Pensacola Helene Jefferson's Blog, page 18

THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD IS THE CHANGE AGENT!

THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT THE REAL AGENT OF CHANGE

“…predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son….” (Romans 8:29).

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The best part of the Christian journey is the “covenant unity” relationship I am able to have with the God, the Holy Spirit.  It took many years to learn I didn’t really have a relationship with God at all, but was, in fact socialized into Christianity.

I knew all the clichés and gestures like the back of my hand. I was a master at imitating the Christian culture. I looked and acted like the real thing, but I wasn’t. I worshipped God with my lips, but much of my heart was far from him.

That reality was a real eye opener.  I didn’t realize I wasn’t the real thing until I met someone who really was Christ-like.

I was doing Christianity like a PRO, but I wasn’t really becomingChrist-like or experiencing transformation that comes from renewing the mind. “…Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “…be conformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “…In this world we are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “… GROW (develop, transform) in the GRACE and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ…” (2 Timothy 3:18 NIV). “… [change, transform]… into the SAME IMAGE …” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV).)  “…[the]…image of HIS SON...” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “…[into the]…fullness of CHRIST…” (Ephesians 4:14 NIV).

I knew A LOT about God, but I didn’t KNOW God, intimately.  Being raised in the church made me think learning about God and Jesus (his living Word), for years and years, made me an expert Christian. “…He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me...” (Mark 7:6 KJV).  

Actually, I was the typical religious person. I was more moral and ethical than holy or righteous. “…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? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity…” (Matthew 7:22-23 KJV).

But when I met someone who was allowing Jesus Christ to authentically transform his life I knew I hadn’t truly committed to the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, which empowers you to conform to “HIS” image and likeness. “…Ye shall know [God’s transformed people]… by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV). “…The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “…He (she) who ABIDES in Me and I in him (her), he (she) bears much fruit…” (John 15:1-11 NASB). "…My Father is glorified by this, that “YOU” (his people) bear much fruit, and so PROVE to be My (God’s) disciples” (John 15:8 NIV).

However, this man’s witness made me want to have an authentic “covenant unity: relationship with God too. I SAW God’s GLORY (his presence, goodness and working power) shining through him and it transformed my walk with God. "…Let your light shine before men (women, children, etc.) in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven…” (Matthew 5:16 NASB). “… [Jesus’] name is [also] ... called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “… I am (jesus, the word of god is) the light... (revelation of God) ...of the world..." (John 9:5, 8:12 KJV). “... [the word, Jesus]... is a light to reveal God  to the nations...” (Luke 2:32 NLT).

“... A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB). “…In this world we are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “…The Lightwhich … enlightens every man (woman)…” (John 1:19 NASB). “…. We now have this light shining in our hearts ...This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves…” (2 Corinthians 4:5-7 NLT).

“…THE WORDS THAT I (Jesus) SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT (god)… and they are LIFE….” (John 6:63 KJV). “…The Lord (Jesus, the LIVING Word) is that Spirit (revelation of God)…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV).  “... the light (revelation of God) makes everything visible. This is why it is said, “Awake, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ (the WORD) will give you light (revelation of god)... (Ephesians 5:19 NLT).

“…Jesus (the LIVING Word) saith unto him, Have I (the WORD of GOD) been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He (she) that hath SEEN ME (through Jesus, the WORD of GOD) HATH SEEN the Father (God, the Holy Spirit); and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father?...” (John 14:9 KJV). “… I (the WORD) and my Father (the HOLY SPIRIT) are ONE…” (John 10:30 KJV).

The “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, makes the Spirit and soul “ONE” unit and becomes the CHANGE AGENT for the lost and spiritually dead soul, forever! “…that they may all be one (UNIT);even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us…” (John 17:21-23 NASB).

Jesus said: “… I am the light(revelation of god) of the world..." (John 9:5, 8:12 KJV). “... He (THE WORD) is a light to reveal God to the nations...” (Luke 2:32 NLT). Jesus, the Word is “... A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB).

 “…The Lightwhich … enlightens (or which gives revelation knowledge of god, the holy spirit to) every ...[REDEEMED]...man (woman)…” (John 1:19 NASB). “.. A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB).“...And this is life eternal, that they might know [have intimate, revelation knowledge of] thee the only true God (the Holy Spirit), and Jesus Christ (God’s LIVING Word), whom thou hast sent...” (John 17:3 KJV).

“…In this world we are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).  

After “SEEING” this witness, I went home and cried. This awakening may not be true of everybody, but it was true about me. I had to admit, to myself, not only didn’t I “know” God, but I didn’t really “love” him either. “…This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me...” (Mark 7:6 KJV).  

I appeared Christlike and I gave my faith plenty of lip-service, but I was FAR from having a truly, intimate, “covenant unity” relationship with God. I was your typical hypocrite and a pretty good one too. I talked and acted as if I both knew God and loved him, but I didn’t, really. “...Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of ... all uncleanness… ” (Matthew 23:27 KJV).

I hate phony, yet I was a phony Christian CLAIMING to know God. “…If someone claims, “I know God,” but doesn’t obey God’s commandments, that person IS A LIAR and is not living in the truth…” (1 John 2:4 NLT).  “…If we “SAY” that we have fellowship with him, and WALK IN DARKNESS (without the show of spiritual fruit, revelation knowledge, or righteous deeds), WE LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV).  “ … the deeds of the flesh are evident…” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).

I knew all along something was missing in my Christian journey. I had information about God and I had an appropriate amount of understanding, but very, very little “covenant unity” relationship application or experience. “...I [had] ...neither learned wisdom, nor have the knowledge of the holy...  [I had not truly learned of the ONE who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? what is his name, and what is his son's name, if thou canst tell?Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar...” (Proverbs 30:3-6 KJV).

God’s people go from church to church with plenty Christian education and religious experience, but very little “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirt;the REAL change agent. “...This is what the Lord says: “Don’t let the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches. But those who wish to boast should boast in this alone: that they truly know me (has revelation knowledge of God) and understand that I am the Lord (the word) who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, and that I delight in these things. I, the Lord (god’s word), have spoken!...” (Jeremiah 9:23-24 NLT).  “….apart from Me (the WORD), you (God’s people) can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

Wisdom is the application of knowledge (experience) and understanding (clear revelation of truth). “...Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding...” (Proverbs 4:7 KJV). “...Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment....” (Proverbs 4:7 NLT).

And the bible says Wisdom is the MAIN thing when it comes to KNOWING or having a REVELATION knowledge of God.  “…If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. …” (James 1:4-7 KJV). “...O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? Or who hath been his counsellor?...” (Romans 11:33-34 KJV). “...Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe…” (Proverbs 28:26 NIV).

I knew, however, in many areas of my Christian walk I was pretending to be in a “covenant unity” relationship with God, when in fact I was not.

I knew I wasn’t authentically Christ-like, but I could imitate Christlikeness so well I ignored or justified any shortcomings. God knew too and when I went to him in prayer to confess my pretense I could have sworn God sighed.

After so many years of doing Christianity where do I start in order to have a genuine “covenant unity” relationship with God? First, I needed to show respect to God, the indwelling Holy Spirit and the covenant relationship I shared with HIM on a daily basis. “...The fear of the LORD isthe beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding...” (Proverbs 9:10 KJV).

Second, having a genuine RESPECT for God, the indwelling Holy Spirit was the beginning of wisdom or for having an authentic transformation experience. “...The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding...” (Proverbs 9:10 KJV).

Finally, an authentic transformation experience with God, empowered by his indwelling Holy Spirit, would also enable me to have a clearer revelation knowledge of HIS divine character. “...The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy, [which becomes]... understanding...” (Proverbs 9:10 KJV).

“...This is what the Lord (the word)says: “....those who wish to boast should boast in this alone: that they truly know me (the Word of God) and understand (have a clear revelation knowledge) I am the Lord (the word) who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, and that I delight in these things. I, the Lord (god’s word), have spoken!” (Jeremiah 9:23-24 NLT).

Where do God’s people BEGIN to truly experience, God, the Holy Spirit, so HE will transform their lives and enable them to become CONFORMED to his SON (HIS LIVING WORD). “...The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy isunderstanding...” (Proverbs 9:10 KJV). “…be conformedto the image of his Son (the WORD)…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “ … It is ...God who does the work IN and THROUGH ... [HIS people] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “… The [indwelling] HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of [his people] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…the ...Father that dwelleth in [THEM], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “...Herein is my Father (God, the Holy Spirit) glorified (this is how his presence, goodness, and working power WITNESSED), that [his people] bear much fruit ... be [his] disciples...” (John 15:1-10 KJV). “… [Thus, his people will]… bear much fruit, and …PROVE to be [God’s]… disciples…” (John 15:8 NIV).

“…. [THEY] PROVE [THEM] SELVES by [their] purity, [their] understanding, [their] patience, [their] kindness, [AND]...by the Holy Spirit WITHIN [them]…” (2 Corinthians 6:6 NLT). This is why I wrote THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT to help God’s people have a genuine “covenant unity” relationship with God too and NOT spend years experiencing Christianity as just another religious system.

I will explain “covenant unity” later, but for now it simply means the reconciliation of the HOLY SPIRIT and the soul.” “…He (she) that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT (are “in” a COVENANT UNITY relationship with God, the Holy Spirit)…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “… [They [ are his; [They] are “HIS” PEOPLE...” (Psalms 100:3 KJV). “… [they]... belong to God, [and are his]... dear children…” (1 John 4:2-7 NIV).

Anyway, an authentic “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, is not limited to spiritual leaders, clergy, televangelists, and other well-known Christians.“… it is God who works in [each of HIS people]…  in order to fulfill his good purpose…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV).   “… [God, the Holy Spirit] … equip[s] (or provides)… [each of his people]... with everything good for doing his will …” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…[God, the Holy Spirit] …work[s] (within each of his people) … what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ …” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

Thus, ordinary people can and will, become witnesses of his GLORY (his presence, goodness, and working power) upon earth just like Jesus did. “…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD WAS WITH HIM. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV). “… [The] Good News about Christ (GOD’s WORD)… It is the power of God at work, saving  everyone who believes (WHO trusts in and DEPENDS UPON HIS WORD)…” (Romans 1:16 NLT).

His GLORY revealed, “in” and “through” HIS people, will be the WITNESS of the personal, intimate, “covenant unity” relationship they share with God.“.... [God’s people]... are witnesses of all things which he (Jesus, God’s Word) did...[and is still doing “through” his people] …” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV). “…Verily, verily, I say unto you, He (she) that believeth on me (Jesus, God’s Word), the works that I do (the LIVING Word does) shall he (she) do also; and GREATER WORKS (not different works, but greater) than these shall he (she) do; because I go unto my Father…” (John 14:1 KJV). “…God anointed (miraculously empowered) Jesus of Nazareth (HOW?) with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER (what did jesus do?)...  [he]...went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil …(HOW?) GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

“…The works that [Jesus, the LIVING Word did], shall [HIS people]... do also; and GREATER WORKS (not different works, but greater) than [these]...shall [they]... do…” (John 14:1 KJV).

The miraculous life of the Christian believer is not limited to just famous Christian leaders, but God’s promises are yes and amen to the whole body of Christ (every single child who belongs to HIM). “… AS MANY as received him, to them GAVE HE POWER TO BECOME THE “SONS”  (daughters) OF GOD (children of God)…” (John 1:12 KJV).  “... [THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).

“… [HIS children,]… enjoy the promise of blessings (provisions)becauseTHEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).   “…Your … [provision] … be upon “Your people!” Selah…” (Psalm 3:8 NASB). “…The LORD “will” … [PROVIDE ] … his people with peace…” (Psalm 29:11 KJV).

“…[they]... are HIS PEOPLE...” (Psalms 100:3 KJV). WHO? “…Those who BELONG TO Christ Jesus …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…Because [they].. BELONG to him … (And remember that those who do not havethe Spirit of Christ living in them DO NOT BELONG TO HIM at all.)” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…  [Everyone who belongs, to him through Jesus, however, and] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. [They]…are [ALL]… part of the same body, and enjoy the promise of … [provisions] … because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  

Therefore, every single brother and sister in Christ is on the same leveling ground, sharing his promises EQUALLY. “…  [Everyone who belongs, to him through Jesus, however, and] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children… because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  

God is not like man and is not partial to anyone, but treats every child fair, loving, and just. Every believer can have a personal testimony about their “covenant unity” relationship with God. “……There is NEITHER Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female…” (Galatians 3:26-28 KJV). “…God SHOWS NO FAVORITISM.  In every nationHE ACCEPTS thosewho fear him and do what is right—…there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all…” (Acts 10:34-36 NLT). “…God is no RESPECTER OF PERSONS: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. The word which God sent … preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)…” (Acts 10:34-36 KJV).

 “…  [Everyone who belongs, to him through Jesus, however, and] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children… because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  

 I pray in the Name of Jesus that this book will lay a foundation for an authentic “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit that will CHANGE your life forever.  “…So now you … are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family. Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself…” (Ephesians 2:19-20 NLT).

I declare and decree that redeemed souls everywhere who read this book will renew, strengthen, establish, revive, develop, grow, expand, or go deeper into the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, through Christ in JESUS NAME! AMEN!  “… [God sent the ] …one … who can [REconcile] God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus (WHO comes to DWELL WITHIN)…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

“... Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation(substitute, intervention) for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…Christ (God’s PLAN of SALVATION) ... hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us [back] to God …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). “...we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).

“…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son “INTO” [the] HEARTS [of his people]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…God has given [his people] his Spirit as PROOF that [they]… live (are alive) in him and he [dwells]…in [them]…” (1 John 4:13 NLT).  “…Jesus Christ is in [God’s people]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

May God capture every human being reading this book and redirect their hearts, through Jesus, the LIVING Word, toward a deeper, loving “covenant unity” relationship with HIM. AMEN. “... the Lord (Jesus, the LIVING Word) direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ...” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 KJV). “...the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the steadfastness of Christ...” (2 Thessalonian 3:5 NASB). “...May the Lord lead your hearts into a full understanding and expression of the love of God and the patient endurance that comes from Christ...” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 NLT)  “...May the Master take you by the hand and lead you along the path of God’s loveand Christ’s endurance...” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 MSG).

God is not far away, but is present, reachable, interactive, and lovingly personable with each of his people. God will lead them into the LOVING “covenant unity” relationship with him step by step. “…“God with us…” (Matthew 1:23 NASB). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…Love … the perfect BOND of UNITY...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB). “…He that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT…[with God, the Father through Jesus Christ, our Lord] …”  (1 Corinthian 6:17 KJV). “... acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “…The steps of a good man(woman) are ordered by the Lord: …” (Psalms 37:23 KJV). “I will instruct you and guide you in the way you should go; I will fix My eyes upon You…” (Psalm 32:8).

“…I have shown you how you should find the way in which you should walk…” (Isaiah 48:17). “…So I say, let the [indwelling] Holy Spirit guide your lives. … …” (Galatians 5 NLT).

What does God want? Why did he go through SO MUCH trouble and heartache just to reconcile with HIS people?  It is summoned up in the following scripture: “... Herein is love...God ...loved [his people] and sent His Son to be the propitiation for [their]... sins...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…the just for the unjust, that he might bring ...[his people back] to God …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). “..[They]... were reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).

 “...Look! [God stands]... at the door [of their hearts] and knock. If you (HIS people) hear [his] voice and open the door, [God]... will come in, and [they] will share a meal together as friends...” (Revelations 3:20 NLT). “...I will come in to him (her), and will sup with him (her), and he (she) with me...” (Revelation 3:20 KJV). “...I’ll come right in and sit down to supper with you(each of HIS people)...” (Revelation 3:20 MSG). “...I will come in to him (her) and will dine with him (her), and he(she) with Me...” (Revelation 3:20 NASB).

God loves his people and desired to be reconciled to them so he could enjoy a close intimate relationship that included fellowship, sharing meals, and intimate conversation. “...I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends...” (Revelations 3:20 NLT).

He also wanted them to live a FULL and ABUNDANT spiritual life. “…I (the Word) am come that THEY MIGHThave (spiritual) LIFE, and that THEY MIGHT have [SPIRITUAL LIFE] ... more abundantly…” (John 10:10 KJV).

I will share with you how it started with me. It has been the opportunity of a lifetime from that time on and it is continually wonderful. “… everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [our]… Lord...” (Philippians 3:8 NLT). “…For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ” (Philippians 3:8 NLT). “...Whom have I in heaven but You(God, the Holy Spirit)? And besides You, I desire nothingon earth...” (Psalm 73:25 NASB)

 I am not trying to start a pattern or give you a box of tools or a set of steps to a closer, loving, intimate “covenant unity” relationship with God. “... acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths...”(Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).  

Remember I was horrible at having a “covenant unity” relationship with God. I only hope to point you to an authentic relationship with God for yourself that you may truly live an ABUNDANT spiritual life and TRULY become like Jesus, in this world. “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “…He helps [his people]…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT)..  “… The Holy Spirit helps [his people in their] ...weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT).

I am finite just like you, but God is infinite. “...He (God, the Holy Spirit) careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV).“…[God, the Holy Spirit]...will supply all your NEED…” (John 12:32 KJV). ).  “…The LORD (the LIVING Word) “WILL” accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [HIS people]…” (John 14:31 NASB).

God is not limited by Christian theories or doctrines. Man’s theories, writings, and doctrines are stepping stones to helpyou get started on a particular journey, but God is the ONLY one who can GIVE revelation knowledge. “... he (Jesus, the LIVING Word) shall direct thy paths...”(Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).  “... the Lord (Jesus, the LIVING Word) direct your hearts into the love of God...” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 KJV). 

God made every one of his children unique and every “covenant unity” relationship is special even though they share and serve the same Father of all creation. “…God SHOWS NO FAVORITISM.  In every nationHE ACCEPTS thosewho fear him and do what is right…” (Acts 10:34-36 NLT). “…God is no RESPECTER OF PERSONS: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him… (Acts 10:34-36 KJV).

God uses revelation knowledge, through Jesus, the LIVING Word, to further enlighten his people when they personally spend time with him. Jesus had another name. “… His name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “.. A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB). “... [Jesus, the Word, the LIGHT of Revelation] ... opened their minds to understand the Scriptures...” (Luke 24:45 NLT).

Therefore, God will help HIS people, through Jesus, the LIVING Word, to START building their OWN personal “covenant unity” relationship with Him.“... he (Jesus, the LIVING Word) shall direct thy paths...”(Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).  “... the Lord (Jesus, the LIVING Word) direct your hearts into the love of God...” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 KJV). “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT).

“…The Lord who made you and helps yousays: Do not be afraid …my servant …my chosen one…” (Isaiah 44:2 NLT). “… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “…You are my helper and my savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT).

Jesus, the indwelling LIVING Word, sown within the hearts of the redeemed soul, EMPOWERS THEM with an “affinity” toward to the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit. “…God (the Holy Spirit)... is love…” (1 John 4:8 KJV). “…The …HOLY SPIRIT (God, the Father) …is the SOURCE of [your AFFINITY toward HIM] …it is …God who does the work IN and THROUGH [HIS people]. The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of ...[them] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

God will also help his people to further grow in his grace and revelation knowledge. “..Therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE, [God’s people, that]… [you] may obtain mercy, and find GRACE to help in time of need…”(Hebrews 4:16 KJV). God, the Holy Spirit, will “…strengthened [you]… with might by his Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV). “… [He will strengthen HIS people]…according to the POWER that worketh IN [THEM]…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV). “… God  … work[s] … in … [his people] … what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…the Father... [that DWELLS within THEM]… he doeth the works…”(John 14:10 KJV).

Now I will answer this question: “How did the “covenant unity” relationship finally start with me?”

Like I said, I knew about God’s love for me basically as a collection of facts, but I really did not know, his love, experientially, for me.

 In other words, I had the knowledge of God’s love, understood it, but didn’t have much “covenant unity” relationship experience.

Experience means to take what you know and understand and correctly apply it. Or in simple terms putting what you know and understand into action.

That night I saw the true Christlike WITNESS, I went home and cried. I wanted that kind of intimate relationship with God. The Holy Spirit led me to read the book of Hosea. God used Hosea to give me revelation knowledge, through his LIVING Word, of his personal love for me and his people.

I was enlightened, inspired, empowered, and moved by HIS revelation as the indwelling Holy Spirit led me further into the truth of his great love for me and each of his people. .“... he (Jesus, the LIVING Word) shall direct thy paths...” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).  “... the Lord (Jesus, the LIVING Word) direct your hearts into the love of God...” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 KJV). “…The steps of a good man(woman) are ordered by the Lord: …” (Psalms 37:23 KJV). “I will instruct you and guide you in the way you should go; I will fix My eyes upon You…” (Psalm 32:8).

I became spiritually, not intellectually aware of his love for me. That’s where the authentic relationship with God started. “…Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that HE LOVED US...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “...We love, because HE FIRST LOVED US…” (1 John 4:19 ASV). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…Love … the perfect BOND of UNITY...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB).

I started genuinely loving God because He revealed his love for me, FIRST. Just like the scripture says, “…we love because he first loved us…” (1 John 4:19).

This is not a pattern, but an example of how my “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit began. God may use the same method of revelation with you or he may start his relationship with you in a whole other way. However, God’s love will always be the starting point for the “covenant unity” relationship. “…because he first loved us…” (1 John 4:19).

From that moment God “revealed” his  HOLY love for me, my life was wonderfully revolutionized through the “covenant unity” relationship.

Without having an authentic “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit,  the Christian faith becomes just another religious system.

Without an authentic “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, the redeemed soul is missing out on the opportunity to KNOW HIM personally.

Without an authentic “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, the redeemed soul will never know what it’s like to “become” truly Christ-like.

Without an authentic “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, the redeemed soul’s won’t experience mind renewal.  Thus, they will not have an impact on society or those around them.

If God’s people don’t transform into the imageand likeness of Jesus, they  won’t be able to become an encouragement for others to transform either.

During my dissertation research, statistics revealed that believers who are in a committed relationship with God were much more Christ-like than those who were not.

In addition, out of hundreds of Christians surveyed by one pastor only 1/3 of Christians were in a committed relationship with God through Christ, 1/3 were luke-warm, and another 1/3 admitted to believing, but not following the bible teachings at all.

It is my prayer that more believers will seek to have a more authentic “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, through Christ.

It is important for an authentic Christianity to continue to impact society, the adherents to be truly transformed, and lost souls be saved.

People “STILL” become like the company they keep. The “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, is the CHANGE AGENT that will turn the lost and spiritually dead soul, into a “living soul” again.

GET ALL FOUR OF THEM HERE: www.amazon.com/author/pensacolahelene

 

GOD IS LOVE; GOD IS SPIRIT; GOD IS THE HOLY SPIRIT OF LOVE

GOD IS SPIRIT

“…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The Lord is that Spirit…” too (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV).  “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT). “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (the WORD) “INTO” [YOUR HEART]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…Jesus Christ (the WORD) is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…the Spiritof God dwell[s]… in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).

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GOD IS SPIRIT. Knowing you are in a relationship with Godis being AWARE that God’s BOND-of-LOVE AND UNION with you is strictly spiritual. “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…[SPIRITUAL] love …is the perfect BOND of unity...”(Colossians 3:14 NASB). “… He that is joined (UNITED in a covenant relationship) unto the LORD “is” ONE SPIRIT (with him)…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

AWARENESS of this relationship as a SPIRITUAL “ONE” is HAVING a knowledge, consciousness, understanding, or realization of God and that awareness comes BY FAITH. “… BY FAITH we UNDERSTAND (become AWARE of)…that what we now see (the affects of the relationship with God, who is SPIRIT) did not come from anything that can be seen…” (Hebrews 11 NLT). .“…The person WITHOUT the Spirit DOES NOT accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them (or become AWARE of them) because they are discerned only through the [HOLY, invisible] Spirit. …” (2 Corinthians 2:12-15 KJV).  

“…a right (through God’s SPIRITUAL love and union) relationship with God … comes by faith (by dependency upon his word)…” (Romans 4:13 NASB). “…a person is made rightwith God by faithin  (or dependency upon) Jesus Christ (the word of god)…” (Galatians 2:16 NLT).

BY FAITH or dependency upon his WORD, which is also SPIRIT, you become AWARE of God’s love and God’s union WITH YOU. “…THE WORDS …they ARE SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…Faith cometh by hearing, and hearingby the word of God…” (Roman 10:17 KJV).“…[The] Good News about Christ (the WORD)…” is” the power of God at work, saving everyone who BELIEVES (in or depends upon God’s WORD, which tells of his love and desire to be united to them)…” (Romans 1:16 NLT).

GOD BONDS himself TO YOU with LOVE through “HIS” INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT!  “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “… [God’s SPIRITUAL] love…is the perfect BOND of unity...”(Colossians 3:14 NASB). “…Love ispatient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres, Love never fails…” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV).  “…NOT that [you]… loved God, but that HE LOVED … [you]...” (1 John 4:10 KJV).“….HE FIRST LOVED [you]…” (1 John 4:19 ASV). “… [Nothing] … shall be able to separate [you]… from the love of Godwhich is “in”Christ Jesus our Lord (also the WORD)…” (Romans 8:38-39 KJV).  “….the…faithful love of the Lord, never ends...” (Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT). “…God SO LOVED the world (YOU)…” (John 3:16 KJV). “…There is no greater love …” (John 15:13 NLT).

GOD UNITES himself TO YOU through “HIS” INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT! “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The Lord is that Spirit…” too (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV).  “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT).“…It is the SPIRIT who gives LIFE…” (John 6:63 NASB). “Jesus (the WORD) saith…I am …THE LIFE…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (the WORD, which is Spirit) “INTO” [YOUR HEART]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…THE WORDS THAT I (Jesus) SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT, and they ARE LIFE…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…Jesus Christ (the WORD) is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…Christ (the WORD) be “IN” YOU… (Romans 8:10 KJV). “…the Spiritof God dwell[s]… in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).

GOD BONDS and UNITES himself TO YOU through “HIS” INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT just like he did with Jesus, the WORD! "I and my Father are [not simply close, but]…ONE." (John 10:30 KJV).

Jesus DID NOT say he and his Father were close, but he said they were “ONE.” Close implies a nearness to, but “one” implies a single unity or an undivided whole.

 In Hebrew, the definition of oneness (echadh) is “unity.” This unity is, first and foremost,  HOLY and unique to God and Jesus (Deuteronomy 6:4). JESUS is The WORD of GOD. “… He (Jesus) had a name written, that no man knew … his name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). The WORD of God is SPIRIT. “…THE WORDS THAT I SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT …” (John 6:63 KJV).

Thus, Jesus (THE WORD) is also SPIRIT. “…The Lord is that Spirit…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV).

 God is Spirit. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  Jesus (the word) is SPIRIT. “…The Lord is that Spirit [too!]…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV).

God is Spirit and Jesus, the Word is Spirit. “… I and my Father are ONE…” (John 10:30 KJV).

Believers, now have the privilege of saying, “… I and my Father are one…,” TOO.

However ONLY “through” Christ, the WORD can you be bonded and united to God, the Holy Spirit (John 10:30). “…God … reconciled us to himself through Christ (the WORD) …” (2 Corinthians 5:18 NIV). “… [God sent the] …one… who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus (the word of God)…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “…For Christ  (the Word & atoning sacrifice)… died for sins ONCE for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us [home again] to God…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “… I will bring them home again,” says the Lord (the word of God….” (HOSEA 11 NLT).

The Holy Spirit is non-physical and man’s SOUL is non-physical. Jesus, the WORD of God has the POWER to BOND and JOIN the Spirit and SOUL together again like he did when he FIRST created the male and female.  “….LET US MAKE man … after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…in his OWN image…..male and female created he them…”(Genesis 1:27 KJV). “…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Holy Spirit);and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “….God saw every thing he had made……and, behold, it was very good…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

God shares his unique “oneness” with believers AGAIN, through their faith in or dependency upon Christ, the WORD, at SALVATION. “…Faith cometh by hearing … THE WORD of God” (Roman 10:17 KJV). "…I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will be careful to observe My ordinances…” (Ezekiel 36:27 NASB). “…The graceof our Lord was poured out on me (or transferred to me) abundantly, ALONG WITH FAITH (the power to depend upon God) … that are “IN” Christ Jesus (the WORD)…” (1 Timothy 1:13-14 NIV). “… God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into [your]… hearts...” (Galatians 4:6 NASB).

HE BONDED and UNITED YOU WITH HIS HOLY SPIRIT SO… “…that [YOU] may all be ONE; even as You, Father, are in Me (the WORD, which is SPIRIT) and I in You (God, the Holy Spirit), that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me (YOUR WORD)…” (John 17:21-23 NASB).

This holy “ONENESS” is the joining of man’s soul and God’s Holy Spirit through Jesus, the WORD. GOD RESTORES MANKIND “BACK” TO THE ORIGINAL CREATED “IMAGE.” 

What can MAKE mankind spiritually WHOLE again, spiritually ALIVE, and RESTORE them BACK to God original image? The answer: the Holy Spirit; the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT? “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE …” (John 3:6 NLT). “….Apart from [the HOLY SPIRIT], you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

Only the “breath of life” or “the HOLY SPIRIT” can return mankind BACK to God’s original, created “image” and “likeness” that was ONCE so VERY good? “….LET US MAKE man … after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…in his OWN image…..male and female created he them…”(Genesis 1:27 KJV). “…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Holy Spirit);and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “….God saw every thing he had made……and, behold, it was very good…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

HOWEVER, when mankind chose to follow after their flesh instead of God’s Holy Spirit they became a DEAD SOUL. The STORY changed. “…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Holy Spirit);[but they follow after the FLESH] and man became a [dead] soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

. “…[Their] INIQUITIES (sin) … separated … [them] and [their] God (Holy) …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…It’s YOUR SINS that have cut you off from God (who is HOLY)…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT).

SIN created a BARRIER between sinful man and the HOLY God. “… And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm (barrier) has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

This barrier will ALWAYS cause a SEPARATION, because HOLINESS can NOT and will NOT “EVER” MIX with SIN. SIN and HOLINESS SEPARATES; just like oil and water. “… And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm(barrier) has been set in place…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

Therefore, ONLY “…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole [again]…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “…If any man be in Christ, he is a NEW creature …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “… [because] … all things are … [MADE] … NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “… I will put a “new” spirit in you. …” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT).

 “…May God himself, the God who makes everything holy and whole, make you holy and whole, put you together [again]—spirit, soul, and body …” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 MSG).

God “SO” loved you and WANTED “YOU” back in UNION with him (the HOLY SPIRIT). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “… I am [also] holy…” (1 Peter 1:16 KJV).

 “…There ... [is] … …one … who can reconcile God and humanity—[EXCEPT] the man Christ Jesus (The Word of God)…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). Thus, “... God so loved the world, that HE GAVE his only begotten (specially created) Son, that whosoever believeth in him (depends upon him) should not perish, but have everlasting life…” (John 3:16 KJV).

GOD MADE A HUMAN VESSEL AND CAME DOWN TO EARTH TO PERSONALLY SPEAK TO YOU AND BECOME YOUR ATONING SACRIFICE!! “…Though he (JESUS, THE WORD, THE HUMAN VESSEL) was God…” (Philippians 2:6-7 NLT). He was“…born as a human being…” (Philippians 2:6-7 NLT). “… Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God…” (John 1:13 KJV).“…The Holy Spiritshall come upon you (Mary, mother of Jesus), and the power of God shall overshadow you; so the baby born to you will be utterly holy—the Son (THE WORD) of God…” (Luke 1:35 NLT).

GOD expressed his LOVE through JESUS. “…God SO LOVED the world, that he GAVE…” (John 3:16 KJV). “…God ….GAVE his only begotten (specially created) Son…” (John 3:16 KJV).   “…NOT that we loved God, but that HE LOVED US...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “….HE FIRST LOVED US…” (1 John 4:19 ASV).

GOD expressed his LOVE through the Holy Spirit’s actions. “…he … SENT HIS SON  (action) to be the propitiation for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 KJV). GOD “…SPARED NOT his own Son, but DELIVERED (action) him up FOR US ALL…” (Romans 8:32 KJV). “…God SHOWED HIS GREAT LOVE FOR US by “SENDING” (action) Christ to die (action) for us WHILE we were still sinners…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT). “…There is no GREATER LOVE than to lay down  (action) one’s life…” (John 15:13 NLT).

God’s DEMONSTRATION OF LOVE, THROUGH JESUS CHRIST, (HIS LIVING WORD), MIRACULOUSLY COVERED over ALL that separates YOU from him. “…Love COVERETH a multitude of sins…” (Proverbs 10:12, 1 Peter 4:8 ASV).

Thus, Jesus told the world he was bonded and united with the Father. He told us they were ONE SPIRIT working together to CONFIRM and REVEAL God’s DIVINE nature and DIVINE power. “… I and my Father are ONE…” (John 10:30).

Becoming AWARE of your UNION with Christ, the WORD of God, means you have become familiar, acquainted, mindful, attentive, or enlightened by God’s SPIRITUAL bond and union with YOU. “…Love… is the perfect BOND of unity...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB).  “… He that is joined (UNITED) unto the LORD “is” ONE SPIRIT…[with HIM]…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

The UNION between Christ, the WORD, and the believer resembles the union between the BRANCH and the VINE in the John 15 parable. “…I AM THE VINE, AND MY FATHER IS THE HUSBANDMAN (Ultimate CAREGIVER and SOVEREIGN Head)…I AM THE VINE AND YE ARE THE BRANCHES…” (JOHN 15:1, 5 NIV).

The BRANCH represents the believers and the VINE represents Christ, the WORD. “…I AM THE VINE AND YE ARE THE BRANCHES…” (JOHN 15:1, 5 NIV).

The VINE diffuses sap to the BRANCHES from the root (the SOURCE of its survival) to supply the necessary nourishment. “…The branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine…” (John 15:4 KJV).

Christ, the WORD, imparts the indwelling Holy Spirit to believers in order to supply spiritual nourishment from the root or SOURCE. “…The … HOLY SPIRIT … is the source of …[IT]…all. …” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).  “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (the WORD, which is Spirit) “INTO” [YOUR HEART]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…Christ (the WORD) be “IN” YOU… (Romans 8:10 KJV).

“…God shall supply ALL YOUR NEEDaccording to his riches in glory [through the indwelling Spirit of] Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 4:19 KJV). “…Jesus Christ is in you…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…God will generously PROVIDE all … [the supplies] … you need…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

“…The … HOLY SPIRIT … is the source of …[IT]…all. …” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).  

The husbandman represents, God, the Father (the HOLY SPIRIT) and like a gardener, he takes care of the VINEYARD to ensure its fruitfulness. “…I AM THE VINE, AND MY FATHER IS THE HUSBANDMAN…” (JOHN 15:1, 5 NIV).

From the grape VINE you look for grapes, but from the redeemed BELIEVER you look for the fruit of the Spirit. “…He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit…” (John 15:5 KJV). “…The branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me…” (John 15:4 KJV).

To produce FRUIT or MORE fruit the BRANCHES must be pruned by the husbandman every now and then. “…Every branch that beareth fruit he purgeth it…” (John 15:2 KJV).

Natural pruning is equivalent to spiritual pruning, which is sanctification for the believer and enables them to produce fruit or MORE fruit. “…Every branch that beareth fruit he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit…” (John 15:2 KJV).

A gardener uses special tools to prune the branches such as pruners, loppers, saws, or hedge shears. God uses the WORD. “…ye are CLEAN (pruned) through the WORD which I have spoken unto you…” (John 15:3 KJV).

Pruning is done for the sole purpose of encouraging healthy growth, more flowering, attractiveness, or more fruit. “…every good tree bringeth forth good fruit...” (Matthew 7:16-22 KJV).

The right TIME and the right SEASON is important for pruning also.“….To every [thing there is] a season, and A TIME to every purpose under the heaven…” (Ecclesiastes 3:1 KJV).  “…For the vision [is] yet FOR AN APPOINTED TIME….” (Habakkuk 2:3 KJV).

The Father, the husbandman for the believer, uses the WORD to prune believers. “…ye are CLEAN (pruned) through the WORD  (Jesus Christ, the atoning sacrifice for the remission (forgiveness) of sins)…” (John 15:3 KJV).

Pruning is done for the sole purpose of encouraging holiness and fruit bearing. “…Your fruit [will result] unto holiness (in being set apart and living free from sin)…” (Romans 6:22 KJV).

“…Before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himselfthrough Jesus Christ (his Word).This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. So we praise God for the glorious GRACE he has poured out on uswho belong to his dear Son. He is so rich in kindness and GRACE that he purchasedour freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins. He has showered his kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding. God has now revealed to us his mysterious will regarding Christ—which is to fulfill his own good plan. And this is the plan: At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ—everything in heaven and on earth. Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan. God’s purpose was that we Jews who were the first to trust in Christ would bring praise and glory to God.  And now you Gentiles have also heard the truth, the Good News that God saves you. And when you believed in Christ, he identified you as his own by giving you the Holy Spirit, whom he promised long ago.  The Spirit is God’s guarantee that he will give us the inheritance he promised and that he has purchased us to be his own people. He did this so we would praise and glorify him (acknowledge his presence)…” (Ephesians 1:3-8 NLT).

HALLELUJAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

God chose you to be HOLY (set apart, free and totally separated from sin) and without fault in his eyes. “…ye shall be holy (set apart, free from sin) unto me: for I the Lord (the word) am HOLY (set apart and free from sin) …” (Leviticus 20:26 KJV). “…he hath made us accepted in the beloved…” (Ephesians 1:6 KJV).

Pruning, for the believer, is equivalent to sanctification which is wroth by the cleansing power of the WORD of God. “…. “…SANCTIFY them in the truth; Your WORD is truth…” (JOHN 17:17 NASB).  “…God has chosen you from the beginning for salvation (a right relationship with God) through SANCTIFICATION  (cleansing of sin) by the [indwelling Holy] Spirit and faith in (dependency upon) the truth (God’s WORD)…” (2 Thessalonians 2:13 NASB).

BRANCHES produce fruit or MORE fruit by virtue of the UNION with the VINE and believers by UNION with CHRIST, the WORD. “…The branch cannot bear fruitof itselfunlessit abides in the vine…” (John 15:4-6 NASB).

The UNION between the VINE and BRANCHES or between CHRIST, the WORD, and the BELIEVER is one of dependence. “…Apart from Me, (Jesus, the Word) you can do nothing…” (John 15:4-6 NASB).

To break-up, disconnect, or separate from the UNION with CHRIST, the WORD, believers, by their OWN volition, move away from their SOURCE (ROOT) of spiritual nourishment. “…The branch cannot bearfruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me…” (John 15:4-6 NASB).

True believers, through Christian experience, learn that any interruption in the UNION with CHRIST, the WORD, will result in the decline of holiness (being set apart & free from sin) and fruitfulness. “…If a man abide NOT in me, he is cast forth … and is withered…” (John 15:6 KJV). “…Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness…” (Ephesians 5:11 KJV).

"… You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men…” (Matthew 5:13 NASB).

Any interruption in the UNION with Christ, the WORD, will eventually lead to a state of uselessness and futility. “…he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered…” (John 15:6 KJV). "… You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless …It is no longer good for anything…” (Matthew 5:13 NASB).“…But if a field bears thorns and thistles, it is useless. The farmer will soon condemn that field and burn it…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

Withered or weakened branches are gathered together, cast into the fire, and burned. “…If a man abide NOT in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned…” (John 15:6 KJV). "… if the salt has become tasteless … It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out…” (Matthew 5:13 NASB). “…if a field bears thorns and thistles, it is useless. …” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

It is the UNION with CHRIST, the WORD, that enables the BELIEVER to grow healthy, wholesome, holy, and fruitful. “…The branch cannot bear fruitof itselfunlessit abides in the vine…” (John 15:4-6 NASB).

To REMAIN in the UNION with CHRIST, believers choose to live a life of dependency upon God by submitting to his instructions and pruning. “…Abide in Me, and I in you…” (John 15:4-6 NASB). “…Apart from Me you can do nothing…” (John 15:4-6 NASB).

Christ is the example you are to imitate when it comes to being UNITED with God and exercising faith in or dependency upon Him. Jesus said, "…I and my Father are one…" (John 10:30 KJV). “…… [Jesus] … [entrusted] himself to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:19-23 NIV).

Believers are UNITED with God through CHRIST and exercise FAITH or dependency upon HIM by hearing the Word. “…God’s Spiritdwells inyou?...” (1 Corinthians 3:16 NASB). “…He that is joined (united) unto the LORD is ONE SPIRIT…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “…[One of] the fruit of the Spirit is …faith…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “…[The FRUIT of] Faith cometh by hearing … THE WORD of God…” (Roman 10:17 KJV). “…THY WORD is truth…” (JOHN 17:17 KJV).

If the believer chooses to STAY in UNION with CHRIST God will care for them, comfort them, supply their needs, impart spiritual blessings, never leave them, and love them forever. “...Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you…” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV).

“…Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be ableto comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by …our comfort is abundant through Christ.…” (2 Corinthians 1:3-5 NASB).

 “…God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT). “…[he]…WILL SUPPLY ALL YOUR NEED…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV)

“…Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who HATH blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ…” (Romans 1:3 KJV).

“…God has said “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV).  “…Behold, I AM WITH… [YOU] and  …I WILL NOT LEAVE [YOU]…." (Genesis 28:15 ASV). “…The LORD thy God …will not fail (leave) thee, nor forsake thee…” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV).  “…Behold, I am with… [you] and will keep… [you] whithersoever [you]… goest…I will not leave [you]..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

“… [God has]... loved [you]...with an everlasting love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).

If the believer CHOOSES “NOT” to STAY in UNION with God, through Christ, “they” CUT their own selves OFF from God’s care, God’s comfort, God’s supply of their needs, God’s spiritual blessings, God’s presence, and God’s love. “….Apart from Me, you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

Relational benefits stem from choosing to stay continually dependent upon the UNION with Christ, the WORD (THE SOURCE, ROOT). The believer is UNITED to God through Christ, the WORD, by continual faith or dependency upon the WORD. “…a person is made [and stays] right with God by faith in [or dependency upon) Jesus Christ (the word of God)…” (Galatians 2:16 NLT). “….Apart from Me, you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

Without willfully and voluntarily choosing to REMAIN dependent upon the UNION with Christ, the believer will weaken, wither, and become spiritually useless or “good for nothing.” (Jeremiah 13:10, Matthew 5:13 KJV). “…This evil people, which refuse to hear my words, which walk in the imagination of their heart, and walk after other gods, to serve them and worship them, shall even be this girdle, which is GOOD FOR NOTHING…” (Jeremiah 13:10 KJV). “…Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth GOOD FOR NOTHING, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men…” (Matthew 5:13 KJV).

“…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The Lord is that Spirit…” too (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV).  “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT). “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (the WORD) “INTO” [YOUR HEART]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…Jesus Christ (the WORD) is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…the Spiritof God dwell[s]… in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).“….Apart from [THE HOLY SPIRIT], you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

 

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THE GOD-GIVEN JOY THAT STRENGTHENS YOU

 

JOYFUL STRENGTH?

“….The JOY of the Lord is your strength…” (Nehemiah 8:10 KJV).

*

 God-given JOY comes from GOD through his indwelling Holy Spirit. “…These THINGS have I SPOKEN unto you that my JOY might REMAIN in you, and that your JOYmight be full…” (John 15:11 NIV).

What are “THESE THINGS” that Jesus SPOKE? “…I am the vine, you are the branches; he who ABIDES in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for APART FROM Me you can do nothing …If you ABIDE in Me, and My words ABIDE in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and soPROVE to be My disciples. Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; ABIDE in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will ABIDE in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and ABIDE in His love. These things I have spoken to you so that My JOYmay be in you, and that your JOYmay be made full…” (John 15:1-11 NASB).

The KEY word is ABIDE. Abide means to dwell, settle, live, remain, reside, stayed lodged in, or stay connected with. “…He who ABIDES in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, …If you ABIDE in Me, and My words ABIDE in you, ask whatever you wish … ABIDE in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will ABIDE in My love … I have kept My Father’s commandments and ABIDE in His love. These things I have spoken to you so that My JOYmay be in you, and that your JOYmay be made full…” (John 15:1-11 NASB).

 “…Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep (adhere to, abide, stay connected to, etc.) my words: and my Father will love him…” (John 14:23 KJV).“….ABIDEin My love. If you keep My commandments, you will ABIDE in My love…” (John 15:1-11 KJV). “…and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him (Her)…” (John 14:23 KJV).

“…These THINGS have I SPOKEN unto you that my JOY might REMAIN in you, and that your JOYmight be full…” (John 15:11 NIV).

“…MY JOY…” was Jesus’ connection to God’s LOVE through the HOLY SPIRIT (John 15:11 KJV). “…For the Father loveth the Son…” (John 5:19-23 KJV). Jesus said, "I and my Father are ONE (Spirit)…" (John 10:30 KJV).

Jesus had EVERYTHING he would EVER need through his connection with God. “…The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof…” (Psalm 24:1 KJV). “…All …THINE ARE MINE…” (John 17:10 KJV). “… Everything I have IS A GIFT “FROM” YOU…” (John 17:6-9 NLT).

Jesus has PASSED this JOY onto believers. JESUS SAID, "I and my Father are…ONE…" (John 10:30 KJV). “…That they all may BE ONE; as thou, Father, artin me, and I in thee, that they also may be ONE IN US: …” (John 17:21 KJV). AND “…that my JOY might REMAIN in [them] … and that [their]… JOY might be full…” (John 15:11 NIV).

God-given JOY basically an endless source of gladness and rejoicing.

God-given JOY will NEVER depend on a MOOD, or PEOPLE, or CIRCUMSTANCE.

God-given JOY is constantly indwelling because it stems from the fruit of the Holy Spirit.

God-given JOY remains strong and faithful whether in the mist of trials and tribulations or when all is well.

God-given JOY is an eternal option for the believer. “…REJOICE in the Lord…” (Philippians 3:1 NIV). “…Choose LIFE…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “…THE WORDS THAT I SPEAK … they ARE LIFE…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…REJOICE in the Lord always…” (Philippians 4:4 NIV).  “…REJOICE always…” (1 Thessalonians 5:16 NIV). “…Always be JOYFUL…” (1 Thessalonians 5:16 NLT).

God-given JOY is BONDED to the believer through God’s LOVE. “…love, which is the perfect BOND of unity...”(Colossians 3:14 NASB). “….[Nothing]…shall be able to separate [you]… from the love of God which is “in” Christ Jesus our Lord…” (Romans 8:38-39 KJV).  “….the…faithful love of the Lord, never ends...!”(Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT).

God-given JOY is FUSED to the believer through the indwelling spirit. “…He that is joined (fused) unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son “INTO” OUR HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…Christ [is]…in you…” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]… in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…The Holy SPIRIT gives birth to… SPIRITUAL LIFE (which includes JOY)…” (John 3:6 NLT).  “…The fruit of the SPIRIT is love, JOY…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “…The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, JOY, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control….” (Galatians 5 NLT). “… [God’s] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of JOY]…” (1 Corinthians 12: 4-11 NLT).

Since the Holy Spirit is the faithful, immutable source of JOY, you will ALWAYS have enough for yourself and to share with others. “… Jesus Christ is the sameyesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV). Therefore, “…my JOY …. REMAIN in you … your JOY … be full…” (John 15:11 NIV).  “…God will generously PROVIDE all … [the JOY] … you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to “SHARE” WITH OTHERS…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT  “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

God-given JOY also STRENGTHENS you. “….The JOY of the Lord is your strength…” (Nehemiah 8:10 KJV).

God-given strength is supernatural POWER. “….Look, GOD IS ALL-POWERFUL … glorify HIS MIGHTY WORKS …” (Job 36:22-33 NLT). “…There is NONE like unto thee, O LORD; thou art GREAT, and thy name is great in might.…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

God-given strength is the supernatural POWER of the indwelling spirit. “… POWER belongethunto God...” (Psalms 62:11 NIV).

“…There is NO POWER but of God: THE POWERS that be are ordained of God…” (Romans 13:1 KJV). “….[God]…changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings…” (Daniel 2:21 KJV).

“…In order that the living may know That the Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind, And bestows it on whom He wishes …” (Daniel 4:17 NASB). “…Jesus answered, "You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above…” (John 19:22 NIV).

 “…The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein…” (Psalm 24:1 KJV). “…for the world is mine, and the fulness thereof…” (Psalm 50:12 KJV). “…all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine…” (1 Chronicles 29:11 KJV). Therefore, ALL “…POWER belongethunto God...” (Psalms 62:11 NIV).

If “JOY” comes from the connection with God through the Lord, then “STRENGTH” is YOURS. “….The JOYof the Lord is your strength…” (Nehemiah 8:10 KJV).

Strength comes from indwelling JOY. You are STRONG because: “…He gives POWER to the weak and strength to the POWERless.…” (Isaiah 40:28-31 NLT). “….GOD …GIVETH strength and POWER UNTO HIS PEOPLE…” (Psalms 68:35 KJV).  “… [His people are]…strengthened with MIGHT by his Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV).  “…God… works IN [them]… to will and to act …” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…God, …EQUIP[s] … [“his people”] with everything good for doing his will, and … work]s] … IN [them]…  what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ,” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “… [He]… IS “ABLE” to do exceeding abundantly above all that [they]… ask or think, according to the POWER that worketh IN [them]…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV). “…HE WHICH HATH “BEGUN” A GOOD “WORK” IN [them] “WILL” “PERFORM” IT “UNTIL” the day of Jesus Christ…” (Philippians 1:6 KJV). “….Apart from Me (Jesus) ..[they could]… do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). However,“…[They]…can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth …[them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

“…Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who HATH blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ…” (Romans 1:3 KJV).

 “…What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who …[or what]…can be against us?” (Romans 8:31 NIV). “….The JOY of the Lordis your strength…” (Nehemiah 8:10 KJV).

You are eternally connected to God’s LOVE, his HOLY SPIRIT, and EVERY spiritual provision!! “…REJOICE in the Lord…” (Philippians 3:1 NIV). “…REJOICE in the Lord always…” (Philippians 4:4 NIV).  “…REJOICE always…” (1 Thessalonians 5:16 NIV). “…Always be JOYFUL…” (1 Thessalonians 5:16 NLT).

 “….The JOY of the Lordis your strength…” (Nehemiah 8:10 KJV). Going through trials and tribulations affect one’s moods or feelings, but “NOT” their God-given JOY or their God-given STRENGTH. “…my JOY …. REMAIN in you …” (John 15:11 NIV).

MOODS, FEELINGS, PEOPLE, or SITUATIONS cannot DICTATE your JOY. JOY is a CHOICE. “…REJOICE always…” (1 Thessalonians 5:16 NIV). “…I can do ALL THINGS through Christ which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

JOY depends LARGELY upon the believer’s OWN volition and dependence on God’s indwelling Spirit.“…REJOICE in the Lord always…” (Philippians 4:4 NIV). “…choose LIFE…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “…Choose youthis day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

Many people have the ability to control their emotions and direct those emotions to applicable or useful behaviors. “…TRUST in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).

However, feeling sad, sorrowful, disappointed, or depressed as a response to certain situations or circumstances can’t always be easily regulated. “…Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head (OT expressions of sadness or sorrow…” (Job 1:20-22 NASB). Job said, “..though he (God) slay me, yet will I trust in him…” (Job 13:15 KJV).

On the other hand, happiness, gladness, delight, or laughter are responses to situations or circumstances too. Sadness or happiness will take you to either the darker side of life or into the light. “…David danced before the LORD with all his might…” (2 Samuel 6:14 KJV).

The way to avoid the pendulum of experiencing happiness one moment and sadness the next is to FIX your attention upon the TRUTH and REST in the indwelling Spirit. “…my JOY …. REMAIN in you…” (John 15:11 NIV).  “…God will generously PROVIDE all … [the JOY] … you need. …” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

Having God-given JOY is a TRUTH that was intended to keep you STRONG and CONTENT no matter what is happening. “….The JOY of the Lord is … [my] … strength…” (Nehemiah 8:10 KJV).

Focusing on MOODS, FEELINGS, PEOPLE, or SITUATIONS centers your attention on self; or what people are doing or are not doing; or on what’s happening or what is not happening INSTEAD of fixing the MIND on God’s TRUTH.  “…Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things…” (Philippians 4:8 KJV).

You can CHOOSE to FILL your mind with JOYFUL TRUTHS or allow the enemy to LIE to you.  “…Thy WORD is truth...” (JOHN 17:17 KJV). “…the devil …he is a liar and the father of lies…” (John 8:44 NASB).

If you ALLOW your thoughts to be occupied with FEELINGS, MOODS, PEOPLE, or SITUATIONS expect JOY to dissipate or disappear altogether. “…The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill,and to destroy…” (John 10:10 KJV).

Bring your thoughts into submission to the TRUTH. “…Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ (the WORD, TRUTH)…” (2 Corinthians 10:5 KJV).

If you ALLOW your thoughts to be occupied with GOD’s TRUTH and trust his indwelling POWER you can expect to experience JOY over the GREAT things he has DONE!  “…may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing…” (Romans 15:13 NASB).

Remember, accessing God-given JOY is a CHOICE. “…choose LIFE…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “…It is the SPIRIT who gives LIFE…” (John 6:63 NASB). “…But the fruit of the Spiritis love, JOY, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

JOY is a biblical decree.“…REJOICE in the Lord always…” (Philippians 4:4 NIV).  “…REJOICE always…” (1 Thessalonians 5:16 NIV). “…Always be JOYFUL…” (1 Thessalonians 5:16 NLT).

JOY is a side effect of the indwelling Holy Spirit. “…But the fruit of the Spirit is love, JOY…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

You can’t regulate every MOOD, FEELING, PERSON, or SITUATION, but you can choose to ABIDE joyfully in the UNION with Christ. “…abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me…” (John 15:4 KJV).

The world will offer its temporary lusts or glitz and glam as if to tease the believer that they are missing something or missing out on all the FUN. “.. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes NOT from the Father but from the world.The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT).

God-given JOY is true and everlasting. “…everlasting JOY will crown their heads…” (Isaiah 35:10 NIV).  It is the believer, who is the witness of true, indwelling JOY! “…Ye shall know them by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV). “…The fruit of the Spirit is love, JOY…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

Having the right perspective on God-given JOY makes a BIG difference. “…my JOY …. REMAIN in you…” (John 15:11 NIV).   It is important to KNOW God-given JOY is a GIFT that originates from the INDWELLING Spirit and is NOT dependent on the believer.

 Jesus’ JOY was imparted to the believer, so it is NOW YOUR JOY. . “…God will generously PROVIDE all … [the JOY] … you need. …” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT). “…that YOUR JOY …. MIGHT BE FULL…” (John 15:11 NIV).

Believers have moments of WEAKNESS, but it will NEVER weaken their indwelling JOY. “…when I am weak, then am I strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10 KJV). “…MY POWER IS MADE PERFECT IN WEAKNESS...” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV).  

Jesus is the believer’s sufficiency of JOY and he will NEVER change or reduce their supply of JOY. “…NOT that we are sufficient OF OURSELVES to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God…” (2 Corinthians 3:5 KJV). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  “Jesus Christ is the sameyesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).

CHOOSING JOY is challenging without a DEPTH of TRUTH and REALITY of God’s WORD regarding indwelling JOY. “…My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge…” (Hosea 4:6 NIV). “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful” (Joshua 1:8 NIV).

Without studying about God-given JOY, most believers will have a deficiency of JOY in their Christian journeys. “…Whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning…” (Romans 15:4 KJV). “… They are written for our admonition…” (1 Corinthians 10:11 KJV). “…Study to shew thyself approved unto God…” (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV).

Most Christians have NOT experienced God-given JOY as a STRENGTH and may not even truly KNOW what it means. “…My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge…” (Hosea 4:6 NIV).

Not KNOWING God-given JOY is a deficiency of one’s understanding of their spiritual GIFTS. “…Every man to whom God has givenriches and wealth, He has also empowered him to eat from them and to receive his reward and REJOICE in his labor; this is the gift of God…” (Ecclesiastes 5:19 NASB).

You are affected by the company you keep. When the amount of quality fellowship with God is small or shallow JOY or the lack of JOY is a SIGN. “…Do not be deceived: "Bad company corrupts good morals…" (1 Corinthians 15:33 NASB).

A sure TRUTH is that the closer and more intimate one is to the love and indwelling Spirit of God; JOY and PEACE of telltale SIGNS. “…The God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing…” (Romans 15:13 NASB).

God-given JOY is a BESTOWED GIFT “…What do you have that God hasn’t given you?...”(1 Corinthians 4:7 NLT). If you do not experience God-given JOY it is time to search your heart for possible doubt, distance, unbelief, and the absence of his presence in your life. “…I DO believe; HELP me overcome my unbelief!...” (Mark 9:24 NIV).

God-given JOY is a BOLD approach to God’s many spiritual GIFTS. Believers do not often go to the throne of GRACE for HELP in their time of NEED. “..Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE, that we may obtain mercy, and find GRACE to help in time of need…” (Hebrews 4:16 KJV).

Believers have a RIGHT to God-given JOY, but often take a position of timidity, doubt, apprehension, cowardliness, or fear. “…God is able to make all GRACE abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things…” (2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV). “…God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind…” (2 Timothy 1:7 NASB). “..come boldly unto the throne of GRACE…”(Hebrews 4:16 KJV).

JOY is not LIMITED to a future experience, but it is meant for TODAY. “…Beloved, NOW we arechildren of God…” (1 John 3:2 NASB). We are accepted as his children and can lay CLAIM to ALL spiritual blessings! “…he hath made us accepted in the beloved…” (Ephesians 1:6 KJV).“…Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who HATH blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ…” (Romans 1:3 KJV).

Do you deserve his JOY, or have you earned it or merited it? NO, but it is yours anyway! Therefore, “..come boldly unto the throne of GRACE…”(Hebrews 4:16 KJV).

 Be CONFIDENT and SECURE in regard to his LOVE. “…I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day…” (1 Timothy 1:12 KJV).

You belong to God, but God also BELONGS to you wholeheartedly!! “…The LORD is MY rock and MY fortress and MY deliverer, MY GOD, MY rock, in whom I take refuge; MY shieldand the horn of MY salvation, MY stronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB). Like Soloman you can say, “…My beloved is mine, and I amhis…” (Soloman 2:16 KJV).

God has given generously to his people and he wants them to ENJOY abundant LIFE “…His divine power hath given unto us ALL THINGS that pertain unto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV). . “…It is the …Holy Spirit who gives all these gifts … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…I came that they may have LIFE, and have it abundantly...” (John 10:10 KJV).

“….The JOY of the Lord is your strength…” (Nehemiah 8:10 KJV).“…A cheerful heart is good medicine,but a broken spirit saps a person’s strength…” (Proverbs 17:22 NLT).

Godly JOY was imparted, to the believer, through the indwelling Holy Spirit. “…But the fruit of the Spirit is love, JOY, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

It is the believer’s CHOICE to be stabilized by TRUTH or rattled by unstable or wavering MOODS, FEELINGS, PEOPLE, or SITUATIONS. “…The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who CHOOSE that way. …” (Matthew 7:13-14 NLT).  “…choose LIFE…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

JOY is a STABLIZER that KEEPS the believer STRONG and CONTENT whatever they are experiencing. “…be content with what you have, because God has said “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).

JOY is the SECRET of contentment for the saints, because they can do ALL things through Jesus Christ who STRENGTHENS them!  “…THE SECRET of the Lord is with them that fear him…” (PROVERBS 25:14). “… but HIS SECRET is with the righteous…” (PROVERBS 3:32). God has “… [MADE] KNOWN… [TO YOU]...the RICHES of the glory … which is Christ IN YOU…” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “…Jesus Christ IS IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…Christ in you, …” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “…THE SECRET of the Lord is with [YOU]…”(PROVERBS 25:14).“…I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

“….The JOY of the Lord is your strength…” (Nehemiah 8:10 KJV). In the 8th Chapter of Nehemiah, the Israelites were celebrating their return from exile. They were exiled from their homeland because of their disobedience to God.

After returning to their homeland they began meeting in the square, at the West gate, to listen to the Word of God. Listening to the Word of God convicted them and they became upset over disobeying God.

However Ezra, the Levites, and Nehemiah told them and encouraged them to celebrate instead. They had returned to God, to obedience, and to the covenant relationship.

God had granted them grace and mercy, the full embrace of his blessings, and his JOY. This JOY would be their strength going forward. “….The JOY of the Lord is your strength…” (Nehemiah 8:10 KJV).

The Israelites had returned from exile. You have returned from spiritual exile. When you realized you are a sinner, it causes guilt, but if you repent God will forgive your sins. Instead of continual sadness about your sins; you can NOW REJOICE over the free “gift of salvation.” Like the Israelites, “….The JOY of the Lordis your strength…” (Nehemiah 8:10 KJV).

DO YOU HAVE JOYFUL STRENGTH?

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I KNOW JESUS LIVES, BECAUSE HE LIVES WITHIN ME!

I KNOW JESUS LIVES, BECAUSE HE LIVES WITHIN ME

“ …We have this treasure “in” earthen vessels…” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). 

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An EARTHEN VESSEL is DESIGNED to CONTAIN something, because it is a VESSEL.

A VESSEL, therefore, was made to CARRY something particular and becomes useful when it is FILLED with its particular PURPOSE.

The believer is SET APART to be an EARTHEN VESSEL that CARRIES a specific TREASURE, which FILLS them with PURPOSE.  “ … We have this treasure “in” earthen vessels…” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV).

The specific TREASURE, which FILLS the EARTHEN VESSEL is the INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT. “ …we have this treasure in earthen vessels...” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV).

“… We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jarscontaining this great treasure…” (2 Corinthians 4:7 NLT).

“What? know ye not that your body (YOUR EARTHEN VESSEL) is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” (1 Corinthians 6:19 KJV). “…Know ye not that ye are the temple (EARTHERN VESSEL) of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV). “…Know ye not your own selves …that Jesus Christ is in you (IN YOUR EARTHEN VESSEL)…” (2 Corinthians KJV). “…God hath said, I will dwell in them (IN THEIR EARTHEN VESSEL), and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people” (2 Corinthians 6:16 KJV).

In practical terms, the EARTHEN VESSEL is the HUMAN BODY. The physical BODY interacts with the physical or natural world.

Jesus was an EARTHEN VESSEL, which is a physical body. Jesus’ EARTHEN VESSELL was prepared to be the once-and-for-all atoning sacrifice and the mouthpiece for God’s WORD. “…For it is not possible for the blood of bulls and goats really to take away sins.  That is why Christ said as he came into the world, “O God, the blood of bulls and goats cannot satisfy you, so you have made ready this body (earthen vessel) of mine for me to lay as a sacrifice upon your altar…” (Hebrews 10:4-8 NLT). “….the Son of Man came (was sent and prepared as an earthen vessel) ….TO GIVE his life as a ransom for many" (Matthew 20:28 NIV). “… I lay down my life (my earthen vessel)... No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. …” (John 10:17-18 KJV).

“…I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak…” (John 12:49 KJV).

“..I am (the WORD) in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

Jesus, the EARTHEN VESSEL, came in a human body to do God’s will.  “… Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God…” (Hebrew 10:7 KJV). “… Not My will, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).“… I lay down my life... No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. …” (John 10:17-18 KJV).

 

Jesus was the PERFECT example of being an EARTHEN VESSEL. In this world God’s people are to be LIKE JESUS! “...Be … imitatorsof [Jesus, the Word of God]…” (Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:1 ASV). “… growing in every way more and more like Christ (the word of god)…” (Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT). “…In this world we are like Jesus (the word of god)…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “… He (Jesus) had a name written, that no man knew … his name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB

GOD’S PEOPLE willfully CHOOSE to present their EARTHEN VESSELS or BODIES, which is their REASONABLE service to God or the LEAST they can DO. “…. I urge you … to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship…” (Romans 12:1 NASB).  “… I lay down my life... No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. …” (John 10:17-18 KJV).

When God’s people GIVE their life to JESUS, the WORD of God; they are saying everything I possess BELONGS to God, including my earthen vessel or body. “… have this attitude inyourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who ,… taking the form of a bond-servant emptied Himself, and …humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. …” (Philippians 2:5-8 NASB). “… Not My will, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).

Thus, their earthen vessel or body BECOMES a LIVING SACRIFICE to God, just like JESUS’ body did. JESUS SAID: “… I lay down my life... No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. …” (John 10:17-18 KJV).

God, the HOLY SPIRIT indwells his people, which SETS them APART, makes them AVAILABLE for his use, and SANCTIFIES them for God’s SERVICE. “…The [Holy] Spirit of God dwellin you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV). “…God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people…” (2 Corinthians 6:16 KJV).

God can WORK “IN” and “THROUGH” a WILLING vessel however he pleases and will also DISPLAY his mighty POWER!! “…The … HOLY SPIRIT …does the work IN and THROUGH all of us who are HIS… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of us … … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The HOLY SPIRIT …gives all these gifts and POWERS… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

The EARTHEN VESSEL allows the indwelling Holy Spirit to WORK “IN” them to transform the INSIDE. The EARTHEN VESSEL allows the indwelling Holy Spirit to WORK “THROUGH” them to transform the OUTSIDE.

The Holy Spirit WORKS “IN” and “THROUGH” you to DISPLAY his POWER in your finances, emotions, spiritual life, relationships, physical life, and mental health. “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

The Holy Spirit worked “IN” and “THROUGH” Jesus (the WORD of GOD). “…The Spirit of the Lord [was] upon [him] … he hath anointed [him] to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent [him] to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord…” (John 4:16-21 KJV). “…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

Jesus, the earthen vessel did NOT “DO” the WORKS, but the Holy Spirit DISPLAYED the POWER of GOD through Jesus (the WORD OF GOD). “… [Jesus (the WORD OF GOD, said]…the Fatherthat dwelleth in me, he doeth the works (HE DOES THE WORK THAT CONFIRMS HIS WORD)…” (John 14:10 KJV).  “…God publicly endorsed (CONFIRMED) Jesus (THE WORD) the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know. …” (ACTS 2:22 KJV).

God’s people choose to voluntarily relinquish control to the INDWELLING SPIRIT, which is God. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…Jesus Christ is in YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…Submit [your earthen vessel] therefore to God…” (James 4:7 NLT). “…Surrender your pride and power (your human will)…” (Jeremiah 4:4  NLT).

Therefore, “… have this attitude inyourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped,but taking the form of a bond-servant emptied Himself, , and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearanceas a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. …” (Philippians 2:5-8 NASB). “…In this world we are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

Jesus willingly chose to surrender his earthen vessel or body to God’s will and plan for his life.  “… I lay down my life... No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. …” (John 10:17-18 KJV). “….Christ pleased not himself…” (Romans 15:3 KJV).  

Jesus openly confessed that he DID “…NOT come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life  (his earthen vessel/ body) a ransom for many...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV).

Jesus willingly chose to follow God’s will and God’s plan; no matter what it cost.  Jesus said, “…Father …not My will, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).

Most of God’s people have their OWN agendas. They have important plans for their OWN life that DON’T necessarily line up with God’s PLAN or PURPOSE. “…you hypocrites…This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me…” (Mark 7:6 KJV). 

It is OFTEN obvious that God’s people have their OWN personal plans for their careers, their travels, their desired spouse, their pursuit of happiness, getting financially set, obtaining self-peace, establishing comfort, sustaining health, and maintaining autonomy“… The people replied, “Don’t waste your breath. We will continue to live as we want to…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

Their agendas often come into conflict with God’s will and plan for their lives. “…My people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

A great percentage of God’s people IGNORE God’s agenda OVER their OWN agenda. OR they will pick and choose the part of God’s plans that FIT into their OWN tradition or plan and NOT the other way around. “…You skillfully ….hold on to your own tradition...” (Mark 7:9 NLT).

They may surrender to God’s plan for certain ethical behaviors; but not HIS PLANS that require SURRENDER and SACRIFICE of their earthen vessels or bodies. “… We will continue to live as we want to…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

Jesus was sold out to God’s plan for his earthen vessel and he was unequivocally surrendered to his will; no matter what the cost. “…I do nothing of myself…” (John 8:28 KJV). Jesus (the WORD) and his Father (God, the Holy Spirit) were ONE MIND and ONE PURPOSE. Together they were a committed covenant team. “I and the father are one” (John 10:30 KJV). 

Jesus radically surrendered his earthen vessel to God; he said: “…Father …not My will, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).

I used the word radical to paint a picture of Jesus’ absolute devotion and commitment to God’s will and plan for his earthen vessel. “… [Jesus came] … to serve, and to giveHis life ...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV).

For Jesus, it wasn’t radical at all, but a willful, loving desire to do God’s will. “…I desire to do your will, my God…” (Psalms 40:8 KJV).

Jesus’ devotion and commitment to be God’s earthen vessel is meant to be a standard for the God’s people. “… I lay down my life... No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. …” (John 10:17-18 KJV). “….Christ pleased not himself…” (Romans 15:3 KJV).  

 God’s people are to model their own devotion and commitment to God’s will and plan in the same manner. Jesus said: “…that the world may know … as the Father gave me commandments, even so I do…” (John 14:31 KJV). “…I must be about my Father'sbusiness?” (Luke 2:49 KJV).

Many of God’s people don’t willingly offer their earthen vessels to that kind devotion and commitment to God’s will and plan; even on the most basic level. “…My people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts (or their own agendas)…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

Jesus offered his earthen vessel as “…living sacrifice…” which is “…[also God’s people’s] … reasonable service…” (Romans 12:1 KJV). “Reasonable service” is one that is equitable, just, and fair or the “least” you can do; considering what God has done for YOU. “…The LORD has done great things for us …” (Psalms 126:3 NIV).

“…Rejoice and be glad, For the LORD has done great things…” (Joel 2:21 NASB). “Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT).

Nonetheless, many of God’s people are not willing to offer their earthen vessels even in “…reasonable service [to God]…” (Romans 12:1 KJV). No matter how you rationalize it, the surrender of your earthen vessel to God’s will and plan is simply your “… reasonable service…” (Romans 12:1 KJV).

Job responded to ALL his troubles with an attitude that demonstrated he understood his “reasonable service” to God. “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, And naked I shall return there. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.” Through all this Job did not sin nor did he blame God …” (Job 1:20-22 NASB). “…Rejoice and be glad, For [in spite of all I’ve been through] the LORD has done great things…” (Joel 2:21 NASB).

God CREATES and PREPARES and CHOOSES his EARTHEN VESSELs for specific PURPOSES. Job was hand-picked by God for his purpose. Jesus was also hand-picked by God for his purpose. Jesus SUFFERED through some HARD experiences. God “…spared not his own Son, but delivered him (his earthen vessel) up for us all….?” (Romans 8:32 KJV).

God will not spare you from suffering, certain experiences, in this earthen vessel. All your experiences are part of a GREATER PLAN and PURPOSE.  Job’s personal PLANS for his family and finances were tragically lost and yet he said, “...though he slay me, yet will I trust in him…” (Job 13:15 KJV).

Job knew inwardly that surrender of his earthen vessel to God’s will and plan was his “…reasonable service…” and he kept his devotion and commitment to God.

When God’s will and plan drives your agenda whatever is lost, altered, or totally transformed is worthless when compared to the relationship with God. God’s people safely and trustingly surrender and offer their earthen vessels into the God’s sovereign, loving care. “… everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [our]… Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ” (Philippians 3:8 NLT). “…The LORD “WILL” accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “...Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV).

 “...he careth for you…” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV). This is an important KEY to surrendering  and offering your earthen vessel to God’s will and God’s plan. God’s CARE becomes a place of SAFETY and REST. “…The name of the Lordis a strong tower (REFUGE); The righteous runs into it and is safe…” (Proverbs 18:10 NASB). “…God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble…” (Psalms 46:1 NASB). “…you will find rest for your souls…” (Matthew 11:29 NASB)

God’s people willfully choose to surrender and offer control of their earthen vessels or bodies to God, the indwelling Holy Spirit. “…He alone is my refuge, my place of safety…For he will rescue you from every trapand protect you from deadly disease.  He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings.His faithful promises are your armor and protection. … If you make the Lord your refuge, if you make the Most High your shelter, no evil will conquer you; no plague will come near your home.…The Lord says, “I will rescue those who love me.I will protect those who trust in my name…” (Psalms 91 NLT).

In LIGHT of God’s LOVE, his people voluntarily give up their OWN personal will and plans for God’s will and plans. “…not My will, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV). “…I desire to do your will, my God…” (Psalms 40:8 KJV).

 Jesus willingly sacrificed himself by totally surrendering and offering his earthen vessel or body to God’s will and God’s plan. “… have this attitude inyourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who ,… taking the form of a bond-servant emptied Himself, and …humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. …” (Philippians 2:5-8 NASB).

Surrendering and offering their earthen vessel or body requires God’s people to voluntarily choose to empty themselves and follow God will and plan for their lives. “…choose LIFE…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “… taking the form of a bond-servant emptied Himself. …” (Philippians 2:5-8 NASB).

In my OWN life and experience, surrendering and offering my earthen vessel and body was CHALLENGING, painful, and was often wroth with tears or sadness. “… Those who … keep their promises even when it hurts…” (Psalms 15:4 NLT). “… He that sweareth to his OWN hurt and changeth not…” (Psalms 15:4 KJV).

Surrendering and offering your earthen vessel or body for God’s will and God’s plan, is costly, but is also the hallmark of the Christian lifestyle.“… The Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls.When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everythinghe ownedand bought it!” (Matthew 13:45-45 NLT).

GIVING UP one’s personal plans is the MARK of Christian maturity. The bible suggests ways to make surrender easier.“….always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body.  For we who live are constantly being delivered (surrendered or offered) over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So death works in us, but life in you…” (2 Corinthians 4:10-12 NASB). “…Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth…” (Matthew 6:19 NASB). “….He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me…” (Matthew 10:37-38 NASB). “… everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms for My name’s sake…” (Matthew 19:29 & Luke 9:23 NASB).  “… I do all things for the sake of the gospel, so that I may become a fellow partaker of it…” (1 Corinthians 9:23 NASB). “… if food causes my brother to stumble, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause my brother to stumble…” (1 Corinthians 8:13 NASB).

In the covenant relationship, where the indwelling Holy Spirit is truly HEAD; submission to his WILL and PLAN will be challenging. It is HARD to voluntarily and willingly choose to GIVE UP personal control to God.“…If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me…” (Matthew 16:24 NASB).

However, surrendering and offering your earthen vessel to God, the indwelling HOLY Spirit’s will and plan is actually surrendering and offering YOURSELF to God’s HOLY love, to his HOLY care, to his HOLY provisions, to his HOLY directions, to his spiritual, HOLY blessings, and to his  HOLY TRUST. “ .. The Lord says, “ … I will protect those who trust in my name (jesus, the word of god)…” (Psalms 91 NLT).

“your body  (YOUR EARTHEN VESSEL) is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you…” (1 Corinthians 6:19 KJV). “…ye are the temple (EARTHERN VESSEL) of God, and …the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV). “…Jesus Christ is in you…” (2 Corinthians KJV). “…God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people…” (2 Corinthians 6:16 KJV).

God’s people are SET APART to be an EARTHEN VESSEL that CARRIES a specific TREASURE, which FILLS them with PURPOSE. “…[you]…have this treasure in [your]…earthen vessel (body)...” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV).

That specific TREASURE, which FILLS their EARTHEN VESSEL with PURPOSE is the INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT. “ …[you]…have this treasure in [your]…earthen vessel (body)...” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). “…Jesus Christ is in you…” (2 Corinthians KJV).

GOD'S LOVE CAN TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE FOREVER

             
TRANSFORMING LOVE

“…not by works…” (Ephesians 2:9). “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…every one that loveth …. KNOWETH God. He that loveth NOT KNOWETH NOT God; for God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

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I have been concerned with the integrity of the Christian faith for a while and whether it will maintain its impact or relevancy in the 21st century."… [God’s people were meant to become]... the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless …It is no longer good for anything…” (Matthew 5:13 NASB).

So many people have used Christianity inappropriately and have paired it with personal agendas or used it for ill-gotten gains. “…If someone claims, “I know God,” but doesn’t obey God’s commandments, that person IS A LIAR and is not living in the truth…” (1 John 2:4 NLT).  “…If we “SAY” that we have fellowship with him, and WALK IN DARKNESS (without the show of spiritual fruit), WE LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV).  “… the deeds of the flesh are evident…” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).

Almost every Christian term or service or activity or righteous work have had some kind of scandal or negative behavior tied to it. “…hypocrites ...This people honoureth me with [their] lips, but [their] heart is far from me...” (Mark 7:6 KJV).   “… [THEY] LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV). “…He (Jesus) knew what was in each person’s heart…” (John 2:24-25 NLT). “...hypocrites! for [God’s people] make clean the outside of the cup (with religious appearance and doings) and of the platter, but within (in their hearts) they are full of extortion and excess...” (Matthew 23:13-33 KJV).

Some Christian leaders would have the world think that politically the greatest commandments for God’s people are merely concerned with homosexuality and abortion whether than the two most important ones regarding loving Godand loving others, which dates back to the law of Moses?” “...Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?” Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your Godwith all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments...” (Matthew 22:36-40 NLT). 

“...What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites!For you are careful to tithe even the tiniest income from your herb gardens,but you ignore the more important aspects of the law—justice, mercy, and faith. You should tithe, yes, but do not neglect the more important things...” (Matthew 23:23 NLT).

Therefore, God’s people often express, through their actions, a Christian faith that mainly FOCUSES on the laws of the land that impact other people’s behavior whether than the laws of God that were given to FOCUS on THEIR own behaviors.  “...Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men...” (Acts 5:29 KJV). “…What shall it profit a man (woman), if he(she) shall gain the whole world (fool other humans with outward hypocrisy), and lose his (her) own soul?...” (Mark 8:36 KJV). “…[God knows] ...what ...[is]... in each person’s heart…” (John 2:24-25 NLT). “…[The] ...Lord (God), which knowest the heartsof all men…” (Acts 1:24 KJV). “… He watches everyone closely, examining every person on earth. The Lord examines both the righteous and the wicked…” (Psalm 11:4-5 NLT). “… [their] heartis far from me...” (Mark 7:6 KJV).   

God’s people (his true disciples) are NOT more supportive of adhering to a political agenda, than they are of a righteous one. “…If you love me, you will (not might, maybe, sometimes, when I feel like it, or occasional, etc.) keep my commandments…” (John 14:15). However, “…My people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “… The people replied, “Don’t waste your breath. We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

“…Ye shall know [God’s people]… by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV). “…He(she) who ABIDES in Me (the covenant relationship with God, the Holy Spirit) and I in him (her), he(she) bears much fruit  … ” (John 15:1-11 NASB). "…My Father is glorified (his presence, goodness, and working power is made known) by this, that...[HIS PEOPLE]... bear much fruit, and so PROVE to be My disciples (MY PEOPLE)...” (John 15:8 NIV).

How will the Christian faith transform society if those within the Christian faith are not transformed themselves? “…my peoplewould not listen to me...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “…The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and [YOU]… ARE NOT SAVED...” (Jeremiah 8:20 KJV). “…If My people which are called by My name shall humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and TURN FROM their wicked ways…” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV). “… And  …“If the righteous are barely saved, what will happen to godless sinners?...” (1 Peter 4:18 NLT).

How did Jesus, the LIVING word, CHANGE society? Jesus’ righteous works and spiritual fruit drew the LOST, OPPRESSED, and NEEDY to God. “...the crowds learned about it and followed him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing...” (Luke 9:11 KJV). “...And wherever he went—into villages, towns or countryside—they placed the sick in the marketplaces. They begged him to let them touch even the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed...” (Mark 6:56 KJV). “...Large crowds followed him, and he healed them there...” (Matthew 19:2 KJV). “...the people all tried to touch him, because power was coming from him and healing them all...” (Luke 6:19 KJV).

“… God  … work[ed] … in … [Jesus] … what is pleasing to him [God, the Holy Spirit]…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…the Father... [that DWELLS within JESUS]… he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“...[Jesus] ... went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; [HOW WAS HE ABLE TO DO THOSE THINGS?]... GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

(WHAT ELSE WAS JESUS, THE LIVING WORD, EMPOWERED, BY THE HOLY SPIRIT, able TO DO?) “…[HE WAS] ... anointed (empowered) to preach the gospel to the poor; ... to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord…” (John 4:16-21 KJV).

The ANOINTED (Holy Spirit empowered) works and display of spiritual fruit came through Jesus, but were PRODUCED by God, the Holy Spirit. He DOES the WORK. “…Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and POWER (the indwelling Holy Spirit), performed great wonders and signs among the people…” (Acts 6:8 NIV).

 “…God did extraordinary MIRACLES (by the indwelling Holy Spirit) through Paul…” (Acts 19:11 NIV).

“…I persevered in demonstrating among you the marks of a true apostle, including signs, wonders and MIRACLES (the WORK of the Holy Spirit)…” (2 Corinthians 12:12 NIV). “…the Father that dwelleth in [you], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“…God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of [those].. who are his. The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s [power and fruit]... THROUGH each of us …… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

Everybody doesn’t experience these works. WHY?  “ ... because you are stubborn and refuse to turn from your sin, you are storing up terrible punishment for yourself. For a day of anger is coming, when God’s righteous judgment will be revealed. He will judge everyone according to what they have done. He will give eternal life to those who keep on doing good, seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers. But he will pour out his anger and wrath on those who live for themselves, who refuse to obey the truth and instead live lives of wickedness. There will be trouble and calamity for everyone who keeps on doing what is evil—for the Jew first and also for the Gentile. But there will be glory and honor and peace from God for all who do good ....” (Romans 2:5-13 NLT).

In addition, how will God’s people be transformed if they are more concerned with “doing” Christianity whether than truly “becoming” Christ-like? “... the Jews (or God’s people), who do have God’s law, will be judged by that law when they fail to obey it.  For merely listening to the [HOLY] law doesn’t make us right with God. It is obeying the [HOLY] law that makes us right in his sight...” (Romans 2:5-13 NLT).

Christians have mega churches, mega preachers, mega-colleges, national and international ministry or renown, and yet fail to demonstrate a mega-personal transformation. “…The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and [YOU (God’s people)]… ARE...[“still”]... NOT SAVED...” (Jeremiah 8:20 KJV).

Too many of God’s people think a sign of transformation is a form of human entertainment, religious doings or deeds, or dramatic antics. “... outwardly ... [you] ... appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites...” (Matthew 23:13-33 KJV). “... except [the] righteousness [of God’s people] shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees (worldly, fleshly, or carnal righteousness), [Those claiming to be God’s people] shall [not] enter into the kingdom of heaven...” (Matthew 5:10 KJV).

Finding a truly transformed person is like looking for that proverbial needle in a haystack. “…hypocrites ...This people honoureth me with [their] lips, but [their] heart is far from me...” (Mark 7:6 KJV).   “…If [God’s people] “SAY” that [they] have fellowship with him, and WALK IN DARKNESS (hypocrisy, phoniness, etc.), [THEY] LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV). “...hypocrites! for [God’s people] make clean the outside of the cup (religious appearance) and of the platter, but within (in their hearts) they are full of extortion and excess...” (Matthew 23:13-33 KJV).

“Jesus saith…I am THE WAY…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…"This is the WAY; WALK in it…" Isaiah 30:21 NIV). “…THE WAY is narrow that LEADS TO LIFE, and there are FEW who find it…” (Matthew 7:13-14 NASB).

 Please don’t misunderstand me. I am not talking about you. I am talking about the other ones.

 God says, “… I know all the things you do....You have examined the claims of those who say they are apostles but are not. You have discovered they are liars...“But I have this complaint against you. You don’t love me or each other as you did at first! Look how far you have fallen! Turn back to meand do the works you did at first. If you don’t repent, I will come and remove your lampstand from its place among the churches…” (Revelation 2:2-5 NLT).

“...Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?” Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your Godwith all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments...” (Matthew 22:36-40 NLT). 

Thus, the bible says “... Examine yourselves to see if your faith is genuine. Test yourselves. Surely you know that Jesus Christ (the LIVING Word, the LIGHT, the indwelling Holy Spirit, etc.,) is among you; if not, you have failed the test of genuine faith...” (2 Corinthians 13:5 NLT).

There are many, who claim to be God’s people and can SPEAK with the greatest eloquence among mankind or angels, but without God it’s JUST clatter and noise. “...If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love (God is LOVE), I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal...” (1 Corinthians 13:1-5 NASB).

There are many, who claim to be God’s people and have demonstrated great faith to the degree of moving mountains, but without God it means nothing. “...if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing (apart from his Spirit, you can do nothing)....” (1 Corinthians 13:1-5 NASB). “...apart from [GOD] nothing came into being that has come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB). “... APART FROM [God]... you can do nothing  …” (John 15:1-11 NASB).

There are many, who claim to be God’s people whose gift of prophesy has impacted people’s lives across the globe, but without God, its meaningless. “...If I have the gift ofprophecy ...but do not have love, I am nothing.  ...” (1 Corinthians 13:1-5 NASB). ).“... APART FROM [God]... you can do nothing  …” (John 15:1-11 NASB).

There are many, who claim to be God’s people whose generosity is a matchless sacrifice, but without God, it is pointless. “...if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing...” (1 Corinthians 13:1-5 NASB).“…Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied ...cast out devils... and DONE many wonderful works?And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity…” (Matthew 7:22-23 KJV). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…every one that loveth …. KNOWETH God. He that loveth NOT KNOWETH NOT God; for God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

GOD IS LOOKING “DIRECTLY” AT the HEART of HIS people!! “...God seesnot as man (woman) sees, for man (woman) looks at the outward appearance (the DOING), but the LORD looks at the heart (the BEING)…” (1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). God zooms in on the “…hidden man (woman) of the heart…” (1 Peter 3:4 KJV). God knows it is “…from within, out of the heart of man (woman), proceed evil thoughts… wickedness…All these evil things come from within, and defile a person.” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV).

The heart, without God, the Holy Spirit, and ALL that it contains “…is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked…who can know it [except God?]…” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV).

It is God and God alone that can CREATE, within HIS people, through Jesus, his LIVING Word, a CLEAN heart. “Create in me a clean heart, O God… Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. …” (Psalms 51:10-19 KJV). “....Now ye (God’s people) are clean through the Word which I have spoken unto you (through Jesus, his LIVING Word)...” (John 15:1-10 KJV). “...[God’s people can stay] .... holy and clean, washed by the cleansing [power]...of God’s Word ...” (Ephesians 5:26 KJV). “…[God’s people]... can do ALL THINGS through Christ (the Word of God)which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “…He (Jesus, god’s word) will keep you strong to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).

Therefore, even though, some, who claim to be God’s people can actually cast out devils and DO all kinds of wonderful, miraculous DEEDS, there is something missing in the frenzy of all these activities....KNOWING and INCLUDING GOD. “... Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 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? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Matthew 7:21-23 KJV). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…every one that loveth …. KNOWETH God. He that loveth NOT KNOWETH NOT God; for God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

It is very clear that Christian “doings” can BECOME a serious stumbling block. God’s people are to “DO”, but, without God, “DOING” is meaningless, doesn’t profit anything, and amounts to nothing. “...[If people who claim to be God’s people DO,]...but do not have love, [they] have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal...” (1 Corinthians 13:1-5 NASB). “...[If people who claim to be God’s people DO,]...but do not have love, [they are actually doing]... nothing....” (1 Corinthians 13:1-5 NASB).“...[If people who claim to be God’s people DO,]...but do not have love, it profits [or earns them] nothing...” (1 Corinthians 13:1-5 NASB).

Anybody can “DO” or imitate Christian works. “’Master,’ Said John, ‘we saw a man driving out demons in your name and we tried to stop him, because he is not ONE OF US,’ ‘Do not stop him,’ Jesus said, ‘for whoever is not against you is for you...’” (Luke 9:49-50 NIV).  People can support the CAUSE, but not the PERSON behind the CAUSE

Therefore, just because a person “DOES” Christian works similar or the same as God’s people DO, it does not mean THEY are ONE OF God’s people. “...because he (she) is not ONE OF US...’” (Luke 9:49-50 NIV). “...Anyone (NO EXCEPTIONS) who does not live righteously and does not love other believers DOES "NOT' BELONG TO GOD...” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT). “…those who do not havethe [indwelling Holy]... Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.….” (Romans 8:8-11 NLT).

Your Christian works alone do not determine that you are ONE OF God’s people, but, unfortunately, many people think it does. Nonetheless, WORKS, alone, does not count as a guarantee, shoe-in to heaven. “... Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not ...done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Matthew 7:21-23 KJV).

People, knowingly or unknowingly, THINK, their deeds (DOINGS) will make them worthy, deserving, or help them earn a SPOT in God’s kingdom. SALVATION is a free gift and DOINGS are acts of grateful obedience for the FREE gift. “... God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God ... through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT). “…, my righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “…[He sent the ] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “…[salvation]… IS THE GIFT OF GOD (the Holy Spirit)…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “…[God’s people ARE] ... Saved by grace (unmerited favor) through faith (trust in & dependency upon god)… NOT OF [them]SELVES ... not of works (doings OF THE flesh), that no man (woman) should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

 None of God’s people WORKED for SALVATION, nor do they WORK to keep their SALVATION “…He did this, not because we DESERVED it, but because that was his planfrom before the beginning of time…” (2 Timothy 1:9 NLT). “...to show us his GRACE through Christ Jesus...” (2 Timothy 1:9 NLT).“…God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them...” (2 Corinthians 6:16 KJV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  

“... It is God (the indwelling Holy Spirit) which worketh in [HIS people] both to will and to do of hisgood pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “… the God of peace… that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip [his people] with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in [them, through the indwelling Holy Spirit]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

God’s people were SAVED by God’s GRACE through FAITH (trusting in and depending upon God’s plan of Salvation). “…IT IS (Salvation) THE GIFT OF GOD (the Holy Spirit)…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “... Every good GIFT and every perfect GIFT is from above, and comethdown from the Father of lights…” (James 1:17 KJV). “…A man (woman) can receive nothing, except it BE GIVEN him from heaven…” (John 3:27 KJV). “…The LORD SHALL GIVE that which is good…” (Psalms 85:12 KJV). “…What do you have that God hasn’t given you?...” (1 Corinthians 4:7 NLT). “... [The WORD, the GOOD seed, the LIGHT, the working POWER, etc.,]... came down from heaven (to dwell within the hearts of God’s people)...” (John 6:42 KJV).39 KJV). “...By the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).God’s people WALK and LIVE by faith (by trusting in and depending upon God’s empowering Holy Spirit). “…[God’s people]... can do ALL THINGS through Christ (the Word of God)which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “…He (Jesus, god’s word) will keep you strong to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).“… [God’s people are]...equip with everything good for doing his will…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “...[God works “in” and “through” his people].... … what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ (his Word, his LIGHT, his working POWER, etc.,)…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

None of God’s people EARN or DESERVE the gifts and blessings, but THEY come from the unmerited GRACE and FAVOR of God’s unconditional love for EACH of them. “... Every good GIFT and every perfect GIFT is from above, and comethdown from the Father of lights…” (James 1:17 KJV). “…A man (woman) can receive nothing [spiritual], except it BE GIVEN him from heaven…” (John 3:27 KJV). “… “…The LORD SHALL GIVE that which is [spiritually] good…” (Psalms 85:12 KJV). “...By the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).

Here is how the belief of DOING could become a deception. “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. 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? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Matthew 7:21-23 KJV).

God’s people have read the following scriptures many times, but are continually remiss in keeping the two MOST importance commandments in God’s Word: loving God and loving others.

“...Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?” Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your Godwith all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments...” (Matthew 22:36-40 NLT). 

“…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…every one that loveth …. KNOWETH God. He that loveth NOT KNOWETH NOT God; for God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

 THUS, “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.

If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possessto the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.” (1 Corinthians 13:1-3 ASV).

Love transforms you in THREE important ways, LOVE (GOD), SAVES your soul, LOVE empowers your obedience to God’s commandments, and LOVE inspires your genuine concern for others.

 “ ... Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation (substitute, intervention) for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 KJV).

“…If you love me, you will (not might, maybe, sometimes, when I feel like it, or occasional, etc.) keep my commandments…” (John 14:15).

 “...I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just asI have loved you, you should love each other...” (John 13:34 NLT).

God does care about what you are DOING, but he cares MORE about the heart which MOTIVATES you to DO it. “...God SEES NOT as man sees, for man (woman) looks at the outward appearance (DOING), but the LORD LOOKS AT THE HEART (BEING)…”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB).

 Who you BECOME, through Jesus, empowers what you DO for the GLORY of God like Jesus DID. Jesus “IS” the WORD of God. The Word of God CAME DOWN’to do God’s will. “... he (JESUS) ... came down from heaven...” (John 3:13 KJV Jesus CAME “…to giveHis life a ransom for many...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV). “…Christ ... suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us [back] to God …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV).

What else did “Jesus” do?  The Holy Spirit empowered and anointed Jesusto go about DOING good and HEALING the oppressed. “…God anointed (empowered) Jesus of Nazareth (HOW?) with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER:  (WHAT DID JESUS, THE WORD OF GOD, DO?) [HE] ... went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; [HOW WAS HE ABLE TO DO THOSE THINGS?]... GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV). (WHAT ELSE WAS JESUS, THE WORD, ANOINTED TO DO?) “…[HE WAS] ... anointed (empowered) to preach the gospel to the poor; ... to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord…” (John 4:16-21 KJV).

WHO SHOULD GOD’S PEOPLE BECOME LIKE IN THEIR ACTIONS? “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “...Be … imitatorsof [Jesus, the Word of God]…” (Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:1 ASV). “… growing in every way more and more like Christ (the word of god)…” (Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT).

“…be conformedto the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV).“…Ye shall know [those being conformed to his image]… by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV).

The world’s system says you worked; so you earn by doing, deserve by doing, or are worthy of rewards by doing. “... Every good GIFT and every perfect GIFT is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights…” (James 1:17 KJV).

“... [If’... you are boasting about your own pretentious plans ... all such boasting is evil” (James 4:15-16 NLT).

“...God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God ...through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT). “…, my righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “…[He sent the ] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

”…  ye [are]…saved by grace through faith…it is the GIFT of God…” (Ephesians 2:8 KJV).

“… [SALVATION]... IS THE GIFT OF GOD; not of works, that no man (woman) should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

However, God’s system says SALVATION and the process of BEING SAVED comes through the finished work of Christ on the cross. “… I la[id]... down my life... [FOR YOU] …” (John 10:17-18 KJV). “...[Jesus]... said, It is finished…” (John 19:28-30 KJV). “…[Jesus] ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “...God’s free gift ...[comes] ...through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT).

“…His DIVINE POWER hath given unto [HIS people]... ALL THINGS that pertain unto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV). “…[God]...will supply all [HIS people’s]... NEED…” (John 12:32 KJV). ). “...He careth for [them].,,” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV).“…God is the one who provides...[for his people] …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV).  “…God will generously PROVIDE all [his people]...need (through his Word)…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

All God’s people NEED are already theirs by faith (by trusting in and depending upon God). “...The just (God’s redeemed people)... shall live by faith (by trusting in and depending upon God)...” (Hebrews 10:38 KJV).

Even the DOING of God’s people is EMPOWERED or ENABLED by the indwelling Holy Spirit, the LIGHT, the Word, the working POWER, etc,. THE BIBLE says: “...‘What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?’ Jesus answered and said unto them, ‘This is the work of God, that ye believe (that you are empowered to trust in and depend) on Him...(the indwelling Holy Spirit, the LIGHT, the Word, the working POWER, etc.,) whom he (God) hath sent.” (John 6:28-29 KJV). “…God has sent forththe Spirit of His Son “INTO” OUR HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…God has given [you] his Spirit as PROOF that ...he [dwells]…in [you]…” (1 John 4:13 NLT). “…Jesus Christ...(the indwelling Holy Spirit, the LIGHT, the Word, the working POWER, etc.,)  is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

The covenant relationship (the YADA) with God, the Holy Spirit, will reverse the world system where DOING takes a BACKSEAT to BECOMING through transformation and conforming into the IMAGE of Jesus Christ(the indwelling Holy Spirit, the LIGHT, the Word, the working POWER, etc.,). “…beconformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind...”(Romans 12:2 KJV).

YADA has many meanings, but for this book we will use the Hebrew definition “know” or “enter into covenant with” God.

I’m adding that YADA is also a spiritual “oneness” with God that is unique to God, and the deepest intimacy you can ever experience.  “…he (she) that is joined unto the Lord (Jesus) is ONE spirit… [with God again]...” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

An unique, intimate, covenant “Oneness” happens when God joins our spirit (or soul) with his Spirit “...his Spirit joins with our spirit(our soul) to affirm that we are God’s children...” (Romans 8:16).

Once joined, Spirit and soul (spirit) become “one spirit” within a covenant relationship. “…he (she) that is joined unto the Lord (Jesus) is ONE spirit… [with God again]...” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

There is no greater intimacy than this. “…he (she) ...is ONE spirit… [with God again]...” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwell in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  .“… [God sent the ] …one… who can [REUNITE] God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus (WHO comes to DWELL WITHIN)…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).“...[God’s people are]... reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).

The YADA relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, begins by faith or by trusting and depending upon God. It also ENDURES by faith.

“…the POWER of God unto salvation (the power of God to reunite or become ONE SPIRIT) with)... everyone that believeth (trusts in or depends upon JESUS, his plan of salvation)…” (Romans 1:16 KJV).   “...HE (SHE) THAT “SHALL” (WILL) ENDURE UNTO THE END SHALL (WILL) BE SAVED...” (Matthew 24:13 KJV). “... [God’s people] ... are kept by the (indwelling) POWER of God through faith (through trusting in and depending upon him) unto salvation ...” (1 Peter 1:5 KJV).

God’s people are EMPOWERED to “DO” HIS will and “BECOME” like Jesus by FAITH or by trusting in and depending upon his indwelling Holy Spirit. “… apart from [God, the indwelling Holy Spirit[, you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). “… [God’s people] … can do all things through Christ (the Word, the LIGHT, the working POWER, the indwelling Spirit, etc.,) which strengtheneth … [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “…It is God who works in [HIS “own” people]… to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose...” (Philippians 2:13 NIV).

What this implies is that God’s people can come to know HIM and experience HIM, personally, through the YADA relationship. “... [jesus, the word, planted as].... a light [within the heart]  to reveal God ...” (Luke 2:32 NLT). “... A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB). “…He (Jesus, the Word) has revealed God to us…” (John 1:18 NLT). “… For the Lord (Jesus, the Word) ...reveals [God’s]... thoughts to mankind…” (Amos 4:13 NLT).

WHY? “…so [his people]... will know that [HE “IS”] the Lord (the word, the light of truth, the working power, the indwelling spirit, the living water, etc.,)…” (Exodus 10:1-2 NLT). “…Then [his people] will know that [he is] the Lord [their]... God…’” (Exodus 16:12 NLT).

The DOING is transformed when it is empowered by the INDWELLING Holy Spirit, which gives the DOING meaning, profitability, and divine purpose.

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JOHN CHAPTER 11: THE RELAY RACE

“…Jesus said, where have ye laid him?...they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid...” (John 11: 34, 41 KJV).

*

 A relay race is a competition, of some kind, where, two or more, participants form a team and take turns completing, or performing, or finishing their required part of a set race-course against another team of contestants.

For instance, one type of relay race has four participants on a team and they are called sprinters. Each sprinter runs, his or her pre-SET, but equal distance or leg, carrying a baton, and then passes, the baton, on to the next runner in the exchange zone. “…I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us…” (Philippians 3:14 NLT).

However, in a SPRINT medley relay, some participants, on the same team, can run longer or shorter distances or legs before passing the baton.

Regardless of the distance or leg each sprinter runs, the baton must be exchanged in a pre-determined zone and passed on to the next runner in order for the team to FINISH the race, according to the rules. “…Hold firmly to the word  of life; then, on the day of Christ’s return, I will be proud that I did not run the racein vain and that my work was not useless…” (Philippians 2:16 NLT).

A team is disqualified if the baton is lost, or dropped, or laid down, or improperly exchanged from one sprinter to the other.

The last sprinter in the final position is called an ANCHOR and is usually the FASTEST, the BEST, or most EXPERIENCED participant on the TEAM. “…Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win…” (1 Corinthians 9:24 NLT).

The ANCHOR basically has the responsibility for catching up or making up for lost time or any shortcomings of the other TEAM members by TAKING THEM to the FINISH LINE. “…I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful…” (2 Timothy 4:7 NLT).  

The Christian journey is often like a relay race and the baton represents your HOPE. “…run with endurance…” (Hebrews 12:1 NASB).

When you have run your distance of days, weeks, months, or years instead of passing the baton; you laid it down. You have grown weary and can’t endure the rest of the distance.“…Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us…” (Hebrews 12:1 NASB). “…The fastest runner doesn’t always win the race, and the strongest warrior doesn’t always win the battle. The wise sometimes go hungry, and the skillful are not necessarily wealthy. And those who are educated don’t always lead successful lives.…” (Ecclesiastes 9:11 NLT).

Though you are, supposedly, on Jesus’ relay team it seems he abandoned the RACE a long time ago. You have come to believe there is NO ONE to pass the baton too. “…When He heard that he was sick, He then stayed two days longerin the place where He was…” (John 11:5-6 NASB).

The baton represents your HOPE. “…You were running the race so well. Who has held you back from following the truth?” (Galatians 5:7 NLT).

If you start to believe you have no one to pass the baton of hope to and you can no longer carry it alone; what do you do? “…Many… had come to Martha and Mary, to console them concerning theirbrother[‘s] death…” (John 11:19 NASB)

 The hammering of one’s HOPE can cause them to lay their hope down, wrap it in grave clothes, and buried it in a tomb. “…Jesus said, where have ye laid him?.... The place where the dead … [is]… laid...” (John 11: 34, 41 KJV).

John 11:1-44 is about the death and resurrection of Lazarus. This scriptural account of Lazarus is a WITNESS of God’s power to raise the DEAD. “…I am the resurrection and the life…” (John 11:25 KJV)

It is also a story about God’s power to raise the “DEAD” period; including DEAD “HOPE.” “…. Is there any thing too hard for [God]…?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). “…the things which are impossible with men are possible with God…” (Luke 18:27 KJV).

The story of Lazarus being raised from the dead holds important truths about “DEATH” and God’s POWER over death. “…Jesus said, where have ye laid him?...”  (John 11: 34, 41 KJV).

The believer can learn how Jesus will take the baton of HOPE, and get them to the finish line. “…Jesus said, “Remove the stone.” …“Unbind him, and let him go…” (John 11:39, 44 NASB).

John tells us that the sicknesses (trials and tribulations) we go through in life doesn’t lead to death, but will result in the glory or goodness of God. “…The sickness is NOT unto death, but for the glory of God…” (John 11:4 KJV). “…In the morning you will see the glory of the LORD, for He hears your grumblings against the LORD…” (Exodus 16:7 NASB). “…Jesus answered, "It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him…” (John 9:3 KJV). “…believe the works…” (John 10:38 NIV). “…Jesus said to her, "Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?" (John 11:40 KJV).

The RESULT of our HOPE will NOT end in DEATH! “…HOPE DOES NOT DISAPPOINT… (ROMANS 5:5 NASB). “… "WHOEVER BELIEVESIN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED…" (ROMANS 10:11 NASB). “… HE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED… (ROMANS 9:33 NASB). “…In You they trusted and WERE NOT DISAPPOINTED…. (PSALMS 22:5 NASB).

However, Lazarus died. Martha and Mary’s HOPE did end in death and disappointment. “…Lazarus is dead…” (John 11:14 KJV).

Like so many others who have hoped in God for days, weeks, months, and years; their HOPE has ended in DEATH and DISAPPOINTMENT. “…if thou hadst been HERE my brother had NOT died…” (John 11:21 KJV).

People have watched, witnessed, and participated in the DEATH of HOPE in their marriages, or for the conformation, transformation, or salvation of a friend or relative, or through the physical deaths of children, parents, friends, and relatives, or their dreams and long-term desires, and through undesirable situations or circumstances.  “…said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had NOT died…Mary was come where Jesus was….saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had NOT died…” (John 21, 32 KJV).

When HOPE does not GO “OUR” way, or MOVE in our desired direction, or things are not resolved in our desired TIMING or our expected OUTCOME; it is no wonder “HOPE” DIES. “…I have NOT seem the righteous forsaken, nor his seed beggingbread… Wait on the Lord, and keep his way …” (Psalm 37:23-40 KJV).

Lazarus’ sickness turned deadly and did NOT go Mary and Martha’s way nor was it resolved in their desired outcome. Lazarus died. Yet, Jesus said “…this sickness is NOT unto death, but for the glory of God…” (John 11:4 KJV). WHAT!!?

Mary and Martha lost Lazarus and was grieving and disappointed. How does “THIS” display God’s goodness or give him glory?

Mary and Martha were with Lazarus during his entire sickness, probably watched him die, went to his funeral, saw his burial, and grieved over his loss. Their HOPE for his LIFE died with him. NOW “…Jesus said, where have ye laid him?...”  (John 11: 34, 41 KJV).

After a certain period of TIME and purposeful DELAY; Jesus shows up. After a host of endless days, weeks, months, and years Jesus WANTS “YOU” to retrieve your baton of HOPE. “…where have ye laid him?...”  (John 11: 34, 41 KJV).

The death of HOPE happens OVER long periods of TIME, with every disappointment, through continued and seemingly defeated experiences, from what we SEE and witness, by way of yet another unfulfilled dream or desire, by the ongoing victory of physical sickness, loss, grief, and life’s mockery of hope in God. “…"Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?" (John 11:40 KJV).

REALLY GOD? WHEN?

Martha and Mary were disappointed because the situation did NOT go or turn out the WAY they WANTED or EXPECTED. “…..nevertheless, NOT [Martha and Mary’s] … WILL, but …[God]s] … be done…” (Luke 22:42 KJV).

Jesus did NOT come at Martha and Mary’s beck and call, but delayed his coming. Things did NOT turn out the WAY “they” wanted. What they wanted ended in GRIEF and they were sadly disappointed. Yet, “…If the Lord will, [their HOPE] shall live, and [enable them]…do this, or that...” (James 4:16 KJV).

 DISAPPOINTMENT is one of the BIGGEST “KILLERS” of HOPE. “…The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy…” (John 10:10 KJV).

God’s loving and gracious intentions are ALWAYS for “YOUR” good. When God says: “…you will see the glory of God…" he is saying, “You will SEE God’s goodness DISPLAYED.” (John 11:40 KJV).

It is a PROMISE! “…Not one of the good promises which the Lord had made … failed; all came to pass…” (Joshua 21:45 NASB).  “…So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV).

The display of God’s goodness (His GLORY) is often DELAYED for the RIGHT and PERFECT TIME “SET” by God himself. “…And in the PROCESS of time IT CAME TO PASS…” (Genesis 4:3 KJV).

“...ALL THINGS work (PROCESS) together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE…” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV).

Martha and Mary’s PROCESS involved Lazarus’ sickness, Jesus’ delay, their brother’s death and funeral, and a brief period of grief. “…The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord…” (Psalm 37:23-40 KJV).

When does the DEATH of HOPE happen? When you find yourself involved in challenging events or experiences, especially over a long period of time, that constantly and viciously steals, kills, destroys and hammers away at your HOPE. God promises you “hope” and a “future” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV). “…I know the thoughts that I think toward you … to give you an expected end…” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV).

The DEATH of HOPE is a PROCESS and weapon formed by the enemy to discontinue or totally STOP the believer walk of faith.  “…No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou  (God) shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD…” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV).

IF the enemy keeps pounding at your HOPE; he thinks he will prosper. However, “…no weapon turnedagainst you will succeed…” (Isaiah 54:17 NLT). “…no weapon forged against you will prevail…” (Isaiah 54:17 NIV). “..No weapon that is formed against you will prosper…” (Isaiah 54:17 NASB).

Sickness, loss, disappointment, broken hearts, lifeless relationships, doubt, and death are events and experiences that can make you abort your walk of faith. “...ALL THINGS work (PROCESS) together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE…” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV). “…And in the PROCESS of time “IT” CAME TO PASS…” (Genesis 4:3 KJV).

God did NOT say sickness, death, disappointment, or grief were GOOD, but he did say they would work together for good. “...ALL “THINGS” work (PROCESS) together …” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV). You don’t know the time factor. “…And in the PROCESS of “TIME”…” (Genesis 4:3 KJV).

Because you don’t know what could possibly be working together for good when you’re grieving, or sad, or disappointed yet again, or heartbroken; “…walk BY FAITH...” (2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV).

Over TIME and DISTANCE HOPE is challenged and believers get tired. In a relay race, each sprinter MUST do his or her part of the distance or leg.

The distance or leg of the racecourse will not be reduced or altered for any sprinter, but each one must finish their part of the competition. “…And in the PROCESS of time“IT” CAME TO PASS…” (Genesis 4:3 KJV).

EVERY RELAY RACER HAS A PURPOSE. “...to them who are the called ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE…” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV).

In a relay race the next sprinter is WAITING in the exchange zone to take the baton and keeping moving toward the finish line. Each sprinter is to run their OWN distance or leg, in which, they were SPECIFICALLY chosen to run.

Like a sprinter waiting in the exchange zone; Jesus is WAITING, at the right place, to take your baton of HOPE to the FINISH LINE.

 “...ALL THINGS work together for good …” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV). “…to the intent that ye may BELIEVE ….” (John 11:15, 25 KJV).

In the RELAY RACE OF LIFE not only is it HARD to finish our part of the distance or leg, but we often laid down the baton of HOPE. Our HOPE died and has been dead for so long; it STINKS!! “…Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days…” (John 11:39 KJV).

Martha and Mary went through his sickness, probably watched him die, buried him, knew he was decaying in his grave, and therefore had NO HOPE for Lazarus at ALL in this life. “…by this time he stinketh…” (John 11:39 KJV).

There was no baton of HOPE for Martha and Mary to pass on other than they would see Lazarus in heaven one day. “…I am the resurrection and the life…thy brother shall rise again…Believest thou this? …I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day…” (John 11:23-27 KJV).

In the RELAY RACE OF LIFE it becomes humanly impossible to FINISH your part of the distance or leg of the RACE. It is NORMAL to blame Jesus or God. “…said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had NOT died…Mary was come where Jesus was….saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had NOT died…” (John 21, 32 KJV).

In a human relay race if you can’t finish your distance or leg or if you lose, drop, or lay down the baton; you are DISQUALIFIED!

But God loves YOU. “…He willkeep you strong to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT). “…Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God…” (2 Corinthians 3:5 KJV). “…“…[His]… grace is sufficient for you… [His]… power is made perfect in weakness…” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV).

Like Martha and Mary and so MANY of God’s people, you have LAID down your baton of HOPE. Jesus asked: “…where have ye laid him?...”  (John 11: 34, 41 KJV). Where did YOU lay your baton of HOPE?

You are NOT disqualified. Martha and Mary were NOT disqualified. God is RICH in GRACE. “…He is “SO” RICH in kindness and GRACE …” (Ephesians 1:7 NLT). “….The exceeding RICHES of his GRACE in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus…” (Ephesians 2:7 KJV). “… [The] incomparable RICHES of [God’s]… GRACE …[is]… expressed in his kindnessin Christ Jesus...” (Ephesians 2:7 NIV).

In the RELAY RACE OF LIFE Jesus is on our TEAM even when it doesn’t seem like it. He PROMISES “NEVER” to leave you! “…God has said “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…Behold, I am with… [you] and will keep… [you] whithersoever [you]… goest…I will not leave [you]…." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

God will take you BACK to the PLACE where you BURIED your HOPE. “…where have ye laid him?...”  (John 11: 34, 41 KJV).

Then GOD ALLOWS you to RETRIEVE your baton of HOPE so you can FINISH the RACE. “…TAKE ye away the STONE….they TOOK away the STONE from the PLACE “WHERE” the DEAD was laid…” (John 11:39-41 KJV).

Your HOPE was wrapped in the GRAVE CLOTHES of disappointment, doubt, weariness, loss, heartbreak, abuses, physical death, long-term physical sicknesses, wayward children spouses, or relatives, lost dreams, unfulfilled desires, broken relationships, and a host of other hopeless events or experiences, and JESUS SAID:  “…loose him (your hope) and let him  (them) go…” (John 11:44 KJV).

Nobody can disqualify you from the RELAY RACE of LIFE not even you. TAKE BACK YOUR HOPE!! “….LET US NOT GROW WEARY while doing good, for in DUE SEASON we shall reap if we do not lose heart…” (Galatians 6:9 KJV). “…‘We’ve given up everything to follow you…” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT). And Jesus said to him, “…I assure you that everyonewho has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in returna hundred times as many houses, brother, sisters, mothers, children, and property – along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life...” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).

Jesus is your ANCHOR in the RELAY RACE OF LIFE and “HE” will get you to the FINISH LINE!!! “…Looking unto Jesus the AUTHOR and FINISHER OF [Y]OUR… FAITH…” (Hebrews 12:2a KJV).  “…HE WHICH HATH “BEGUN” A GOOD “WORK” IN [you]… “WILL” “PERFORM” IT “UNTIL” the day of Jesus Christ…” (Philippians 1:6 KJV). “…He will keep you strongto the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).

God KNOWS you are weary. He KNOWS you are tired. He KNOWS it has been a long TIME. He KNOWS how heartbroken you’ve been. He KNOWS your disappointment.

HE KNOWS the events and experiences that have hammered down your HOPE. He ALSO KNOWS, in spite of it ALL, you “WILL” finish the RACE victoriously!!!

Every DREAM or DESIRE is YOURS in JESUS NAME. “…loose him (your hope) and let him  (them) go…” (John 11:44 KJV).

TAKE BACK YOUR baton of HOPE!! “…they TOOK away the STONE from the PLACE “WHERE” the DEAD was laid…” (John 11:39-41 KJV).

“…I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return...” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).

YOUR HOPE IS “NOT” DEAD!! “…the things which are impossible with men ARE POSSIBLE WITH GOD…” (Luke 18:27 KJV).  “….I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: IS THERE ANY THING TOO HARD FOR ME?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). “…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…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).

“…"Did I not say to you that if you believe,you will see the glory (GOODNESS) of God?" (John 11:40 KJV). Again, TAKE BACK YOUR baton of HOPE!! “…they TOOK away the STONE from the PLACE “WHERE” the DEAD was laid…” (John 11:39-41 KJV). JESUS SAID: “…loose him (your hope) and let him  (YOUR HOPE) go…” (John 11:44 KJV).  

RUN ON!!! “…[JESUS]… will keep you strong to the… [FINISH LINE!!!]…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).

 

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THE RICH MAN WILLIAM P. PARSON “...As Jesu...

             

THE RICH MAN

WILLIAM P. PARSON

“...As Jesus started on his way, a [rich]...man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” ... (Matthew 10:17-22 NIV).

“...Jesus ... said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”  At this the [rich]...man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth...” (Matthew 10:17-22 NIV).

                                       *  

         While upon earth, William P. Parson had been considered a rich man. You would have to dig for years to find one of his family member who ever had a blue collar job. Like his ancestors before him William could buy anything from personal to political decisions with his money. He could make choices and force his influence without money being an issue or roadblock. While others ate at fast food or common restaurants, William enjoyed 5 or 7 course meals across the country.

          He felt totally out of touch with common folk and truly thought the world revolved around rich people like him. When he was diagnosed with cancer, he realized sickness was common to all humans, but his lesson had come a little too late.

          A Christian nurse, told him about Jesus, but he was a snob toward her, because, even in sickness, he thought he was immune to the needs of  common folks, especially things like religion. William had heard about Jesus everywhere he travelled over the world. He didn’t even go to service with his parents on traditional holidays. He knew they only went for show and not because their hearts were into it.

          William had gone to the best schools in the country too. Whenever he was threatened to get a bad grade, all he had to do is remind them he was a Parson and they would back off. To flunk William P. Parson, will mean embarrassment for the school, a negative rep, or an expensive lawsuit they couldn’t afford.

          It was in the best interest of the school to keep William, no matter how bad of a student he was, than to kick him out or go to court. The Parsons had enough money to ruin the ivy league college. Thus, William graduated sum cum laude. His family was RICH and taught him that he didn’t have to follow the same rules as common folks.

          William bought whatever his heart desired and he constantly had to buy the most expensive, the best, the latest, or the biggest. He hired researchers to keep abreast of new things, so he could have the biggest and latest. Every year or every couple of years he was getting a new car or new plane. His material possessions were massive and his wealth continued to be lucrative. William had NEVER been denied anything in his entire life, except for GOOD health.

          The Parsons flew doctors from all across the world, but they couldn’t HEAL him. He never thought that there would be ANYTHING that money couldn’t buy. Not only did he discover money couldn’t buy him health, but it couldn’t buy him eternal life either.

          His father had spent millions on doctors, but he couldn’t be cured. Now here William P. Parson’s was in Hell’s Corridorwithout his family, their money, or eternal life. William realized he was still William, but he was now in another location. He was in a place that his family’s money had no meaning, no purpose, and no influence. Regardless of all the comforts of his lavish lifestyle he had ended up in HELL.

          His brother had been diagnosed too, but it was too late to warn him or the rest of his family about the reality of hell. In the 90s William had watched a movie call The Truman Show . It was about a man, Truman Burbank, played by Jim Carrey, who lived in a simulated reality in which he thought was “REAL” life.

          As William looked around Hell’s Corridorhe realized, he too, had lived in a simulated reality, upon earth, in which his wealth and his rich man’s world was a temporary existence.

          William believed HIS world was THE world and HIS life was THE life. He spent his entire life as a RICH MAN. He heard about Jesus. He heard about Christianity and its teaching, but he had NO need for religion of any kind or on any level.

          On his death bed, a young nurse tried to encourage him to accept Jesus Christ, but he was convinced he didn’t need him. He told her “...no thank you...” He closed his eyes and woke up HERE.

          In spite of his inevitably death and a tug at his heart, William said NO to the nurse’s salvation invitation. William had felt this TUG at his heart many times over the years, but his wealthy lifestyle became a blindfold, to him, from God’s truth.

          His wealthy lifestyle was wonderful, upon earth, in many ways, but he often found discrepancies and disadvantages too.

          His family was not a joyous people and all they had was materialism and money. He often felt empty and bored with his life, yet he didn’t think there was a better life than the one he had been gifted with.

He had always wondered if there was more to life than he knew. In hindsight it was those Christian people who put that curiosity in his heart, but he never pursued it.

Now that he was in Hell’s Corridor, he realized, practiced lifestyles were a TRAP and most people, himself included, are not willing to give up their routines and familiarities.

On his deathbed William had asked himself: “...What if what she is saying and asking him was true?...” He was dying and his disease had convinced him that money couldn’t buy everything. Yet, he wasn’t convinced enough to accept Jesus’ death could buy his salvation. William died with his routine and familiar beliefs, set like stone, within his heart and woke up in HELL.

William looked around Hell’s Corridor. There were twelve D-elevators.  They were called D-elevators because they took you DOWN and not UP. Each D-elevator had long lines and a name above each one. They were named after the deeds of the flesh; such as immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, and so forth.

The line William was in was called UNREPENTENT. It was the longest of all lines and they were ALL pretty long. Before he was sent to the line he was assigned to, he had gone into the registrar’s office. They found his name in the records and confirmed his was in the right place. He signed next to his name and was, then, escorted to the video room where they replayed his life. The film erased ALL doubts as to WHY he was in HELL.

Hell was real. After seeing the film on his life, he could no longer ask how a loving God could send people to HELL, because he didn’t. William had willingly chosen to be here ALL by himself. William clearly SAW how God had warned him over and over again to accept Jesus as Savior, but William CHOOSE not to listen. William thought: “...If a parent warns a child NOT to touch a hot stove, but the child touches it anyway. Can the child SAY my parent is not loving? NO. They could only truly say, “I did not listen to my loving parent”...”

What William KNEW now was that HELL was not so much a LOCATION as it was an new EXISTENCE. He was NOW separation from God, the Holy Spirit, forever and every opportunity he had to be with him was LONG GONE!

His deathbed nurse told him “...the wages of sin was death...” She wasn’t merely talking about physical death, but she was talking about spiritual death, which was a LOT WORSE.

A young lady got into the line behind him and asked “...Where are we?...”

William P. Parson said: “....Welcome to Hell’s Corridor...”

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THE GREAT SALVATION: GET TELL IT!!!

A GREAT SALVATION

“…How shall we escape, if we neglect SO GREAT SALVATION …” (Hebrew 2:3 KJV).

 

 “…How shall we escape, if we neglect SO GREAT SALVATION; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and GIFTS…” (Hebrews 2:3-5 KJV).

True, redeemed believers of the Christian Faith are NOT forceful and are NOT begging anyone to accept their way of believing. Christianity is INCLUSIVE with its invitation, but EXCLUSIVE with THE WAY to get there. “… WHOSOEVER shall call upon the name of the Lord “shall” BE SAVED…” (Romans 10:13 KJV).  “…Jesus saith unto him, I AM THE WAY…” (John 14:6 KJV).

True, redeemed believers of the Christian Faith believe Jesus Christ is THE WAY of salvation and back into a covenant relationship with God, the Holy Spirit. Others have said and continue to say there are many ways to God.  Respectfully, okay, but, this is NOT an argument for true redeemed believers nor it is a defense; all of God's people believe John 14:6. “…Jesus saith unto him, I AM THE WAY…” (John 14:6 KJV).

It is not the human opinion of true, redeemed believers regarding the way of salvation. It is an immutable fact from God’s truth and Christians simple believe it. “…There is SALVATION IN NO ONE ELSE…” (Acts 4:12a NLT). . “…Jesus saith unto him, I AM THE WAY…” (John 14:6 KJV).

The argument is NOT with God's redeemed people; it is with God’s truth. “…And there is SALVATION in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be SAVED…” (Acts 4:12 NASB).

Unfortunately, many people CLAIMING the Christian faith have been argumentative, defensive, rude, and unkind to those who do not agreement with their beliefs and I apologize. God instructs his people to “…BE KIND to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you…” (Ephesian 4:32 NASB).“…if we don’t love people we can see, how can we love God, whom we cannot see?” (1 John 4:20 NLT).

The God of the Christian faith is a loving God and so are his disciples. “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…every one that loveth …. KNOWETH God. He that loveth NOT KNOWETH NOT God; for God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…all men will know that you are MY DISCIPLES, if you have LOVE for one another…" (John 13:35 NASB). “…YOU CAN IDENTIFY THEM (my disciples)… by their … fruit, that is, by the way they … act…” (Matthew 7:16 NLT).

However, true, redeemed believers like to share their faith with others. They like to share NOT to force you to believe their way, but because they know, by experience, that Jesus Christ and the GIFT of his GREAT SALVATION is the opportunity of a lifetime as well as all of eternity.

On the surface, there are many mystic elements to the Christian faith that make no sense to outsiders. This is normal. Some things cannot be understood through human logic or reasoning alone, but are spiritually discerned. “…The person WITHOUT the Spirit DOES NOT accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit. …” (2 Corinthians 2:12-15 KJV).

True, redeemed believers usually and eagerly share their Christian faith when they personally KNOW how the GREAT SALVATION has totally transformed their own lives. You WILL NOT authentically experience the GREAT SALVATION and remain the same. THAT IS GUARANTEED. “....Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a NEW creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

When someone shared the Christian faith with me I first learned I was a sinner. “…all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).  Then I learned I was headed for eternal separation from God or spiritual death. “…the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV).

Then some KIND person told me I could be saved through Jesus, who was sent to become the GREAT SALVATION for all of mankind. They said, “…God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). “…SALVATION is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved…” (Acts 4:12 NIV). Thy also said the reason I could be saved from eternal death is because Jesus Christ died on my behalf. That truth made me cry. Why would someone love “ME” like that?

Nevertheless, “… Christ died for [my]… sins according to the scriptures; And ...he was buried, and …he rose again the third day according to the scriptures…” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4 KJV). So I was kindly asked to confess Jesus, believe him, and accept him inti my heart. I did and I. “…confess]ed] with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and … believe[d] in [my]...heart that God hath raised him from the dead, [and I was SAVED]...” (ROMANS 10:9 KJV). “...Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house…” (ACTS 16:31 KJV). 

I was truly sorry for my sins and thus, I repented. The bible says:. “…REPENT YE, AND BELIEVE the gospel…” (Mark 1:15 KJV). “…REPENT ye therefore, and BE CONVERTED, that your sins may be blotted out …” (Acts 3:19 KJV).

That how I became a SAVED, true, and redeemed believer, who, personally, experience the GREAT SALVATION for myself!! “…REPENTANCE toward God, and FAITH toward our Lord Jesus Christ. …” (Acts 20:21 KJV).

I have NEVER been the same since. I felt elated and new!!! I was told the angels in heaven rejoice over ONE repentant sinner. “…Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God OVER ONE SINNER THAT REPENTETH…” (Luke 15:10 KJV).

Later on I was baptized in water.  “…Peter said to them, "REPENT, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit….” (Acts 2:38 NASB).

I was saved years ago and the GREAT SALVATION has totally transformed my entire life. It is NOT just that you are saved from your sins, but it is the AWESOME, INTIMATE, LOVING, covenant relationship with God, the Holy Spirit through Christ that propels you into an abundant, mystical (spiritual) experience of a lifetime.

Ravi Zacharias’ said this, “The Jesus I know and love today I encountered at the age of seventeen. I came to Him because I did not know which way to turn. I have remained with Him because there is no other way I wish to turn. I came to Him longing for something I did not have. I remain with Him because I have something I will not trade. I came to Him as a stranger. I remain with Him in the most intimate of friendships. I came to Him unsure about the future. I remain with Him certain about my destiny. I came amid the thunderous cries of a culture that has three hundred and thirty million deities. I remain with Him knowing that truth cannot be all-inclusive. Truth by definition excludes…”

Once you meet Jesus Christ and experience the GREAT SALVATION there will NEVER be anything GREATER again.

The GREAT SALVATION is a metamorphosis transformation. I am STILL grateful and excited about what God has DONE for me.!! I still share Him, as often as I can, with my words, my life, my character, my conduct, and my writings, but mostly through a surrender lifestyle. I want to share him with you and everyone!!! Are you SAVED? “…REPENT YE, AND BELIEVE the gospel…” (Mark 1:15 KJV). “…confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and … believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (ROMANS 10:9 KJV).

No one is excluded. “….God … commandeth all men (women) every where to REPENT…” (Acts 17:30 KJV). “…REPENT YE, AND BELIEVE the gospel…” (Mark 1:15 KJV). God “….is …not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV).

SALVATION IS A CHOICE!!

“… I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life…” (Deuteronomy 30:19) OR “…Choose youthis day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

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WHAT IS THE GOD IMAGE?

WHAT IS THE GOD IMAGE?

   “….let us make man in our IMAGE, after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV).  “…..God created man in his own image…..male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “….God formed man of the dust of the ground (body), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (HIS Spirit or His IMAGE); and man became a living soul (soul)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

“….let us make man in our IMAGE, after our likeness…”(Genesis 1:26 KJV).

“…God is not human (he is not a body, he is not a self, or the flesh, or a soul)…” (Numbers 23:19 NIV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in you (and dwelt in Adam and Eve)…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).

                                            *

         What is an image? An image is a mental or visual representation, you have, of yourself or someone else. A representation of that image is something that or someone who reveals or demonstrates what that “image” is like.

A representative also reveals or demonstrates the exact likeness of a particular image such as a picture, sculpture, painting, drawing, or carbon copy.

What is an “likeness” of an image?” An likeness of an image, is NOT “the” image, but it will resemble that image, in some way. The resemblance of an image provides a visual or mental depiction, or idea, or description of something or someone.

The God Image is not a mental or visual representation of God as we understand it, but it is an spiritual representation of God and provides an understanding of his LIKENESS. By faith, we understand, that the whole world was created by God. “… BY FAITH (trusting in and depending upon God) we understand that THE ENTIRE UNIVERSE WAS FORMED at God’s command...” (Hebrews 11 NLT). By faith, we understand, what God is LIKE. “… BY FAITH (by trusting in and depending upon God) we understand ....that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen...” (Hebrews 11 NLT).

The first man, Adam, was created “in” HIS IMAGE “after” his LIKENESS! “….LET US MAKE man … after our likeness (to resemble us) …”(Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…in his OWN IMAGE (A representation)…..male and female created he them …” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (SPIRIT (God's image));and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

In order to understand what that likeness IS; you must first understand GOD’S IMAGE. “…GOD IS SPIRIT (the BREATH of LIFE)…” (John 4:24 KJV).

God’s image was breathed into Adam, which made Adam a representative of his image. “…And the LORD God ...breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (His Spirit or image)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

“….let us make man in our image, after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…God is not human (he is not a body, he is not a self, or the flesh, or a soul)…” (Numbers 23:19 NIV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in you (and dwelt in Adam and Eve)…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). Adam and Eve were originally, created representatives of HIS IMAGE (SPIRIT).

Remember, God is Spirit. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). God’s IMAGE is SPIRIT. “…God is not human …” (Numbers 23:19 NIV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).

"… that which is born (starts to exist) of the Spirit is spirit…” (John 3:6 KJV). “…And the LORD God ...breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (His Spirit or image)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). When Adam and Eve came into existence, they came into existence with HIS IMAGE, which is SPIRIT.

“… BY FAITH we understand that ...[Adam and Eve]... WAS FORMED at God’s command...” (Hebrews 11 NLT).

They resembled God, the Holy Spirit, because they were able, through his “breath of life” or indwelling Holy Spirit to represent HIS IMAGE. “…And ...man became a living soul (a soul connected or united with the God IMAGE or SPIRIT)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

His likeness is clearly WITNESSED by the things God creates. “… since the creation of the world His invisibleattributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made…” (Romans 1:20 NASB). God MADE mankind.

Adam and Eve were MADE by God and initially represented HIS IMAGE (which is SPIRIT). HIS IMAGE, however, was not and could not be a BODY IMAGE or a self-IMAGE, because God is SPIRIT. “…God is not human (not body; not self) …” (Numbers 23:19 NIV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).

"… that which is born (is created) of the Spirit is spirit…” (John 3:6 KJV). “…And the LORD God ...breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (His Spirit or image)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

“… since the creation of the world His invisibleattributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made…” (Romans 1:20 NASB).

“… since the creation of the world His invisibleattributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made (through the “making” of adam and eve)…” (Romans 1:20 NASB).

“… BY FAITH we understand that ...[Adam and Eve]... WAS FORMED at God’s command...” (Hebrews 11 NLT). His command was: “….LET US MAKEman … after our likeness …”(Genesis 1:26 KJV).

“…in his OWN image (Spirit IMAGE)…..male and female created (MADE) he them …”(Genesis 1:27 KJV). “…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (His Spirit or IMAGE); and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

The God IMAGE is the SPIRITUAL likeness someone HAS (such as his INDWELLING Holy Spirit) that makes them RESEMBLE, REVEAL, or DEMONSTRATE what God is LIKE. “…And the LORD God ...breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (His Spirit or image)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

“….LET US MAKE man (woman) … after our likeness (to resemble God, to demonstrate God, to reveal God etc.) …” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…in his OWN image (his OWN likeness)…..male and female created (MADE) he them …” (Genesis 1:27 KJV).

“The Son is ...the exact representation ofhis being (of the God IMAGE)…”(Hebrews 1:3 KJV).

“…Jesus saith  … he that hath seen me hath SEEN THE FATHER (has seen His IMAGE, his LIKENESS)…” (John 14:9 KJV).  “… I and my Father are ONE (Jesus resembled, revealed, demonstrated God’s IMAGE or LIKENESS)…” (John 10:30 KJV). They are just alike, son like father.

What the bible is saying is that Adam was originally made or created with a GOD IMAGE and it had NOTHING to do with his BODY IMAGE, SELF-IMAGE, or any other image. “… since the creation of the world (including the creation of Adam and Eve) His (God, the Holy Spirit’s) invisible attributes, [which are]...His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood (make aware of) through what has been made (through the “making” or creating of adam and eve)…” (Romans 1:20 NASB).

God’s creation of Adam and Eve was meant to make the earth AWARE of God, the Holy Spirit, through their representation of HIS IMAGE.

Adam and Eve were not God, but they were created to RESEMBLE God’s IMAGE, which is SPIRIT, invisible, a divine nature, and eternal power.

Jesus was also created to make the world AWARE of God, the Holy Spirit, through his representation of HIS IMAGE. “…the Word (Jesus) was made (created) FLESH, dwelt among us, and we saw His glory (God’s IMAGE (his presence, his goodness, and his power), glory (God’s IMAGE) as of the only begotten (specially created (made)) from the Father, full of grace and truth....” (JOHN 1:14 KJV).

God’s HOLY GLORYis basically manifested in the MANY expressions of his invisible PRESENCE witnessed “through” the things he has “made” or “created.”

“…God anointed  (made him resemble his image) Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost (His IMAGE or character) and WITH POWER (His LIKENESS or conduct). [And he]...went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD (who is SPIRIT) WAS WITH HIM. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

“The Son (jesus) is ...the exact representation ofhis being (the exact representation of the God IMAGE)…” (Hebrews 1:3 KJV). God’s HOLY GLORY (IMAGE) was manifested(revealed) through Jesus. We SAW his  PRESENCE witnessed “through” Jesus, who he “made” or “created” to be an exact representation of his IMAGE.

How exactly do we witness his PRESENCE in Jesus. “…Jesus of Nazareth...went about DOING good, and HEALING "ALL" that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD (who is SPIRIT) WAS WITH HIM. And WE ARE WITNESSES of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

Jesus manifested God’s PRESENCE by what he DID, because the indwelling IMAGE was within him. “…The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me (empowered me) to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord…” (John 4:16-21 KJV).

Jesus revealed God’s PRESENCE by TELLING, those watching, who was DOING the powerful works they were witnessing. “…I do nothing of myself…” (John 8:28 KJV). “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

Let’s talk about two other images for a moment. Body IMAGE is a mental representation one has of his or her body. Self-IMAGE is a mental representation one has of his or herself or character. Body IMAGE and self IMAGE keeps people occupied with how they SEE themselves physically or their own self-concepts.

Self-IMAGE and Body IMAGE heavily affect a person’s self-esteem (worthiness) and confidence (self-abilities) because of the mental representation they have of themselves.

The majority of people, upon earth, are inundated with how they look, their outward image, the impressions they make, what others think, the negative things they think of themselves, whether they’re liked or disliked, or their reputations.

For instance, body IMAGE affects the way a person SEES themselves, physically, especially when they look in the mirror. According to statistics 90+% of people, upon earth, also struggle with a NEGATIVE self IMAGE.

A negative self IMAGE can affect how a person behaves and their social interactions. It can also produce feelings of insecurity and unhappiness with one’s body and/or physical self.

In addition, self-IMAGE also affects the way a person SEES their OWN personal characteristics. According to statistics the MAJORITY of people, upon earth, also struggle with a NEGATIVE IMAGE of their character.

Thus, both a negative body/self IMAGE can affect how a person behaves, their thoughts, their beliefs about their self-abilities, their performances, their perception of worthiness or respect, and how they love or allow themselves to be loved.

Body image and self-image are earthly concepts, which are developed from early childhood, and have nothing to do with God image. My sister-in-the- Lord, Crystal, told me there is NO body image in the SPIRIT. I would add, that most likely, there is NO self-image either.

Body image is concerned with the physical self and self-image is concerned with the mental perception of self according to the flesh. However, God IMAGE is concerned with the soul and the spiritual perception of the self according to God's word.

Adam had the “breathe of life.” “…And the LORD God ...breathed into his (Adam’s) nostrils the breath of life (His Spirit or image)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

The characteristics that Adam had that was LIKE God’s, the Holy Spirit, and were produced by the indwelling Holy Spirit. “…The fruit (characteristics) of the Spirit (his divine nature) is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). "....The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives …” (Galatians 5 NLT).

These characteristics have NOTHING to do with a person’s BODY IMAGE or SELF-IMAGE. These characteristics are PRODUCED by the indwelling Holy Spirit or GOD IMAGE. Apart from the GOD IMAGE no man or woman can produce “these” spiritual characteristics! "....The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…Apart from [the Holy Spirit]… [mankind cannot]... do nothing [they cannot produce spiritual fruit or characteristics LIKE God, the Holy Spirit]…” (John 15:5 NIV).

Even if you have a healthy and positive body image or self-image they WILL NOT produce the God IMAGE. “…Apart from [the indwelling Holy Spirit]… [mankind cannot]... do nothing [they cannot produce spiritual fruit or characteristics LIKE God, the Holy Spirit]…” (John 15:5 NIV).

“...why do you keep on following the rules of the world, such as, “Don’t handle! Don’t taste! Don’t touch!”? ...Such rules are mere human teachings (even those that encourage healthy and positive body and self-images)...These rules may seem wise (having healthy and positive body and self-images seem wise)...But they provide no help in conquering (overcoming) a person’s evil desires (regarding body image or self-image)...” (Colossians 2:20-23 NLT).

 “….human desire (regarding body or self-image) is NEVER SATISFIED…” (Proverbs 27:20 NLT). Therefore, “… [YOU]… are NEVER SATISFIED(with your body image or self-image)...” (HABAKKUK 2:5 NLT). “… [God, the Holy Spirit] … will supply all [your need for a healthy and positive IMAGE]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “… [God, the Holy Spirit, ALONE will]… satisfy …and refresh everyone …” (Jeremiah 31:25 NASB). “…Apart from [the indwelling Holy Spirit]… [mankind cannot]... do nothing (can’t find satisfaction of body or self-image)…” (John 15:5 NIV).

God GIVES each of his children the IMAGE he desires them to conform to and it is “…his OWN image…..male and female created he (God, the Holy Spirit) them (as NEW CREATIONS)…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV).

“…. if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a NEW creature...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

“…God …predestined [his children] to be conformed to the image of his Son…” (Romans 8:29 NIV). “…until Christ be formed in ...[them]…” (Galatians 4:19 KJV).

Without the indwelling Holy Spirit, which imparts the God IMAGE, mankind and God, the Holy Spirit, are NOTHING alike.  “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

 “…The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to [body image and self-image]. …I don’t really understand myself, for I want to [like God] …but I don’t [allow myself to trust in or depend upon God’s indwelling Spirit to develop a new IMAGE]... Instead, I do what I hate. So I am not the one doing wrong; it is [my body image and self-image]… living in me that does it.  And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to [be like God) … [which]… is right, BUT I CAN’T…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by [body image and self-image]?...” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). 

“…The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “….Apart from [jesus, the indwelling spirit], [his children]… can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). 

God and mankind SHARE no similar attributes or characteristics, without HIS indwelling Holy Spirit. “…there is none like unto thee (no body image or self-image like God)…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). “…You (God, the Holy Spirit) are very GREAT;You are clothed in SPLENDER Covering Yourself with LIGHT as with a cloak…”(Psalm 104:1-2 NASB).

For example, mankind has a soul that needs to be RESTORED to the indwelling Holy Spirit or God IMAGE. “…He restoreth my SOUL…” (Psalm 23 KJV).

HOW is the SOUL of man restored? “…It is the SPIRIT who gives LIFE (restores the soul through the indwelling Holy Spirit or God image)…” (John 6:63 NASB). “The Son (jesus) is ...the exact representation ofhis being (the God IMAGE)…”(Hebrews 1:3 KJV).

 “……God made you ALIVE with Christ (the God IMAGE). He forgave [you]… all [your]… sins…” (Colossians 2:13 NIV). “…he(she) that is joined unto the Lord (Jesus, the God image) is ONE Spirit… [with God again]...” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “…. old things (body image, self-image) are passed away; behold, all things (God IMAGE) are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). Body image or self-image are NOT necessary or reliable resources for becoming a NEW CREATION . “…Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “… all things are … [MADE] … NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “…I will put a new spirit in you. …” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT).

“...and man(woman) ...[will become]... a living soul (AGAIN)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

“...For in him (in the God image) we (his children) live, and move, and have ...[their]... being (identity, IMAGE); as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring (children)...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).

The indwelling Holy Spirit begins to PRODUCE the likeness of God, in and through NEW CREATIONS and they will DISPLAY who God “IS” and what God is “LIKE.”  “... and man ...[becomes]... a living soul(AGAIN)…”(GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

“…Now God (the indwelling Holy Spirit/ the God IMAGE) GIVES US many kinds of special abilities, but it is the same HOLY SPIRIT who is the SOURCE of them all. …it is the same God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of us who are his. The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of us … It is the … Holy Spirit who gives all these gifts and POWERS… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

NEW CREATIONS resemble God, not because of body image or self-image, but because of the “breathe of life, “ “the indwelling Holy Spirit,” or “the God IMAGE” that’s WITHIN THEM! “…It is God (the indwelling Holy Spirit) which worketh IN YOU (his children) both to will and to do of his good pleasure…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).

 “…That great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…That great Shepherd of the sheep …work “IN US” what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ (the God IMAGE), to whom be glory (the witness of his PRESENCE, his goodness, and his eternal power) for ever and ever. Amen…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

If God is NOT limited by body image or self-image, neither are his NEW CREATIONS!! “...For in him (the God image) we (his children) live, and move, and have ...[their]...being (identity); as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring (children)...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).

Body image and self-image, even if they are healthy and positive, are limitations when compared to God’s image.  “...why do you keep on following the rules of the world, such as, “Don’t handle! Don’t taste! Don’t touch!”? ...Such rules are mere human teachings (even those that encourage healthy and positive body and self-images)...These rules may seem wise (having healthy and positive body and self-images seem wise)...But they provide no help in conquering (overcoming) a person’s evil desires (related, connected, and impacted by body image or self-image)...” (Colossians 2:20-23 NLT).

God IMAGE produces spiritual fruit, opens up revelation knowledge, and anoints with POWER.

FRUIT: “…The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: … peace….” (Galatians 5 NLT).

REVELATION KNOWLEDGE: “…What we have received(THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT) is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from … [GOD] … so that we may understand (become aware of) what God has freely given us. ….The person WITHOUT the Spirit DOES NOT accept the things that come from the Spirit of God …and cannot understand(become aware of) them because they are discerned only through the Spirit (the indwelling Holy Spirit/God IMAGE). …” (2 Corinthians 2:12-15 KJV).

POWER: Jesus says: “… All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth…” (Matthew 28:18 NASB). “… I appeared … as God Almighty…” (Exodus 6:3 NASB). “…powerbelongs to God…” (Psalms 62:11 NASB).  “...One day Jesus called together his twelve disciplesand gave them (his children) power and authority to cast out all demons and to heal all diseases...” (Luke 9:1 NLT).

Having the God IMAGE means you have been restored back to God through Christ. You have been GIVEN all that is needed to produce spiritual fruit, reveal his presence to others, to represent the goodness of his divine character, and to demonstrate his eternal power!

The God IMAGE was witnessed through Jesus Christ! “...The Son (jesus) is ...the exact representation ofhis being (the God IMAGE, his spiritual being or divine nature)…” (Hebrews 1:3 KJV).

The God IMAGE allowed Jesus to experience who God “is” and “was” when he was WITHIN him. “…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD WAS WITH HIM. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

“…The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord…” (John 4:16-21 KJV).

The God IMAGE allowed Jesus to recognize God, the Holy Spirit’spresence, his divine nature through his goodness toward mankind, and his eternal power. “…I do nothing of myself…” (John 8:28 KJV). “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“...This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves…” (2 Corinthians 4:7 NLT).

The God IMAGE allowed Jesus to participate in God’s holiness (freedom from sin, anointing, being set apart, etc.) and righteousness (obedience)! “…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER ....for GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV). “...that by these (the Holy Word, Jesus, the God image) ye might be partakers (participants) of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. …” (2 Peter 1: 4-9 KJV). Jesus, the indwelling God image is “…the GIFTof righteousness…” (Romans 5:17 KJV).

“...  God’s wonderful grace and his gift of forgiveness to many through ...Jesus Christ ...God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God (being restored, reunited with the Holy Spirit again) ...God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT).

“… my righteous servant (Jesus, the God IMAGE) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “…[He sent the ] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus (the god image)…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “…[Jesus]...the GIFT of righteousness…” (Romans 5:17 KJV).

Every man or woman born into the world is born WITHOUT the God image. They will forever be reduced and limited by body image and self-image unless they repent and are restored back to the God IMAGE.

Those restored back to the God IMAGE must trust in and depend upon God to free them from the limitations of body and self-image!

The purpose of  being restored back to the God image is not simply to know who you are “in” Christ, but to also know and experience who Christ is, when God’s IMAGE is BACK “within” YOU!

“... It is God (the indwelling Holy Spirit, the God IMAGE) which worketh in you...” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]… inyou…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…The Lord (the God image) is that Spirit...[within me]…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). “…Jesus Christ (the God IMAGE) is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

“…The [Holy] Spirit of God (the God IMAGE) dwell[s] in you …” (Romans 8:9 KJV).

The God IMAGE is not simply about WHO you are “in” Christ, but WHO is Christ when he is “IN” you?  “… We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jarscontaining this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves…” (2 Corinthians 4:7 NLT).

 

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TAKING CHRISTIANITY BACK book

 

Christianity has GAINED a negative reputation NOT because it’s a negative FAITH system, but because the people claiming Christianity have TARNISHED it.

According to historical literature Mahatma Gandhi is quoted as saying: “I like your Christ, but I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.” That was Gandhi’s observation of those claiming Christianity as their faith system.

Jesus Christ distinctly explains how you will recognize HIS Christians. “…BY THIS SHALL ALL MEN KNOW that ye are my disciples, “if” YE HAVE LOVE ONE TO ANOTHER…” (John 13:35 KJV). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…every one that loveth …. KNOWETH God. He that loveth NOT KNOWETH NOT God; for God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

Christianity has been high-jacked, abused, misrepresented, twisted, and contaminated over the years from inappropriate use by individuals or by groups whose agenda does NOT match that of Jesus Christ at all.

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