Pensacola Helene Jefferson's Blog, page 20

THE MIRACLE OF JESUS CHRIST!

THE MIRACLE OF JESUS CHRIST

“….The Word became flesh…” (John 1:14 NASB). “…[AND] “…he became [THE] author of eternal salvation unto ALL …” (Hebrew 5:7-8-9 KJV).

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The MIRACLE of Jesus Christ is that he was especially created to be the atoning sacrifice. “…the Word …the only begotten (specially created) from the Father....” (JOHN 1:14 KJV). “…he became [THE] author of eternal salvation unto ALL …” (Hebrew 5:7-8-9 KJV).

God MADE Jesus, his WORD, flesh as a WAY to express, communicate and reveal himself to mankind. “…the Word (Jesus) was made FLESH (made into human form or flesh, or into an earthen vessel) ...” (JOHN 1:14 KJV).

“… He (Jesus, who was made flesh) had a name written, that no man knew … his name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). 

Jesus “IS” “The WORD of god.” (Revelation 19:12-13 KJV).  “…The only begotten (specially MADE) Son (Jesus, God’s WORD)…” (John 1:18 KJV).

Jesus was a special MADE and miraculous work of God, the HOLY SPIRIT. “… [Jesus, the WORD made flesh]...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 Spirit shall come upon you (Mary, the human mother of Jesus), and the power of God shall overshadow you; so the baby born to you will be utterly holy—the Son of God…” (Luke 1:35 NLT).

“…The only begotten (specially MADE) Son (Jesus, the WORD), of the Father, he hath declared (expressed, REVEALED, declared, or communicated) for HIM (for God, the Holy Spirit)…” (John 1:18 KJV).

Thus, God provided a way to bring mankind back into harmony with him through Jesus Christ. “…For [it is] Christ …[who]…. died for sins ONCE for all,the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us [BACK] to God…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

God desired to reconcile himself to mankind. SO HE DID. “…God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ …” (2 Corinthians 5:18 NIV).

In the Old Testament atonement was an animal sacrifice necessary for removing the stain of sins and reconciling man back to God through the forgiveness of those sins. “…Without [the] shedding of blood (an atoning sacrifice) [there] is no remission (or forgiveness of sins)…” (Hebrews 9:22 KJV)…”

The holiness of God is diligent, uncompromising, and cannot/will not mix with sin on any level. In order to commune with or connect with God holinessis absolutely necessary.

SIN creates 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. “… And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm (barrier) has been set in place…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

SIN and HOLINESS SEPARATES; just like oil and water. “…Your INIQUITIES (sin) have separated between you and your God (holy) …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…It’s YOUR SINS that have cut you off from God (who is HOLY)…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT).

That’s why God SENT Jesus, his son, who became like an EMULSIFIER in order to enable the mixture or emulsion of two unlikely substances. “…He that is joined [by Jesus] is ONE spirit… [OR united, through emulsion, with the HOLY God]” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

If an emulsifier is added to oil and water it will miraculously enable them to MIX together. “…He that is joined (MIXED together) [by] the Lord (Jesus) [becomes] ONE Spirit… [OR is miraculously united, through emulsion, with the Holy God again]” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).“…. Old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

Jesus miraculously enables the HOLY God and SINFUL mankind to MIX together and become ONE [unbreakable] SPIRIT again. “…What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate…” (Mark 10:9 NASB). “…Love … is the perfect BOND of unity...”(Colossians 3:14 NASB). “…He that is JOINEDunto the Lord is ONE Spirit…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “…Let no one split apart what God has joinedtogether…” (Mark 10:9 NLT).  

The emulsion happens through reconciliation, which is enabled by means of an atoning sacrifice. An atoning sacrifice can remove the barrier of sin that causes the separation between man and God in the first place. “…Without [the] shedding of blood (an atoning sacrifice) [there] is no remission (or forgiveness of sins)…” (Hebrews 9:22 KJV). “…Behold the Lamb of God (Jesus), which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29 KJV). “… [There is] … one … who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

The main purpose of an atoning sacrifice is to cleanse a person from ALL their sins. “…He (Jesus) is the atoning sacrifice for our sins…” (1 John 2:2 NIV). 

Cleansing a person from sins also SAVES their lives from eternal death. …EXCEPT YE REPENT, ye shall all likewise PERISH…” (Luke 13:3 KJV). “…BY GRACE … [you are] …saved …not of WORKS, that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).  

Further, cleansing a person from sins restores the covenant relationship between God and his people. “…He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness…” (1 John 1:9 KJV). “…He that is JOINED unto the Lord is ONE Spirit (restored to the covenant relationship)…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

Restoring the covenant relationship between God and his people requires a return to holiness through the atoning sacrifice for sins. “…God hath not called us for uncleanness, but unto holiness…” (1 Thessalonians 4:7 KJV). “…that we might be partakers of his holiness...” (Hebrews 12:10 KJV).  “…for I the Lord am holy,. …” (Leviticus 20:26 KJV). “...[SO] put on the new man, which after God is created in …true holiness...” (Ephesians 4:2 KJV).

The wages of sin is death. “…The wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). An atoning sacrifice was required for the offense of sin to avoid the punishment which is death. “…Without shedding of blood [or an atoning sacrifice, there] is no remission [or forgiveness of sins]…” (Hebrews 9:22 KJV).

An atoning sacrifice meant that a person’s sins were completely removed. “…Behold the Lamb of God (Jesus), which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29 KJV).

An atoning sacrifice allowed the offender to enter into a closer relationship with the Holy God. “…By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place…” (Hebrews 10:19-20 NLT). “Jesus saith…I am the way…” (John 14:6 KJV).

Jesus Christ was especially sent by God and created for the sole purpose of becoming the atoning sacrifice for us all. “….the Son of Man came (was sent and created) ….TO GIVE his life as a ransom for many" (Matthew 20:28 NIV). “…he became [THE] author of eternal salvation unto ALL …” (Hebrew 5:7-8-9 KJV).

Who needs Jesus’ sacrificial life? “…All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23). “…the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23).

Let’s look at the MIRACLE of Jesus Christ as our atoning sacrifice. In the Old Testament animal sacrifices provided ONLY a temporary covering for sins. “…in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins year by year. For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins…” (Hebrews 10:1-4 NASB).

The shedding of blood was required by God as an atoning sacrifice for the removal of the stain of sin and for the forgiveness of sins. “…Without [the] shedding of blood [or an atoning sacrifice, there] is no remission [or forgiveness of sins]…” (Hebrews 9:22 KJV).

This atoning sacrifice of animals, though temporary and limited, satisfied God for the offenses of sins committed by his people. “…Without [the] shedding of blood [there] is “NO” … [forgiveness of sins]…” (Hebrews 9:22 KJV).

The animal, representing the atoning sacrifice of the day, was temporary. The animal’s shed blood (life), removed the sins of the people and freed them from the consequences of those sins.

This is not complicated and it is a very small synopsis of this vast topic. Animal sacrifices took place thousands of years ago and was simply a method God used as the atoning sacrifice for the forgiveness of sin.

Animal sacrifices, of course, have LONG stopped. “… BUT the life … [is STILL] in the blood: and [God provided the life and gave] it to [his people to put] upon the altar to make an atonement for [their] souls: for it is the blood (life) that maketh an atonement for the soul…” (Leviticus 17:11 KJV).

Thus, during ancient times certain animals died to serve as temporary substitutes for the people’s sin.

It was a temporary substitute only and since it was temporary the animal sacrifices had to be repeated over and over every year.

The animal sacrifices, therefore, were a small tedious sample of the ultimate and permanent sacrifice predicted in Jesus Christ, who was to come!!!

“For the Law, since it has only a shadow of the good things to come and not the very form of things, can never, by the same sacrifices which they offer continually year by year, make perfect those who draw near.  Otherwise, would they not have ceased to be offered, because the worshipers, having once been cleansed, would no longer have had consciousness of sins? But in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins year by year. For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins [permanently]…” (Hebrews 10:1-4 NASB).

Sin separates God from his people. “… [Their] … iniquities (sin) …separated [them]… from [their]… God (holy)… …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV).  Jesus Christ became the atoning sacrifice in order to restore God’s people BACK to Him. “…He (Jesus) is the atoning sacrifice for our sins…” (1 John 2:2 NIV).  “For Christ … died for sins ONCE for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us [BACK] to God…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

The relationship with God through Christ is a blood covenant between God and the redeemed. This covenant relationship is witnessed between Jesus and God. “… I and my Father are ONE…” (John 10:30 KJV).

A blood covenant is usually between two parties however, one or both of those parties can be a representative for an entire family or a group of people.

If one of the parties of the blood covenant is a representative of a group of people, he or she totally represents every single person, equally, in the group.

The representative also is the guarantee that every responsibility or binding agreement of the covenant will be kept by those he or she represents.

The representative, therefore, acts on behalf of everyone in the entire group. The representative is considered the “voice” and the “guarantee” for each individual member of the group.

In other words, each individual member of the group is represented “IN” him or her, the representative--.

For instance, when the representative walked through the bloodied bodies in the Old Testament, he “sealed” the blood covenant for every single member of the entire group. This is a very basic explanation of a blood covenant.

Thus, in the New Testament, Jesus is both YOUR representative and atoning sacrifice in the NEW covenant relationship with God.

Jesus is the slain, Lamb of God, that was punished, with death, in your place and therefore is the atoning sacrifice for your sins. “…Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29 KJV).

In order to be an atoning sacrifice, the animal had to be alive, unblemished or innocent, and available to sacrifice their lives for another.

In order for God, through Jesus Christ, to become an atoning sacrifice he too had to experience being truly ALIVE in human form. And he had to keep himself freed and unblemished from sin while living in a cesspool of sin. “…We have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Jesus was human in every way except for sin; He lived a completely sinless life…” (Hebrews 4:15 KJV). “…ye were … redeemed … with the precious blood (life) of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot…” (1 Peter 1:18-19 KJV).

He had to also be willing and available to be the atoning sacrifice. .” Jesus definitely did “…not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His lifea ransom for many...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV).  

Animals, however, could ONLY serve as temporary substitutes, who died in the place of sinners.

Because they were ONLY temporary, animals had to be sacrificed year after year after year.

The MIRACLE is that Jesus Christ became a PERMANENT sacrifice and died ONCE for all sin. “For Christ … died for sins ONCE for all,the just for the unjust…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

 “…God so loved the world that HE GAVE his only begotten (specially created) Son…” (John 3:16 KJV). “…Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and SENT His SON to be the [substitute]for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 KJV).

God came down from heaven and became FULLY human through Jesus Christ to become “YOUR” atoning sacrifice once and for all!!! “…Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slaveand was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form (through Jesus Christ]…” (Philippians 2:6-7 NLT).

God, himself, came in human form to become the atoning sacrifice for the stain of SINS upon mankind and in order to FULLY forgive or make amends for their sins.

God, therefore, took the JOB of becoming the atoning sacrifice upon himself. “… God works … what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…the Fatherthat dwelleth in… [Jesus], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

God came in the flesh through Jesus Christ. “… If a person claiming to be a prophet acknowledges that Jesus Christ came in a real body, that person has the Spirit of God…” (1 John 4:2 NLT).  “… Many deceivers have gone out into the world. They deny that Jesus Christ came in a real body. Such a person is a deceiver and an antichrist…” (2 John 1:7 NLT). “…Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written…” (John 21:25 NIV).

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness…” (2 Timothy 3:16 KJV).

“…the Word (Jesus) was made FLESH, and dwelt among us...” (JOHN 1:14). “…Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were EYEWITNESSES and servants of the Word…” (Luke 1:1-2 NLT). “….Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us, Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were EYEWITNESSES, and ministers of the Word…” (Luke 1:1-2 KJV).  “…For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were EYEWITNESSES of his majesty….” (2 Peter 1:16 NLT). “…the Word (Jesus) was made FLESH, and dwelt among us...” (JOHN 1:14).

God’s truths can only be understood “IF” God reveals them to you, through his HOLY SPIRIT. “….When we tell you these things, we DO NOT use words that come from human wisdom. Instead, we speak words GIVEN TO US by the Spirit, using the Spirit’s words to explain spiritual truths. But people who aren’t spiritual CAN’T RECEIVE these truths from God’s Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and THEY CAN’T UNDERSTAND IT, for only those who are spiritual CAN UNDERSTAND what the Spirit means…” (1 Corinthians 2 NLT).

God, the Father and Jesus the Son are ONE. “…I am in the Father, and the Father in me…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…The Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost …THESE THREE ARE ONE  …” (1 John 5:7 KJV).  “…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). “…The Word was God... And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth…” (John 1:1-14 KJV).  “…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).

 “…Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God…”(Philippians 2:6-8 KJV). “…Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges…” (Philippians 2:6-7 NLT). “…he …died a criminal’s death on a cross…” (Philippians 2:8 NLT). “…Who, being in the form of God …was made in the likeness of men … And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross…” (Philippians 2:6-8 KJV). “… he … was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form…” (Philippians 2:6-7 NLT).

As you can see, God, through Jesus Christ, came in human form to sacrifice himself, out of love for you in order to remove and forgive your sins!! Jesus’ sacrificial death was the atoning sacrifice for your sins. “He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins…” (1 John 2:2 NIV).

You can NOW enter freely into the new blood covenant relationship with God THROUGH Christ. “…This cup is the new covenant in my blood …which is poured out for you…” (Luke 22:20 ASV).

Jesus’ death was like the death of the slain animal sacrifices in the Old Testament blood covenants.

His blood (his human life) is now the blood of the new covenant, which is an everlasting covenant (Ezekiel 37:26). “This is my blood (my life) of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:28 KJV).

Jesus is our permanent and once-for-all substitute for sin. His sacrificial death allows you to enter into an everlasting covenant relationship with God through your representative, JESUS CHRIST. “For Christ also died for sins ONCE for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us [BACK] to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit;” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

Jesus is both your atoning sacrifice and your representative in the covenant relationship with God. “For Christ also died for sins ONCE for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us [BACK] to God…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins…” (1 John 2:2 NIV).

Jesus enters the relationship with God as your representative. We, who are “IN” Christ and are represented by Him, enter into the relationship, through him, too. “For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

Now, through Christ, we are able to keep the obligations and responsibilities of the covenant. “..For it is God who worketh in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “…I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). SHOUT!!!

In addition, Jesus becomes the “guarantee” that the covenant with God is kept. “…Jesus has become the guarantor of a better covenant…” (Hebrews 7:22 NIV).

When you choose to depend upon what Jesus Christ has done for you, you can enjoy the covenant relationship with God THROUGH HIM! Jesus said, "I and my Father are ONE." (John 10:30 KJV).  

Therefore, the bible says, “…that “they” may ALL BE ONE;even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may BE IN US,so that the world may believe that You sent Me…” (John 17:21-23 NASB).

Jesus Christ was sent by the God of love and was especially created to become a ransom for many by his sacrificial death. He “IS” the atoning sacrifice for YOUR sin.

What did the human Jesus Christ have to go through in order to become the atoning sacrifice for your sins? “…Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him. And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and they put on him a purple robe. And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands….Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man! When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in him. But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar. Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away…” (John 19:1-16 KJV).

“…And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha: Where they crucified him…” (John 19: 17-18 KJV).

“..After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst. Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a spunge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth. When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost…” (John 19:28-30 KJV).

“…The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, that the bodies should not remain upon the cross on the sabbath day, (for that sabbath day was an high day,) besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first, and of the other which was crucified with him. But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead already, they brake not his legs: But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water. And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true: and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe. For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken. And again another scripture saith, They shall look on him whom they pierced…” (John 19:31-37 KJV).

“…And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus. And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound weight. Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury.  Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid. There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' preparation day; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand…” (John 19:38-42 KJV).

 “…Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you…” (JOHN 20:19-21 KJV).

What motivated God, through Jesus Christ, to suffer and die on the cross for YOU? “…There is no greater LOVE than to lay down one’s life…” (John 15:13 NLT). “Herein is LOVE, not that we loved God, but that HE LOVED USand sent His Son...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. 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 5:6-8 NLT). “…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 KJV).

Not only was God willing, through Jesus Christ, to become your atoning sacrifice, but he was JOYFUL about providing you with the GIFT of SALVATION.  “…keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the JOY awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame…” (Hebrews 12:2 NLT).

The sacrifice he was making for YOU held a greater VALUE for Jesus than the temporary shame of the cross. “…What we do see is Jesus, who for a little while was given a position “a little lower than the angels”; and because he suffered death for us, he is now “crowned with glory and honor.” Yes, by God’s grace, Jesus tasted death for everyone…” (Hebrews 2:9 NLT). “…Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth…” (Philippians 2:9-10 NLT).

The JOY of providing mankind with the GIFT of SALVATION far outweighed anything else or any other agenda as far as God was concerned. “… [He] spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all….?” (Romans 8:32 KJV).

God knew what the future held for Jesus, the Word of God. “…[Jesus, the Word would be]…“crowned with glory and honor.” …” (Hebrews 2:9 NLT). “… [Jesus, the Word would be]…elevated …to the place of highest honor …” (Philippians 2:9-10 NLT).

God knew “…when he sees all that is accomplished by his anguish, he [would] … be satisfied. And because of his experience …[he would] … make it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT).

“…The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!’” (Matthew 25:21 NLT). “…At that same time Jesus was filled with the joy of the Holy Spirit….” (Luke 10:21-22 NLT).

While on earth, God, through Jesus, was faced with deep grieves and sorrows, but his purpose of becoming the atoning sacrifice incited his JOY in spite of his trials and tribulations. “…Because of the JOY awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame…” (Hebrews 12:2 NLT).

The MIRACLE of Jesus Christ is that he willingly and voluntarily became the ATONING SACRIFICE for SIN and the RANSOM for many.  “…There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life…” (John 15:13 NLT).

He “IS” your LIVING SACRIFICE, your GIFT of SALVATION, your ETERNAL LIFE, the INDWELLING SPIRIT, and your EVERLASTING LOVE. “… 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). “…Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges…” (Philippians 2:6-7 NLT). “…he …died a criminal’sdeath on a cross…” (Philippians 2:8 NLT). “…There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life…” (John 15:13 NLT).

Mankind needed a SAVIOR and God, came down from heaven, and supplied their NEED for an atoning sacrifice. “… God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…God will generously PROVIDE all you need…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT). “…The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want …” (Psalms 23:1 KJV). “… You will always have everythingyou need  …” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT). JEHOVAH –JIREH means: "The Lord Will Provide."

The need for an atoning sacrifice originated with God; not man. God, himself, CREATED Jesus Christ as an acceptable, once and for all sacrifice for the removal and forgiveness of sin!

Before God sent and created Jesus to become the RANSOM for us all, there was NO permanent sacrifice for the removal or forgiveness of mankind’s sins.

God, through Jesus Christ, SENT a miraculous atoning sacrifice.

This MIRACLE stands above ALL the rest as a SIGN of God’s love and his heart’s desire to be reconciled to mankind. “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…Herein is ...[REAL]…love, notthat we lovedGod, but that HE [first] LOVED US...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners (made amends for us sinners) …God showed his great LOVE … by sending Christ to die (to made amends) …” (Romans 5:6-8 NLT). “…There is no greater LOVE …” (John 15:13 NLT).“…God SO LOVED the world that he gave his only begotten (specially created) Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16 KJV).“…God … reconciled us to himself through Christ …” (2 Corinthians 5:18 NIV).“…[He sent the ] …one … who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

This MIRACLE serves as a personal message to YOU. WHY? “… so [YOU WILL] know that [HE is] the Lord…” (Exodus 10:1-2 NLT). “….Then [you] will know that [he is] the Lord [your] God…’” (Exodus 16:12 NLT). “…[YOUR] god is the one who provides [your  atoning sacrifice]…” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV).

“…BY THE WORD of the Lord the heavens were made…” (Psalms 33:6 NASB).

“…BY THE WORD of the Lord [Jesus is your atoning sacrifice] …” (Psalms 33:6 NASB). “…Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29 KJV).“…He is the atoning sacrifice for [y]our sins…” (1 John 2:2 NIV).

 “…All things  (including the ATONEMENT for sins) came into being through [the WORD], and apart from [the WORD] nothing came into being that has come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB).

“…Since the CREATION of the world God’s INVISIBLE QUALITIES—HIS ETERNAL POWER …—have been “CLEARLY SEEN”, being UNDERSTOOD FROM WHAT HAS BEEN MADE (Jesus, the ATONEMENT for your sins)…” (Romans 1:20 NIV).

 “…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). “…REPENT YE, AND BELIEVE the gospel…” (Mark 1:15 KJV). “….God …now commandeth all men every where to REPENT…” (Acts 17:30 KJV). “… [I]…kept declaring ….that they should REPENT and TURN TO God…” (Acts 26: 20 NASB). "…Therefore REPENT AND RETURN, “SO” that your sins may be wiped away…” (Acts 3:19 “…EXCEPT YE REPENT, ye shall all likewise PERISH…” (Luke 13:3 KJV).

 “…BY THE WORD of the Lord [Jesus is the ATONEMENT for your sins] …” (Psalms 33:6 NASB). “…Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29 KJV). “…He is the atoning sacrifice for [y]our sins…” (1 John 2:2 NIV).

THE MIRACLE OF JESUS CHRIST IS THAT HE IS THE ATONING SACRIFICE FOR THE REMOVAL AND FORGIVENESS OF YOUR SINS.

BY CHOOSING TO DEPEND UPON HIS MIRACULOUS SACRIFICE UPON THE CROSS YOU ARE IN A “RIGHT” RELATIONSHIP WITH THE ALMIGHTY GOD!“…walk by faith (by depending upon God)...” (2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV). ). “…A right relationship with God that comes by faith (by depending upon god)…” (Romans 4:13 NASB). “…A person is made rightwith God by faith in (or by depending upon) Jesus Christ…” (Galatians 2:16 NLT).

THE MIRACLE OF JESUS CHRIST!

HAVE YOU EVER "PERSONALLY" WITNESSED A MIRACLE? HERE'S WHY YOU CAN SAY YES!

 

ARE THEIR STILL SIGNS, WONDERS, AND MIRACLES?

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

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Signs, wonders, and miracles are ALL actions of God that REVEAL his character, his presence, and his supernatural power in the natural WORLD. “… Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done …” (Psalms 40:5 KJV). “… he had done so many miracles before them ….” (John 12:37-40 NLT).

Miracles are said to be the signs and wonders. Signs are supposedly a divine intervention by God like when Jesus turned the water to wine or fed the thousands with a few loaves of bread. “…Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now. This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him…” (JOHN 2:10-12 KJV).

 “… he hath done marvellous things…”(Psalm 98:1 KJV).

Wonders are marvelous works by God, beyond man’s human capabilities like the healing of the man born deaf and Lazarus being raised from the dead. “And HE THAT WAS DEAD CAME FORTH, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go...” (John 11:43-44 KJV). “…Jesus said…I am the resurrection and I am the LIFE…..” (John 11:25 KJV). “…The things which are impossible with men … [are] …POSSIBLE… [with God] …” (Luke 18:27 KJV).  

God has NOT changed. He STILL does the SAME signs, wonders, and miracles. “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he [still] doeth the works…” (John 14:10 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).

Every sign, wonder, or miracle is done to POINT people to GOD, to showcase his divine authority over ALL of life, to encourage DEPENDENCY upon God, and his HOLY POWER.  “…This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifestedforth his glory; and his disciples believed on him (depended upon him)…” (JOHN 2:10-12 KJV). “…[He is] the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for [him]?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV).

Signs, wonders, and miracles that are manifested by the God of CREATION are done to encourage, impart, confirm, or strengthen spiritual truths, spiritual understanding, spiritual insight, spiritual dependency upon God, or reveal his HOLY presence or character.“… Jesus answered, and said…This is the work of God: that ye believe [or depend upon] him whom he hath sent.” (John 6:29 KJV). “…This beginning of miracles did Jesus … and his disciples believed on him…” (JOHN 2:10-12 KJV). “…his disciples [depended upon] him…” (JOHN 2:10-12 KJV).

False prophets and fakes can do deceiving signs and wonders too, but they won’t FOOL God’s disciples. “… False messiahs and false prophets will rise up and perform great signs and wonders so as to deceive, if possible, even God’s chosen ones…” (Matthew 24:24 NLT).

God’s signs, wonders, and miracles are manifested to make people, on earth, STAND IN AWE of the God of Creation’s and his UNIQUE ability to DO LOVING, supernatural, wondrous WORKS!! “… Those who live at the ends of the earth stand in AWE of your wonders. From where the sun rises to where it sets, you inspire shouts of joy. Praise the Lord God, the God of Israel, who alone does such wonderful things…” (Psalms 65:8 NLT). “… Praise the Lord God, the God of Israel, who alone does such wonderful things…” (Psalms 72:18 NLT).

Signs, wonders, and miracles are NOT limited to how God WORKS providentially to SUSTAIN and HOLD together the natural realm. “…In him ALL THINGS …hold together…” (Colossians 1:7 NIV). “… [God is]…sustaining ALL THINGS… by his powerful word…” (Hebrews 1:3 NIV).

Signs, wonders, and miracles are the UNLIMITED WORKS of God that REVEAL and MANIFEST his presence, his character, his power, his sovereignty, and his purposes from the supernatural realm. “…The things which are impossible with men … [are] …POSSIBLE… [with God] …” (Luke 18:27 KJV).  

A TRUE sign, wonder, or miracle is a WORK or ACT of God; “NOT” man. God, the indwelling Holy Spirit, PERFORM signs, wonders, and miracles “IN” and “THROUGH” his people. “…The …HOLY SPIRIT …is the SOURCE of [signs, wonders, and miracles]. …it is …God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of us who are his. The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (supernatural WORKS and PERFORMANCES) THROUGH each of us … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

. “…That great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work “IN US” what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…It is God which worketh IN YOU both to will and to do of hisgood pleasure…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).

 “…I do nothing of myself…” (John 8:28 KJV).

“… Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know…” (ACTS 2:22 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. 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 [was] upon [him[, because 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). “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

Signs, wonders, and miracles give credibility and confirmation to God’s WORD (Jesus), God’s presence, God’s character, and supernatural POWER in the lives of God’s chosen people. “…God publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know. …” (ACTS 2:22 KJV).

What were some of the signs, wonders, and miraclesin the bible? All of Creation was full of signs, wonders, and miracles (Genesis 1 & 2). The flood was a wonder and the rainbow is an ongoing sign of God’s promise (Genesis 7 & 8). The tower of Babel was where God miraculously confused the languages (Genesis 11). Sodom and Gomorrah was miraculously destroyed by the rain of fire and brimstone from heaven (Genesis 19). Lot’s wife was miraculously turned into a pillar of salt Genesis 19). Sarah and Abraham miraculously conceived Isaac in their old age (Genesis 21).

Moses spoke miraculously to God through a burning bush that was NEVER actually consumed by the fire (Exodus 3). God revealed he was with Aaron when he miraculously changed his rod into a serpent (Exodus 7). God miraculously sent 10 plagues upon Egypt until they let HIS people go (Exodus 7-14). God miraculously parted the Red Sea so HIS people could cross over to the other side, on dry land and to safety (Exodus 14).

After traveling for days God’s people were thirsty and came to a body of water called Marah and found the water to be bitter. They cried out to God and God miraculously turned the water sweet, so they could drink it (Exodus 15).

God’s people also got hungry as they traveled through the wilderness. God miraculously sent them manna from heaven for days and days to provide for their nourishment (Exodus 16).

Balaam was sent to curse God’s people, but his donkey was stopped by angels sent by God. Balaam beat the donkey in order to make him continue the journey, but God miraculously made the donkey speak to Balaam and explain why he couldn’t continue. (Exodus 22).

God gave Joshua instructions on how to win the battle with Jericho. First they had to walk around the city seven times and afterwards the walls would fall down and they would be able to take the whole city. It happened just as God say it would; the walls of Jericho miraculously fell down and they victoriously took the city (Joshua 6).

The Amorites had attacked the Israelite’s allies and God allowed them to avenge them and win the battle by miraculously stopping the SUN from going down for a WHOLE day (Joshua 10).

God also miraculously sent LARGE stones from heaven to help them in the battle (Joshua 10).

God miraculously gave Samson, through the POWER of his Spirit, extraordinary human strength. He slayed a lion with his bare hands and defeated an entire army with the jawbone of an ass. God put the secret of his strength in his LONG hair (Judges 13-16).

A widow woman was low on flour and oil, and was preparing, for her and her son, to die from hunger. But God had mercy on her by miraculously making the flour and oil increase continually and she was able to feed Elijah and her household until the dry season stopped (1 Kings 17:8-16).

At the prayers of Elijah, God miraculously bought a drought upon the land and then at his prayers the rain miraculously returned, even though initially there was NOT a single cloud in the sky (1 Kings 18).

God, miraculously, delivered three Hebrew boys from a fiery furnace without a scorch, burn, or the smell of smoke on any of them (Daniel 3).

God, miraculously, delivered Daniel from the mouths of lions when he was thrown into the den with a whole bunch of them (Daniel 6).

God, miraculously, delivered Jonah from the belly of a whale and returned him safety to land (Jonah 2).

Jesus was miraculously and specially created to be an atoning sacrifice for the sins of the people. He was born of a virgin, and conceived by the Holy Spirit (John 1 & Luke 1).

Jesus miraculously healed blind people, deaf people, a woman with a spirit of infirmity, lepers, and many others (Matthew 9:27-31; John 9:1-7; Mark 7:31-37; Luke 13:11-17, 19:11-19).

Jesus miraculously turned water to wine (John 2:1-11). Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead (John 11:38-44). Jesus blessed the fishermen with supernatural increase at HIS WORD (John 21:1-14) Jesus fed thousands, twice, with a few loaves of bread and some fish (Matthew 14:32, 15:32 & Mark 6:30, 8:1; Luke 9:10, & John 6:1-14).

Jesus delivered people from demons (Matthew 8:28; Mark 1:23, 5:1; & Luke 4:33, 8:26). Jesus STILLED the storm at his WORD alone (Matthew 8:23 & Mark 4:37, & Luke 8:22). Jesus walked on water (Matthew 14:25; Mark 6:48, & John 6:15).

Jesus ROSE from the dead (John 21:1-14). Jesus was God in human form. “…Though he was God…” (Philippians 2:6-7 NLT). He was“…born as a human being…” (Philippians 2:6-7 NLT).

Thus, when it comes to signs, wonders, and miracles, God’s people PRAY, DEPEND UPON HIM, and EXPECT him to DO special FAVORS in their LIVES and on their behalf. “…Lord … Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be donethrough the name of your holy servant Jesus. After this prayer, the meeting place shook, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Then they preached the word of God with boldness…” (Acts 4:28-30 KJV). “…the Fatherthat dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

God’s people DEPEND UPON him to confirm his OWN WORD by DOING the WORK of his promises through signs, wonders, and miracles. “…the Fatherthat dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

 “…The disciples went everywhere and preached, and the Lord worked through them, confirming what they said by many miraculous signs…” (Mark 16:20 KJV). “…The …HOLY SPIRIT …is the SOURCE of [signs, wonders, and miracles]. … … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “… Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works' sake…” (John 14:11 KJV). “…The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (supernatural WORKS and PERFORMANCES) THROUGH each of us … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The Fatherthat dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

Signs, wonders, and miracles are the responsibility of the HOLY SPIRIT. If you ASK or PRAY to God, and, DEPEND upon him, and EXPECT him to do it; WILL HE? “…You can ask for anythingin my name, and I “will” do it...” (John 14:12-14 NLT).

“…You can ask for anythingin my name (jesus, the word of god)...” (John 14:12-14 NLT). “….You may ask for anything you want…” (JOHN 15:7 NASB). “…Ask and it will be given to you…” (Matthew 7:7 NIV). “…everyone who asks receives…” (Matthew 7:8 NIV).

 “…And this is the confidence that we have in him (Jesus), that, if we ask any thing according to his will (his word), he heareth us…” (1 John 5:14 KJV). “… [We] … Receive from him anything we ask, because we keephis commands (follow his instructions) and do what pleases him…” (1 John 3:22 NIV). “…If we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him…” (1 John 5:15 NIV).

Therefore,“…Trust in the Lord with all thine heart…” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “… lean not unto thine own understanding…”(Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “…The Father that dwelleth in [you], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT).

 “… [His Word] shall not return unto [him]… void, but it shall accomplish that which [God]… please[s], and it shall prosper in the thing whereto [God]… sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV). “…I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son…” (John 14:13 NIV).

Signs, wonders, and miracles are a responsibility of the Holy Spirit and “… he DOETH the WORK…” (John 14:10 KJV).

You are encouraged to choose to DEPEND upon the HOLY Spirit to DO the WORK “IN” and “THROUGH” you. . “……it is …God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of us who are his… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

The HOLY SPIRIT “removes” obstacles, troubles, problems, issues, and gets rid of them from your life. Don’t doubt, but CHOOSE to depend upon, the HOLY SPIRIT to DO the WORK or signs, wonders, and miracles. "…Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and DOES NOT DOUBT in their heart but believes (depends upon God) that what they say will happen, it will be done for them….” (MARKS 11:23 NIV).

WHATEVER you ASK for when you PRAY, believe or DEPEND UPON GOD that you HAVE received them and WHATEVER it is; is YOURS!! "… [DO] NOT DOUBT in [your] heart but [believe and depend upon God) …[and] what [you] say will happen, it will be done for [you]….” (MARK 11:23 NIV). “…The Fatherthat dwelleth in [you], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

EXPECT the sign, wonder, or miracle to HAPPEN. God will even help your EXPECTANCY. “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “…The WORK of God: [is] that [you] believe on him (depend upon him) whom he hath sent.” (John 6:29 KJV). “…It is Godwho WORKS IN YOU…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…That great Shepherd of the sheep, EQUIP (empower) you with everything good for doing his will…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…That great Shepherd of the sheep …may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT).

DEPEND UPON God to empower your dependency upon him and your expectancy from him THEN you will see signs, wonders, and miracles in your LIFE regularly!! “…It is God who WORKS IN YOU…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV).

Who will DO the sign, wonder or miracle? God does. “…The Father that dwelleth in [you], HE DOETH the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…The HOLY SPIRIT “DISPLAYS” God’s power (supernatural WORKS or PERFORMANCES) THROUGH each of us … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

Why can you DEPEND UPON God to do the sign, wonder, or miracle? Because God CAN and he say HE WOULD. “…I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son…” (John 14:13 NIV). "… [DO] NOT DOUBT in [your] heart but [believe and depend upon me and) …what [you] say will happen, [and] it will be done for [you]….” (MARK 11:23 NIV). “…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV).

“…[God] is able TO DO exceeding abundantly ABOVE all that we ask or think…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV). “…he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…The things which are impossible with men … [are]… POSSIBLE [with God] …” (Luke 18:27 KJV).

Who is like the Living God of Creation? “…… I am God, and there is none like me…" (Isaiah 46:9-10 KJV).  ). “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).   

“… “I AM WHO I AM’ This is My name forever, and this is My memorial-name to all generations…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I am  the Lord, the God of all flesh…” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). "… I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God…" (Revelation 1:8 NASB). “… I, the LORD … the first, and with the last. I am He...'" (Isaiah 41:4 NASB).  “...The lord is GOOD…there is none good but one, that is, God” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…  I, the Lord, am your healer…” (Exodus 15:26). “… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV).  And, “There is none holy as the Lord…” (1 Samuel 2:2 KJV). “…God is the one who provides …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). “… God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “… [God] … will keep in perfect peace all who trust in … [him] … all whose thoughts are fixed on … [him!]” (Isaiah 26:3 NLT). “….The Lord is “my” shepherd ….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you] … take refuge; Yourshield and the horn of Your salvation, YOURstronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).“…God [is[ with us…” (Matthew 1:23 NASB). “…[HE IS] WITH… [YOU] and  … [HE] WILL NOT LEAVE [YOU] …." (Genesis 28:15 ASV). “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).   

“…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). “…The things which are impossible with men … [are]… POSSIBLE [with God] …” (Luke 18:27 KJV). “…he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“…I will do whatever you ask in my name…” (John 14:13 NIV). "… [Depend upon me and] …what [you] say will happen, [and] it will be done for [you]….” (MARK 11:23 NIV).

Why does God do signs, wonder, and miracles for HIS PEOPLE? God LOVES his people. “…the Lord loves His people …” (2 Chronicles 2:11 NASB). “… the Lord loved you and kept the oath which He swore to your forefathers…” (Deuteronomy 7:8 NASB). “… Blessed be the Lord your God who delighted in you to set you on the throne of Israel; because the Lord loved Israel (his people) forever…” (1 Kings 10:9 NASB). “…the Lord loves His people …” (2 Chronicles 2:11 NASB). “ … your God loved Israel (his people) establishing them forever …”(2 Chronicles 9:8 NASB). In “… His love and in His mercy He redeemed them…” (Isaiah 63:9 NASB). “… I have loved you with an everlasting love…” (Jeremiah 31:3 NASB). “… Even as the Lordloves the sons of Israel (his people)…” (Hosea 3:1 NASB). “ … I led them … with bonds of love, And I became to them as one who lifts the yoke from their jaws; And I bent down andfed them…” (Hosea 11:4 NASB).  “… Indeed, He loves the people…” (Deuteronomy 33:3 NASB).

Who are God’s people? Those who belong to him in Jesus Christ. “… [Everyone] … 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 blessings because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  “…Those who belong to Christ Jesus …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…Because YOU BELONG to him...” (Romans 8:1 NLT). “ … (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belongto him at all.) …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…He that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT (BELONG)…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “…We are his;we are “HIS” PEOPLE...” (Psalms 100:3 KJV).

 “…You belong to Christ…” (1 Corinthians 3:23 NASB). “…you belong to God, my dear children…” (1 John 4:2-7 NIV).

ONLY God’s people are blessed and privileged to display and experience the true signs, wonders, and miraculous works of God.

 “… How blessed you are [people of God!] Who else is like you, a people saved(through the miraculous redemptive work) by the Lord? He is your protecting shield and your triumphant sword...” (Deuteronomy 33:29 NLT). “… I and the children the Lord has given me serve as signs … from the Lordof Heaven’s Armies who dwells in his Temple on Mount Zion…” (Isaiah 8:18 NLT). “…The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (signs, wonders, and miracles) THROUGH each of us … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

God said to Abraham: “…I will BLESS thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a BLESSING: And I will BLESS them that BLESS thee …in thee shall all families of the earth be BLESSED…”(Genesis 12:2-3 KJV).

Thus through salvation: “…Christ hath REDEEMED [miraculously saved all families] from the curse of the law (eternal death) …That the “BLESSING of Abraham” might come on [“THEM”]… through Jesus Christ …” (Galatians 3:13-14 KJV).

“…BY GRACE have ye been SAVEDTHROUGH FAITH…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “…I will save you that you may BECOME A BLESSING....” (Zechariah 8:13 KJV).

“…you were called so that you may inherit a blessing…” (1 Peter 3:9 NIV).“…you will be a blessing…” (Genesis 12:2 NIV).

“….God has blessed, and I cannot reverse it!” (Numbers 23:20 NLT).  “…by the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV). “…by the GRACE of God [you are]…what [you are]…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).

“…THY BLESSING is upon THY PEOPLE…” (Psalms 3:8 KJV). “…YOU MAKE [your people] “MOST” BLESSED forever; …” (Psalms 21:6 NASB). “…BLESSINGS are on the head of the righteous (God’s people)…” (Proverbs 10:6 NASB).  “…You surround [them] WITH FAVOR as with a shield…” (Psalms 5:12 NASB).

SALVATION IS a SIGN of A MIRACULOUS BLESSING!!

“… [God’s SAVED people shall] serve as signs … from the Lord of Heaven’s Armies who dwells in his Temple on Mount Zion…” (Isaiah 8:18 NLT). “…The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (signs, wonders, and miracles) THROUGH each of [them] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

Signs, wonders, and miracles are ALL blessings and favors God bestows upon his SAVED people. “…Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who HATH blessed us (the SAVED) with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ…” (Ephesians 1:3 KJV).

By God’s GRACE you are “A” BLESSING. “…by the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).  God DISPLAYS signs, wonders, and miracles “IN” and “THROUGH” his people by the Holy Spirit. “…The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (signs, wonders, and miracles) THROUGH each of [them] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “… [God’s people shall] serve as signs … from the Lord…” (Isaiah 8:18 NLT).  “…A man 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). “…Every good GIFT and every perfect GIFT is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights…” (James 1:17 KJV).  “…What do you have that God hasn’t given you? And if everything you have is from God, why boast as though it were not a gift?...” (1 Corinthians 4:7 NLT).

“…Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable GIFT[S]…” (2 Corinthians  9:16 KJV). “ …We have this treasure “in” earthen vessels…” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV).  “…[People will]… know (witness through signs, wonders, and miracles) that everything [you]… have IS A GIFT “FROM” [God]…” (John 17:6-9 NLT).

“…by the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV). “…by the GRACE of God [you are]…what [you are]…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).

“… [God’s people shall] serve as signs … from the Lord…” (Isaiah 8:18 NLT).  “…The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (signs, wonders, and miracles) THROUGH each of [them] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

For instance, “…God gave Paul the power to perform unusual miracles…” (Acts 19:11 NLT). “…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).

 “…The Spirit of the Lord [was].. upon [Jesus], because 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).

Signs, wonders, and miracles are acts of God that he DISPLAYS “IN” and “THROUGH” his people by the POWER of his indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.

These ACTS of God are displayed as EVIDENCE that God is STILL working and demonstrating signs, wonders, and miracles upon the earth.

The miracle of SALVATION, ALONE, is a sign and is meant to establish Christian faith (dependency upon God). “… Believe me (depend upon me) that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me (depend upon me) for the very works' sake…” (John 14:11 KJV).

God’s people have experienced, throughout biblical history and in the present, that God has POWER over SIN, death, sickness, demons, and ALL the natural world through signs, wonders, and miracles. God has NOT changed. “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  “Jesus Christ is the sameyesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).

ARE THERE “STILL” SIGNS, WONDERS, AND MIRACLES? YES, GOD HAS GIVEN THOSE WORKS TO HIS PEOPLE. “…I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me (depends upon me) will do the same works I have done, and even greater works (not different, but more global and expansive), because I am going to be with the Father…” (JOHN 14:12 NLT).

CHOOSE TO GO THROUGH THE STRUGGLE TO MAKE "THAT" SIN STOP!

 

GO THROUGH THE STRUGGLE FIRST AND IT WILL STOP!
“...Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he (she) that hath suffered (STRUGGLED) in the flesh hath ceased from sin...” (1 Peter 4: KJV).

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When things are new the beginnings are always exciting. Diligence, being uncompromising, and becoming who we already are in Christ is a cinch UNTIL the struggle comes and it always will. There is a THRESHOLD where the daily excitement becomes greatly reduced, but the process STILL continues and what motivates you toward a NEW CREATION in Christ lifestyle is CHOICE. CHOICE is the power of the human will. 

You CHOOSE day after day, with or without excitement, to STAY on the PATH toward VICTORY, which WILL BE a struggle, but the person who STRUGGLES to overcome their old, dead, crucified sinful nature in certain areas of their life will CEASE from SIN in those same areas. “...Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin...” (1 Peter 4:1 NIV).  “...So then, since Christ suffered physical pain, you must arm yourselves with the same attitude he had, and be ready to suffer, too. For if you have suffered physically for Christ, you have finished with sin...” (1 Peter 4:1 NLT). “...Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he (she) that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin...” (1 Peter 4: KJV). “...Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because the one who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin...” (1 Peter 4:1 NASB).  

“...Who in the days of his (Jesus) flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect (mature), he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;…” (Hebrew 5:7-8-9 KJV). 

Living within human flesh was challenging to Jesus too. “… He withdrew about a stone's throw beyond them and knelt down and prayed, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV). Jesus also made it clear that flesh and SPIRIT have two distinctly different origins even if they co-exist together.  "...That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit...” (John 3:6 KJV). 

God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus had a real human body, which empowered him to demonstrate to HIS people the indwelling POWER of GodOVER the flesh nature. The human experience, in the flesh, wasn’t easy for Jesus’ either, but, nonetheless, he KEPT God, the Holy Spirit’s, commandments. “…And being made perfect (mature), he became author of eternal salvation unto all them who obey him…” (Hebrew 5:7-8-9 J+KJV). Regardless of his flesh, Jesus willingly submitted day after day to HIS Father’s sovereign will and voluntarily kept his commandments. 

His obedience SAVED many LIVES. “… my righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous,for he... [bore]... all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “… [God, the Holy Spirit, sent the ] …one … who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus suffered (we suffer when we struggle to overcome) through obedience. Jesus said: “ ...[I am]…not [here to do] My will, but [my Father’s]…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV). 

The bible describes Jesus’ experience with suffering: “...Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him. And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and they put on him a purple robe. And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands….Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man! When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in him. But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar. Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away…”(John 19:1-16 KJV). “..After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst. Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a spunge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth. When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost” (John 19:28-30 KJV).“…For I have come down from heaven  ... TO DO ...THE WILL of him who sent me…” (John 6:38 NIV). “…The ... works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father has sent me...” (John 5:36 KJV).  

Jesus’ submission, humility, and obedience revolutionized the whole world. Jesus is now “highly exalted” with a “name which is above every name” (Philippians 2:9). “...a WORD which is ABOVE every WORD...” In addition,“…at .the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW, of things in heaven and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father...” (Philippians 2:10-11 KJV). Many of God’s people are suffering or struggling to overcome a sinful habit, attitude, behavior, thought life, or negative self-image. 

Nonetheless, the sufferings or struggles of God’s people, upon earth, is not necessarily a negative condition. If they follow after the leading of the indwelling Holy Spirit, Jesus said “...Verily, verily, I say unto you, He (she) that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he (she) do also; and greater works than these shall he (she) do; because I go unto my Father...”(John 14:1 KJV).   

God’s people go through many different kinds of trials and tribulations in their life upon earth. Those trials and tribulations could last for hours, days, weeks, months, or years and the details of what is happening, in the situation or circumstance, can get disappointing, challenging, hard, boring, wearisome, or extremely stressful. 

They can begin to FEAR, get DISCOURAGED, or BELIEVE they will NEVER have the VICTORY over their issues. “...In the world ye shall have tribulation...” (John 16:33 KJV). “... Here on earth [God’s people]... will have many trials and sorrows..." (John 16:44 NLT). “...Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 KJV). “...[God’s people]... must [go]...through much tribulation [to]...enter into the kingdom of God...” (Acts 14:22 KJV). Yet, “...despite all these things, overwhelming victory is [thei]rs ...” (Romans 8:37 NLT). 

When God, the Father, allows seasons of suffering or struggle it usually is not about what is actually happening TO his people as much as it is about what is happening withIN his people. God cares about the condition of their HEARTS. “...God seesnotas man (woman) sees, for man (woman) looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart…”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). God looks at the “…hidden man (woman) of the heart…” (1 Peter 3:4 KJV). It is“… from within, out of the heart of man (woman), proceed evil thoughts … [PRIDE] … these … come from within, and defile a person.” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV). The HEART “…is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked…who can know it [except God?]…” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV). The “…hidden man (woman) of the heart…” is ALWAYS revealed through trails and tests that require LONGSUFFERING or intense patience (1 Peter 3:4 KJV). 

God purposely took Israel through the wilderness (tests, trials, etc.,) to humble them, to test them, to see if they would keep his commandments or not, and to “….know (reveal to them) what was in [their OWN]…heart…” (Deuteronomy 8:2 KJV). It wasn’t so much that the physical journey that took forty years, but it was the mental, emotionally, and spiritual journey that took forty years. It sometimes takes people a long time to see or FACE their own intrinsic, sinful condition. God’s truths hurt even though those truths are kind and loving. Some of God’s people have claimed to walk with God for years, yet still walk in MANY areas of DARKNESS.

 “… Many deceivershave gone out into the world…” (2 John 1:7 NLT). “…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 (like a demon), WE LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV).  “... the devils also believe...” (James 2:19 KJV). “... except your righteousness (your ethical or religious behavior) shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven...” (Matthew 5:10 KJV). God’s says. “…If My people which are called by My name shall humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways…I WILL HEAL....” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV). 

God, the Holy Spirit, doesn’t placate, approve, overlook, or mollycoddle his people’s ongoing PRACTICE of a sinful lifestyle. “... Everyone who practices sin also practiceslawlessness; and sin is lawlessness...  the one who practices sin is of the devil ...  No one who is born of God practices sin...” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB).“...By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of GOD...” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB). “... Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality,  idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God...” (Galatians 5:19-21 NASB). 

“...Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin...” (1 Peter 4:1 NIV).  “...So then, since Christ suffered physical pain, you must arm yourselves with the same attitude he had, and be ready to suffer, too. For if you have suffered physically for Christ, you have finished with sin...” (1 Peter 4:1 NLT). “...Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he (she) that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin...” (1 Peter 4: KJV). “...Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because the one who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin...” (1 Peter 4:1 NASB).

 The bible says Jesus Christ suffered in the human flesh and that his people would too. Our suffering also includes our STRUGGLE to overcome the old, dead, crucified sinful nature. The STRUGGLE to overcome the old, dead, crucified sinful nature is NOT easy, but it is obtainable.

 It is both a CHALLENGE and a BLESSING to suffer or STRUGGLE in the flesh, because it EMPOWERS you to CEASE from SIN in that area of your life.“...RESIST THE DEVIL AND HE WILL FLEE FROM YOU...” Resist his lies, resist the tempting images he puts in front of your face, resist the past memories, resist living by the old indentity, resist the sinful nature’s influential voice, and resist the sinful natures’ attempt to continue to control what you say or do.  The ENEMY THROUGH THE SINFUL NATURE, wants to SABATOGE YOUR NEW life in Christ. God, the Holy Spirit, through JESUS WANTS “YOU” TO BE PROPEROUS AND IN GOOD HEALTHY IN “EVERY” AREA OF YOUR LIFE!!   

If God’s WORD says RESIST the devil and he will FLEE. You willfully choose to RESIST him and trust the OUTCOME, which is the devil FLEEING, to God, the Holy Spirit. RESISTING is not a RESULT of self-effort, but of FAITH or of trusting and depending upon God, the indwelling Holy Spirit to ENABLE you to DO IT. When God leads his people to OVERCOME certain lingering, sinful habits it WILL BE a struggle, but NOT one they will have to DO alone. God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus, HELPS his people through his WORD, his indwelling Spirit, by DESTROYING the devil’s works in your life, cleansing you through the blood, and freeing you from the power of sin. 

Trusting and DEPENDING upon Jesus’ finished work, through the process, will make his people CEASE from sin in those areas! “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “…the Fatherthat dwelleth in me (through Jesus), he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “...For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil...” (1 John 3:8 KJV). “...[God’s people can stay] .... holy and clean, washed by the cleansing[power]...of God’s Word ...” (Ephesians 5:26 KJV). “… 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). “...Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he (she) that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin...” (1 Peter 4: KJV). 

As this verse relates to Christ, the “ceased from sin” implies being “made to rest” from suffering or perhaps from the struggle with sin in that particular area of your life. The STRUGGLE can actually result in a REST, from that particular sin and its former temptation. “...In the world ye shall have tribulation...” (John 16:33 KJV). “... Here on earth [God’s people]... will have many trials and sorrows..." (John 16:44 NLT). “...Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 KJV). Yet, “...despite all these things, overwhelming victory is [thei]rs ...” (Romans 8:37 NLT). 

When God’s people have “overwhelming victory” over particular sins, that sin will NO LONGER prevail over them, as before, to destroy their lives, sabotage their goals, or derail their walk with God. She or he learns, through the struggle, obedience and that they NO LONGER have to live according to the flesh. “…So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves …” (Galatians 5 NLT).“…So letting your sinful nature CONTROL YOUR MIND leads to death. But letting the Spirit CONTROL YOUR MIND leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God. But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you…” (Romans 8:6-9 NLT). “...Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered…” (Hebrew 5:7-8-9 KJV). 

When God’s people suffer or struggle to OVERCOME particular sins that SIN will NO LONGER govern your behavior in “that” area because the indwelling Holy Spirit has EMPOWERED you to LEARN obedience, to renew the mind, and has taught you how to CONFORM to the image of Jesus Christ. “...for he (she) that hath suffered (struggled) in the flesh hath ceased from sin...” (1 Peter 4: KJV). 

TRANSFORMATION and CONFORMITY to Jesus’ image are HOLY changes made in one’s heart, mind, and conduct toward God’s sovereign will. “…Christ …entrusted himself to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV). JESUS SAID: “… I lay down my life [for God, my Father]... No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord …” (John 10:17-18 KJV). “…"Father... not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV). 

God’s people  have NOT always been diligent, or uncompromising, or new creations in their STAND against the old, dead, crucified sinful nature, because they have NOT chosen to willfully STRUGGLE, with the HELP of the indwelling Holy Spirit, to OVERCOME sinful conduct in certain areas of the lives. 

God’s people STRUGGLE to OVERCOME their sinful behaviors or they SETTLE on continuing to PRACTICE those sinful behaviors. HERE is the consequence: “... Everyone who practices sin (including Adam and Eve) also practiceslawlessness; and sin is lawlessness...  the one who practices sin is of (with) the devil ...   anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of (with) GOD...” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB).  

 “... Everyone (no exceptions) who sins is breaking God’s law, for all sin is contrary to the law of God. And you know that Jesus came to take away our sins, and there is no sin in him. Anyone who continues to live in him (ABIDE WITH HIM) will not sin. But anyone who keeps on sinning does not know him ... [or] who he is. Dear children, don’t let anyone deceive you about this: When people do what is right, it shows that they are righteous, even as Christ is righteous....” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT). 

“...God SEES NOT as man (woman) sees, for man (woman) looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD LOOKS AT THE HEART…”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). “…No one needed… to tell him (God, the Holy Spirit) about human nature, for he knew what was in each person’s heart…” (John 2:24-25 NLT).

 “…[The] ...Lord (God), which knowest the hearts of 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). Therefore, “... Stand fast (brothers, sisters, God’s redeemed people, etc.) ... in the liberty (freedom FROM sin) wherewith Christ hath made ...[YOU]... free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage..” (Galatians 5:1 KJV). 

“...For if, after ...[God’s people]... have escaped the defilements of the world by the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ... [and THEY]... are again entangled in them...” (2 Peter 2:20-23 NASB). “...it would be better for them... not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn away (by choice) from the holy commandment ...” (2 Peter 2:20-23 NASB). “...WHAT HAPPENS to those who have KNOWN the WAY and TURN AWAY from it? “...It has happened to them according to the true proverb, “...A dog returns to its own vomit,” and, “A sow, after washing, returns to wallowing in the mire...” (2 Peter 2:20-23 NASB). 

“…once again we have ABANDONED your commands!” (Ezra 9:10 NLT). “... I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God...” (Galatians 5:19-21 NASB). “…my people have stubborn and rebellious hearts. They have turned away and ABANDONED me….” (JEREMIAH 5:23 NLT). “…My people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). 

 God “….is ...NOT WILLING that any should perish, but that ALL should come to repentance…” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV). However, “…EXCEPT YE REPENT, ye shall all likewise PERISH…” (Luke 13:3 KJV).

 In the LONG RUN suffering or struggling to OVERCOME our private sins is WORTH it! “... [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). “...HE (SHE) THAT “SHALL” (WILL) ENDURE UNTO THE END SHALL (WILL) BE SAVED...” (Matthew 24:13 KJV). 

God’s people BECOME accountable for CHOOSING to live by the TRUTH they know. It is God’s TRUTH that will SET them FREE to live the life of a NEW CREATION in Jesus Christ. “... 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...” (Romans 2:5-13 NLT). 

 “…hypocrites ...This people honoureth me with [their] lips, but [their] heart is far from me...” (Mark 7:6 KJV).  “…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 display of spiritual fruit such as SELF-DISCIPLINE), WE LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV).  “ … the deeds of the flesh are evident…” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB). Jesus saith…I amthe way, the truth, and the life…” (John 14:6 KJV). 

“… The Spirit of truth (Jesus, God’s Word) …will guide [God’s people]... into all the truth. …” (John 16:13 NIV). “…Thy word is truth” (JOHN 17:17 KJV).“…The TRUTH shall MAKE YOU FREE…” (JOHN 8:32 KJV). “…If the Son (jesus, the truth) therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed (without a doubt!!)…” (John 8:36 KJV).

 

 

THE POWER OF THE HUMAN WILL: SERVING GOD IS A CHOICE!

THE POWER OF HUMAN WILL

“…Choose youthis day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “… I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore [YOU]…choose life…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV).  “…Choose LIFE…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “…Jesus said… I am the LIFE…..” (John 11:25 KJV). “…But my people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts. They went backward instead of forward” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “But 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). “…Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily …the HEART of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil [by choice]….” (Ecclesiastes 8:11 KJV).

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God said: “….let us make man… after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV).

“...After his likeness...” means mankind was MADE or CREATED with similar qualities or abilities as God, the Holy Spirit. One of those qualities was a “will” which gave them the ability to make decisions.

The ability to make decisions is an action of the will, which demonstrates its power to enable mankind to make CHOICES.

A CHOICE is a course of action that is selected among two or more options. A CHOICE is not something that is FORCED upon the “will,” but something that is a voluntary action of the will.

God said: “….let us make man… after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). Mankind has human will and God has sovereign will.

Thus, God gave mankind a human will, although on a much, much smaller scale than his sovereign will.God “…does whatever pleases him…” (Psalms 115:3 NIV). “… [God]… does as he pleases… No one can hold back his hand or say to him: “What have you done?” (Daniel 4 NLT). “… Everything I plan will come to pass, for I do whatever I wish…” (Isaiah 46: 9-10 NLT).

God’s SOVEREIGN will “always” take precedence over human will when it comes to the WAY God chooses to run HIS WORLD or the people upon HIS EARTH. “.... He (God, the Holy Spirit) does as he pleases (not mankind) with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth…” (Daniel 4 NLT).

For example: King Nebuchadnezzar did NOT heed God’s sovereign will. God said through Daniel: “… Your Majesty, be pleased to accept my advice: Renounce your sins by doing what is right…” (Daniel 4 NLT). “.... He (God, the Holy Spirit) does as he pleases ...with the ...the peoples of the earth…” (Daniel 4 NLT).

Nebuchadnezzar ignored the opportunity to CHOOSE God’s WILL OVERhis OWN will. A year later he still had NOT willfully or voluntarily submitted to God’s sovereign will. “….Twelve months later, as the king was walking on the roof of the royal palace of Babylon, he said, “Is not this the great Babylon “I” have built as the royal residence, by “my” mighty power and for the glory of “my” majesty?”  (Daniel 4 NLT).

 Nebuchadnezzar, like many of God’s people today,  are NOT listening to his sovereign will for their lives. “… my people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

“…Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily …the HEART of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil [to CHOOSE their OWN way]….” (Ecclesiastes 8:11 KJV).

“…[God was] ...being patient for [King Nebuchadnezzar’s] ... SAKE (for 12 months). He ...[did]... not want [King Nebuchadnezzar]...to be destroyed, but want[ed]... [him]... to repent…” (2 Peter 3: 9 NLT). “…[god, the holy spirit]... is GOOD…” (Psalm 107:1 KJV).

“…[God, the Holy Spirit] ...pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV).“..The lord...[God] ... is GOOD…” (Nahum 1:7 KJV).

King Nebuchadnezzar CHOOSE his OWN way.

King Nebuchadnezzar willfully and voluntarily followed the decision he made to go his OWN way and not God’s way. Nothing happened right away and everything was “seemingly” peaceful for the next twelve months. “...When a crime is not punished quickly, people feel it is safe to...[continue]... do wrong...” (Ecclesiastes 8:11 NLT).

 However, twelve months later, “… a voice came from heaven, “This is what is decreed for you, King Nebuchadnezzar: Your royal authority has been taken from you. You will be driven away from people and will live with the wild animals; you will eat grass like the ox…”  (Danial 4 NLT).

Nebuchadnezzar decided to follow his OWN WAY, which kept him on a course of action he willfully and voluntary CHOSE to follow. “…he said, “Is not this the great Babylon “I” have built as the royal residence, by “my” mighty power and for the glory of “my” majesty?”  (Daniel 4 NLT).

“HOWEVER,” he could CHOOSE whichever path he wanted to travel, but he had no CONTROL over the consequences of those choices or the EVENTS that followed. “.... He (God, the Holy Spirit) does as he pleases ...with the ...the peoples of the earth…” (Daniel 4 NLT). “…He (Nebuchadnezzar) was driven away from people (as God’s sovereign will declared) and ate grass like the ox. His body was drenched with the dew of heaven until his hair grew like the feathers of an eagle and his nails like the claws of a bird….” (Daniel 4 NLT).

GOD SAYS: “… [HE is] … watching over [his]… Word to perform it…” (Jeremiah 1:12 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).

 God, the Holy Spirit, WILL do what he SAYS he will do.

God gave King Nebuchadnezzar a human will to make choices and decisions as he pleased. “…They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

However, God’s sovereign will can TAKE AWAY the situations and circumstances in which the king makes those choices and decisions. “…The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away…” Job 1:20-22 NASB). . “.... He (God, the Holy Spirit) does as he pleases (not mankind) with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth…” (Daniel 4 NLT).

When King Nebuchadnezzar’s prideful choices came up against God’s sovereign will for “...a person upon HIS earth...” the king recognized that ONLY God truly “…does whatever pleases HIM…” (Psalms 115:3 NIV).

“…At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever. His dominion is an eternal dominion; his kingdom endures from generation to generation.

All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth.No one can hold back his hand or say to him: “What have you done?”

Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything he does is right and all his ways are just. And those who walk in pride (self-will) he is able to humble…” (Daniel 4 NIV).

King Nebuchadnezzar could make his prideful CHOICES and DECISIONS, but he had NO POWER over the consequences of those choices or decisions, especially if they went against God’s sovereign will. He said: “….And those who walk in pride HE IS ABLE to humble…  NO ONE can hold back his hand…” (Daniel 4 NIV).

King Nebuchadnezzar’s story gives credence to the LIMITATION of human will, especially when it comes up against God’s sovereign will. “… [God, the Holy Spirit]… does as he pleases… No one can hold back his hand or say to him: “What have you done?”(Daniel 4 NLT).

The lesson is clear: “…If the Lord will, [YOU] shall live, and do this, or that...” (James 4:16 KJV).  “….HE IS ABLE to humble (YOU)… [and]...NO ONE can hold back his hand…” (Daniel 4 NIV). “…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).

King Nebuchadnezzar was warned through a prophetic word from God to DO RIGHT, but he did not LISTEN. “… Your Majesty, be pleased to accept my advice: Renounce your sins by doing what is right, and your wickedness by being kind to the oppressed. It may be that then your prosperity will continue…” (Daniel 4 NLT).

Many of God’s people today are NOT listening to the Word of God or to God’s anointed leaders. They THINK they are getting away with their PRIDEFUL CHOICES.“…Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily …the HEART of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil [to CHOOSE their OWN way]….” (Ecclesiastes 8:11 KJV).

All of mankind (redeemed and un-redeemed) have human will to MAKE whatever CHOICES they want. However, if those CHOICES go against God’s sovereign will they WON’T be able to control the consequences of those choices. “…Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap….” (Galatians 6:7 KJV). “….For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption…” (Galatians 6:8 KJV).

“…my people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts. They went backward instead of forward” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

“But 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).

“…And in the PROCESS of time IT (the CONSEQUENCES of your choices) CAME TO PASS…” (Genesis 4:3 KJV).

THE BIBLE SAYS, NO BODY IS GETTING AWAY WILL ANYTHING.  “…Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap….” (Galatians 6:7 KJV). “….For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption…” (Galatians 6:8 KJV).

“…Let NOT thine heart ENVY sinners…” (Proverbs 23:17 KJV).

“…Fret notthyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass….the little that a righteous man hath is BETTER than the RICHES of the MANY wicked...” (Psalm 37:1-2,16 KJV).

“…the wicked shall perish….” (Psalm 37:14, 15, & 21 KJV). “...they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb . …" (Psalm 37:1-11 KJV).

“...FRET NOT thyself because of him [or her]…who prospereth in his[or her]… way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.…" (Psalm 37:1-11 KJV).

“... Cease from anger, and forsake wrath…" (Psalm 37:1-11 KJV).

“...FRET NOT thyself in any wise to do evil. …" (Psalm 37:1-11 KJV).

“... For evildoers shall be CUT OFF; …" (Psalm 37:1-11 KJV).

BAD EXPERIENCES HAPPEN TO THE RIGHTEOUS AND UNRIGHTEOUS, BUT THE RIGHTEOUS WILL HAVE OVERWHELMING VICTORY. “...In the world ye shallhave tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world...” (John 16:33 KJV). “... Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world..." (John 16:44 NLT). “...Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 KJV). “...we must [go]...through much tribulation [to]...enter into the kingdom of God...” (Acts 14:22 KJV). “...despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

“...[THUS]...Trust in the Lord, and [continue to]…do good, so shalt thou dwell in the lands, and verily thou shall be fed. Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy ways unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. And he shall bring forth they righteousness as the light, and thy judgement as the noonday. Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him ...those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth. For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace…" (Psalm 37:1-11 KJV).

“…Noah did everything just as God commanded him.(Genesis 6:9-22 NIV).

After the flood, “…God blessed Noah and his sons, saying to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the earth. ….Everything that lives and moves about will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything…” (Genesis 9 NIV).

HOWEVER, “…Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap….” (Galatians 6:7 KJV).  “... evildoers ...shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb…" (Psalm 37:1-11 KJV).

Human will is POWERFUL. A man and woman can make decisions and CHOOSE any path of life their hearts desire.

But ALL choices have CONSEQUENCES, especially the ones that go against God’s sovereign will.

King Nebuchadnezzar had a CHOICE and opportunity to change his decision, but DID NOT. He SUFFERED the consequences.“… a voice came from heaven, “This is what is decreed for you, King Nebuchadnezzar: Your royal authority has been taken from you. You will be driven away from people and will live with the wild animals; you will eat grass like the ox…”  (Danial 4 NLT). “…He (Nebuchadnezzar) was driven away from people and ate grass like the ox. His body was drenched with the dew of heaven until his hair grew like the feathers of an eagle and his nails like the claws of a bird….” (Daniel 4 NLT). 

The centurion had a CHOICE and opportunity to change his decision, but he DID NOT. He and his crew SUFFERED the consequences. “…Paul beganto admonish them, and said to them, “Men, I perceive that the voyage will certainly be with damage and great loss, not only of the cargo and the ship, but also of our lives.” …” (Acts 27:9-21 NASB).

“…. before very long there rushed down from the land a violent wind, called Euraquilo;and when the ship was caught in it and could not face the wind, we gave way to it and let ourselves be driven along…” (Acts 27:15 NASB).

“…They usedsupporting cables in undergirding the ship …they let down the sea anchor  … they began to jettison the cargo; and on the third day they threw the ship’s tackle overboard with their own hands..…” (ACTS 27:14-19 NASB). 

 “….the ship was caughtin it and could not face the wind, we gave way to it and let ourselves be driven along…” (Acts 27:15 NASB). “…They lost all control of the ship…” (Acts 27:15 MSG). “…neither sun nor stars appearedfor many days, and no small storm was assailing us …” (ACTS 27:14-19 NASB). “…from then on all hope of our being saved was gradually abandoned.…” (ACTS 27:14-19 NASB).

Adam had a CHOICE and opportunity to change his decision, but he DID NOT. He and his descendants SUFFERED the consequences. “…Through one man[s CHOICE]... SIN (entered into the world, and DEATH (spiritual death)THROUGH SIN, and so death (spiritual death) passed to all men—“(Romans 5:12 KJV).

“….I was born a sinner (I was born  with a sin nature and without the indwelling holy spirit)—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). “… ONE sinner (through his OWN choice) destroy[ed]… MUCH GOOD…”(Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB).

NOW “…All have sinned (all have been born with a sin nature) and fallen short of the glory of God… (fall short of the indwelling Holy Spirit)...” (Romans 3:23).

They RICH man had a CHOICE and opportunity to change his decision, but he DID NOT. He SUFFERED the consequences and ended up in hell. “...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?” ... You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.’  “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.” Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he 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).

“...There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.  And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented...” (Luke 16:19-22 NIV).

Every human being has been GIVEN a WILL. It is considered a FREE will, because it is FREE to make decisions or CHOICES between one or more options.

King Nebuchadnezzar, the Centurion, Adam, and the Rich man ALL had CHOICES to make and they were FREE to make those choices.

King Nebuchadnezzar chose NOT to renounce his sin as advised by God’s prophet. The Centurion chose NOT to stay at the harbor suggested by Paul, God’s mouthpiece. Adam chose NOT to refrain from eating the forbidden apple as commanded by God, himself. The rich man chose NOT to sell his goods to feed the poor.

God’s sovereign will was for King Nebuchadnezzar to renounce his sin, for the Centurion to stay at the harbor, for Adam to refrain from eating the forbidden apple, and for the rich man to sell his goods.“… We can make our plans, but the Lord (God, the Holy Spirits) determines our steps…” (Proverbs 16:9 NLT).

God gave male and female a human will, but God, the Holy Spirit, who created human will,  has sovereign will.“…[God, the Holy Spirit]...does whatever pleases him…” (Psalms 115:3 NIV). “… [God, the Holy Spirit]… does as he pleases… No one can hold back his hand or say to him...”(Daniel 4 NLT).“… Everything I plan will come to pass, for I do whatever I wish…” (Isaiah 46: 9-10 NLT).

God’s SOVEREIGN WILL has the FINAL authority when it comes to the WAY God chooses to run HIS WORLD, HIS HEAVENS, and the people dwelling upon HIS EARTH. “.... He (God, the Holy Spirit) does as he pleases (not mankind) with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth…” (Daniel 4 NLT).

God’s WORD gives HIS PEOPLE a righteous option when it comes to MAKING CHOICES or DECISIONS. HIS Word is LIFE and SPIRIT. “…THE WORDS THAT I SPEAK unto you … they ARE LIFE…” (John 6:63 KJV). “… choose LIFE …” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV).

“…The [word of god]...is perfect (mature, righteous, holy, etc.,), restoring the soul; The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether. They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them Your servant is warned. In keeping them there is great reward …” (Psalm 19:7-11 NASB). “…The steps of a good man are ordered (directed) by the Lord (the WORD) …” (Psalms 37:23 KJV).

BEING in the COVENANT relationship with God, the HOLY SPIRIT is a CHOICE of the human will too. “…Abide in Me, and I in you…” (John 15:4-6 NASB).

It was the redeem’s CHOICE to receive Jesus in their heart and allow him to become implanted there like a SEED. . “… …The seed is the WORD OF GOD ….. THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “…[Choose to]…receive the word implanted, which is able to SAVE YOUR SOULS….” (James 1:21 NASB).

It is the redeem’s CHOICE to keep HIM implanted in their hearts and let the SEED grow, by hearing the Word so it will produce spiritual FRUIT “IN” and “through” them.“…It is …God [the indwelling Holy Spirit] ... who does the work IN and THROUGH all of us who are his… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The [indwelling]...HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH [you] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “...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).

It is the redeem’s CHOICE to continue to ABIDE with him forever and ever. “…Abide in Me, and I in you…” (John 15:4-6 NASB).

It is the redeem’s CHOICE to keep his commandments and follow  his instructions. “...If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love...” (John 15:1-10 KJV). “…If you love me, you will keep my commandments…” (John 14:15).

It is also the redeem’s CHOICE to depart from him or to FREELY choose to walk away. “... IN LATTER TIMES “SOME” SHALL DEPART FROM the FAITH!!!! (WHY?) Giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and KNOW THE TRUTH (or are in an intimate covenant relationship with God, the Holy Spirit)...” (1 Timothy 4:1-3 KJV).

 THUS, “…youhave left your first love (god, the holy spirit)…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT & revelation 2:4 NASB).

“…You have fallen away from God’s GRACE…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT).

“… REMEMBER THEREFORE FROM WHENCE THOU ARE FALLEN …” (REVELATION 2:2 KJV).

God LOVES his PEOPLE (the redeemed) and knows departing from him will cause them considerable harm. “… For it is impossible to bring back to repentancethose who were once enlightened—thosewho haveexperienced the good things of heaven and shared in the Holy Spirit,  who have tasted the goodness of the Word of God and the power of the age to come. …” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

His PEOPLE (the redeemed) have SHARED intimate, revelation knowledge with HI through his indwelling Holy Spirit. They have experienced his many goodnesses toward them, he has confirmed his power to them, and has established himself as their God, Lord, and SAVIOR, but STILL some have TURNED away from God.“… those...who ...turn away from God.. …” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

“…It is impossible to bring such people back to repentance; by rejecting the Son of God…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

“…they themselvesare nailing him to the cross once again and holding him up to public shame. …” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

In a covenant relationship BOTH parties CHOOSE to STAY together. If they DON’T choose to STAY it only takes the decision of ONE party to BREAK the UNION.

EACH person CHOOSES to carry they OWN weight in keeping the covenant relationship together. “…Choose (make a CHOICE) youthis day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). 

It doesn’t matter if one person is chronically faithful, committed, loyal, loving, or ALL IN, if the other one is NOT; it starts with a WILLFUL and VOLUNTARY CHOICE of their human will. . “... If we sin willfully AFTER... we have received the knowledge of THE TRUTH,...” (Hebrews 10:26 KJV). “... IN LATTER TIMES “SOME” SHALL [choose to] ... DEPART FROM the FAITH!!!!...” (1 Timothy 4:1-3 KJV).

“…I HAVE SOMEWHAT AGAINST [you] …[YOU HAVE]…LEFT [YOU]R… FIRST LOVE (which is God, the Holy Spirit…” (REVELATION 2:4 KJV). “...REPENT AND RETURN, “SO” that your sins may be wiped away…” (Acts 3:19 NASB).

“…Choose (make a CHOICE) you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). 

 

WATER THE SEED WITH LIVING WATER AND YOU'LL GET SPIRITUAL FRUIT!

 WHAT ARE THE “GUARANTEED” SIDE EFFECTS OF THE INDWELLING SPIRIT?

“…But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

*

 Side effects are usually linked with adverse effects or reactions as a result of an ingested drug or medication. Adverse effects occur when the drug or medication produces undesirable problems.

For instance, drugs or medications ingested into the body for the treatment of cancer have side effects. Those side effects can be hair loss, fatigue, mouth sores, nausea, low blood count, vomiting, and weight loss.

Patients are to be warned about the side effect of these drugs and medications. This is important because the side effects from ingested drugs or medication can impact a person’s entire lifestyle.

The Drug Manufactures are legally obligated to warn consumers - of their drugs - about the side effects. Side effects are “potential” reactions, but they are not “guaranteed” reactions.

The indwelling Holy Spirt has side effects too, which are usually linked with favorable effects or reactions. “…He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit…” (John 15:5 KJV).

Favorable effects occur when the Holy Spirit produces desirable blessings. “…It is God who works in you …” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…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).

For instance, receiving the Holy Spirit into the heart for the treatment of a sin-sick soul is similar to ingesting drugs or medications into the body. “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (the WORD) “INTO” [YOUR HEART]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…THE WORDS THAT I SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  “…The Spiritof God dwell in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).

“…The Holy Spirit produces  ….” (Galatians 5 NLT). The side effects produced are “…love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

Lost sinners, like consumers of drugs and medications, are to be warned and informed of “All”the side effects produced by the indwelling Holy Spirit such as “RESTORED LIFE.  God is a “…restorer of thy life…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT). “…Jesus (the WORD) saith…I am …THE LIFE…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…Jesus Christ is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…Christ be “IN” YOU… (Romans 8:10 KJV).“…Anyone who believes in God’s Son has eternal” life…” (John 3:36 NLT)

Being warned and informed is important because the side effects from the indwelling Holy Spirit “WILL” highly impact a person’s entire lifestyle. “ … 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). “…I WILL GIVE you a new heart, and I will put a new spiritin you…” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT). “… [Therefore]… we all … are changed into the same image [of Christ] from glory to glory …” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV). “…it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “…by the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).

The Holy Bible is INSPIRED to warn and inform consumers of the indwelling Holy Spirit about the side effects, especially of RESTORED LIFE. God is a “…restorer of thy life…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV “…THE WORDS (from Jesus) THAT I SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT… and they are LIFE….” (John 6:63 KJV). “…God’s Spiritdwells inyou?...” (1 Corinthians 3:16 NASB). “…He that is joined (restored) unto the LORD is ONE SPIRIT…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “…It is the SPIRIT who gives LIFE…” (John 6:63 NASB). “….He restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT).

And the additional side effects of the indwelling Holy Spirt are NOT “potential” reactions, but “guaranteed” reactions. They are “…love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

When the Holy Spirit is ingested into the human heart, the fruit of the Spirit supernaturally grows out of the indwelling Spirit. “…He that abideth in me, and I in him … bringeth forth much fruit…” (John 15:5 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  “…the Spiritof God dwell[s]… in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).“…The Holy Spirit produces  ….” (Galatians 5 NLT).

The fruit or side effects of the indwelling Spirit represent ALL the AMAZING GRACES of God toward the believer.

ALL the AMAZING GRACES of God, toward the believer, is an expressionof God’s LOVE, the PROOFof his PRESENCE, and evidence of his indwelling SPIRIT.

God’s indwelling Spirit is the WAY he communicates, with the believer, and interactsin the relationship with the believer. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…THE WORDS (God’s communication) THAT I SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT (god)…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…It is God who works (God’s interaction) in you …” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…May he WORK (interact) IN … [you] … what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

ALL the AMAZING GRACES of God, toward the believer, is expressedthrough the indwelling Spirit. “…Jesus Christ is in you…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…Godwill supply all your [need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus(Philippians 4:19 NASB).

God expresses, to the believer, through the indwelling Spirit, his inseparable love for them, his Joy over reuniting with them, and his gift of peace to them.“…the Spirit is love, joy, peace…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

God expresses, to the believer, through the indwelling Spirit, his patience kindness toward them, his tender mercies, and the gift of faith to them.“…the Spirit is  .. longsuffering,gentleness,faith…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

God expresses, to the believer, through the indwelling Spirit, his goodness stored up for them, his meek treatment of them, and his tempered attitude toward them.“…the Spirit is  … goodness, meekness, temperance…”(Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

God expresses, to the believer, through the indwelling Spirit, his PRESENCE and BOND in the relationship. . “…love, which is the perfect BOND of unity...”(Colossians 3:14 NASB). “….[Nothing]…shall be able to separate [you]… from the love of Godwhich is “in” Christ Jesus our Lord…” (Romans 8:38-39 KJV).  “….the…faithful love of the Lord, never ends...” (Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT).  “…He [or she]… that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT….” (1 Corinthians 6:17).

“…[God EXPRESSES himself through] … the fruit of the Spirit  … love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

Thus, God’s communication, with the believer, is done through the indwelling Spirit. “…THE WORDS (God’s communication) THAT I SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT (god)…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…Let the word of Christ dwell in yourichly…” (COLOSSIANS 3:16 KJV). “…Now the Lord (Christ, the living Word) is that Spirit…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV).

Each fruit is a distinctive character, which motivates God’s interactions with the believer. God “…grant[s]… [true believers]… to be strengthened (God’s interaction) with might by his Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV). “…I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth (God’s interaction) me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

God’s INTERACTIONS with the believer STEMS from the indwelling Spirit, which expresses ALL the AMAZING GRACES of God. “…It is God who works (God’s interaction) in you …” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).

For instance, “… The fruit of the Spirit is … love …” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). Every single person is indebted to God. “…All have sinned…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…ALL unrighteousness IS SIN…” (1 John 5:17 KJV).  “…ALL wicked actions ARE SIN…” (1 John 5:17 NLT).  Every person is deserving of death. “…the wages of sin is DEATH…” (Romans 6:23 KJV).

Yet love, one of the AMAZING GRACES of God is expressed through forgiveness. His “…love covereth a multitude of sins…” (Proverbs 10:12, 1 Peter 4:8 ASV). “…If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness…” (1 John 1:9 KJV).  “…I will forgive …and will remember their sins no more…" (Hebrews 8:12 NIV).

. “…He [totally and completely]… REMOVED [YOUR]… TRANSGRESSIONS FROM [YOU]…” (Psalm 104:12 KJV). “… The fruit of the Spirit  … love …” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “…There is no greater LOVE than to lay down one’s life…” (John 15:13 NLT).

SENDING the Holy Spirit into the human heart - for the treatment of a sin-sick soul - is an INTERACTION with his AMAZING GRACES. “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son “INTO” [YOUR HEART]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…He who believes in the Son has eternal life…” (John 3:36 NASB).

By GRACE lost sinners are “RESTORED to LIFE.”   “…Anyone who believes in God’s Son haseternal life…” (John 3:36 NLT). God is a “…restorer of thy life…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT).“Jesus (the WORD) saith…I am …THE LIFE…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…Jesus Christ is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

“…Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “…I WILL GIVE you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you…” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT). “…The Lord is that Spirit…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). “…Christ be “IN” YOU… (Romans 8:10 KJV).

HALLELUJAH!!! “…BY THE GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).

Food for thought question: Have you had any side effects from the indwelling Spirit?

Godspeed,

Dr. Pensacola

 

BRINGING YOUR MIND INTO AGREEMENT TO WHO YOU ALREADY ARE!!

  
YOU ALREADY ARE A NEW CREATION!

“...Therefore if any man(woman) be in Christ, he(she) is a NEW CREATURE: old things are passed away; behold, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME (MADE) NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

*

God’s people have been GIVEN a NEW LIFESTYLE already. God has MADE the MOST necessary change for them through the INDWELLING Holy Spirit. However, in order to ENJOY what God has FREELY given them, his people CHOOSE, by faith, to “WORKout their OWN salvation” by doing NEW BEHAVIORS. God’s people are WORKING to CHANGE into NEW CREATION, they are already NEW CREATIONS. 

They are WORKING to TRANSFORM their MINDS in order to LIVE by faith and IN AGREEMENT with what has ALREADY been DONE! “...Therefore if any man(woman) be in Christ, he(she) is a NEW CREATURE: old things are passed away; behold, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME (MADE) NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).  “…[God’s people]... are [to become] like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).They are to also be “…the Lightwhich … [is empowered to]...[enlighten] every man (woman)…” (John 1:19 NASB). “…. [They]... now have this light shining in [their] hearts ...This makes it clear that [their] great power is from God,not from [them]selves…” (2 Corinthians 4:5-7 NLT). 

Thus, after a person is SAVED, they willfully CHOOSE to “….WORK OUT[their]… own salvation…” (Philippians 2:12 KJV). “WORKING (with diligence and without compromise)” out your OWN salvation IS A sanctifying PROCESS God’s people will experience WHILE they follow THE PATH that LEADS to ETERNAL LIFE. “… Jesus (the WORD) opened a new and life-giving WAY ... into the Most Holy Place (ETERNAL LIFE)…” (Hebrews 10:19-20 NLT). “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).

  Working out your own SALVATION (the being saved and sanctifying process) becomes their LIFESTYLE and includes: “…[Choosing to put]… aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to SAVE YOUR SOULS….” (James 1:21 NASB). It is actively “…[choosing to] …throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life…” (Ephesians 4:22 NIV). “…You must [also choose to]…put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor…” (Ephesians 4:25 NLT). It is “….[choosing to]…let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice…” (Ephesians 4:31 KJV). “….Ye also [choose to]…put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth….” (Colossians 3:8  KJV). “…Wherefore [choose to lay] … aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings…” (1 Peter 2:1 KJV).

 A NEW CREATION is EMPOWERED by the indwelling Holy Spirit through faith, in Jesus (God’s WORD) to “work out their own salvation.” It is God’s command that each of his children “….WORK OUT [their]… own salvation…” (Philippians 2:12 KJV). It is NOT impossible! “…[They]... can do ALL THINGS throughChrist which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). .“…it is God (the indwelling Holy Spirit) which worketh in [them]… both to willand to do...” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “….Apart from Me (the INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT), [they]... can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

  “...Working out their OWN SALVATION...” is God’s people’s personal CHOICE. “….WORK OUT [their]… own salvation…” (Philippians 2:12 KJV).  “… I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live...” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “...Jesus (the LIVING Word of God, the indwelling Spirit, the LIGHT, God’s working POWER) saith…I am ...the life…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…Choose youthis day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). 

“…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 (MAKE A WILLFUL CHOICE) this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). NEW CREATIONS are fully equipped to LIVE holy, wholesome, and healthy lives. “…the God of peace… that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). 

NEW CREATIONS have God’s WORD, which has the “intrinsic” POWER to enable them to WORK out their salvation. “… [You]… are given...exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be PARTAKERS of the divine nature,having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance PATIENCE; and to PATIENCE godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ…GIVE DILIGENCE (attention, energy, determination) TO MAKE YOUR CALLING AND “ELECTION” SURE; FOR IF YOU (choose to) “DO” THESE THINGS, YE SHALL NEVER FALL...” (2 Peter 1: 4-9 KJV). Becoming diligent and non-compromising in working out your OWN salvation will have GOOD, POSITIVE and ADVANTAGOUS results.

“...the hand of the diligent maketh rich...” (Proverbs 10:4 NASB). “...Diligence makes wealth...” (Proverbs 10:4 MSG).  “...hard workers get rich...” (Proverbs 10:4 MSG). “...the soul of the diligent shall be made fat...” (Proverbs 13:4 NASB). “...the energetic have something to show for their lives...” (Proverbs 13:4 MSG). “... those who work hard will prosper...” (Proverbs 13:4 NLT). “...The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness...” (Proverbs 21:5 NASB). “...Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity...” (Proverbs 21:5 NLT). “...Careful planning puts you ahead in the long run...” (Proverbs 21:5 MSG).

 Diligent and non-compromising people are the ones who will WORK HARD at “working out their OWN salvation” by TRUSTING and DEPENDING upon the INDWELLING Holy Spirit to HELP them each and every day. “...HE (SHE) THAT “SHALL” (choose to) ENDURE (be diligent and non-compromising) UNTO THE END SHALL BE SAVED...” (Matthew 24:13 KJV). God’s people are NOT trying to change their LIFESTYLE; God did that for them by MAKING them into NEW CREATIONS. 

They are working at TRANSFORMING their MINDS. This is DONE by FAITH in the FINISHED work of Jesus Christ. “... it was the Lord’s good plan to crush him (allow Jesus to go through certain trials and tribulations) and cause him grief ... his life [was made]... an offering for sin...” (Isaiah 53:10-11 NLT). “…my righteous servant (Jesus)...[made] ... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he [bore]... all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). Jesus CAME to earth “…to give His life a ransom for many...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV).  . “…God intended... [JESUS’ trials and tribulations]... for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives...” Genesis 50:20 NIV). “… I [laid] down my life... [to give mankind a NEW LIFE] …” (John 10:17-18 KJV).  “… HE WAS [spiritually] RICH, yet for your sakes he became [spiritually] poor, that [new creations]... through his poverty might be [spiritually] RICH…” (2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV).

“...[Jesus]... said, It is finished…” (John 19:28-30 KJV). “...Therefore if any man(woman) be in Christ, he(she) is a NEW CREATURE: old things are passed away; behold, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME (MADE) NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). If YOU are already a NEW CREATION it is YOUR MIND that must come into AGREEMENT with your NEW IDENTITY in Christ. “...For in him [God’s people]... live, and move, and have [their] being (their NEW identity, ETC.); as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).“… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….”(Romans 12:2 KJV).

Your MIND is FILLED with memories, identities, habits, practices, and behaviors LINKED to the old, crucified sinful nature. Without being RENEWED, the mind will LIMIT and HINDER God’s NEW CREATION from LIVING an ABUNDANT spiritual LIFE in Christ Jesus (God’s WORD). First and foremost, EVERY child of God can be transformed into the image and likeness of Jesus Christ, by the renewing of their mind with revelation knowledge of God’s LIVING Word.  

 “…be transformed by the renewing of your mind...[through the revelation knowledge of God’s truth, which is Jesus, the LIGHT of the world]...” (Romans 12:1 KJV).  Jesus said: “… I am (jesus, the word of god, who is) the light... (the revelation knowledge of God) ...of the world..." (John 9:5, 8:12 KJV). 

“... [the word, Jesus]... is a light to reveal God  to the nations (and to individuals)...” (Luke 2:32 NLT). “... [Jesus is]....A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB). “…In this world we are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

 In this world, God’s people are also, “… the light of the world (WITNESSES of HIS revelation knowledge)..." (Matthew 5:14 KJV). “…[God’s people]... are [to become] like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).  

They are to also be “…the Light which … [is empowered to]...[enlighten] every man (woman)…” (John 1:19 NASB). “…. [They]... now have this light shining in [their] hearts ...This makes it clear that [their] great power is from God, not from [them]selves…” (2 Corinthians 4:5-7 NLT). 

“...Therefore if any man(woman) be in Christ, he(she) is a NEW CREATURE: old things are passed away; behold, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME (MADE) NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). 

Being MADE into a NEW CREATION means that God has prepared and equipped his people with EVERYTHING they’ll ever NEED to become transformed into the IMAGE and LIKENESS of Jesus Christ, HIS LIVING Word. “...old things are passed away; behold, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME (MADE) NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “…That great Shepherd of the sheep (God, the Holy Spirit), equip you with everything good for doing his will…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).  

“…The Spirit of God dwelleth in [God’s people]...” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV). “ …[God’s people]…have this treasure  (the WORD, the indwelling Holy Spirit, the LIGHT, etc.) in [their]…earthen vessel(within the heart of the soul)...” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). “… His (Jesus’) name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “… God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (HIS WORD) into [the] hearts ... [of his people]...” (Galatians 4:6 NASB).  “…THE WORDS ... they ARE SPIRIT…”(John 6:63 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  

“…It is God(the Holy Spirit) who worketh IN YOU (in HIS people), both to will and to do of His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “…Christ (the Word, the indwelling Spirit, the LIGHT) liveth in [God’s people] …” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).  The indwelling Holy Spirit, the Word, the LIGHT, etc., EMPOWERS God’s people to “…be conformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “…[God’s people are to become]... transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV).“…[God’s people]... can do all things through Christwhich strengtheneth [them to do it]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). 

There is NO DOUBT that God’s people are NEW CREATIONS equipped with EVERYTHING they need to become transformed into the IMAGE and LIKENESS of Jesus Christ. 

Well, what is the problem? The problem is that transformation is a CHOICE of the human will. “…choose LIFE…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “…Choose you (MAKE A WILLFUL CHOICE) this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “… I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “Jesus (the LIVING Word of God, the indwelling Spirit, the LIGHT, God’s working POWER) saith…I am ...the life…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “…The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who CHOOSE that way. …” (Matthew 7:13-14 NLT).

 The human will CAN create problems with transforming into the IMAGE and LIKENESS of Jesus Christ.  In the Old Testament, when “…there was no king in Israel (RULE or LAW to GOVERN behavior): every man (woman) did that which was right in his (her) own eyes...” (Judges 21:25 KJV). 

God’s people often, willfully, followed their OWN stubborn choices. “…But my people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts. They went backward instead of forward” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “But 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). So the question for God’s people is NOT can you transform into the IMAGEand LIKENESS of Christ, but “Have you chosen to renew your mind, yet?” “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). 

The NEW CREATION is no longer a mere human being, but has become a spiritual being, again through Jesus Christ. The soul has been reconciled to its former GLORY through Jesus, which was originally created in God’s image and likeness. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).

 “….let us make man in “our” image, after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV).  “…male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “… [they were]…. DEADand [have been made]… ALIVE AGAIN; [spiritually alive. Their souls were]… lost and [have been]… found…” (Luke 15:24 NIV). “... [Thus, the redeemed]... man (woman) became a living soul (again) …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). The MIND developed and trained by the old, crucified sinful nature has NO CLUE on how to HELP you live as a NEW CREATION or spiritual being. 

The VOICE of the old, crucified sinful nature must become TOTALLY silence and CANCELLED out! “….When you (the redeemed soul) follow the desires (influential VOICE) of your [old crucified,]...sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division,envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life WILL NOTinherit the Kingdom of God. …” (Galatians 5:22-23 NLT). “...I want to do what is good,but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). 

“...I am all too human, a slave to sin (through the old, crucified sinful nature) ...I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (through the old, crucified sinful nature) that [has its influential VOICE still]  … within me (within my heart and mind) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…The ... [flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).   

 “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). The OLD, CRUCIFIED sinful nature or its INFLUENTIAL VOICE can PLAY a role, AT ALL, in your LIFE as a NEW CREATION in Christ Jesus.

 RESIST THE DEVIL who uses the old, crucified sinful nature and its voice! DON’T LET HIM INTO “ANY” AREA OF YOUR LIFE. “...do not give the devil an opportunity...” (Ephesians 4:27 NASB). “...Neither give place to the devil...” (Ephesians 4:27 KJV). “...do not give the devil a foothold...” (Ephesian 4:27 NLT). “...Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry—but don’t use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don’t stay angry. Don’t go to bed angry. Don’t give the Devil that kind of foothold in your life...” (Ephesians 4:26-27 MSG). 

This scripture is talking about anger, but the bottom line is whatever issues of the MIND you have or experience; DON’T LET the DEVIL into the situation or circumstance!“… REPENT and TURN TO God …” (Acts 26: 20 NASB).  

The bible tells God’s people to GUARD their HEARTS or MINDS with diligence. “..Keep vigilant watch over your heart (mind); that’s where life starts. Don’t talk out of both sides of your mouth;avoid careless banter, white lies, and gossip.Keep your eyes straight ahead; ignore all sideshow distractions.Watch your step, and the road will stretch out smooth before you. Look neither right nor left; leave evil in the dust...” (Proverbs 4:23 MSG). “...Guard your heart (mind) above all else, for it determines the course of your life...” (Proverbs 4:23 NLT).  “...Keep thy heart (mind) with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life...” (Proverbs 4:23 KJV). 

Out of the human heart COME thoughts into your MIND, but God’s people are to GUARD those thoughts against lies, manipulations, past evil thoughts, lustful desires, laziness, bad habits, old ways of living, rebellions, and disobedience. 

Diligently TRANSFORMING the MIND keeps God’s people from letting the enemy, through the old, dead, crucified sinful nature, take advantage of them in ANY way. Thus, the bible warns them to guard their hearts (minds) with God’s WORD! Sometimes God’s people PASSIVELY accept anything that comes out of their hearts into their minds and it sabotages their spiritual goals.

 God’s people CHOOSE to diligently TRANSFORM their MINDS so they can CAST “...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; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled...” (2 Corinthians 10:5-6 KJV). 

 “...The world is unprincipled. It’s dog-eat-dog out there! The world doesn’t fight fair. But we don’t live or fight our battles that way—never have and never will. The tools of our trade aren’t for marketing or manipulation, but they are for demolishing that entire massively corrupt culture. We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity...” (2 Corinthians 10:5-6 MSG). 

God’s people LACK nothing. They are ALREADY NEW CREATIONS and have everything they NEED to TRANSFORM their MINDS and become CONFORMED to the IMAGE of Jesus Christ! 

When God’s people CONTINUE to LISTEN to the VOICE of the old, dead, crucified sinful nature they are CHOOSING to live BENEATH who God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus Christ has CREATED them to be as NEW CREATIONS. ITS TIME TO STOP! 

God has SET the GOALS for you as NEW CREATIONS in Christ already. God’s people are to be HOLY, live FREE from SIN, and become CONFORMED into the image of his SON. “…be holy …” (1 Peter 1:16 KJV).  “…ye shall be holyunto me: for I the Lordam holy …” (Leviticus 20:26 KJV).“…It is God who works (holiness) IN YOU …” (Philippians 2:13 NIV).

  “... [New Creations have been] made free from sin….” (Romans 6:18 KJV). “... If the Son therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed...” (John 8:36 KJV). “…Where the Spirit (indwelling Holy Spirit) of the Lord is, there is liberty (freedom)...” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwelleth in [God’s people]…” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV). “... It was for FREEDOM that Christ set us FREE...” (Galatians 5:1 NASB).  “... Stand fast ...in the liberty...” (Galatians 5:1 KJV). 

“…be conformed to the image of his Son (the WORD)…” (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).  

Not TRANSFORMING your MIND or BRINGING your MIND and ALL its thoughts into captivity to God’s WORD will KEEP you LIVING a limited spiritual life in Christ. You MAY have a thousand reasons and just as many excuses, but the bible says YOU ARE a NEW CREATION. That applies to every single soul that has accepted Jesus as their SAVIOR and have been redeemed. NOTHING is too hard for God or IMPOSSIBLE for him. 

Therefore, NEW CREATIONS “CAN” do ALL (excludes nothing) through Jesus, the indwelling SPIRIT, that strengthens them to DO IT!! God’s people WILLFULLY choose to have a more ROBUST and ABUNDANT spiritual LIFE by TAKING the action INSTRUCTED by God of RENEWING their MINDS which will TRANSFORM them and enable them to LIVE LIKE the NEW CREATIONS they’ve already BECOME in Christ Jesus

.“...Therefore if any man(woman) be in Christ, he(she) is a NEW CREATURE: old things are passed away; behold, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME (MADE) NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).“…I can do ALL THINGS through Christ which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “…It is God which worketh IN [his people]both to will and to do of his good pleasure…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  

 “…That great Shepherd of the sheep, equip [NEW CREATIONS] with everything good for doing his will, and may he work “IN [THEM]” what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…the Father … doeth the works (TRANSFORMING and CONFORMING HIS people when they choose to renew their minds)…” (John 14:10 KJV).

JESUS RESTORES YOUR SOUL. RESTORES IT TO WHAT?

                      
THE INDWELLING SPIRIT: RESTORING SPIRITUAL LIFE

“…God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them…” (2 Corinthians 6:16 KJV).

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“…The Spirit of God dwell in 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).

“…THERE ARE THREE that bear record in heaven, the Father (God, the thinking Spirit), the Word (Jesus, the speaking Spirit), and the Holy Ghost (the working Spirit): and THESE THREE ARE ONE.…” (1 JOHN 5:6-8 KJV). God, the thinker informs or directs. Jesus, the speaker speaks the information or direction out loud. The Holy Spirit does what he is informed or directed to do.

In other words, God commands; Jesus “SPEAKS” what God commands; the Holy Spirit “DOES” what Jesus SPEAKS and God commands. “…The Father (God), the Word (Jesus), and the Holy Ghost (Spirit)…” (1 JOHN 5:6-8 KJV).

God is the Sovereign Father. Jesus is the Word of the Sovereign Father. The Holy Spirit is the Power of the Sovereign Father. “…THESE THREE ARE ONE.…” (1 JOHN 5:6-8 KJV).

God INFORMS or DIRECTS. Jesus SPEAKS the INFORMATION or DIRECTIONS. The Holy Spirit DOES what is INFORMED or DIRECTED.

The FATHER’s (God, the informer or director) WORD (Jesus, the speaker) is POWER (Holy Spirit, the doer) and they are ONE. “…THERE ARE THREE that bear record in heaven, the Father (GOD), the Word (JESUS), and the Holy Ghost (POWER): and THESE THREE ARE ONE.…” (1 JOHN 5:6-8 KJV).

HERE IS AN EXAMPLE: “…Then God SAID, “Let there be light”; AND THERE WAS LIGHT…” (Genesis 1:3 NASB). “…Then God (God, THE FATHER commanded), SAID (Jesus, the WORD spoke his command); “Let there be light”AND THERE WAS LIGHT (The HOLY SPIRIT, the POWER, did God’s command spoken through Jesus) …” (Genesis 1:3 NASB).

The commanding, speaking, and doing is all happening immediately and simultaneously (altogether), not separately. : “…Then God SAID, “Let there be light”; AND THERE WAS LIGHT…” (Genesis 1:3 NASB).

“…In the beginning was the Word, and the Wordwas with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being… (John 1:1-4 NASB).

The FATHER’s (God) WORD (Jesus) is POWER(Holy Spirit) and they are ONE. “…THERE ARE THREE that bear record in heaven, the Father (GOD), the Word (JESUS), and the Holy Ghost (POWER): and THESE THREE ARE ONE.…” (1 JOHN 5:6-8 KJV).

Therefore, “…There is ONE … God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all….” (Ephesians 4:4-5 KJV). “… There is but ONE GOD…” (1 Corinthians 8:6 KJV). “….The LORD is our GOD, the LORD is ONE…” (Deuteronomy 6:4 KJV). “…There is no God, but ONE…” (1 Corinthians 8:4 KJV).

One day God commanded, “….LET US MAKEman … 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 (spirit); and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

Which part of MAN was MADE in God’s “image” and “likeness?” “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).   “…And the LORD God … breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Himself=SPIRIT)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwell[ed] … in … [the male and female]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).

Thus, “…man (woman) became a living soul …” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “….God saw every thing he had made……and, behold, it was very good…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

The PRESENCE of God, his Holy SPIRIT, was ONE ( or IN uninterrupted UNION) with man’s SOUL within the BODY. The BODY and SOUL was spiritually ALIVE and it was very good!!  “….God saw … it was very good…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

God created man with a body, soul, and his SPIRIT! “…the body without (apart from) the spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV). “….Apart from Me, you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

AGAIN: “…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body),and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (spirit); and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “….God saw … it was very good…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

The RELATIONSHIP between God and the man he’d created “….was very good…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV). ALL WAS WELL!! God informed and directed MAN by SAYING: “…of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: BUT of the tree of the knowledge of good and evilTHOU SHALT NOT EAT OF IT …[or] … thou shalt surely die…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV).

However Satan came along with his LIES SAYING:  “…ye shall not surely die.…” (Genesis 3:4-5 KJV).

 “…The woman was convinced. She sawthat the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wantedthe wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it. …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).

The woman’s decision was MAJOR. Her decision was CATATROPHIC. Her decision ALTERED her path. Her decision KILLED her UNION with God. “….God saw … it was very good…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV). Thus, “… ONE sinner destroy[ed]… MUCH GOOD…” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB). SATAN said: “…ye shall not surely die.…” (Genesis 3:4-5 KJV).

Nonetheless, Adam and Eve DIED spiritually at “THAT” very moment as God HAD said. … Thou shalt surely die…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV).

 “… [Their] … iniquities … [immediately] … separated[them]… from God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…Every man (or woman) is tempted, when … [they are] … drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it BRINGETH FORTH SIN: and sin, when it is finished, BRINGETH FORTH DEATH…” (James 1:13-15 NLT).

 THAT day “…Sin entered into the world, and DEATH through sin, and so DEATH passed to all men—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). Sin was INVITED into Adam and Eve’s environment and spiritual DEATH come along with it. “…SIN IS the transgression of the law….” (1 John 3:4 KJV). “…The wages (payment) of sin is death (spiritual death)…” (Romans 6:23 KJV).

GOD said through a SPOKEN WORD to Adam and Eve: “…THOU SHALT NOT EAT OF IT …[or] … thou shalt surely die…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). “…[Their]... INIQUITIES … separated … [them]... and [their]... God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV).  Even through, “…And the LORD God ...breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (spirit);and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). Adam and Eve’s soul were “... SEALED ...WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT OF PROMISE (the breath of life).…” (Ephesians 1 NLT).  YET, “... the word of God... thou shalt surely die…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV)]...  is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit,....” (Hebrews 4:12 NASB).

In addition, “... Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness ...  the one who practices sin is of the devil ...  anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of GOD...” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB).

Adam and Eve were ONE SPIRIT with God, the Holy Spirit, but the WORD said they WOULD “die” IF they ate of the forbidden tree. The SOUL AND SPIRIT separated Adam and Eve from God. The PRACTICE of SIN will CUT you OFF from God, the Holy Spirit. “…You have been cut off from Christ! You have fallen away from God’s GRACE…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT). “…Your INIQUITIES … separated … you and your God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV).

God NEVER changes. “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “…It’s YOUR SINS that … [will] ...cut you offfrom God…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT). . “…Your INIQUITIES … [will separate] … you and your God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? [NONE]...And what communion hath light with darkness? [NONE]...And what concord hath Christ (the Word of TRUTH) with Belial (the DEVIL or Father of LIES)? [NONE]...Or what part hath he that believeth (depends upon God) with an infidel (one who doesn’t depend upon God)? [NONE]...” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).

 “…God asked the woman, “What have you done?” (Genesis 3:7-13 NLT). “… ONE sinner destroy[ed] … MUCH GOOD…” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB). “… [They were] …separated… from God… …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). They were NOW “…DEAD in trespasses and sin (sinful nature)…” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV). “…Through … [Adam and Eve] … sin entered into the world, and DEATH through sin, and so DEATH passed to all men—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). NOW “…All have sinned (have a sinful nature only) and fallen short of the glory of God (do not have the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23).

 “…The serpent was the shrewdest of all the wild animals the Lord God had made. One day he asked the woman, “Did God really say you must not eat the fruit from any of the trees in the garden?” “Of course we may eat fruit from the trees in the garden,” the woman replied. “It’s only the fruit from the tree in the middle of the garden that we are not allowed to eat. God said, ‘You must not eat it or even touch it; if you do, you will die.’” “You won’t die!” the serpent replied to the woman.“God knows that your eyes will be opened as soon as you eat it, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil.” The woman was convinced. She sawthat the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).

 “…So she took some of the fruit and ate it. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it, too…” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).  IMMEDIATELY, Adam, Eve, and ALL of mankind became “…separated from the (spiritual) LIFE of God…” (Ephesians 4:18 NIV).

God commands. Jesus Speaks, and the Holy Spirit does what God commands and Jesus speaks. God, the Father commanded Jesus, his Word to say this: “…in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). God, the Father commanded the Holy Spirit, his POWER, to separate soul and SPIRIT. “… [They] … separated from the LIFE of God…” (Ephesians 4:18 NIV). “…At that moment their eyes were opened…” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).

“…At that moment their eyes were opened (to an existence without the indwelling PRESENCE of the Holy Spirit of God)…” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).  “… [They immediately became] … separated from the [spiritual] LIFE of God…” (Ephesians 4:18 NIV). The Holy Spiritseparated from mankind. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “… [Their] … iniquities …separated [them]… from God… …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…between us and you a great chasm (barrier) has been set in place…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

 “…God asked the woman, “What have you done?” (Genesis 3:7-13 NLT). “… ONE sinner destroy[ed]… MUCH GOOD…” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB).

God, the INDWELLING Holy Spirit SEPARATED from mankind. “…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (Body) … [but] … the breath of life (Spirit) … [separated] … and man became a … [dead] … soul (Soul) …” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “…the body without (apart from) the spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV).  “… MUCH GOOD … [was destroyed]…” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB).

What can MAKE mankind WHOLE again and RESTORE them to God, the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT? Who 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 (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).

“…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “…If any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a NEW creature …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “… [because] … all things are … [MADE] … NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “…I WILL GIVE you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart…” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT).

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

God WANTED “YOU” back in UNION with him (the HOLY SPIRIT). “... 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 KJV).

GOD expressed, demonstrated, and informed YOU of his LOVE through JESUS’ Word and the Powerful Holy Spirit’s actions. The FATHER’s (God) WORD (Jesus) is POWER(Holy Spirit) and they are ONE. “…THERE ARE THREE that bear record in heaven, the Father (GOD), the Word (JESUS), and the Holy Ghost (POWER): and THESE THREE ARE ONE.…” (1 JOHN 5:6-8 KJV).

 “…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).

The PROOF of God’s loving desire to restore mankind to himself is this: “…notthat we loved God, but that he loved us and SENT HIS SON to be the propitiation for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 KJV).

GOD “…SPARED NOT his own Son, but DELIVERED him up FOR US ALL…” (Romans 8:32 KJV). “…God SHOWED HIS GREAT LOVE FOR US by “SENDING” Christ to die for us WHILE we were still sinners…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT). “…There is no GREATER LOVE than to lay down one’s life…” (John 15:13 NLT).

God’s LOVE is enough to COVER over ALL that separates YOU from him. “…Love COVERETH a multitude of sins…” (Proverbs 10:12, 1 Peter 4:8 ASV).

God’s LOVE is enough to forgive you for every single sin, big or small and cleanse (FREE) you from them all just to bring you BACK to HIMSELF again through the covenant relationship. “…If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to FORGIVE us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness…” (1 John 1:9 KJV).

God’s LOVE is enough to ERASE and ERADICATE your record of wrongs and NEVER remember them again. “…love …keeps NO RECORD of wrongs. …” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV). “…For I will …remember their sins NO MORE…" (Hebrews 8:12 NIV).   

God’s LOVE, for YOU, is enough to last your WHOLE life and ALL eternity. He has “….loved [you]...with an EVERLASTING love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV). A “…Love …[that] … never FAILS….” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV). God’s LOVE, for you, NEVER weans, wavers, or is faithless. “… The … FAITHFUL love of the Lord, [for you], NEVER ENDS...!”(Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT).

God’s LOVE, for you, is so GREAT that he created a begotten SON; to be a living sacrifice in order to bring you BACK to him. “…there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit (Father), and the water (Holy Spirit), and the blood (the Word): and these three agree in one…” (1 John 5:8 KJV).

God MADE Jesus, his WORD, flesh as a WAY to express his love, demonstrate his loving care, and reveal himself to mankind. “…the Word (Jesus) was made FLESH (made into human form or flesh, or into an earthen vessel) ...” (JOHN 1:14 KJV).

“… He (Jesus, who was made flesh) had a name written, that no man knew … his name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). 

Jesus “IS” “The WORD of god.” (Revelation 19:12-13 KJV).  “…The only begotten (specially MADE) Son (Jesus, was God’s WORD)…” (John 1:18 KJV).

Jesus was a special MADE work of God, the HOLY SPIRIT. “… [Jesus, the WORD made flesh]...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 Spirit shall come upon you (Mary, the human mother of Jesus), and the power of God shall overshadow you; so the baby born to you will be utterly holy—the Son of God…” (Luke 1:35 NLT).

“…The only begotten (specially MADE) Son (Jesus, the WORD), of the Father, he hath declared (expressed, demonstrated, REVEALED, etc.,) HIM (God, the Holy Spirit) [to mankind]…” (John 1:18 KJV).“…Christ also hath once SUFFERED for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might BRING US … [back] … to God…” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit wanted his people BACK in the covenant relationship with HIM. So, God sent THE ONE (Jesus, his WORD) to reconcile their LOST and spiritually dead souls and his Holy SPIRIT back together again. “… [He (God, who is SPIRIT) sent the] …one  (his WORD, which is also SPIRIT)… who can (through his POWER which is also Spirit) reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “...the Father (GOD), the Word (JESUS), and the Holy Ghost (POWER): and THESE THREE ARE ONE.…” (1 JOHN 5:6-8 KJV).

The lost and spiritually dead soul is RESTORED to God’s Holy Spirit again when, “…he (she) ...is joined unto the LORD [and becomes]... ONE SPIRIT…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “…God … sent forth the Spirit of His Son (his WORD) “INTO” [Y[OUR HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB).

“…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE …” (John 3:6 NLT).

The lost and spiritually dead soul is MADE whole again. “...Therefore if any man(woman) be in Christ, he(she) is a new creature...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... and man (woman) became a living soul (soul AGAIN)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “…your whole SPIRIT and SOUL and BODY be preserved blameless…” (1 THESSALONIANS 5:23 KJV).

A person is SAVED” when they become a believer or follower of Christ who has been MADE WHOLE. They have been FREED from SIN, the sinful nature, its affects, its influences, and its consequences. “…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole (RESTORES YOU AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... [You have been] made free from sin….” (Romans 6:18 KJV). “If the Son therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed...” (John 8:36 KJV). “…where the Spirit of the Lord (God’s Word is Spirit) is, there is liberty (freedom)...” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV).

“…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…THE WORDS THAT I (Jesus) SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT (god)…” (John 6:63 KJV).

Being made FREE also means you recognized you were a sinner, asked God for forgiveness, and decided to REPENT by changing your mind about sin, sinful practices, and the sinful lifestyle. "…Therefore REPENT AND RETURN, “SO” that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing (restoral to wholeness) may come from the presence of the Lord (the presence of HIS indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Acts 3:19 NASB).  “…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).

REPENTANCE is a very important and necessary part of being MADE WHOLE because a change of mind, about sin, sinful practices, and the sinful lifestyle, will result in a change of thinking and actions about sin too. “…REPENT YE (Change your mind, practices, actions, etc.), AND BELIEVE the Gospel (depend upon the power of God’s Word to empower you to live FREE from sin)…” (Mark 1:15 KJV). “…REPENTANCE TOWARD GOD…” (Acts 20:21 KJV). "…Therefore REPENT AND RETURN, “SO” that your sins may be wiped away…” (Acts 3:19 NASB).

REPENTANCE is the change of MIND that LEADS to becoming MADE WHOLE in ALL that you are and all that you do. “…REPENT ye (change your mind, practices, actions, etc.) therefore, and BE CONVERTED (SAVED/MADE WHOLE), that your sins may be blotted out (that you may be DELIVERED from your sins and RESTORED to wholeness again)…” (Acts 3:19 KJV).

“… [YOUR] … iniquities (sin) …separated [YOU]… from God… …” (Isaiah 59:2 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). “…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole (SAVES, RESTORES , AND MAKES YOU WHOLE YOU AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “…The GIFTof God is eternal life through Jesus Christ ….” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “….Apart from [Jesus or DEPARTED from HIM, YOU can]… do nothing (you cannot be SAVED or inherit ETERNAL LIFE)…” (John 15:5 NIV).

Becoming SAVED or MADE WHOLE is the WAY mankind GETS the INDWELLING SPIRIT back, which will also RESTORE the original, created “image” and “likeness” of God. “…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). “…For WITH THE HEART MAN BELIEVETH unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made UNTO SALVATION…” (Romans 10:10 KJV).  “…For WHOSOEVER SHALL CALL UPON THE NAME OF THE LORD SHALL BE SAVED…” (Romans 10:13 KJV). “…REPENT ye therefore, and BE CONVERTED, that your sins may be blotted out …” (Acts 3:19 KJV).

HALLELUJAH, “…Christ hath REDEEMED us … That the “BLESSING of Abraham” might come on … [US] … through Jesus Christ; that WE MIGHT receive the promise of the Spirit through faith…” (Galatians 3:13-14 KJV).“…The Lord is that Spirit…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV).

“… AS MANY as received him (JESUS), to them GAVE HE … [BACK] … POWER (THE INDWELLING SPIRIT) TO BECOME THE “SONS” (“DAUGHTERS”) OF GOD (children of God) … [AGAIN]……” (John 1:12 KJV).  “…God has sent forth the Spiritof His Son “INTO” [YOUR]… HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…The Lord (his WORD) is that Spirit…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…THE WORDS ....they ARE SPIRIT (too)…” (John 6:63 KJV).

“…[God said:]... my righteous servant (Jesus, his WORD) ... [made]... it possiblefor many to be counted righteous, for he...[bore]... all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “…God, in his grace, freely MAKES US RIGHT in his sight…” (Romans 3:21-26 NLT). “…I am the Lord who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth …I DELIGHT in these things…” (Jeremiah 9:23-24 NLT). “…HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV).

“…God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were STILL sinners…”(Romans 5:6-8 NLT). “… [Jesus came]…TO GIVE His life a ransom for many...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV). Jesus “… present[ed his body as]... a living sacrifice…” (Romans 12:1 KJV). “… [Jesus]…humbled himself and became obedient unto death, eventhe death of the cross…” (Philippians 2:8 KJV).“…Father, …not Mywill, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).

Jesus’ righteous works and spiritual fruit drew the LOST, OPPRESSED, SPIRITUALLY DEAD, and NEEDY “BACK” 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 [to him]…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…the Father... [that DWELT within JESUS]… he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

The righteous works and displays of spiritual fruit came through Jesus, but were performed by the POWER of God’s Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is also the working POWER of God and DOES the WORK he is commanded, by the Father, to do.“… he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus was also the slain sacrifice called the Lamb of God, who was killed in your place and therefore becoming the atoning sacrifice for your sins. “…Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29 KJV).

Jesus’ sacrificial death was the atoning sacrifice for mankind’s sins. “He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours…” (1 John 2:2 NIV).

All, who accept, can NOW enter freely into the new covenant relationship with God THROUGH Christ. “…This cup is the new covenant in my blood …which is poured out for you…” (Luke 22:20 ASV).

Jesus’ death was like the death of the slain animal sacrifices in the Old Testament blood covenants. His blood is now the blood of the new covenant, which is an everlasting covenant (Ezekiel 37:26). “...This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins...” (Matthew 26:28 KJV).

Jesus is mankind’s permanent and once-for-all substitute for sin, which allows lost and spiritually dead souls to enter into an everlasting covenant relationship with God, the Holy Spirit. again. “...For Christ also died for sins ONCE for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us [BACK]...to God, having been put to death in the flesh (as the atoning sacrifice), but made alive in the Spirit...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

Jesus is both the sacrificial lamb (atoning sacrifice) and the RECONCILER, between the lost and spiritual dead souls and God, the Holy Spirit. “...For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the Spirit...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

Jesus enters the relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, as the representative for lost and spiritual dead souls and opens the way, for them, to become reconciled with God. “…Jesus opened a new and life-giving way ... into the Most Holy Place…” (Hebrews 10:19-20 NLT). “...Jesus saith…I am the way…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…"This is the way; WALK in it…" Isaiah 30:21 NIV).

“…[He sent the] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

 

 

Thus,“… [His] … GRACE is sufficient for [you]...” (2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV).  “…For God SO LOVED the world, that he GAVE…” (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 ….GAVE his only begotten Son…” (John 3:16 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). GOD’S “…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).  

 “… [Nothing] … will be able to separate … [you] … from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord…” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). God, through Christ, has “….loved [you]...with an everlasting love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “….CONTINUE IN MY LOVE….” (JOHN 15:9 KJV).  “…Love… the perfect BOND of UNITY...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB).

The indwelling HOLY SPIRIT is God. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]… in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  “…Jesus Christ [his WORD, which is Spirit too]... is in you…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

The indwelling HOLY SPIRIT is PROOF of a restored soul. “….He restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “…I will restore…” (Jeremiah 30:17 KJV).  God is a “…restorer of thy life…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV). “…the Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT).

The indwelling HOLY SPIRIT is PROOF of a restored covenant RELATIONSHIP with God. “…The believers were filled WITH … the … [INDWELLING] … Holy Spirit…” (Acts 13:51-52 NLT). “…He [or she]… that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT….” (1 Corinthians 6:17).

“…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole…” (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 GIVE you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart…” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT).

Therefore, “…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).

 The indwellingHOLY SPIRIT is God. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The … [ indwelling] …Spirit of God dwell[s]… in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  “…Jesus Christ is … [indwelling] … you…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

You may EXIST, you may be physically ALIVE, and you may be BREATHING, but you are and can ONLY be spiritually ALIVEwhen you are reconciled, restored, and made WHOLE through the INDWELLING Holy Spirit!!! “…the body without (apart from the indwelling Spirit) the spirit is dead!!!…” (James 2:26 KJV).

Dr. Pensacola H. Jefferson

Professional Pastoral Counselor

YADA Counseling Ministry

THE INDWELLIN HOLY SPIRIT: GUARANTEED SIDE EFFECTS

Phoenix, Arizona

 

THE WORD OF GOD IN "YOUR" MOUTH!

THE WORD IN YOUR MOUTHPOWERFUL!!!
“… He (Jesus) had a name written, that no man knew … his name is called The Word of God …” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB).
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THE WORD OF GOD came to the Israelites FIRST, because if anybody would recognize him, it would be them. After all, they had the Hebrew Scriptures and would most likely recognize HIS VOICE. However, “…He CAME to his OWN (the Israelites), and his OWN received him NOT…” (John 1:11 KJV).
The OUTWARD details and appearance of Jesus caused many of the Israelites to miss him or reject him and the “GOOD NEWS” of the Kingdom. . “ Jesus saith unto him , Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath SEEN ME HATH SEEN the Father;and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father?” (John 14:9 KJV). “ The Son is the RADIANCE of God’s glory and the EXACT representation of his being…”(Hebrews 1:3 KJV).  “...God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance…” (1 Samuel 16:7 NASB).
Nevertheless, many of the Israelites rejected Jesus, as the MESSIAH and the WORD OF GOD. The WORD OF GOD went on to SPEAK to the GENTILES. “… AS MANY as received him, to them GAVE HE POWER TO BECOME THE SONS OF GOD, evento them that believe on his name (depend upon his WORD)…” (John 1:12 KJV).
However, there was a remnant of believing Israelites who DID recognize Jesus as both the MESSIAH and the WORD OF GOD.
Because of the REMNANT of the Israelite witnesses, over 2,000 years ago, billions of people worldwide have been SAVED by HEARING the GOOD NEWS.
“… God anointed Jesus of Nazareth  (HOW?) with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER: (WHAT DID THE ANOINTING ENABLE JESUS TO DO?) …[he]…. went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; (HOW WAS THAT POSSIBLE?) ... GOD WAS WITH HIM. And we  (CONVERTED ISRAELITES) 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 (the WORD)… It is the power of God at work , (MIRACULOUSLY) saving  everyone who believes (WHO DEPENDS UPON HIS WORD ) …” (Romans 1:16 NLT).
God, the WORD EXPRESSED and REVEALED himself through Jesus. Jesus made it CLEAR why he came. “…The Son of man CAME to seek and to save THAT WHICH WAS LOST…” (Luke 19:10 KJV). “… [Jesus CAME because he is the] … one … who can reconcile God and humanity …” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “…[Jesus Christ CAME to be] the atoning sacrifice for our sins…” (1 John 2:2 NIV). “…[Jesus CAME to be] the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29 KJV). “….[Jesus] CAME not to be served but to serve others and TO GIVE HIS LIFE as a ransom for many…" (Matthew 20:28). “…[Jesus CAME because God is], NOT WILLING that any should perish, but that ALL should come to repentance…” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV). “… [Jesus] CAME that [you] may have life, and have it abundantly ….” (John 10:10 KJV).
God, the WORD, did not come to PROVE, DEBATE, CONVINCE, DEFEND, or INTELLECTUALIZE with humanity, but he CAME to SAVE them. “…God sent, not his Son (his WORD) into the world to condemn the world, but that the world THROUGH HIM might BE SAVED…” (John 3:17 KJV).
Many Hebrews believed the GOOD NEWS and SPREAD the WORD OF GOD to others. “… You see, we don’t go around preaching about ourselves. We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God , not from ourselves …” (2 Corinthians 4:5-7 NLT).
God, the WORD came and SPOKE, but like ALWAYS his OWN people kept DOING what they wanted to DO. They didn’t LISTEN; just like his OWN people are STILL doing today. “…But my people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts. They went backward instead of forward” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).
“But 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).
Some people do NOT like to let GO of the OLD ways of DOING things, even when it comes to God. The old covenant relationship cannot continue without depending upon his GRACE INSTEAD OF human effort. “… If you are trying … [in your OWN effort] … to make yourselves right with God by keeping the … [commandments depending upon human flesh], you have been cut off from Christ (the WORD OF GOD)! You have fallen away from God’s GRACE (unmerited favor, which means you CAN'T earn it, deserve, or become worthy of it) …” (Galatians 2:21 NLT).  
Religious WORKS will not make ANYBODY right with God; GRACE  (unmerited favor) through FAITH (depending upon God) does. “…a person is made right with God by faith [or depending upon]… Jesus Christ (THE WORD OF GOD)…” (Galatians 2:16 NLT). “…Grow in the grace ( underserved and the unearned favor ) …” (2 Peter 3:18). 
“… We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ (or dependence upon Jesus Christ, the WORD). And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are…” (Romans 3:22 NLT). “… No one is justified by the Law (self-effort) before God is evident; for, "THE RIGHTEOUS MAN SHALL LIVE BY FAITH (dependence upon God)…" (Romans 3:11 NASB).
Jesus, the WORD, speaks and says you WON’T make your OWN self right with God, because you CAN’T. “…I want to do what is right, but I can’t . I want to do what is good, but I don’t…. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway . …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD OF GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).   “…Apart from Me (Jesus, the WORD OF GOD), you can do nothing …” (John 15:5 NIV).    “…by the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).  
  “…a person is made right with God by faith [or depending upon the WORD]… Jesus Christ…” (Galatians 2:16 NLT).   “I do not treat the grace ( unearned and undeserved favor ) of God as meaningless. …” (Galatians 2:21 NLT). “… BY GRACE have ye been saved…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “…We … [choose to receive]… the GRACE of the Lord Jesus Christ [by faith and then]… we [are] SAVED…” (Acts 15:11 KJV). “… The grace of our Lord was poured out (transferred) on me abundantly, ALONG WITH FAITH ( the power to depend upon God’s WORD ) and [his] love that are in Christ Jesus (his WORD)…” (1 Timothy 1:13-14 NIV).
Many of the Hebrews CHOSE to continue to follow the LAW through self-effort. God, the WORD, through Jesus, did not MEET their requirements or perception of a MESSIAH. They were FREE to CHOOSE. However, they LOST their original PURPOSE of being God's CHOSEN people "… You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless…” (Matthew 5:13 NASB).
If God’s CHOSEN people LOSE their distinctive qualities of preservation as witnesses, or as examples of holy morality, or as lights to the dark world; they have LOST their ability to  REVEAL God, SPEAK for God, or SERVE his purpose. "… 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).
This LOSS of distinction produces LIFELESS, religious practices and behaviors that further extinguish the church’s ability to authentically REVEAL or SPEAK God’s message. “…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).  
When God’s people begin to practice Christianity according to their own self-effort; their religious behaviors will become LIFELESS too. “… [The LIFELESS]… are such [that]… serve not our Lord Jesus Christ (the WORD OF GOD) , but their own belly (their own agendas) … ” (Romans 16:18 KJV).
God, the WORD, came to REVEAL and SPEAK a message of LOVE in order to SAVE the lost. “…. the gospel of Christ …. “Is” the power of God …” (Romans 1:16 KJV). “…   [the word] “is” the power of God at work …” (Romans 1:16 NLT). “…. “… the Word (Jesus) was made FLESH (made into human form to SAVE the LOST) ...” (JOHN 1:14 KJV).
 “… The only begotten (specially created) Son (Jesus, the WORD ) , of the Father, he hath declared ( explained, revealed, or communicated for) him …” (John 1:18 KJV).
 Jesus Christ, the WORD communicates a MESSAGE directly from his HEART (bosom) of God. “…No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom (heart) of the Father, he hath declared him…” (John 1:18 KJV).  “…No one has ever seen God. But the unique One, who is himself God, is near to the Father’s heart. He has revealed God to us…” (John 1:18 NLT).
God, the WORD, may have been clothed in human FLESH, but he was SO MUCH MORE!! . “….The WORD was made flesh….” (John 1:14 KJV).
If mankind continues to look on the outside or the appearance, they will STILL miss the awesome purpose and POWER of the WORD of God. “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “...God sees not as man sees , for man looks at the outward appearance , …” (1 Samuel 16:7 NASB).
It wasn’t simply JESUS’ human FLESH that made him awesome, but it was God, the “POWERFUL” Word, SPEAKING through him. “…   [the word] is the power of God at work …” (Romans 1:16 NLT). “… God anointed Jesus of Nazareth (ANOINTED JESUS WITH WHAT?) with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER:  (WHAT DID JESUS DO?) who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; (HOW WAS JESUS ABLE TO DO IT?) for GOD, [THE HOLY 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).
God, the Father, SPOKE through Jesus, the WORD and GOD’S MOUTHPIECE, revealing HIS thoughts and demonstrating HIS HOLY power. “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). Jesus SAID:  “… I do nothing of myself …” (John 8:28 KJV). “… the Word was God … All things came into being through Him (THE WORD) … (John 1:1-4 NASB). “… the Father that dwelleth in me; [JESUS, THE WORD OF GOD], he doeth the works (through the power of his holy spirit) …” (John 14:10 KJV).
JESUS, the WORD, an earthen vessel, served as a MOUTHPIECE for God's heartfelt message. “….The WORD was made flesh….” (John 1:14 KJV). . “… THE WORDS THAT I SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV) “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Word was God … (John 1:1-4 NASB).
Remember, the bible SAYS: “… THERE ARE THREE that bear record (GIVE WITNESS TO) in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost : and THESE THREE ARE ONE  “…THERE IS NO GOD, BUT ONE…” (1 Corinthians 8:4 KJV).
Look at this example: “… Then God SAID, “Let there be light”; AND THERE WAS LIGHT …” (Genesis 1:3 NASB).
1.      “… Then God SAID(God spoke his thoughts);
2.      “Let there be light” (Jesus, THE WORD,   spoke his thoughts out loud );
3.      AND THERE WAS LIGHT (The Holy Spirit did THE WORKS , that was spoken, CONFIRMING God’s WORD) …” (Genesis 1:3 NASB).
4.      There is ONE God. Three different expressions. The Holy spirit DOES the works and confirms what the WordSPEAKS and the FATHERthinks.
God thinks . Jesus speaks his thoughts . The invisible Holy Spirit does the work that confirms God’s thoughts and Words . They are ALL in AGREEMENTand together they CREATE reality!
God, the WORD is responsible for communicating God’s message.  JESUS, WHILE ON EARTH AND IN HUMAN FLESH DEPENDED UPON God, the Word, to SPEAK through him. “… I have not spoken of myself ; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a [WORD], what I should say , and what I should speak …” (John 12:49 KJV).
God, the WORD “SPEAKS” through human flesh or human mouthpieces, but is NOT human. “…God (the Word) is not human “…God is Spirit … Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill …” (Numbers 23:19 NIV & John 4:24 KJV) “… THE WORDS THAT I SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT (They ARE God)…” (John 6:63 KJV). “… Not one of all the LORD's good promises … failed; every one was fulfilled”(Joshua 21:45 NIV). “…My counsel (WORD)… SHALL stand, and I will do all my pleasure …” (Isaiah 46:10 KJV).
God’s THOUGHTS became WORDS. “… In the beginning was the Word (god’s thoughts) ,and the Word (god’s thoughts) was with God, and the Word (god’s thoughts) was God …” (John 1:1-4 NASB).  “…. All things came into being through Him (THOUGHTS, WORD, POWER), and apart from Him (THOUGHTS, WORD, POWER) nothing came into being that has come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB). “… these three agree in one …” (1 John 5:8 KJV).
There THREE expressions, God’s thoughts, God’s Word, and God’s Holy Spirit, they are in AGREEMENT, within ONE GOD. “… these three agree in one …” (1 John 5:8 KJV).
WHAT GOD THINKS, HE SPEAKS. WHAT GOD SPEAKS, HE DOES AND WHAT GOD DOES CONFIRMS HIS WORD. “… these three agree [WITH]In one …[GOD]….” (1 John 5:8 KJV).
As we said before, when the THOUGHTS of God, the WORD of God, and the POWER of God are in AGREEMENT “all things” come into being. “… All things came into being through Him … (John 1:1-4 NASB). 
REALITIES, EXISTENCES, BEINGS, or CREATIONS all begin with God’s THOUGHTS (his unspoken Word). He shares those thoughts through his WORD.
Thus, God’s WORDS are spoken to you or spoken BY you in order to SAVE  YOU and TRANSFORM your life, your circumstances, or the life of others. You can trust his WORDS with all your heart! “…So … my word … 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).
“…Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into [the human]… heart … the things which God hath prepared for [those who depend upon his WORD]....”(1 Corinthians 2:9 KJV).
“… [God] is able TO DO exceeding abundantly ABOVE all that we ask or think…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV). “… he doeth the works …” (John 14:10 KJV).
“…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV).
“…Trust in the Lord (the word) with all thine heart … In all thy ways acknowledge him (the Word), and he (the Word) shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “…The LORD (the Word) will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “…The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord (the Word) …” (Psalms 37:23 KJV).
God, the Father REVEALS his DIVINE nature and Holy POWER through his WORDS! WHY? “… so you will know that [HE “IS”] the Lor d (YOUR LORD)…” (Exodus 10:1-2 NLT). “… Then you will know that [he is] the Lordyour God …’” (Exodus 16:12 NLT).
“… The [word] of the LORD is … more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them Your servant is warned . In keeping them there is great reward …” (Psalm 19:7-11 NASB).
“… He (Jesus) had a name written, that no man knew … his name is called The Word of God …” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “[Jesus, THE WORD OF GOD is]… highly exalted… ” with a “ name which is above every name …” (Philippians 2:9). “… hisname is called The Word of God …” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). EXAMPLE: This is what God instructed Ezekiel to SPEAK and Ezekiel SPOKE God’s WORD as he was instructed . HE TOLD  HIM TO SAY:   “ …‘My people …I will PUT my SPIRIT in you and you will LIVE …Then you will know that I the Lord have spoken, and I have done it, declares the Lord ...’” (Ezekiel 37 NIV). “…As [Ezekiel]… was prophesying ( SPEAKING GOD’S WORD as God instructed him to do ), there was a noise ( The Holy Spirit started making, creating, or bringing  into existence ), a rattling sound, and THE BONES CAME TOGETHER, BONE TO BONE. [Ezekiel]… LOOKED, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them … [then]… BREATH ENTERED THEM; they came to LIFE and STOOD UP on their feet—a vast army… I HAVE DONE IT, declares the Lord…’” (Ezekiel 37 NIV).THERE ARE OVER 7,000 PROMISES IN GOD'S WORD. GOD'S WORD IS POWERFUL WHEN SPOKEN. GOD'S WORD CREATES REALITIES, EXISTENCES, SAVES, AND TRANSFORMS LIVES OR CIRCUMSTANCES. GOD'S WORD HAS THE SAME POWER IN YOUR MOUTH AS IT DOES IN GOD'S MOUTH!

THE DILIGENT DON'T COMPROMISE!

the diligent "don't" compromise “..They do not compromisewith evil, and they walk only in his paths. You have charged usto keep your commandments carefully...” (Psalms 119:3-4 NLT).“… If you love me , you will ( CHOOSE TO. ) keep my commandments… ” (John 14:15).

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God’s Holy Spirit is a DILIGENT Spirit. He does the WORK. He WORKS “in” and “through” his people. He begins a good WORK within his people and his matures them. God doesn’t change. God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus is the SAME yesterday, today, and always. God, the Holy Spirit, is FAITHFUL. 

God, the Holy Spirit, therefore, is DILIGENT. Diligent means a consistent and determined hard worker who doesn’t STOP until the TASK is done. Diligent is the way to get things done. Becoming a diligent person means you WORK with purpose. It means you WORK with a goal in mind. It means you set guidelines in order to reach those goals. 

You also set boundaries to eliminate distractions, behaviors, mind sets, thoughts, emotions, or things that would sabotage those goals. Diligence is NOT about setting rules or regulations, but it is about willfully choosing to establish a lifestyle that will bring about a healthy physical life and also sustain it. 

When it comes to your physical life and health is it better NOT to compromise when you are trying to establish a healthy lifestyle. COMPROMISE is not DILIGENCE, but it will cause or encourage you to SETTLE for behaviors, mindsets, thoughts, emotions, or things that are LOWER in standard which leads to damage, destruction, and sabotage of one’s goals. When trying to establish a healthy physical life in order to do the WORK God sent you to do upon earth, it is best NOT to make ANY concessions for the sinful nature. 

The sinful nature DOES NOT and NEVER HAS followed or agreed with the HOLY STANDARDS of God’s Word. “…The sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). God, the Holy Spirit, is DILIGENT and wants his children (people) to be LIKE him.“…In this world … [God’s people] … are [called to be].... LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “…Jesus Christ is the same…forever…” (Hebrews 13 :8 NIV). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). 

God REMAINS faithful to WHO he is and WILL NEVER compromise his DIVINE character. “…If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…In this world [God’s people]... are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “… growing in every way more and more like Christ…” (Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT). “...Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever…” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).   

They are to “...be[come] … imitatorsof [Jesus]…”(Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:1 ASV). God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus, his WORD, DOES NOT compromise his HOLY standards EVER!  His people are to IMITATE his behavior in ALL they DO!“..They do not compromisewith evil, and they walk only in his paths. You have charged usto keep your commandments carefully...” (Psalms 119:3-4 NLT).“…If you love me, you will (CHOOSE TO.) keep my commandments…” (John 14:15). 

However, “…My people would not listen to me. They kept (CHOOSING TO DO) ...whatever they wanted…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “… The people replied, “Don’t waste your breath. We will continue to (CHOOSE TO) live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT). “…Thus saith the Lord; ‘Cursed be the MAN (or woman) ... whose HEART (WILLFULLY) departeth from the Lord (Jesus, God’s word or instructions)…” (Jeremiah 17:5 KJV). 

God’s people ARE faithful and diligent, choosing NOT to compromises or deviate from his HOLY STANDARDS even when it hurts or it’s hard. “..though he (God) slay me (or it feels like he’s killing me), yet will I trust in him (and depend upon him)…” (Job 13:15 KJV). “….All the days of my appointed TIME will I WAIT, till my CHANGE come…” (Job 14:14 KJV). “…The faithful followers of the Lord … keep their promises (to diligently keep trusting and depending upon HIM) even when it hurts…” (Psalm 15:4 NLT). 

God’s people CHOOSE “not” to COMPROMISE God’s HOLY STANDARDS in any area of their lives and they SUBMIT to his will when it comes to CARING for their earthen vessels or BODIES. Remember when Jesus came to earth a BODY was prepared for him. “...But You have prepared a body for Me...” (Hebrews 10:5-7 NASB).

 Jesus needed the BODY in order to carry out God’s purpose, for his life, upon earth. “...The Lord gave me this message: “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations...” (Jeremiah 1:4-5 NASB). Thus, the BODY is just a VESSEL for the SOUL to USE to carry out their God-given assignments upon earth. 

The BODY also becomes a TEMPLE for the Holy Spirit and the anointing that NOW dwells within them. “What? Know ye not that your body 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). The BODY of God’s people belong to Him, the indwelling Holy Spirit and God USES that BODY, while they’re upon the earth, to DISPLAY his GLORY by revealing his presence, his goodnesses, and his working POWER through them. “...Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body...” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NASB). 

The BODY, thus, is a vessel for God, the Holy Spirit and the soul, which becomes a LIVING SOUL when reconciled to one another through Jesus, is able to EXPRESS, REVEAL, and DEMONSTRATE God’s attributes to the world in order to RECONCILE mankind BACK into a loving, covenant relationship with HIM. God, the Holy Spirit, says through Jesus, his WORD: “...Beloved, I wish (it is God’s will) above all things that thou (his people) mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth...” (3 John 1:2 KJV). “….He (the WORD OF GOD) restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “…Father …not Mywill, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV). “…[Jesus, the Word said,] I do nothing of myself…” (John 8:28 KJV). “…the Father(God, the Holy Spirit) that dwelleth in me (Jesus), he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “...He (Jesus) gave Himself over (submitted) to Him (God, the Holy Spirit) ...” (1 Peter 2:23 KJV). 

God’s people are to trust and depend upon the indwelling Holy Spirit, through Jesus to empower them to be diligent, NOT compromise, nor depend upon human traditions or principles to instruct them.“...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.... These rules may seem wise ..But they provide no help in conquering a person’s evil desires...” (Colossians 2:20-23 NLT). “…There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of DEATH...” (Proverbs  14:20 KJV). “…and sin, when it is finished, BRINGETH FORTH DEATH…” (James 1:13-15 NLT). “… I have set before you life and death… therefore choose life…” (Deuteronomy 30:19).

“...Watch out for people who try to dazzle you with big words and intellectual double-talk. They want to drag you off into endless arguments that never amount to anything. They spread their ideas through the empty traditions of human beings and the empty superstitions of spirit beings. But that’s not the way of Christ. Everything of God gets expressed in him, so you can see and hear him clearly. You don’t need a telescope, a microscope, or a horoscope to realize the fullness of Christ, and the emptiness of the universe without him. When you come to him, that fullness comes together for you, too. His power extends over everything...” (Colossians 2:8-10 MSG).

 “...So watch your step, friends. Make sure there’s no evil unbelief lying around that will trip you up and throw you off course, diverting you from the living God. For as long as God’s still calling it Today, keep each other on your toes so sin doesn’t slow down your reflexes. If we can only keep our grip on the sure thing we started out with, we’re in this with Christ for the long haul.These words keep ringing in our ears: Today, please listen; don’t turn a deaf ear as in the bitter uprising...” (Hebrews 3:12-14 MSG). “...Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ...” (Colossians 2:8 KJV). “... Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God...” (Hebrews 3:12 KJV). 

God’s people NOT ONLY choose to be FAITHFUL and DILIGENT to God’s HOLY STANDARDS, but they are also witnesses and defenders of God’s principles by what they DO, how they THINK, and how they CONDUCT themselves in the every day affairs of life. God’s people are DILIGENT. God’s people DO NOT compromise HIS standards for daily living. Through thick and thin they choose day after day to be FAITHFUL to God and his instructions by paying CAREFUL attention to what they SAY, THINK, and DO.

 When ASKED why they are so faithful, diligent, and uncompromising when it comes to their covenant relationship with God, the Holy Spirit they can lovingly, meekly and kindly answer: “...I love God and I choose to KEEP his commandments for my life...”  “...[So]... sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man (woman) that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear...” (1 Peter 3:15 KJV). God’s people are faithful, diligent, and uncompromising because, they know, that even their CONDUCT speaks, witnesses, and defends God’s WORD. 

However, his people choose to GLORIFY HIM, either through speech or conduct, they are aware they are LIGHTS of the LORD showing others THE WAY to escape the SNARE of the devil. “...And the servant of the Lord must not strive;but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructingthose that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will...” (2 Timothy 2:24-26 KJV). 

When God’s people COMPROMISE HIS Holy standards their speech, witness, or defense of the GOSPEL becomes questionable and they be deemed as LIARS. “…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). 

Professing to have an allegiance to God is NOT the same as daily, not Sunday to Sunday, but DAILY DEMONSTRATING an allegiance to God by what you SAY, THINK, DO, and by how you BEHAVE. When what you SAY, THINK, DO, or BEHAVE, whether aware it or not, DOES NOT line-up with God’s HOLY STANDARDS for DAILY LIVING what should you do?! 

1. ASK GOD. King David said: “...see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting...”(Psalms 139:24 KJV). “...Investigate my life, O God, find out everything about me; Cross-examine and test me, get a clear picture of what I’m about;See for yourself whether I’ve done anything wrong—then guide me on the road to eternal life...” (Psalms 139:24 MSG). “.. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting...” (Psalms 139:24 NIV). “...Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life...” (Psalms 139:24 NLT). “...And see if there is any hurtful way in me, And lead me in the everlasting way...” (Psalm 139:24 NASB). “And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he hearethus…” (1 John 5:14 KJV). 

2 RECEIVE HIS CORRECTION or DISCIPLINE. “….For whom the Lord loveth he CORRECTETH…” (Proverbs 3:12 KJV). “...a disciplined life in God is far more so, making you fit (spiritually) both today and forever. You can count on this. Take it to heart. This is why we’ve thrown ourselves into this venture so totally. We’re banking on the living God, Savior of all men and women, especially believers...” (1 Timothy 4:8-10 MSG). “...If you are not disciplined – and everyone undergoes discipline – then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all” (Hebrews 12:8 NIV). 

3 HUMBLE YOURSELF. “...clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE...” (1 Peter 5:5 NASB). “...humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time...” (1 Peter 5:6 KJV). “…LEARN from me, for I am gentle and HUMBLE in heart…” (Matthew 11:29 KJV). “…Christ …entrusted himself to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV).

 4 CONFESS YOUR FAULTS. “...If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness…” (1 John 1:9 KJV). 

5 ASK FOR GOD’S HELP. “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “…The Lord who made you and helps you says: Do not be afraid …my servant …my chosen one…” (Isaiah 44:2 NLT). “… The Holy Spirit helpsus in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “…You are my helper and my savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT). 

6. TRUST AND DEPEND UPON GOD TO WORK “IN” AND “THROUGH” YOU TO BE FAITHFUL, DILIGENT, AND UNCOMPROMISING. “…the Father that dwelleth in [earthen vessels], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). It is “…God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of us (earthen vessels) who are his. The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of us (earthen vessels) …… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). God’s people say: “...I can do all things through Christ...” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).  

 He will “…strengthened [his people]… with might by his Spirit [of TRUTH]... in the inner man (woman)…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV). “… [He strengthens 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).

 God’s people have EVERYTHING, they NEED, that is necessary for both the earthly life and the spiritual life. “…his (God, the Holy Spirit’s) divine power hath given unto [his people]... ALL THINGS that pertain (are related) unto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV). UTILIZING, by faith, the blessings, gifts, and r

iches of God’s GLORY is a choice each individual, child of God, makes for themselves. The decision is a personal one and is NEVER the responsible of another person to fulfill on your behalf. God’s WORD says: “… I have set before YOU life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life...” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “...Jesus (the LIVING Word of God, the indwelling Spirit, the LIGHT, God’s working POWER) saith…I am ...the life…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…choose LIFE … ” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).   

COMPROMISE is often what makes God’s people LUKEWARM in certain areas of their LIFE. For instance, on one hand, you want a good, wholesome, healthy physical life, but on the other you will COMPROMISE that good, wholesome, healthy physical life every time the devil presents a sabotaging opportunity. 

RESIST THE DEVIL! DON’T LET HIM INTO “ANY” AREA OF YOUR LIFE. “...do not give the devil an opportunity...” (Ephesians 4:27 NASB). “...Neithergive place to the devil...” (Ephesians 4:27 KJV). “...do not give the devil a foothold...” (Ephesian 4:27 NLT). “...Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry—but don’t use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don’t stay angry. Don’t go to bed angry. Don’t give the Devil that kind of foothold in your life...” (Ephesians 4:26-27 MSG). 

This scripture is talking about anger, but the bottom line is whatever the issue or problem, or attitude DON’T LET the DEVIL into the situation or circumstance! “… REPENTand TURN TO God …” (Acts 26: 20 NASB).  “...I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other...” (Revelation 3:15 KJV).  

 “...I know you inside and out, and find little to my liking. You’re not cold, you’re not hot—far better to be either cold or hot! You’re stale. You’re stagnant. You make me want to vomit. You brag, ‘I’m rich, I’ve got it made, I need nothing from anyone,’ oblivious that in fact you’re a pitiful, blind beggar, threadbare and homeless...” (Revelation 3:15-17 MSG). God, the Holy Spirit is NOT and NEVER will be a COMPROMISING God. He NEVER changes for ANY reason or any PERSON. “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). 

God REMAINS faithful to WHO he is and WILL NEVER compromise his DIVINE character. “…If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).“…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…In this world [God’s people]... are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “… growing in every way more and more like Christ…” (Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT). “...Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever…” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV). They are to “...be[come] … imitatorsof [Jesus]…”(Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:1 ASV). “..[Therefore, God’s people]... do not compromise with evil,and they walk only in his paths. [God, the Holy Spirit]... have charged [them to]... keep [his]...commandments carefully...” (Psalms 119:3-4 NLT). 

God’s people CHOOSE, willfully, NOT to compromise living DAILY by God’s HOLY STANDARDS for any reason or anyone!

 

 

YOU HAVE ALREADY EXPERIENCED A SIGN, A WONDER, AND A MIRACLE!

SIGNS, WONDERS, AND MIRACLES?“…“… How shall we escape, if we neglect SO GREAT SALVATION …” (Hebrews 2:3 KJV).*Signs, wonders, and miracles are ALL actions of God that REVEAL his character, his presence, and his supernatural power in the natural WORLD. “… Many , O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done …” (Psalms 40:5 KJV). “… Though he had done so many miracles before them ….” (John 12:37-40 NLT). Miracles are said to be the signs and wonders. Signs are supposedly a divine intervention by God like when Jesus turned the water to wine or feed the thousands with a few loaves of bread. “…Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now. This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him…” (JOHN 2:10-12 KJV). “… he hath done marvellous things… ”(Psalm 98:1 KJV).Wonders are marvelous works by God, beyond man’s human capabilities like Lazarus was raised from the dead or healing the man deaf since birth. “And HE THAT WAS DEAD CAME FORTH, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go...”(John 11:43-44 KJV). “… Jesus said…I am the resurrection and I am the LIFE …..” (John 11:25 KJV). “…The things which are impossible with men … [are] …POSSIBLE… [with God] …” (Luke 18:27 KJV).   God has NOT changed. He STILL does the SAME signs, wonders, and miracles. “… the Father that dwelleth in me, he [still] doeth the works …” (John 14:10 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).Every sign, wonder, or miracle is made manifest to POINT people to GOD, to showcase his divine authority over ALL of life, to encourage DEPENDENCY upon God, and his HOLY POWER.  “… This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee , and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him ( depended upon him ) …” (JOHN 2:10-12 KJV).“…[He is] the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for [him]?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV).Signs, wonders, and miracles that are manifested by the God of CREATION are done to encourage, impart, confirm, or strengthen spiritual truths, spiritual understanding, spiritual insight, spiritual dependency upon God, or reveal his HOLY presence or character.“… Jesus answered, and said…This is the work of God : that ye believe [or depend upon] him whom he hath sent .” (John 6:29 KJV). “… This beginning of miracles did Jesus … and his disciples believed on him …” (JOHN 2:10-12 KJV). “… his disciples believed on him …” (JOHN 2:10-12 KJV).False prophets and fakes can do deceiving signs and wonders too, but they won’t FOOL God’s disciples. “… F alse messiahs and false prophets will rise up and perform great signs and wonders so as to deceive, if possible , even God’s chosen ones…” (Matthew 24:24 NLT).God’s signs, wonders, and miracles are manifested to make people, on earth, STAND IN AWE of the God of Creation’s UNIQUE ability to DO LOVING, supernatural, wondrous WORKS!! “… Those who live at the ends of the earth stand in AWE of your wonders. From where the sun rises to where it sets, you inspire shouts of joy. Praise the Lord God, the God of Israel, who alone does such wonderful things…” (Psalms 65:8 NLT). “… Praise the Lord God, the God of Israel, who alone does such wonderful things…” (Psalms 72:18 NLT).Signs, wonders, and miracles are NOT limited to how God WORKS providentially to SUSTAIN and HOLD together the natural realm. “…In him ALL THINGS …hold together …” (Colossians 1:7 NIV). “… [God is]…sustaining ALL THINGS… by his powerful word …” (Hebrews 1:3 NIV). Signs, wonders, and miracles are the UNLIMITED WORKS of God that REVEAL and MANIFEST his presence, his goodnesses, his working power, and his purposes from the supernatural realm.“…The things which are impossible with men … [are] …POSSIBLE… [with God] …” (Luke 18:27 KJV).   A TRUE sign, wonder, or miracle is a WORK of God; “NOT” man. God, the indwelling Holy Spirit, WORK signs, wonders, and miracles “IN” and “THROUGH” his people. “… The …HOLY SPIRIT …is the SOURCE of [signs, wonders, and miracles]. …it is …God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of us who are his. The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (supernatural WORKS) THROUGH each of us … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).. “…That great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work “IN US”what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “ …It is God which worketh IN YOU both to will and to do of hisgood pleasure…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “… I do nothing of myself …” (John 8:28 KJV). “… the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works …” (John 14:10 KJV). “… He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT).“… Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs,which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know…” (ACTS 2:22 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. 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 [was] upon [him[ , because 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). “… the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works …” (John 14:10 KJV). Signs, wonders, and miracles give credibility and confirmation to God’s WORD (Jesus), God’s presence, God’s character, and his supernatural POWER in the lives of God’s chosen people. “… God publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signsthrough him , as you well know. …” (ACTS 2:22 KJV).What were some of the signs, wonders, and miracles in the bible? All of Creation was full of signs, wonders, and miracles. (Genesis 1 & 2). The flood was a wonder and the rainbow is an ongoing sign (Genesis 7 & 8). The tower of Babel was where God miraculously confused the languages (Genesis 11). Sodom and Gomorrah was miraculously destroyed by the rain of fire and brimstone from heaven (Genesis 19). Lot’s wife was miraculously turned into a pillar of salt Genesis 19). Sarah and Abraham miraculously conceived Isaac in their old age (Genesis 21). Moses spoke miraculously to God through a burning bush that was NEVER actually consumed by the fire (Exodus 3). God revealed he was with Aaron when he miraculously changed his rod into a serpent (Exodus 7). God miraculously sent 10 plagues upon Egypt until they let HIS people go (Exodus 7). God miraculously parted the Red Sea so HIS people could cross over to the other side, on dry land and to safety (Exodus 14). After travelling for days God’s people were thirsty and came to a body of water called Marah and found the water to be bitter. They cried out to God and God miraculously turned the water sweet, so they could drink it (Exodus 15).God’s people also got hungry as they travelled through the wilderness. God miraculously sent them manna from heaven for days and days to provide for their nourishment (Exodus 16).Balaam was sent to curse God’s people, but his donkey was stopped by angels sent by God. Balaam beat the donkey in order to make him continue the journey, but God miraculously made the donkey speak to Balaam and explain why he couldn’t continue. (Exodus 22).God gave Joshua instructions on how to win the battle with Jericho. First they had to walk around the city seven times and afterwards the walls would fall down and they would be able to take the whole city. It happened just as God say it would; the walls of Jericho miraculously fell down and they victoriously took the city (Joshua 6).The Amorites had attacked the Israelite’s allies and God allowed them to avenge them and win the battle by miraculously stopping the SUN from going down for a WHOLE day (Joshua 10). God also miraculously sent LARGE stones from heaven to help them in the battle (Joshua 10).God miraculously gave Samson, through the POWER of his Spirit, extraordinary human strength. He slayed a lion with his bare hands and defeated an entire army with the jawbone of an ass. God put the secret of his strength in his LONG hair (Judges 13-16).A widow woman was low on flour and oil, and was preparing, for her and her son, to die from hunger. But God had mercy on her by miraculously making the flour and oil increase continually and she was able to feed Elijah and her household until the dry season stopped (1 Kings 17:8-16).At the prayers of Elijah, God miraculously bought a drought upon the land and then at his prayers the rain miraculously returned, even though initially there was NOT a single cloud in the sky (1 Kings 18).God, miraculously, delivered three Hebrew boys from a fiery furnace without a scorch, burn, or the smell of smoke on any of them (Daniel 3).God, miraculously, delivered Daniel from the mouths of the lions when he was thrown into the den with a whole bunch of them (Daniel 6).God, miraculously, delivered Jonah from the belly of a whale and returned him safety to land (Jonah 2).Jesus was miraculously and specially created to be an atoning sacrifice for the sins of the people. He was born of a virgin, and conceived by the Holy Spirit (John 1 & Luke 1).Jesus miraculously healed blind people, deaf people, a woman with a spirit of infirmity, lepers, and many others (Matthew 9:27-31; John 9:1-7; Mark 7:31-37; Luke 13:11-17, 19:11-19).Jesus miraculously turned water to wine (John 2:1-11). Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead (John 11:38-44). Jesus blessed the fishermen’s with supernatural increase at HIS WORD (John 21:1-14) Jesus fed thousands, twice, with a few loaves of bread and a fish (Matthew 14:32, 15:32 & Mark 6:30, 8:1; Luke 9:10, & John 6:1-14).Jesus delivered people from demons (Matthew 8:28; Mark 1:23, 5:1; & Luke 4:33, 8:26). Jesus STILLED the storm at his command (Matthew 8:23 & Mark 4:37, & Luke 8:22). Jesus walked on water (Matthew 14:25; Mark 6:48, & John 6:15).Jesus ROSE from the dead (John 21:1-14). God, the Holy Spirit through Jesus, his Word came in human form. “… Though he was God …” (Philippians 2:6-7 NLT). He was“… born as a human being …” (Philippians 2:6-7 NLT). Thus, when it comes to signs, wonders, and miracles, God’s people PRAY, DEPEND UPON HIM, and EXPECThim to DO special FAVORS in their LIVES and on their behalf. “…Lord … Stretch out your hand with healing power; may miraculous signs and wonders be done through the name of your holy servant Jesus. After this prayer, the meeting place shook, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Then they preached the word of God with boldness…” (Acts 4:28-30 KJV). “… the Fatherthat dwelleth in me, he doeth the works …” (John 14:10 KJV).God’s people DEPEND UPON him to confirm his OWN WORD by DOING the WORK of his promises through THEM and signs, wonders, and miracles. “… the Fatherthat dwelleth in me, he doeth the works …” (John 14:10 KJV).  “…The disciples went everywhere and preached, and the Lord worked through them , confirming what they said by many miraculous signs…” (Mark 16:20 KJV). “… The …HOLY SPIRIT …is the SOURCE of [signs, wonders, and miracles]. … … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “… Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works' sake…” (John 14:11 KJV). “… The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (supernatural WORKS) THROUGH each of us … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “… The Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works …” (John 14:10 KJV).Signs, wonders, and miracles are the responsibility of the HOLY SPIRIT. If you ASK or PRAY to God, and, DEPEND upon him, and EXPECT to do it; WILL HE? “… You can ask for anything in my name , and I “will” do it ...” (John 14:12-14 NLT). “… You can ask for anything in my name . ..” (John 14:12-14 NLT). “….Y ou may ask for anything you want …” (JOHN 15:7 NASB). “… Ask and it will be given to you …” (Matthew 7:7 NIV). “…everyone who asks receives…” (Matthew 7:8 NIV).  “… And this is the confidence that we have in him (Jesus) , that, if we ask any thing according to his will , he heareth us …” (1 John 5:14 KJV). “… [We] … Receive from him anything we ask , because we keep his commands and do what pleases him …” (1 John 3:22 NIV). “… If we know that he hears us — whatever we ask — we know that we have what we asked of him …” (1 John 5:15 NIV).Therefore,“… Trust in the Lord with all thine heart …”(Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “… lean not unto thine own understanding …” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “… The Fatherthat dwelleth in [you], he doeth the works …” (John 14:10 KJV). “… He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “… [His word] shall not return unto [him]… void, but it shall accomplish that which [God]… please[s] , and it shall prosper in the thing whereto [God]… sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV). “… I will do whatever you ask in my name , so that the Father may be glorified in the Son…” (John 14:13 NIV).Signs, wonders, and miracles are a responsibility of the Holy Spirit and “… he DOETH the WORK…” (John 14:10 KJV).You are encouraged to choose to DEPEND upon the HOLY Spirit to DO the WORK “IN” and “THROUGH” you. . “……it is …God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of us who are his… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).The HOLY SPIRIT “removes” obstacles, troubles, problems, issues, and gets rid of them from your life. Don’t doubt, but CHOOSE to depend upon, the HOLY SPIRIT to DO the WORK or signs, wonders, and miracles. "…Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and DOES NOT DOUBT in their heart but believes (depends upon God) that what they say will happen, it will be done for them….” (MARKS 11:23 NIV).WHATEVER you ASK for when you PRAY, Believe or DEPEND UPON GOD that you HAVE received them and WHATEVER it is; is YOURS!! "… [DO] NOT DOUBT in [your] heart but [believe and] (depend upon God) …what [you] say will happen, [and] it will be done for [you]….” (MARK 11:23 NIV). “… The Fatherthat dwelleth in [you], he doeth the works …” (John 14:10 KJV). EXPECT the sign, wonder, or miracle to HAPPEN. God will even help your EXPECTANCY. “… He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “…The WORK of God: [is] that [you] believe on him (depend upon him) whom he hath sent.” (John 6:29 KJV). “…It is God who WORKS IN YOU …” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “… the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works …” (John 14:10 KJV). “…That great Shepherd of the sheep, EQUIP (empower) you with everything good for doing his will…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…That great Shepherd of the sheep …may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).“… He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT).DEPEND UPON God to empower your dependency upon him and your expectancy from him THEN you will see signs, wonders, and miracles in your LIFE regularly!! “…It is God who WORKS IN YOU …” (Philippians 2:13 NIV).Who will DO the sign, wonder or miracle? God does. “… The Father that dwelleth in [you], HE DOETH the works …” (John 14:10 KJV). “… The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (supernatural WORKS) THROUGH each of us … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).Why can you DEPEND UPON God to do the sign, wonder, or miracle? Because God CAN and he say HE WOULD.“… I will do whatever you ask in my name , so that the Father may be glorified in the Son…” (John 14:13 NIV). "… [DO] NOT DOUBT in [your] heart but [believe and] (depend upon me and) …what [you] say will happen, [and] it will be done for [you]….” (MARK 11:23 NIV). “…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV).“…[God] is able TO DO exceeding abundantly ABOVE all that we ask orthink…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV). “… he doeth the works …” (John 14:10 KJV). “…The things which are impossible with men … [are]… POSSIBLE [with God] …” (Luke 18:27 KJV).Who is like the Living God of Creation? “… … I am God , and there is none like me…"(Isaiah 46:9-10 KJV).  ). “… t here is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).    “… “I AM WHO I AM ’ This is My name forever, and this is My memorial-name to all generations…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I am  the Lord, the God of all flesh…” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). "… I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God…" (Revelation 1:8 NASB). “… I, the LORD … the first, and with the last. I am He ...'" (Isaiah 41:4 NASB).  “...The lord is GOOD …there is none good but one, that is, God ” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). “… God is l ove…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…  I, the Lord , am your healer …” (Exodus 15:26). “… I AM HOLY… ” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV).  And, “ T here is none holy as the Lord …” (1 Samuel 2:2 KJV). “… God is the one who provides …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). “… God will supply all [your need] …” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “… [God] … will keep in perfect peace all who trust in … [him] … all whose thoughts are fixed on … [him!] ” (Isaiah 26:3 NLT).“…. The Lord is “my” shepherd ….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Your fortress, your deliverer , Your GOD , Your rock , in whom [you] … take refuge; Your shield and the horn of Your salvation , YOUR stronghold .…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).“… God [is[ with us …” (Matthew 1:23 NASB). “…[HE IS] WITH… [YOU] and  … [HE] WILL NOT LEAVE [YOU] …." (Genesis 28:15 ASV). “… t here is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).    “…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). “…The things which are impossible with men … [are]… POSSIBLE [with God] …” (Luke 18:27 KJV). “… he doeth the works …” (John 14:10 KJV).“… I will do whatever you ask in my name …” (John 14:13 NIV). "… [Depend upon me and] …what [you] say will happen, [and] it will be done for [you]….” (MARK 11:23 NIV).Why does God do signs, wonder, and miracles for HIS PEOPLE? God LOVES his people. “… the Lord loves His people …” (2 Chronicles 2:11 NASB). “… the Lord loved you and kept the oath which He swore to your forefathers…” (Deuteronomy 7:8 NASB). “… Blessed be the Lord your God who delighted in you to set you on the throne of Israel; because the Lord loved Israel (his people) forever …” (1 Kings 10:9 NASB). “… the Lord loves His people …” (2 Chronicles 2:11 NASB). “ … your God loved Israel (his people) establishing them forever …”(2 Chronicles 9:8 NASB). In “… His love and in His mercy He redeemed them …” (Isaiah 63:9 NASB). “… I have loved you with an everlasting love …” (Jeremiah 31:3 NASB). “… Even as the Lord loves the sons of Israel (his people) …” (Hosea 3:1 NASB). “ … I led them … with bonds of love , And I became to them as one who lifts the yoke from their jaws; And I bent down and fed them…” (Hosea 11:4 NASB).  “… Indeed, He lovesthe people…” (Deuteronomy 33:3 NASB).Who are God’s people? Those who belong to him in Jesus Christ. “… [Everyone] … 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 blessings because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).   “…Those who belong to Christ Jesus …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…Because YOU BELONG to him...” (Romans 8:1 NLT). “ … (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.) …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).“…He that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT (BELONG)…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “…We are his ; we are “HIS” PEOPLE...” (Psalms 100:3 KJV). “… You belong to Christ …” (1 Corinthians 3:23 NASB). “… you belong to God , my dear children…” (1 John 4:2-7 NIV).ONLY God’s people are blessed and privileged to display and experience the true signs, wonders, and miraculous works of God. “… How blessed you are [people of God!] Who else is like you, a people saved (by the miraculous redemptive work) by the Lord?He is your protecting shield and your triumphant sword...” (Deuteronomy 33:29 NLT). “… I and the children the Lord has given me serve as signs … from the Lord of Heaven’s Armies who dwells in his Temple on Mount Zion…” (Isaiah 8:18 NLT). “… The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (signs, wonders, and miracles) THROUGH each of us … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).God said to Abraham: “… I will BLESS thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a BLESSING : And I will BLESS them that BLESS thee … in thee shall all families of the earth be BLESSED… ”(Genesis 12:2-3 KJV).Thus through salvation: “… Christ hath REDEEMED [miraculously saved all families] from the curse of the law …That the “BLESSING of Abraham” might come on [“THEM”]… through Jesus Christ …” (Galatians 3:13-14 KJV).“… BY GRACE have ye been SAVED THROUGH FAITH …” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “…I will save you that you may BECOME A BLESSING . ...” (Zechariah 8:13 KJV).“… you were called so that you may inherit a blessing …” (1 Peter 3:9 NIV).“… you will be a blessing …” (Genesis 12:2 NIV).“….God has blessed, and I cannot reverse it!” (Numbers 23:20 NLT).  “…by the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV). “…by the GRACE of God [you are]…what [you are]…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).“… THY BLESSING is upon THY PEOPLE …” (Psalms 3:8 KJV). “… YOU MAKE HIM “MOST” BLESSED forever ; …” (Psalms 21:6 NASB). “… BLESSINGS are on the head of the righteous …” (Proverbs 10:6 NASB).  “… You surround him WITH FAVOR as with a shield …” (Psalms 5:12 NASB).SALVATION IS A MIRACULOUS BLESSING!! “… [God’s SAVED people shall] serve as signs … from the Lord of Heaven’s Armies who dwells in his Temple on Mount Zion…” (Isaiah 8:18 NLT). “… The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (signs, wonders, and miracles) THROUGH each of [them] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).Signs, wonders, and miracles are ALL blessings and favors God’s bestows upon his SAVED people. “…Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who HATH blessed us (the SAVED) with all spiritual blessingsin heavenly places in Christ…” (Ephesians 1:3 KJV).By God’s GRACE you are “A” BLESSING. “…by the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).  God DISPLAYS signs, wonders, and miracles “IN” and “THROUGH” his people by the Holy Spirit. “… The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (signs, wonders, and miracles) THROUGH each of [them] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “… [God’s people shall] serve as signs … from the Lord …” (Isaiah 8:18 NLT).  “… A man 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). “… Every good GIFT and every perfect GIFT is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights…” (James 1:17 KJV).  “… What do you have that God hasn’t given you? And if everything you have is from God, why boast as though it were not a gift?...”(1 Corinthians 4:7 NLT).“…Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable GIFT[S]…” (2 Corinthians  9:16 KJV). “ … We have this treasure “ in” earthen vessels…” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV).  “…[People will]… know (witness through signs, wonders, and miracles) that everything [you]… have IS A GIFT “FROM” [God]…” (John 17:6-9 NLT). “…by the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV). “…by the GRACE of God [you are]…what [you are]…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).“… [God’s people shall] serve as signs … from the Lord …” (Isaiah 8:18 NLT).  “… The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (signs, wonders, and miracles) THROUGH each of [them] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).For instance, “… God gave Paul the power to perform unusual miracles…” (Acts 19:11 NLT). “… 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). “… The Spirit of the Lord [was].. upon [Jesus] , because 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).Signs, wonders, and miracles are acts of God that he DISPLAYS “IN” and “THROUGH” his people by the POWER of his HOLY SPIRIT. These ACTS of God are displayed as EVIDENCE that God is STILL working and demonstrating his POWER upon the earth.The miracle of SALVATION, ALONE, is meant to reinforce Christian faith (dependency). “… Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works' sake…” (John 14:11 KJV). God’s people have experienced, throughout biblical history and in the present, that God has POWER over SIN, death, sickness, demons, and ALL the natural world through signs, wonders, and miracles. God has NOT changed. “… 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).ARE THERE “STILL” SIGNS, WONDERS, AND MIRACLES? YES, GOD HAS GIVEN THOSE WORKS TO HIS PEOPLE. “…I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in me (depends upon me) will do the same works I have done, and even greater works (not different, but more global and expansive), because I am going to be with the Father…” (JOHN 14:12 NLT).