thank themselves; they would have had it if they had chosen it when it was put to their choice: but they die because they will die; that is they do not like the life promised upon the terms proposed. (Matthew Henry Commentary) So what will your choice be? Whose will, will you seek and fulfill? Something to ponder dearly loved. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Peter 1:3-5 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fades not away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. (KJV)
You have a lot to look forward to Church, even though at times it may seem a struggle and a bit gloomy. If you continue in the faith and hold on to the end, you see that you have an eternal inheritance and a reserved seat in heaven with your name on it. However, in order to keep in good standing with God it will have be by His power and strength that you get there and not by you leaning back to your own. So take joy in the fact that we are much closer to the end of this temporal life and getting ready to begin our eternal inheritance. Ephesians 1:10-12 That in the dispensation of the fullness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: 11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who works all things after the counsel of his own will: 12 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. (KJV) You want to put your trust first in Christ because He is the firstborn of all the family in heaven. This man was the first born again man as well as the first one to inherit His eternal reward. Now He is seated at the right hand of God ready, willing, and able to show you the way to get there. Can you think of someone better or more qualified than Jesus Christ? In fact if it was good enough for God to put His Son in that position wouldn’t it be good enough for you too? Colossians 1:12-14 Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us, meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: 13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: (KJV) How about a bit more thanksgiving today instead of looking so down and out; we have been delivered from the power of darkness and taken to the highest place in the universe, heaven itself. With a deal like that what could possibly go wrong? Hebrews 9:14-15 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? 15 And for this cause he is the mediator of the New Testament that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. (KJV) There should only be one mediator between you and God, and that is Christ Jesus Himself. Learn who He is personally and quit relying on second hand information from carnal people. The more you get to know Him personally the more you will get to know who you really are. Sometimes we are our own worst enemies when we try to achieve peace and contentment any other way than through Christ. John 17:23-24 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. 24 Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou loved me before the foundation of the world. (KJV) This was our Lord’s prayer shortly before leaving this realm. This whole chapter sums up the will of God and what He desires for His people. Have you have taken a seat in the heavenly realm to hear personally what is rightfully yours for the taking? Dearly loved, our Lord asked ‘Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am’; you are the ‘whom’ so remain seated so that you are able to soar above the cares and concerns of this life and enter into eternal life. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:15-17 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 bears witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: 17 And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (KJV)
Strong’s definition for ‘joint-heirs - 4789 sugkleronomos (soong-klay-ron-om'-os); From 4862 and 2818; a co-heir, i.e. (by analogy) participant in common: KJV-- fellow (joint) - heir, heir together, heir with. Along the way home there will be suffering in your walk, but our Lord is right there with you all the way, reminding you of how He was able to overcome any situation that arose. All He is asking is that you spend quality time with Him daily, hearing His word of encouragement so you will not give ear to a spirit of fear. Many desire to be glorified with our Lord to receive their eternal reward and take their rightful place with God; however, few desire to do what it takes here on earth to get there, which at times, can be hard on the flesh. 1 Peter 4:1-2 Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; 2 That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. (KJV) Christ is in a good place today; however, in order to get seated at the right of God He had to have the right frame of mind to get there. The enemy loves to show the highlight reels of sin; like a movie trailer he tries to talk man out of his inheritance with cheap lusts of the flesh. The problem with that is that the enemy leaves out the part about the consequences; which is, if you decide to attend the screenings, it may leave you out of your inheritance. Ephesians 3:4-7 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) 5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; 6 That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel: 7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power. (KJV) You know when you said yes to our Lord you inherited real power in your life. The reason Paul was used by our Lord is because he was able to put the gospel into effect in his own life. Is the power of God having more of an effect and influence on you today, or did you decide to inherit something far inferior? Hebrews 11:8-10 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. 9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: 10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. (KJV) The just shall live by faith, believing more in the unseen realm than the outward one. Abraham was a man of faith and he associated himself with likeminded people. So today, which inheritance has your attention, the inward or the outward? Dearly loved, set your affection on things above, not on the things of this life. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Revelation 2:26-29 And he that overcomes, and keeps my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations: 27 And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. 28 And I will give him the morning star. 29 He that hath an ear let him hear what the Spirit says unto the churches. (KJV)
The Lord doesn’t expect us to just eek by in this life. It’s His desire to see His people be over comers, not underachievers. Now the Lord would not ask that of His people unless they had access to the power from above. With all that has been done on our behalf and provided by the sacrifice of our Lord, there is no reason to show up at the reading of the will and not be able to give an account of a life of victory. Revelation 20:4-6 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. 5 But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. 6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. (KJV) Are you tired and fed up with picking up the paper and seeing some of man’s judgments being passed down on us, things you know are not of God and not something you desire to lend your support to; or how about the so called justice system where they let the perpetrators walk free on technicalities? Well one of the things that you will inherit someday is you get to be the judge, and have a say in how things are going to be run. 1 Corinthians 6:2-3 Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? And if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? 3 Know ye not that we shall judge angels? How much more things that pertain to this life? (KJV) Again we see that part of our inheritance involves us being in a position of judging or discerning matters. It is vital you learn to make those judgments based on love and not emotions or anger. You need to learn discernment now because like with employers of this life, our Lord is looking for experienced people to fill those positions. Matthew 19:27-29 Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? 28 And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, that ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. (KJV) It is a requirement of us, His church, to bring forth of the fruit of the Spirit hundredfold, or full maturity. The fruit that our Lord desires to see is spiritual; not carnal as man has twisted things, making it seem like God owes us a hundredfold in the form of mammon. Again we see that part of our inheritance is a seat of judgment where things will be in order as our Lord would like to see it operating. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Galatians 1:4-7 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: 5 To whom be glory forever and ever. Amen. 6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. (KJV)
This week we are looking at our inheritance, what it involves and how we can obtain what our Lord died to give us access to. As we see above some started out according to the will of God, but were derailed by evil communications. The company we keep can have an eternal influence. In fact Paul was a bit amazed at how quickly some had jumped ship soon after he left. Ephesians 5:5-7 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. 7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them. (KJV) There is a lot of spiritual adultery taking place in organizations that call themselves a church. They claim to be of God, but are just like those of the world and are more concerned with carnal riches than eternal ones. Take notice of the warning in verse 7 because guilt by association is the downfall of many. 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) Many profess to know God, but in works or lifestyle they deny Him. That earthly or fleshly part of the equation has to be done away with so that Christ’s righteousness can show up with you, come the day of the reading of the will. Our own righteousness will not be enough to get us home because our carnal minds are limited to the things of this realm and not the heavenly one. 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. (KJV) You have been washed with a Spiritual soap that gets out those nasty spiritual stains that man doesn’t see. It is vital that once you have been washed and have come clean you stay clean. If any of those stains are attached to you come the reading of the will, then you will not inherit the kingdom of God. Plain and simple dearly loved. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. I John 2:15-17 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the world passes away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abides for ever. (KJV)
The term, will of God, is making reference to the purpose or the desire God has for His people which is much better than anything man comes up with. On the Day of Judgment there will be a reading of the will, and only those that are members of His family in Christ will receive an eternal inheritance, while all others will have an eternity of regret and sorrow. 1 Peter 3:8-9 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: 9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing. (KJV) Those that are not members of the family in Christ are striving for things that are not beneficial to their inheritance, cheap distractions that will never bring peace. The less you love and hold onto the things or even people of this world the less likely you will fall back into wrestling with flesh and blood. Do notice that the blessings are there for the taking and something you should be inheriting today. John 5:30-31 I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me. 31 If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true. (KJV) Many have entered the ministry seeking a name for themselves which then takes them out of the running for their eternal inheritance. Those that truly grow and mature in Christ are people that have left their own desires at the door, and are now seeking to please God instead. That’s why when I see those that put their own names on their ministries, it tells me just that, it’s theirs and not our Lord’s anymore. Matthew 7:21-23 Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. (KJV) The Lord says that we are to know no man after the flesh, and you can see clearly illustrated above that those that are in the flesh are not pleasing to God and He doesn’t know them either. Again we see what happens too many that are called of God, in the end only a few are chosen and those are the ones who are doers and not just hearers. Matthew 12:47-50 Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee. 48 But he answered and said unto him that told him, who is my mother? And who are my brethren? 49 And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, behold my mother and my brethren! 50 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. (KJV) If any man be in Christ they are a new creation, old things are passed away and all things become new. Remember, it’s the doing part that makes it complete. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good morning; well you are probably wondering why the date indicates that it is Friday, when in fact it is Thursday 8/22. (Scroll down to 8/22 for Thursday's posting). We are taking some time off from postings, and will resume posting on September 2nd; so please enjoy going through the archives.
John 6:38-40 For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. 39 And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. 40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which sees the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. (KJV) It is truly the will of God to see that no one perishes, but that all of mankind would come to repentance. However, when looking around we see just the opposite of what the Lord intended. God sent us a perfect example in the form of His Son so that we could follow His example of what happens when we do the will of God, and because of His obedience He is seated right next to Him today. I John 2:16-17 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the world passes away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abides for ever. (KJV) Whatever you do don’t buy into the highlight reel of the enemy where he shows you the pleasure of sin, but not the consequences which are eternal. It still comes down to the fact that in order for you to make it to your eternal destination you will have to be willing to do more of what the Spirit is asking, and less of what the flesh desires. I John 5:14-15 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he hears us: 15 And if we know that he hears us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him (KJV) Not every one of your prayers is going to get a response from above. Your confidence is built upon the fact that you are seeking a closer relationship with God based on the Spiritual and not the carnal. That thing or even that person you just think you can’t live without might be something holding you back and not allowing you to move forward. James 4:1-3 From whence come wars and fighting’s among you? Come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? 2 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. 3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. (KJV) Hey what happened, I used to have peace and joy in my life and now it seems like a hornets’ nest inside. Well, you got a bit self willed and into some stuff that was not of God and not beneficial to your Spiritual welfare. You better watch out because the enemy just might throw a cheap imitation your way and try to entice you back to a realm that you don’t belong in. Ephesians 5:14-17 Wherefore he saith, awake thou that sleeps, and arise from the dead and Christ shall give thee light. 15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, 16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. (KJV) It seems like they have come up with a lot of zombie movies these days where dead people are meandering around aimlessly in life. Well, this premise gets played out by many of God’s people who should know better, but have strayed because they are no longer seeking the will or purpose of why they were created in the first place. Revelation 4:11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. (KJV) You were created for a reason and a purpose; have you found what that is today? Are you bringing joy to the Lord because you are doing what He had determined was best for you, or are you trying to take an alternate route? Someday you will want to hear well done good and faithful servant, so why not let that start today. I pray you will. God bless dearly loved, and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Titus 1:7-9 For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not self willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; 8 But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; 9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. (KJV)
We have been looking at the will and purpose of God this week, and as we see above there are certain qualifications the Lord requires for those that are seeking the position of a bishop. A bishop or an elder are those that oversee the flock or congregation, but most importantly they should lead by example, the ones that are doers and not just hearers of the Word. If you notice, the first thing the Lord deals with is the will, because you have to get self out of the equation before HIs will, will ever function. 2 Peter 2:10-12 But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, self willed, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. 11 Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord. 12 But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption; (KJV) The Bible describes a fool and how he is known or made manifest, and that would be by the multitude of nonsense that comes out of their mouth. These are the ones that are always complaining about all the other churches and pastors and how they run things, despite the fact that their own lives are dysfunctional. Don’t think for one moment there are not a lot of these natural brute beasts within the so called church, you know those folks with the holier than though attitudes? Proverbs 29:18-20 Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keeps the law, happy is he. 19 A servant will not be corrected by words: for though he understands he will not answer. 20 See thou a man that is hasty in his words? There is more hope of a fool than of him. (KJV) You know when things are not right between you and God because the Holy Spirit will convict your heart. You can run and try to hide or play the blame game, but in the end you will be judged according to the will of God. Take note of the fact that when you try to justify yourself with a bunch of idle words it puts you in the category of a fool. Hosea 4:6-8 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shall be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. 7 As they were increased, so they sinned against me: therefore will I change their glory into shame. 8 They eat up the sin of my people, and they set their heart on their iniquity. (KJV) Knowledge is not just something you read in a book, or get by keeping headphones on all day. Knowledge is something you actually walk in and make a way of life because you are doing the will of God and not your own. Do notice that God is specific in pointing out that His people who should know better are still being destroyed and will not be considered for the position of a priest or bishop. God bless dearly loved, and be diligent today to make your calling and election sure. Have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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