Pensacola Helene Jefferson's Blog, page 24

February 10, 2021

GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, TURNS A "DEAD" SOUL INTO A "LIVING SOUL!"

The spiritually DEADsouls are imprisoned within the body of flesh and the dictates of the five senses, which are totally influenced by the evil one. “…. When you follow the desires (influences) of your 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 NOT inherit the Kingdom of God. …” (Galatians 5:22-23 NLT).

God told Adam and Eve they would “surely die” “... THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). “…[Their] ...INIQUITIES … separated … [them from] ... God [the Holy Spirit or the breath of LIFE]…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). THEY BOTH DIED SPIRITUALLY AS GOD SAID THEY WOULD.

Now every man or woman born, into the world without God’s Holy Spirit,is spiritually dead. “…For all have sinned (all have been born with a sin nature)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “….I was born a sinner—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).

When God’s Holy Spirit is not present, all of mankind is born with ONLY a body of flesh which is a sinful nature, now, that will not and cannot obey God. “….I was born a sinner—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). “…The ...[flesh]... nature...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

God is “spiritual life” and anyone separated from God is “…dead intrespasses and sin (IN that sin nature)...” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV). “…The ...[flesh]... nature...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…For all have sinned (all have been born with a sin nature)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “….I was born a sinner—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).

There is an ongoing DEBATE as to what the SINFUL NATURE is and an enduring attitude about why Adam’s GUILT has been PASSED to all of mankind. Adam could only pass on what he had, which was the flesh nature. It wasn’t so much his guilt he passed on to all mankind, but his sinful nature. Sin, is an INNATE CONDITION of the “this” nature which every male and female is born with, because they inherited it from Adam and Eve, but they did NOT inherit the SPIRIT. "…That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit…” (John 3:6 KJV).

Adam and Eve could ONLY reproduce what they had become; A BODY of FLESH and a SPIRITUALLY DEAD SOUL. They had DIED spiritually and were SEPARATED from God, the Holy Spirit. Thus, “… all have sinned (been born with a flesh nature), and come short of the glory of God (is born without the presence of the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “... [Therefore,] ...through one man sin entered (physical life without the indwelling Holy Spirit entered) into the world, and [spiritual] ...deaththrough sin, and so [spiritual] death passed to all men, for that all sinned (all have been born without the indwelling Holy Spirit]—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). “…All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23).

“….I was born a sinner (I was born without the indwelling holy spirit)—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). If you can be BORN a sinner, then being a sinner is NOT simply what YOU DO or don’t DO, but it is a REALITY of what YOU ARE. “….I was born a sinner —yes, from the moment my mother conceivedme….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). “…The ...[flesh]... nature...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

SINFUL BEHAVIOR is a symptom of what YOU ARE. “….I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). “…The ...[flesh]... nature...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good,but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (the symptoms of the flesh nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…For all have sinned (all have the flesh nature)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).

SIX (6) TRUTHS ABOUT THE SINFUL NATURE: 1.The bible tells us that all of humanity are BORN sinners, because of the FLESH nature. “….I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT) “…The ...[flesh]... nature...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

2. All of humanity will become a slave, in one form or another, to the SINFUL BEHAVIORS produced by the FLESH nature. “…I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…The ...[flesh]... nature...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

3. Without the indwelling Holy Spirit, mankind has NO POWER over the flesh nature.“...Who will free me from this life that is dominated by [the sin nature]?” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “... APART FROM [Christ]... you can do nothing …” (John 15:1-11 NASB). “… [You] … can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth … [you]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).“…The ...[flesh]... nature...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

4. Mankind is left with a flesh nature that ONLY wants to DO EVIL (sin) and CAN ONLY do evil (sin). “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t.I want to do what is good, but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…The sinful nature (body) wants to do evil... so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions. ……” (Galatians 5 NLT).

5. The sin nature is automatically and naturally hostile toward God and is totally incapable of DOING anything righteous or holy. “…The sinful natureis always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

6. The sinful nature and the dictates of the senses, trains the lost soul to practice sin and PROVES that mankind is a SLAVE to the EVIL ONE. “…Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16 KJV).

“…SIN is the transgression of the... [Holy] ... law….” (1 John 3:4 KJV).

“…of every tree of the garden THOU MAYEST FREELY EAT: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou SHALT NOT EAT of it; for in THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). BUT“…The woman [became] ... convinced [to eat from the tree, anyway]... She saw that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “….She [choose to take] ... some of the fruit and [eat] ... IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).

“.... At that moment their eyes were opened…” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).

Adam and Eve ate the apple, the relationship between them and God changed, and immediately their “eyes were opened.” When something is opened to you, it means you have ACCESS to something you didn’t have access to before. They MOVED to a position that OPENED to them an experiential VIEW of life without GOD, the Holy Spirit, which they didn’t have before.

God said they would surely die. “... THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). “.... At that moment (when they disobeyed) their eyes were OPENED [and they changed positions in order to SEE a new perspective of LIFE without God, the Holy Spirit]…” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “…[Their] ...INIQUITIES … separated … [them from] ... God [the Holy Spirit or the BREATHE of LIFE]…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). They became “…DEADin trespasses and sin (lost within a body of flesh, now spiritually dead, without and apart from God, the Holy Spirit)…” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV).

This death was not a physical death where the soul is separated from the body, but it was the spiritual death where the soul is separated from the “Holy Spirit” within the body. “…the body without (apart from) the spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).

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Published on February 10, 2021 09:21

February 9, 2021

GOD, THROUGH JESUS, SAVES YOUR SOUL, BUT YOU CHOOSE TO "DENY" YOUR OWN FLESH

GOD'S SAVES THE SOUL, BUT HIS PEOPLE ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR CHOOSING TO DENY THEIR OWN FLESH

“...I want to do what is right, but I can’t…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

“...I want to do what is good, but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

“…The sinful nature is always hostile to God . …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

“..[The sinful nature]... never did obey God’s laws…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

“..[The sinful nature]... never will (obey god’s holy laws)…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

“…There is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not…” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV).

“…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

The world tries to SAY mankind is basically GOOD, but the bible SAYS, there is NONE good, but God. If anything, upon earth is GOOD, it is because his Holy Spirit is UPON it or a PART of it! “…[god, the holy spirit]... is GOOD…” (Psalm 107:1 KJV). “...there is “NONE” good but one, that is, God...” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). “…There is none righteous, no, not one:” (Romans 3:10 KJV). “…There is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not…” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV). “…ALL HAVE SINNED and fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23).

“…All he DOES (God, the Holy Spirit DOES) is just and GOOD...” (PSALMS 111:7 NLT). “…The fruit of the Spirit is ... GOODness …” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). "....The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives …” (Galatians 5 NLT).“…Apart from [the Holy Spirit]… [mankind cannot]... do nothing [they cannot be GOOD]…” (John 15:5 NIV).“… [ALL have become]…..unclean and [their so-called] righteousnesses (efforts to do good is) as filthy rags….” (Isaiah 64:6 KJV).

“...the flesh (sinful nature) profits nothing…” (John 6:63 NASB). “…The sinful natureis always hostile to God …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “...[The SINFUL NATURE]... never did obeyGod’s (HOLY) laws…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “...[The SINFUL NATURE]... never will…[OBEY GOD’S HOLY LAW]...” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…The sinful naturewants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants ...so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. … …” (Galatians 5 NLT).

THE SINFUL NATURE CAN’T AND WON’T HELP YOU DO RIGHT. “….“…I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

THE SINFUL NATURE CAN’T HELP YOU “BECOME” RIGHT OR RIGHTEOUS. “… [ALL have become]…..unclean and [their so-called] righteousnesses (efforts to do good is) as filthy rags….” (Isaiah 64:6 KJV). “... APART FROM [Christ]... you can do nothing …” (John 15:1-11 NASB).

Mankind, whether you agree or disagree, is NOT basically GOOD, but they are basically SINFUL by NATURE!!! “...The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin (through the sin nature). I don’t really understand myself, for I wantto do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate. So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin that is … within me (within my sin nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

“…The sinful natureis always hostile to God …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “...[The SINFUL NATURE]... never did obeyGod’s (HOLY) laws, and it never will…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants ...so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. ……” (Galatians 5 NLT).

The BIBLE clearly explains the TROUBLE with the SINFUL NATURE and it DOES NOT say it is basically GOOD. In fact, the bible SAYS the SINFUL NATURE wantsto DO EVIL!!!! “…The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants ...so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. … …” (Galatians 5 NLT).

Therefore, the SINFUL NATURE is basically EVIL!!!! “…The sinful nature wants to do evil ……” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…The sinful nature wants to do ... the opposite of what the Spirit wants …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…[god, the holy spirit]... is GOOD…” (Psalm 107:1 KJV). “...The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin...[because of the sinful nature] ...I want to do what is good, but I don’t...” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…you are not free to carry out your good intentions. … …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…There is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not…” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV). “...there is “NONE” good but one, that is, God...” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). “… [ALL (every human being) have become]…..unclean and [their so-called] righteousnesses (efforts to do good is) as filthy rags….” (Isaiah 64:6 KJV). “... APART FROM [the Holy Spirit]... [mankind]... can do nothing [good] …” (John 15:1-11 NASB).“… [they]... are not free to carry out...[their]... good intentions. … ” (Galatians 5 NLT).

Mankind is BASICALLY evil, sorry, but it’s true. The SINFUL NATURE has SIN embedded within its very fiber and it only has an inclination for evil; not righteousness. “…The sinful nature wants to do ... the opposite of what the Spirit wants …” (Galatians 5 NLT).“…The sinful nature wants to do evil …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “….When you follow the desires of your 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 NOT inherit the Kingdom of God. …” (Galatians 5:22-23 NLT).

The Holy Spirit PRODUCES spiritual fruit and the sinful nature PRODUCES evil fruit. “…The sinful nature wants to do evil ……” (Galatians 5 NLT). “...The trouble is with ...[mankind, they are]... all too human, a slave to sin...[because of the sinful nature] ...[they]...want to do what is good, but [they]...don’t...” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… [they were]... born ...[sinners]... (because they were born without the indwelling holy spirit)….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).

The SINFUL NATURE is PROOF that mankind is NOT basically GOOD. Every human being is BORN with a SINFUL NATURE and has EVIL proclivities. “….I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). “...These wicked people are born sinners; even from birth they have lied and gone their own way...” (Psalm 58:3 NLT). “... The wicked are estranged from the womb: they go astray as soon as they be born, speaking lies...” (Psalms 58:3 KJV).

Adam and Eve PASSED this SINFUL NATURE on to their children and all of mankind. “…SIN IS the transgression of ... [God’s holy]...law….” (1 John 3:4 KJV). “...sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death passed to all men, for that all sinned—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). What kind of DEATH? Spiritual death (existence without the indwelling Holy Spirit, who is spiritual life). “...all have sinned (all have a sin nature)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).

Adam and Eve and ALL of their descendants were BORN without the Holy SPIRIT. "…That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit…” (John 3:6 KJV).

“...I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good,but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…the wages of sin (the end result) is [spiritual] death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “…[Now]... all have sinned (all have been born with a sin nature)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).

“...so ...[spiritual]... death passed to all men(women)...“(Romans 5:12 KJV). “...all have sinned (all have been born with a sin nature)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). From generation to generation, descendant to descendant, and year after year the sin nature has been passed down to all of mankind. “…the wages of sin (the end result) is [spiritual] death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV).

Adam and Eve ate the apple, the relationship between them and God changed, and immediately their “eyes were opened,” to a life without GOD, the Holy Spirit.

God said they would surely die. “... THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). “.... At that moment (when they disobeyed) their eyes were opened…” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “…[Their] ...INIQUITIES … separated … [them from] ... God [the Holy Spirit or the BREATHE of LIFE]…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). They became “…DEADin trespasses and sin (lost within a dead body of flesh without God, the Holy Spirit)…” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV).

This death was not a physical death where the soul is separated from the body, but it was the spiritual death where the soul is separated from the “Holy Spirit” within the body.

God said, “….let us make man in our image, after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…..God created man (woman) in his own image…..male and female created he them…”(Genesis 1:27 KJV). “….God formed man(woman) of the dust of the ground (body), and breathed into his(her) nostrils the breath of life (HIS Spirit, his likeness); and man(woman) became a LIVING soul (soul)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). When “…God saw everything he had made……and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

The SPIRITenables us to have communication and covenant connection with God AND HE WITH US. The indwelling Holy Spirit ALSO ENABLES US TO engage, interact, and have a real experience with HIS PRESENCE, his GOODNESS, and his working POWER. God’s Holy Spirit also allows us to be uniquely intimate with him through a holy, unique, “oneness” relationship. “…He (she) that is JOINED unto the Lord (Jesus) is ONE Spirit…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “… [God’s] Love … is the perfect BOND of unity...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB). “…that they may all be one (bonded by love); even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us…” (John 17:21-23 NASB).

The BODY of flesh is given to us by God to communicate with the natural world. Through the body the soul can EXPERIENCE, ENGAGE, AND INTERACT WITH everything in the natural world. The body enables the soul to experience, engage and interact with the natural world through the SENSES (sight, smell, sound, taste, touch).

When the body is ENGAGED through the SENSES it ENABLES the SOUL to learn and experience THINGS in the natural world. The SENSES enables the SOUL to learn and experience THINGS in the natural world by sending INFORMATION to the heart (brain), which informs the thoughts. The heart (brain), the information center of the soul helps the soul perceive or observe the world.

The SENSES enable the SOUL to learn and experience THINGS in the world, which will influence HOW they MAKE decisions and choices. The body of flesh is ACTIVATED by the SENSES. The SENSES will DICTATE how the body of flesh engages, interacts, and experiences the natural world, which will influence how the SOUL also engages, interacts, and experiences the world.

The body of flesh was not CREATED to obey God, but to be a vessel and servant for the soul and Spirit to interact in the world. “…The [flesh]...nature ... never did obey God’s laws, and it never will…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

THE BODY OF FLESH CAN’T OBEY GOD, BECAUSE IT WASN’T CREATED TO OBEY, BUT IT WAS CREATED TO BE A VESSEL AND SERVANT.

A FORK, BOWL, PLATE, COUCH, COAT, TELEVISION WAS CREATED TO SERVE ITS PURPOSE “ONLY.” THESE THINGS WILL DO “ONLY” WHAT THEY WERE CREATED TO DO AND WILL NOT OBEY ANY OTHER COMMAND OR SERVE ANY OTHER PURPOSE.

Therefore, the body of flesh cannot and will NOT obey God, but it will OBEY the SENSES by engaging, interacting, and experiencing the natural world as it was CREATED to do.

The problem COMES because the natural WORLD is FILLED with LUST and PRIDE, which doesn’t come from God. “.. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT).

The body of flesh engages, interacts, and experiences the natural world through the senses and the natural world is under the power and influence of the evil one. “...the whole (natural) world lies underthe power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV).

The soul, therefore, is engaging, interacting, and experiencing with natural life, in a world, which leads them – through the body of flesh - inadvertently toward obedience to the evil one whose goal is to enslave their senses. “...the whole world lies underthe power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV).

The body of flesh enables the soul to engage, interact, and experience the world, which heavily influences them to learn and make decisions based on the information sent to the heart (brain) from “that” world. “...the whole world lies underthe power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV).

The soul becomes inadvertently obedient to the evil one, through the senses and thus become HIS willing servants THROUGH the body of flesh (sinful nature). “…Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16 KJV).

“…The [flesh]...nature ... never did obey God’s laws, and it never will…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

The body of flesh has been controlled, by the evil one, through the senses, for a long time and the body of flesh develops strongholds, such as habits, obsessions, addictions, and memories, to ensure the evil one’s continual dictatorship over men and women’s SOULS. “...the whole world lies underthe power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV).

These formations of behavior - influenced by the EVIL ONE who used the body of flesh, through the senses - become automatic behaviorsover long periods of time and practice. “...the whole world lies under the power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV).

These automatic behaviors are often done by the body of flesh, without total awareness one is doing them or without permission from the SOUL. The SOUL may WANT to do right, but it CAN’T. “…The ...[flesh]... nature...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will.…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “...I am all too human, a slave to sin (the body of flesh through the senses) ...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 (nature or body of flesh through the senses) that is … within me (from information within my heart (brain) etc.) …” (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…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

The evil one uses and puts into your intimate and immediate environments, all kinds of triggers that continually condition sinful behavior through the senses. These triggers work by dictating how the body of flesh engages the soul with the things of the world. “...I am all too human, a slave to sin (the body of flesh through the senses) ...I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

These triggers also aid in the evil one’s ability to dictate destructive behavior, through the senses, using the body of flesh while imprisoning the soul at the same time (classical conditioning). “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am, the soul is] …a slave to the sin (nature or body of flesh through the senses) that is … within me (within my heart, mind, etc.) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

The evil one uses and puts into place pleasurable reward systems, which involve the pleasure center of the brain (heart) and specific, sinful behavior, through the senses.

When the pleasure center of the brain (heart) and a specific sinful behavior, through the senses, are LINKED together they will continually encourage the practice of “that” behavior, through the senses, using the body of flesh while imprisoning the soul at the same time (operant conditioning). “......I want to do what is right, but I can’t.I want to do what is good, but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

The evil one uses and puts into place role models and idols that will entice the soul through the “lust of the eyes” or “lust of the flesh” to duplicate the same sinful behaviors. The EVIL ONE will use one or more of the senses, through the body of flesh. For example, he may use SIGHT to influence perception, learning, or to observe what others are doing to entice the soul (observational conditioning). “BUT“…The woman ...saw that 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).

All conditioning of the body of flesh, done through the SENSES enables the SOUL to learn and experience the THINGS of the natural world, while sending information to the brain(heart), which informs the thoughts and in turn, directs behavior.

All conditioning influences how the SOUL makes decisions and choices using the information learned through the body of flesh and dictated by the SENSES. Thus, all conditioning IMPACT the information sent to the heart (brain), which inform thoughts that ultimately influence BEHAVIOR

“… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (heart)….”(Romans 12:2 KJV).

Sinful behaviors learned and practiced through the body of flesh and dictated by the senses become formations of behavior, especially over a long period of time. Some of these formations of behavior, particularly the ones that include the pleasure center of the brain (heart), HARDEN or CEMENT, because of a lifetime of practice, making them extremely DIFFICULT to break or stop. “…Can an Ethiopian change his skin or a leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil…” (Jeremiah 13:23 NIV). “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

“…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

Godspeed,

Dr. Pensacola

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Published on February 09, 2021 07:54

February 8, 2021

GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, SAVES "YOUR" LIFE

GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, SAVES “YOUR” LIFE (SOUL)

“...you must spare his life..." (Job 2:6 NIV).

“... they brought Daniel and threw him into the lions’ den ...” (Daniel 6:16-18 NIV). “… the most mighty men ...[bound]... Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and ...cast them into the burning fiery furnace…” (DANIEL 3). “...the Sabeans attacked and made off with them...“The fire of God fell from the heavens and burned up the sheep and the servants ...“The Chaldeans formed three raiding parties and swept down on your camels and made off with them. ...“Your sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house ...they are dead...” (Job 1:13-20 NIV). “...he proceeded to seize Peter also ...[and]... Peter was kept in prison...” (Acts 12:1-5 NIV). “...they smote him with their hands… they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. y…” (John 19:1-16 KJV). “...And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the LORD...” (Job 1:12 KJV), “...save his life (soul)...” (Job 2:6 KJV).

God’s people go through trials and tribulations just like the rest of the world. They SUFFER from or are HARMED by events or actions that are violent, destructive, injurious, heart-breaking, and life changing.

These events and actions are “often” OUT of their control, have disrupted their normal routines, and have turned life UPSIDE down for them.

These events or actions also have caused God’s people GREAT hurt and have changed the course of their lives just like everyone else’s. These events or actions have IMPACTED normal existence, for God’s people, upon earth, in a MAJOR way, spiritually, physically, emotionally, financially, and mentally....just like EVERYONE else.

God’s children witness or themselves face the terrible deaths of family and friends, unfair treatments, divorce, unexpected sicknesses or disease, evil people, stock market crashes, lost jobs, injustices, hunger, sudden tragedies, fiery furnaces, lion dens, prison, etc.

However, God has TOLD the evil one NOT to touch his righteous children or harm their lives. “...For after all it is only right for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you...” (2 Thessalonians 1:6 NASB). “...it is written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord...” (Romans 12:19 NASB). “…do them (my childeren NO) wrong...” and “….touch not mine anointed (his righteous children who are set apart for his service) and do…[them] no harm...” (Psalm 105:14-15 KJV).

REMEMBER, “...The LORD said to Satan, "Very well, then, everything he has is in your power, but on the man himself do not lay a finger." Then Satan went out from the presence of the LORD...” (Job 1:12 NIV). “...All right, you may test him,” the LORD said to Satan. “Do whatever you want with everything he possesses, but don’t harm him ...” So Satan left the LORD’s presence....” (Job 1:12 NLT). “...Then the LORD said to Satan, “Behold, all that he has is in your power; only do not reach out and put your hand on him.” So Satan departed from the presence of the LORD...” (Job 1:12 NASB). “...And Jehovah said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thy hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of Jehovah...” (Job 1:12 ASV).

“...WHATEVERyou did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, YOU DID [IT] FOR ME…” (Matthew 25:35-41 KJV). “…ye have done it unto me…”(Matthew 25: 40 KJV). “...it is written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord...” (Romans 12:19 NASB).

For this blog the HUMAN soul will be defined as the part of mankind that is NOT physical, but CONSIST of their LIFE and personhood. It is the lost SOUL (life, person) that Jesus came to SEEK and SAVE. “…[God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus].... came to seek and to save THAT WHICH WAS LOST…” (Luke 19:10 KJV). “ receivethe word (Jesus) implanted, which is able to SAVE YOUR SOULS….” (James 1:21 NASB).

“…What shall it profit a man (woman), if he (she) shall gain the whole world, and lose his (her) own soul (LIFE, person)?...” (Mark 8:36 KJV). “...And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, he is in thine hand; but save his life (soul, person)...” (Job 2:6 KJV). “...you must spare his life..." (Job 2:6 NIV).

Life is often interchanged, in theological studies of the scriptures, for SOUL, the WHOLE being of a person, which is also immaterial.

Thus, the bible says: “…a man's (woman’s) life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he (she) possesseth…” (Luke 12:15 KJV).When Job’s earthly wealth, prosperity, family, physical well-being, and possessions were gone the devil thought Job would SURELY stop SERVING God, the Holy Spirit.

Satan tried to PROVE that Job’s LIFE were “IN” or attached to his earthly treasures and those outside possessions were HIS whole world. In addition, like so many of God’s children, today, he ONLY served HIM for the BOUNTIFUL BLESSINGS and GIFTS. “...Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land.But now stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.” (Job 1:7-12 NIV).

Job OPENLY expressed his opinion about his personal “trials and tribulations”. “…Shall we (God’s children) accept good from God, and not trouble?...” (Job 2:10 NIV). Many of God’s people can say: “…‘We’ve GIVEN up everything to follow you…” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).

No MATTER what is LOST or GAINED, God’s children continue to LOVE and TRUST God, the Holy Spirit, will ALL THEIR SOUL. “…[They are to]...love the Lord [their] ...God with all [their] ...heart and with all [their]... soul and with all your strength and with all your mind…” (Luke 10:27 KJV).

God’s people KNOW, through it all, “…he [God, the Holy Spirit]... 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).

“…[Thus,]...a man's (woman’s) life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he (she) possesseth…” (Luke 12:15 KJV). “…Anyone who wants to be [God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus’]... follower must love [him] far morethan he (she) does his (her) own father, mother, wife, children, brothers, or sisters—yes, more than his (her) own life —otherwise he (she) cannot be my disciple...” (Luke 14:26 NLT).“.. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever...” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT).

King David said: “... I desire you more than anything on earth...” (Psalm 73:23-26 NLT). “….everything else (people you treasure, material wealth, the earthen vessel, etc.,) is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [God’s children’s]… Lord...” (Philippians 3:8 NLT). “...I ...belong to you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. Whom have I in heaven but you?I desire you more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever...” (Psalm 73:23-26 NLT). “...Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none [and nothing].... upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever...” (Psalm 73:25-26 KJV). “... I said to the Lord, “You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you...” (Psalm 16:2 NLT).

For a SHORT time, especially compared to ETERNITY, God’s people may experience “trials, tribulations, and testings,” but can REMAIN peaceful, calm, and dependent upon God, the Holy Spirit, through them ALL. Their LIFE is SAFELY in his hands.“...save his life (soul)...” (Job 2:6 KJV). “…I have learned to be CONTENT whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation,whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).

“… I can do (be CONTENT in the midst of) all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “… The Lord is my shepherd; I SHALL not want. … …”(Psalms 23 KJV). “…All things [are NOT good, but they]... work together for GOOD to them that LOVE GOD, to them who are THE CALLED to his purpose” (Romans 8:28 KJV). “….all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come…” (Job 14:14 KJV).

“…God is the one who provides …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). “… God will supply all [his children’s need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “[God] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of it ALL]…” (2 Corinthians 12 NLT).

“...Then Jesus went to work on his disciples. “Anyone who intends to come with me has to let me lead. You’re not in the driver’s seat; I am. Don’t run from suffering; embrace it. Follow me and I’ll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, my way, to finding yourself, your true self. What kind of deal is it to get everything you want but lose yourself? What could you ever trade your soul for?...” (Matthew 16:25-26 MSG). “...For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?...”(Matthew 16:25-26 NIV).

Satan told God, the Holy Spirit: “…strike everything [Job]... has, and he will surely curse you to your face?…” (Job 1:7-12 NIV). G

God, the Holy Spirit, may have allowed adversity into Job’s situations and circumstances, it doesn’t mean he was being punished or had fallen into God’s disfavor.

In fact, God, the Holy Spirit, had COMPLIMENTED Job on his righteous conduct. It was SATAN, the evil one, who was Job’s accuser. He tried to ACCUSE Job of ONLY serving God, the Holy Spirit, for his EASY, FAVORABLE existence upon earth. “...Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. But now stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face...” (Job 1:7-12 NIV).

However, Job PROVED the enemy WRONG. Job OPENLY declared his attitude about his terrible losses or tragedies. “…Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?...” (Job 2:10 NIV). “…the faithful followers of the Lord (like job) … keep their promises even when it hurts…” (Psalm 15:4 NLT).

Job suffered DEEP, GRIEVING emotional pain over his losses, but he didn’t allow his feelings to make him abandon God or become angry or bitter against HIM for his undeserved trials, tribulations, or testings.

God, the Holy Spirit, ALLOWED Satan to TEST Job. Job LOST people his treasured, in his heart, through murder or violent storms and all of his material wealth through thievery or violent storms too.Job knew “... Every good thing...[he had came]... from [God, the Holy Spirit, anyway]...” (Psalm 16:2 NLT).

Job said, “…Naked I came from my mother’s womb, And naked I shall return there.The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord…” Job 1:20-22 NASB).

Job also said, “...though he slay me (though it feels like God is killing me emotionally, physically, mentally, etc.,), yet will I (MY SOUL) trust in him…” (Job 13:15 KJV). “…Through all this Job did not sin nor did he blame God…” (Job 1:20-22 NASB).

“...The steps of a good man (woman) are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his (her) way” (Psalms 37:23 KJV). “..though he slay me, yet will I trust in him…” (Job 13:15 KJV). Satan “…intended to harm [Job,], but God intended it for ... [Job’s]...good...” Genesis 50:20 NIV).

“…The plans [God has]…for [his children are]… plans to prosper [them] and not to harm [them]...” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV).“…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…Love does NO HARM to his neighbor …” (Romans 13:10 NASB). “…Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man (woman), the things which God hath prepared for them that love him...” (1 Corinthians 2:9 KJV).

Let’s take a look at JOSEPH. “... they stript Joseph out of his coat, his coat of many colours that was on him; And they took him, and cast him into a pit: and the pit was empty, there was no water in it … Then there passed by Midianites merchantmen; and they drew and lifted up Joseph out of the pit, and sold Joseph (AS A SLAVE) to the Ishmeelites for twenty pieces of silver: and they brought Joseph into Egypt... [Later]...Potiphar’s wife ... began to look at him lustfully. “Come and sleep with me,” she demanded. But Joseph refused ...Potiphar was furious when he heard his wife’s story [which was “not” true]... about how Joseph had treated her. So he took Joseph and threw him into the prison where the king’s prisoners were held, and there he remained (A PRISONER)...” (Genesis 39 NIV).

One of the reasons God may have allowed JOSEPH to go through slavery and prison was to demonstrate that DETOURS and DELAYS serve the purpose of discipline and preparation for the CALLING upon the lives of God’s children. “…Joseph, being seventeen years old, was feeding the flock with his brethren … Now Joseph had a dream … and his brothers said to him, “Shall you indeed reign over us? Or shall you indeed have dominion over us?” …” (Genesis 37: 2, 5-14, 41:37-46).

ONE DAY HIS BROTHERS“...sold Joseph (AS A SLAVE) to the Ishmeelites... [and later]...Joseph ...[was thrown]... into the prison where the king’s prisoners were held, and there he remained (A PRISONER for years)...” (Genesis 39 NIV). “….All things [are NOT good, but they]... work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose…” (Hebrews 13:5 & ROMANS 8:28 KJV).

“...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). “….For whom the Lord loveth he CORRECTETH…” (Proverbs 3:12 KJV).

YEARS later, “...Pharaoh sent for Joseph, and he was quickly brought from the dungeon. …“ You shall be in chargeof my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders. Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you.”…So Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I hereby put you in charge of the whole land of Egypt.” … Thus he put him in charge of the whole land of Egypt…”(Genesis 41 NIV).

Joseph said to his brothers, who had been unfair, unjust to him, and used by Satan to take EVERYTHING from him: “…ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good…” (Genesis 50:20 KJV). “...Joseph was thirty years old when he stood before Pharaoh king of Egypt” (Genesis 37: 2, 5-14, 41:37-46).

In the New Testament, HEROD “...proceeded to seize Peter also ...[and]... Peter was kept in prison...” (Acts 12:1-5 NIV).

One of the reasons God may have allowed PETER to be LOCKED up was to demonstrate HOW the POWER of PRAYER can accomplish a LOT when, his children, trust and depend upon God to ANSWER. “...[At]... the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, ... many people had gathered and were praying. Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant named Rhoda came to answer the door. When she recognized Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, “Peter is at the door!...” (Acts 12:12-14 NIV).

“...The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance....” (Acts 12:6-11 NIV).

“...Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists. Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,” the angel told him. Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him. Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from Herod’s clutchesand from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen...” (Acts 12:6-11 NIV).

God, the Holy Spirit SAYS: “….call upon me …and pray unto me and I will [LISTEN] unto you…” (Jeremiah 29:12-13 KJV). “...I am the one who answers your prayers and cares for you...” (Hosea 14:5-9 NASB).

“... I (King David) said to the Lord, “You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you...” (Psalm 16:2 NLT). “...Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none [and nothing].... upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever...” (Psalm 73:25-26 KJV).

King David was expressing that HIS LIFE and his WHOLE WORLD was made up of and attached to God, the Holy Spirit, who was his PORTION. “... my portion for ever...” (Psalm 73:25-26 KJV).

This means God, the Holy Spirit, was his INHERITANCE no matter WHAT he lost while living upon earth. God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus GIVES each of his children “this” INHERITANCE, equally. “… [Everyone] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus Christ is the PORTION or INHERITANCE of his people. God, the Holy Spirit, has GIVEN his people the “ALL” the RICHES of his GLORY through Jesus Christ. “… the riches of the glory (PRESENCE, GOODNESSES, and POWER of God)…” (Colossians 1:27 NASB).

Mankind call themselves RICH or wealthy, but it is only TEMPORARY. God, the Holy Spirit, is RICH in EVERLASTING, eternal, and permanent WAYS.There is “... the riches of His grace...” (Ephesians 1:7-8 NASB). “…He is “SO” RICH in kindness…” (Ephesians 1:7 NLT). “…the riches of his glorious inheritance (bountiful spiritual blessings)…” (Ephesian 1:18 NIV).“... RICH IN MERCY (debt of sin, paid in full)…” (Ephesians 2:1-5 KJV). (Isaiah 63:9 NASB).“… the riches…of [God’s]….wisdom and … [revelation]...knowledge…” (Roman 11:33-34). “…He is “SO” RICH ...that he purchased [mankind’s]... freedom [from sin]...with the blood of his Son and forgave [“all” their]... sins…” (Ephesians 1:7 NLT). “...the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering...” (Romans 2:4 ASV). “… HIDDEN RICHES of SECRET PLACES…” (ISAIAH 45:3).“…[God] …will generously (RICHLY) PROVIDE all … [mankind’s] need…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

God is the SOURCE of ALL his people’s NEED. “…My God WILL SUPPLY ALL [your need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).“…The LORD will perfect (take care of) that which concerneth [his people]…” (PSALM 138:8). God’s children, no matter what they lose, while upon earth, are NEVER destitute.

Whatever people treasures, material blessings, or personal, heartfelt possessions a man or woman has, outside of God, the Holy Spirit, those things will NEVER be as VALUABLE as the inheritance they have through Jesus Christ, who is WITHIN their heart. “...My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever...” (Psalm 73:25-26 KJV). “...Every good thing I have comes from you...” (Psalm 16:2 NLT).

When God truly becomes his people’s LIFE and WHOLE WORLD, whatever they may GAIN or LOSE, while upon earth, will TEACH them to continually trust and depend upon the FAITHFUL creator. “...Trust in the Lord with all [YOUR]... heart; and lean not unto [YOUR]... own understanding. In all [YOUR] ways [God’s children are to]... acknowledge him, and he shall direct [their]... paths”(Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “… be not afraid, only believe...” (Mark 5:36 KJV).

God’s children will learn to REMAIN peaceful and content, no matter what, because the WORK of PATIENCE has taught them they “never” LACK ANYTHING. “… [So]...let patience have her perfect (maturing) work, that [God’s people] may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing...”(James 1:2-6 KJV). “…I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).

“...He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord , He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust ...” (Psalm 91 KJV).

“...God is the strength of [his people’s]... heart, and [their]... portion for ever...” (Psalm 73:25-26 KJV).

“...Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shallbe thy shieldand buckler...” (Psalm 91 KJV).

God will “…never leave nor forsake you… …” (Hebrews 13:5).“... I said to the Lord, “You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you...” (Psalm 16:2 NLT). “...Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none [and nothing].... upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever...” (Psalm 73:25-26 KJV).

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Published on February 08, 2021 09:20

February 7, 2021

LOSE OR GAIN, UPON EARTH, GOD WILL ALWAYS REMAIN YOUR PORTION

WHATEVER I GAIN OR LOSE, GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, WILL REMAIN MY PORTION!

These events and actions are “often” OUT of their control, have disrupted their normal routines, and have turned life UPSIDE down for them.

These events or actions also have caused God’s people GREAT hurt and have changed the course of their lives just like everyone else’s. These events or actions have hurt, changed, and IMPACTED earthly normal, for God’s people, in a MAJOR way, spiritually, physically, emotionally, financially, and mentally....just like EVERYONE else.

God’s children face terrible deaths of family and friends, unfair treatments, divorce, unexpected sicknesses or disease, evil people, stock market crashes, lost jobs, injustices, hunger, sudden tragedies, fiery furnaces, lion dens, prison, etc.

However, God has TOLD the evil one NOT to touch his righteous children or harm them. “...For after all it is only right for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you...” (2 Thessalonians 1:6 NASB). “...it is written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord...” (Romans 12:19 NASB). “…do them (my people NO) wrong...” and “….touch not mine anointed (his righteous children who are set apart for his service) and do…[them] no harm.” (Psalm 105:14-15 KJV).

“…What shall it profit a man (woman), if he (she) shall gain the whole world, and lose his (her) own soul (LIFE, person)?...” (Mark 8:36 KJV). “...And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, he is in thine hand; but save his life (soul, person)...” (Job 2:9 KJV). Life is often interchanged, in the study of the scriptures, for SOUL.

Satan tried to PROVE that Job’s LIFE and possessions were HIS whole world and like so many of God’s children, today, he ONLY served HIM for the BOUNTIFUL BLESSINGS and GIFTS. “...Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land.But now stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.” (Job 1:7-12 NIV).

Job OPENLY expressed his opinion about his personal “trials and tribulations”. “…Shall we (God’s children) accept good from God, and not trouble?...” (Job 2:10 NIV). No MATTER what is LOST or GAINED, God’s children continue to LOVE and TRUST him will ALL THEIR SOUL. “…[They are to]...love the Lord [their] ...God with all [their] ...heart and with all [their]... soul and with all your strength and with all your mind…” (Luke 10:27 KJV).

“…a man's (woman’s) life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he (she) possesseth…” (Luke 12:15 KJV). “…Anyone who wants to be [God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus’]... follower must love [him] far morethan he (she) does his (her) own father, mother, wife, children, brothers, or sisters—yes, more than his (her) own life—otherwise he (she) cannot be my disciple...” (Luke 14:26 NLT).“.. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever...” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT).

King David said: “... I desire you more than anything on earth...” (Psalm 73:23-26 NLT). “….everything else (people, material wealth, the physical body, etc.,) is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [my]… Lord...” (Philippians 3:8 NLT). “...I ...belong to you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. Whom have I in heaven but you?I desire you more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever...” (Psalm 73:23-26 NLT). “...Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none [and nothing].... upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever...” (Psalm 73:25-26 KJV). “... I said to the Lord, “You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you...” (Psalm 16:2 NLT).

For a SHORT time, especially compared to ETERNITY, God’s people may experience “trials, tribulations, and testing,” but can REMAIN peaceful, calm, and dependent upon God, the Holy Spirit. Their LIFE is SAFELY in his hands.“...save his life (soul)...” (Job 2:9 KJV). “…I have learned to be CONTENT whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation,whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).

Satan told God, the Holy Spirit: “…strike everything [Job]... has, and he will surely curse you to your face?…” (Job 1:7-12 NIV).

Job knew “... Every good thing...[he had came]... from [God, the Holy Spirit, anyway]...” (Psalm 16:2 NLT). Job said, “…Naked I came from my mother’s womb, And naked I shall return there. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord…” Job 1:20-22 NASB).

Job also said, “...though he slay me (though it feels like God is killing me), yet will I (MY SOUL) trust in him…” (Job 13:15 KJV). “…Through all this Job did not sin nor did he blame God…” (Job 1:20-22 NASB).

“...The steps of a good man (woman) are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his (her) way” (Psalms 37:23 KJV). “..though he slay me (or it feels like HE’S killing me), yet will I trust in him…” (Job 13:15 KJV). Satan “…intended to harm [Job,], but God intended it for ...[Job’s]...good...” Genesis 50:20 NIV).

One of the reasons God may have allowed JOSEPH to go through slavery and prison was to demonstrate that DETOURS and DELAYS serve the purpose of discipline and preparation for the CALLING on the lives of God’s children. “…Joseph, being seventeen years old, was feeding the flock with his brethren … Now Joseph had a dream … and his brothers said to him, “Shall you indeed reign over us? Or shall you indeed have dominion over us?” …” (Genesis 37: 2, 5-14, 41:37-46).

In the New Testament, HEROD “...proceeded to seize Peter also ...[and]... Peter was kept in prison...” (Acts 12:1-5 NIV).

“... I said to the Lord, “You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you...” (Psalm 16:2 NLT). “...Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none [and nothing].... upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever...” (Psalm 73:25-26 KJV).

King David was expressing that HIS LIFE and his WHOLE WORLD was made up of God, the Holy Spirit, who was his PORTION.

This means God, the Holy Spirit, was his INHERITANCE. God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus GIVES each of his children an INHERITANCE, equally. “… [Everyone] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus Christ is the PORTION or INHERITANCE of his people. God, the Holy Spirit, has GIVEN his people the RICHES of his presence, his goodnesses, and his working POWER through Jesus Christ. “… the richesof the glory (PRESENCE, GOODNESSES, and POWER of God)…” (Colossians 1:27 NASB).

God, the Holy Spirit, is RICH. There is “... the riches of His grace...” (Ephesians 1:7-8 NASB). “…He is “SO” RICH in kindness…” (Ephesians 1:7 NLT). “…the riches of his glorious inheritance (bountiful spiritual blessings)…” (Ephesian 1:18 NIV).“... RICH IN MERCY (debt of sin, paid in full)…” (Ephesians 2:1-5 KJV). (Isaiah 63:9 NASB).“… the riches…of [God’s]….wisdom and … [revelation]...knowledge….” (Roman 11:33-34). “…He is “SO” RICH ...that he purchased [mankind’s]... freedom [from sin]...with the blood of his Son and forgave [“all” their]... sins…” (Ephesians 1:7 NLT). “...the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering...” (Romans 2:4 ASV). “… HIDDEN RICHES of SECRET PLACES…” (ISAIAH 45:3).“…[God] …will generously (RICHLY) PROVIDE all … [mankind] need…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

God is the SOURCE of ALL his people NEED. “…My God WILL SUPPLY ALL [your need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…The LORD will perfect (take care of) that which concerneth [you]…” (PSALM 138:8). Whatever material blessings and possessions a man or woman has, outside of God, the Holy Spirit, will NEVER be as VALUABLE as the inheritance they have through Jesus Christ.

“...My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever...” (Psalm 73:25-26 KJV). “...Every good thing I have comes from you...” (Psalm 16:2 NLT).

When God his people’s LIFE and WHOLE WORLD, whatever they may GAIN or LOSE, upon earth, they will REMAIN content, because they NEED nothing else. “…I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).

“...God is the strength of [his people’s]... heart, and [their]... portion for ever...” (Psalm 73:25-26 KJV).

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Published on February 07, 2021 12:02

February 4, 2021

WHY SHOULD GOD'S PEOPLE BE GLAD GOD IS A GOD OF VENGEANSE AND "NOT" REVENGE?

GOD IS A GOD OF HOLY JUSTICE: REAPING WHAT YOU SOW?

“...Avenge not yourselves, beloved, but give place unto the wrath of God, for it is written: "Vengeance (making things JUST) belongeth unto to me; I will recompense (MAKE IT FAIR AND RIGHT
)," saith the Lord” (Romans 12:19 ASV).

“…his ways are just....” (Daniel 4 NIV).God’s JUSTICE is “NOT” mankind’s JUSTICE, but his JUST ways, which are righteous, are FAR and ABOVE those of mankind. “…his ways [are often]… past finding out…” (Romans 11:33-34 KJV). “… [God’s] ... thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways ... [his] … ways ... as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are … [his] … ways higher than you[r] …. ways and … [his] … thoughts than your thoughts…” (Isaiah 55:8-9 ASV).

God’s WAYS are not the WAYS of mankind. Therefore his JUSTICE cannot be SEEM or UNDERSTOOD as MERE revenge. God’s JUSTICE is about DOING the right thing or restoring things BACK to righteous ORDER. “... for God is not a God of confusion, but of peace...” (1 Corinthians 14:33 NASB).

God’s spiritual system is one of JUSTICE, which stands AGAINST unrighteous and ungodliness by RESTORING “ALL” things back to righteous and godliness through correction or fair judgement. “...God doesn’t stir us up into confusion; he brings us into harmony...” (1 Corinthians 14:33 MSG). “... I am the Lord who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth...” (Jeremiah 9:23-24 NLT).

God’s JUSTICE requires EVERY person to PAY their DEBT for ALL WRONGS or SINS committed against HIM and others. “…SIN IS the transgression of the law (violation of God’s instruction)….” (1 John 3:4 KJV). “…The wages of sin is death (spiritual death and eternal SEPARATION from God, the Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 6:23 KJV).

God’s JUSTICE is the supernatural consequence, accountability, or retribution that is REQUIRED to be PAID in order to SATISFY a WRONG committed by a GUILTY person upon God, the Holy Spirit, LIFE or another human being. “…The wages (DEBT) of sin is death …” (Romans 6:23 KJV).

Thus, God’s JUSTICE is fair, merited, honest, equitable, impartial, and retributive. “…whatsoever a man (woman) soweth, that shall he (she) also reap…” (Galatians 6:7 KJV). God’s JUSTICE gives EVERYONE what is DUE to them based on their OWN choices, actions, and treatment of others.

Suffering, sickness, death, loss of jobs, hunger, or other troubles or difficulties are not about God punishing sin. “... Here on earth [God’s people]... will have many trials and sorrows..." (John 16:44 NLT).

God’s CALL to repentance is for EVERYONE, whether rich, poor, well-off, struggling, or they, too, WILL perish. "…REPENT AND RETURN, “SO” that your sins (YOUR DEBT) may be wiped away…” (Acts 3:19 NASB). “…The wages (DEBT) of sin is death …” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “…EXCEPT YE REPENT, ye shall all likewise PERISH…” (Luke 13:3 KJV).

God’s people DO go through difficult trials and tribulations, while upon earth and they DON’T always reap what they sow from their situations or receive fair reciprocity from people. God, the Holy Spirit is their JUSTICE. “…[God’s people, like Jesus choose to completely]… entrusted [themselves]... to him who judges justly...” (1 Peter 2:19-23 NIV).

God’s people may say: “…‘We’ve GIVEN up everything to follow you…” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT). God, the Holy Spirit, said through Jesus: “…I assure you that everyone who has GIVEN UP house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for MY SAKE and for the GOOD NEWS, will “RECEIVE NOW” in return a hundred times as many houses, brother, sisters, mothers, children, and property – along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life...” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, promises all the things his people ENDURE and SUFFER for righteousness sake will ALL work together for good for them that LOVE HIM. “... Here on earth [God’s people]... will have many trials and sorrows..." (John 16:44 NLT). “…all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose…” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV).“…I assure you that everyone who has GIVEN UPhouse or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for MY SAKE and for the GOOD NEWS,will “RECEIVE NOW” in return a hundred times as many [whatever]– along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life...” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).

God’s JUSTICE is NOT revenge upon a wrong or sinful behavior, but a fair and equitable RESPONSE to mankind’s OWN sinful choices, unrighteous actions, and wrongful treatment of others. “…The wages (DEBT) of sin is death …” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “…All have sinned and fallen short of the glory …” (Romans 3:23).

God’s JUSTICE is also CALLED his wrath, punishment, or judgement. It is also, in reality, a DEBT of accountability or responsibility OWED to God, the Holy Spirit, LIFE, or another human being, as a consequence of one’s unrighteous ACTIONS.

“…But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Whoever hits you on the cheek, offer him the other also; and whoever takes away your coat, do not withhold your shirt from him either. Give to everyone who asks of you, and whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back. Treat others the same way you want them to treat you. If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is thatto you? For even sinners do the same. If you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners in order to receive back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men.Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. “Do not judge, and you will not be judged; and do not condemn, and you will not be condemned; pardon, and you will be pardoned.Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, andrunning over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return…” (Luke 6:27-38 NASB).

God’s JUSTICE is usually BASED on internal realities (what’s IN the HEART)whether than external HAPPENINGS (or mere ACTIONS). God’s JUSTICE is always about STANDING UP for what is genuinely and authentically RIGHT and GOOD.

God, the Holy Spirit, is immutably RIGHTEOUS and GOOD on purpose and for NO other reason but his HOLY, benevolent, grace-filled LOVE toward mankind. “...For the Lord is a God of justice...” (Isaiah 30:18 NASB).“...For all His ways are just...” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NASB). “...the King loves justice...” (Psalm 99:4 NASB). “… Thou are GOODand doestGOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV). “...The Lord is GOOD...” (Nahum 1:7 KJV). “...there is none good but one, that is, God” (Mark 10:18 KJV).

God is the HOLY example of RIGHT (JUST) behavior, which he exemplifies through his HOLY nature, divine character, and benevolent kindnesses toward those who do NOT deserve it. “…GOODand upright is the Lord…”(Psalm 25:8 KJV). “…his ways are just....” (Daniel 4 NIV).“… God’sGRACE … is—free and undeserved…” (Romans 11:5 NLT).

God’s JUSTICE and GOODNESS is part of his HOLY nature and divine character. “…for I the Lord am holy,. …” (Leviticus 20:26 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “… Thou are GOODand doestGOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV). “...a God of justice...” (Isaiah 30:18 NASB).

God’s JUSTICE and GOODNESS is God’s WAY of being or behaving and he NEVER changes. “…for he is GOOD…” (Psalm 107:1 KJV). “…For thou, Lord, is GOOD…” (Psalm 86:5 KJV). “...ALL His ways are just...” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NASB). “…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 demonstrates his JUSTICE and GOODNESS toward mankind. “…Oh how great is thy GOODNESS…” (Psalm 31:19 KJV). “...The Rock! His work is perfect, For all His ways are just; A God of faithfulness and without injustice, Righteous and just is He...” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NASB).

God fills mankind with his JUSTICE and GOODNESS. “...This is what the Lord of armies has said: ‘Dispense true justice and practice kindness and compassion each to his brother (sister)...” (Zechariah 7:9 NASB). “…The fruit of the Spirit is … goodness …” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwelleth in [YOU]…” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV).

God supplies his people with enough JUSTICE and GOODNESS to share with others. “…God will supply all [his people’s need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…God will generously PROVIDE all [his people]... need. Then [they]... will always have everything [they] need and plenty left over to “SHARE” WITH OTHERS…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

God persuades his people to CHOOSE to be JUST and GOOD to others as he has been JUST and GOOD to them. “…LOVE one another, even as I have loved you…” (John 13:34-35 KJV). "…In everything, therefore, TREAT people the same way you want them to TREAT you, for this is the Law and the Prophets…” (Matthew 7:12 NASB). “…O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God…” (Micah 6:8 NLT).

“…He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” (Micah 6:8 KJV).

If God’s people CHOOSE to be JUST and GOOD to others, it is God, the indwelling Holy Spirit that ENABLES or EMPOWERS them to do it. “…God …works in [his people]... TO WILL and TO ACT in order to fulfill his good purpose…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…Now may … God … equip [his people]... with everything good for doing his will, …” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…Now may … God … work in [his people]... what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

God’s kind of JUSTICE and GOODNESS is about expressing and demonstrating righteous behavior. “…GOODand upright is the Lord…”(Psalm 25:8 KJV). “...all His ways are just...” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NASB).

God’s JUSTICE and GOODNESS is consistent, ongoing and he totally SHUNS evil because he possesses “NO” darkness at all. “…God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all…” (1 John 1:5 NASB).

God, the Holy Spirit demonstrated his HEARTfelt JUSTICE and GOODNESS by expressing himself through Jesus. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The fruit of the Spirit is … goodness …” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “...Righteous and just is He...” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NASB).

God’s JUSTICE and GOODNESS is “NOT” simply an outward ACT, but an inward ATTITUDE. “...A God of faithfulness and without injustice...” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NASB). “… Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree bad and its fruit bad; for the tree is known by its fruit. You brood of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak what is good? For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart. The good man brings out of hisgood treasure what is good …” (Matthew 12:33-35 NASB). “... all His ways are just...” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NASB).

EVIL is not simply an outward ACT, but an inward ATTITUDE. “… The Lordsaw that the wickedness of man was great on the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually…” (Genesis 6:5 NASB). “… After He called the crowd to Him again, He began saying to them, “Listen to Me, all of you, and understand:there is nothing outside the man which can defile him if it goes into him; but the things which proceed out of the man are what defile the man. If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.” When he had left the crowd andentered the house, His disciples questioned Him about the parable. And He said to them, “Are you so lacking in understanding also? Do you not understand that whatever goes into the man from outside cannot defile him, because it does not go into his heart, but into his stomach, and is eliminated?” (Thus He declared all foods clean.) And He was saying, “That which proceeds out of the man, that is what defiles the man. For from within, out of the heartof men, proceed the evil thoughts, [fornications, thefts, murders, adulteries, deeds of coveting and wickedness, as well as deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride and foolishness.All these evil thingsproceed from within and defile the man…” (Mark 7:14-23 NASB). “… the evilman brings out of his evil treasure what is evil…” (Matthew 12:33-35 NASB).

Nonetheless, God’s JUSTICE and GOODNESS extends to righteous and unrighteous people. “…He causes His sun to rise on theevil and the good, and sends rain on therighteous and the unrighteous…” (Matthew 5:45 NASB).

However, God’s special JUSTICE and GOODNESS is mainly extended to the people who BELONG to HIM through Jesus Christ. .“…There is …no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus...” (Romans 8:1 NIV). “…There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him.….” (John 3:18 NLT). “…For I will forgivetheir wickedness and will remember their sins no more…" (Hebrews 8:12 NIV). “…The Lord helps them, rescuing them from the wicked. He saves them, and they find shelter in him…” (Psalms 37:40 NLT). “…mercy triumphs over judgement…” (James 2:13 NASB). “…remember that those who do nothave the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all….” (Romans 8:8-11 NLT).

Further, God’s special JUSTICE and GOODNESS is FREELY given to those who belong to HIM through Christ “IF” “they” choose to RESPOND to HIS gifts and blessings toward them. “…choose life…” (Deuteronomy 30:19). “…Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life …” (John 14 6 KJV). “…you area chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God's very own possession.As a result, you can show others the goodnessof God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light…” (1 Peter 2:9 NLT).

God’s HOLY JUSTICE and GOODNESS, to his people through Jesus, is witnessed through his AMAZING GRACE and LOVE, his MANY GIFTS and KINDNESSESES, his immutably CHARACTER, and the EXCELLENCY of his HOLY NATURE.

God’s JUSTICE and GOODNESS, to his people and all of mankind, is witnessed, first and foremost, through his “amazing grace and love” in SALVATION. (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “…the wages of sin is death (which is fair and equitable)…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). EVERY HUMAN BEING, UPON EARTH, DESERVES SPIRITUAL DEATH. Yet, “...God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God ...through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT). “…, my righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “…[He sent the] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).”… ye [are]…saved by grace through faith…it is the GIFT of God…” (Ephesians 2:8 KJV). “… [SALVATION]... IS THE GIFT OF GOD; not of works, that no man (woman) should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

God’s JUSTICE says: “…YE SHALL DIE (which is fair) IN YOUR SINS:for IF YE BELIEVE NOT THAT I AM HE, YE SHALL DIE IN YOUR SINS…” (John 8:24 KJV). “…the free gift of God (which pays and erases the debt of sin) is eternal LIFE in Christ Jesus our Lord (he PAID it ALL)…” (Romans 6:23 NASB). “…Christ …died for sins ONCE for all (Jesus PAID the DEBT of YOUR sin) … [and] …made [every redeemed soul]… ALIVE in the spirit …” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “…God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son...the just for the unjust...that whosoever believeth in him should not perish (be punished)…” (John 3:16 KJV & 1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

Thus, God is “…is “SO” RICH in kindness and GRACE that he purchased (PAID for IT) our freedom ….and forgave our sins…” (Ephesians 1:7 NLT). God “….[was]…NOT willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance...” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV). “… [HIS PEOPLE]… WHO ARE “KEPT” BY THE “POWER” OF GOD THROUGH FAITH unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time …” (1 Peter 1:5-9 KJV). “….The exceeding RICHES of his GRACE in his kindness toward [HIS PEOPLE]... through Christ Jesus…” (Ephesians 2:7 KJV). “…be strong in the GRACE that is in Christ Jesus…” (2 Timothy 2:1 KJV). “…by the GRACE of God I AM what I AM (DEBT FREE)…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).

“…God SO LOVED the world, that he GAVE…” (John 3:16). “…Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that HE LOVED US...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “...We love, because HE FIRST LOVED US…” (1 John 4:19 ASV). God “…SPARED NOT his own Son, but delivered him up FOR US ALL (in order to PAY our DEBT of SIN)…” (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). “…… [Nothing]…will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord…”(Romans 8:31-39 NASB). He has “….loved [mankind]...with an everlasting love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV). “…There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life…” (John 15:13 NLT).

God’s JUSTICE and GOODNESS, to his redeemed people, is also witnessed through his many gifts and kindnesses. “…The GIFT by grace……” (Romans 5:15 KJV). ”… ye [are]…saved through faith…it is the GIFT of God…” (Ephesians 2:8 KJV). “…The GIFT of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ ….” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “….ye shall receive the GIFT of the Holy Ghost…” (Acts 2:38 KJV). “…the GIFT of righteousness…” (Romans 5:17 KJV). “…I am leaving you with a GIFT—peace of mind and heart...” (John 14:27 KJV). “…God has given us different GIFTS for doing certain things well…” (Romans 12:6 NLT). “…every man hath his proper GIFT of God...” (2 Corinthians 7:7 KJV). “…Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable GIFT(S)…” (2 Corinthians 9:16 KJV). “…his divine power hath given unto us ALL THINGS that pertainunto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV).

God’s JUSTICE and GOODNESSis witnessed in his HOLY character “seen” through jesus Christ. “...The Son is the radiance of God’s GLORY and the exact representation of his being…”(Hebrews 1:3 KJV). Examples of God’s HOLY character IS ALSO manifested in his NAMES: ADONAI or YAHWEH or JEHOVAH or JEHOVAH ELOHIM or EL ELYON or JEHOVAH ELOHIM which means: “LORD” "LORD God" “Most High" “lord (jesus Christ)” "LORD God."

ELOHIM or EL SHADDAI or EL-GIBHOR which means: God “Creator, Mighty and Strong” “God Almighty” “Mighty God.”

JEHOVAH –JIREH means: "The Lord Will Provide."

JEHOVAH –RAPHA means: "The Lord Who Heals."

JEHOVAH –NISSI means: "The Lord Our Banner.”

JEHOVAH -M'KADDESH means: "The Lord Who Sanctifies, Makes Holy."

JEHOVAH –SHALOM means: "The Lord Our Peace.

JEHOVAH H-TSIDKENU means: "The Lord Our Righteousness.”

JEHOVAH –ROHI means: "The Lord Our Shepherd.

JEHOVAH –SHAMMAH means: "The Lord Is There.

JEHOVAH –SABAOTH means: "The Lord of Hosts."

EL ROI means: "God of Seeing."

EL-OLAM means: "Everlasting God."

jesus means: “savior” “anointed one” "Emmanuel: god is with us." “… [jesus] … is the … exact representation ofhis being (nature and character)…”(Hebrews 1:3 KJV).

God’s JUSTICE and GOODNESS, to his people, is witnessed through the immutable excellency of his HOLINESS. “…be holy, because I am holy…” (1 Peter 1:16 KJV). OH…“THE BEAUTY OF HOLINESS…” (Psalms 29:2 KJV). “…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 BEAUTY of … [god’s] … holiness…” (2 Chronicles 16:29 KJV).

When god through Jesus paid mankind’s debt of sin, he also freed them to choose to live “holy” and “righteous” lives.

If god was a god of revenge, EVERY HUMAN BEING WOULD BE DEAD, SPIRITUALLY, FOREVER. GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, could have left MANKIND to die in THEIR sins, but he is a “JUST” AND “GOOD” god, who paid MANKIND’S debt, instead! “...God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God ...through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT). “… my righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “…[He sent the] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

”… [The LOST and SPIRITUALLY dead soul, who OWES a great DEBT of SIN is]…saved by grace through faith…it is the GIFTof God…” (Ephesians 2:8 KJV). “… [SALVATION]... IS THE GIFT OF GOD; not of works, that no man (woman) should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). YOUR DEBT OF SIN; PAID IN FULL!!! God’s JUSTICE was FREELY served to ALL who receive it through Jesus Christ, who ERASES and PAID their DEBT of sin!!

The bible says: “...Thou (God, the Holy Spirit) are GOOD and doest GOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV). “... all His ways are just...” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NASB). “…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). “…Great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD” (Psalms 117:2 KJV). “…The lord is GOOD…” (Psalm 100:5 KJV). “…Oh how great is thy GOODNESS…(Psalm 31:19 KJV). “...The Rock! His work is perfect, For all His ways are just...” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NASB).

“...A God of faithfulness and without injustice...” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NASB). “...Righteous and just is He...” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NASB).

“…Moses said, “…show me your glory.” …The Lord said, “I will cause all my GOODNESS to pass in front of you, …” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV). “…Oh how great is thy GOODNESS…(Psalm 31:19 KJV). “...Righteous and just is He...” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NASB).

“..The lord is GOOD…” (Nahum 1:7 KJV). “… Thou are GOODand doestGOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV). “ ...there is none good but one, that is, God…” (Mark 10:18 KJV). “...The Rock! His work is perfect, For all His ways are just...” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NASB). “...A God of faithfulness and without injustice...” (Deuteronomy 32:4 NASB).

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Published on February 04, 2021 04:44

February 3, 2021

BE THANKFUL GOD PREFERS "JUSTICE" AND REVENGE!

GOD IS A GOD OF HOLY JUSTICE: REAPING WHAT YOU SOW?

“...Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a person sows, this he(she) will also reap. For the one who sows to his (her) own flesh will reap destruction from the flesh, but the one who sows to the Spirit will reap eternal life from the Spirit...” (Galatians 6:7-8 NASB). “...You have plowed wickedness, you have harvested injustice, You have eaten the fruit of lies. Because you have trusted in your way, in your many warriors...” (Hosea 10:13 NASB).“...So they shall eat of the fruit of their own way, And be filled with their own schemes...” (Proverbs 1:31 NASB). “...One who sows injustice will reap disaster, And the rod of his fury will perish...” (Proverbs 22:8 NASB).

The bible says: “...whatever a person sows, this he(she) will also reap...” (Galatians 6:7-8 NASB). God, the Holy Spirit is a God of Holy JUSTICE, which means his spiritual SYSTEM is one of JUSTICE too! God, the Holy Spirit’s, JUSTICE will ALWAYS stand up against unrighteousness and ungodliness. “…If God (WHO IS “JUST”) is for us, who is against us? ... …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

God, the Holy Spirit, is FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS in ALL areas of life and he treats his people with RIGHTEOUSNESS. God doesn’t show favoritism or partiality with HIS PEOPLE, but is equally fair and JUST to them ALL. “...Peter said: “I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality...” (Acts 10:34 NASB). “…There is no partiality with God…” (Romans 2:11 NASB). “…There is no respect of persons with God…” (Romans 2:11 KJV). “…God does not show favoritism…” (Romans 2:11 NLT).

“…This [was ALL]… God’s plan: [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).

God, the Holy Spirt, ENCOURAGES, his people to be JUST to all people too! “...‘Treat one another justly. Love your neighbors. Be compassionate with each other. Don’t take advantage of widows, orphans, visitors, and the poor. Don’t plot and scheme against one another—that’s evil.’...” (Zechariah 7:10 MSG). “...do not oppress the widow or the orphan, the stranger or the poor; and do not devise evil in your hearts against one another.’...” (Zechariahs 7:10 NASB).

“…In this world we (god’s people) are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

“… [Everyone who belongs, to him through Jesus, however, and] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children… because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT). “……There is NEITHER Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female…” (Galatians 3:26-28 KJV).

“…God SHOWS NO FAVORITISM. In every nationHE ACCEPTS thosewho fear him and do what is right—…there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all…” (Acts 10:34-36 NLT). “…God is no RESPECTER OF PERSONS: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. The word which God sent … preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)…” (Acts 10:34-36 KJV).

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

One human being HAS NO RIGHT to oppress another human being is GOD’s SIGHT, because NOBODY is righteous. “...There is none righteous, no, not one...” (Romans 3:10 KJV). God is a JUST God and HIS spiritual system is one of JUSTICE, which means OPPRESSORS will have to PAY TRIBUTE to God’s system of spiritual JUSTICE. “...For after all it is onlyright for God to repay with affliction those who afflict you...” (2 Thessalonians 1:6 NASB). “...it is written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord...” (Romans 12:19 NASB). “…do them (my people NO) wrong...” and “….touch not mine anointed (his righteous children who are set apart for his service) and do…[them] no harm.” (Psalm 105:14-15 KJV).

Remember, “...There is none righteous, no, not one...” (Romans 3:10 KJV). “...I want to do what is good, but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “...Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight...” (Romans 3:20 KJV).

“...[All people who are made RIGHT,]... were justified (by faith and the [indwelling Holy] Spirit of our God ...” (1 Corinthians 6:9-11 NIV).

God, the Holy Spirit, is NOT a God of revenge, but of JUSTICE, which means his system of spiritual justice with ALWAYS find a way to RIGHT the WRONGS, without favoritism or partiality. “...For the one who does wrong will receive the consequences of the wrong which he (she) has done, and that without partiality...” (Colossians 3:25 NASB).

It is OBVIOUS that God’s system of spiritual justice WORKS together with God’s HOLY and RIGHTEOUS nature. God, the Holy Spirit, wouldn’t be holy, or righteous IF he wasn’t, also, JUST. “...Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your (God, the Holy Spirit’s) throne;Mercy and truth go before You...” (Psalms 89:14 NASB).

“...For I, the Lord, love justice...” (Isaiah 61:8 NIV). When Adam and Eve choose to reject his holy commandments, God’s system of spiritual justice did NOT overlook their transgression. From God, the Holy Spirit’s spiritual point of view JUSTICE was their consequence.

“...whatever a person sows, this he(she) will also reap. ..” (Galatians 6:7-8 NASB). “...For the one who sows to his (her) own flesh will reap destruction from the flesh...” (Galatians 6:7-8 NASB). “...You have plowed wickedness,you have harvested injustice...” (Hosea 10:13 NASB). “...they shall eat of the fruit of their own way, And be filled with their own schemes...” (Proverbs 1:31 NASB). “...One who sows injustice will reap disaster...” (Proverbs 22:8 NASB).

JUSTICE is not revenge, but it is the SYSTEM God has SET in PLACE to right the WRONGS. God LOVES being JUST, because it is WHO GOD is, therefore, it is an immutable part of his divine character. “...justice will be upheld…” (Job 36:16-21 NLT). “… [god, the holy spirit]...who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV). “…everything he (God, the Holy Spirit) does is right and all his ways are just....” (Daniel 4 NIV). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

Without God’s system of JUSTICE sin would forever go UNCHECKED and eventually triumph over GOOD. Thus, God is a God of JUSTICE and he expects the SAME from his people. “…his ways are just....” (Daniel 4 NIV). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

“…O people [of God], the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God…” (Micah 6:8 NLT). “…He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” (Micah 6:8 KJV). “...because HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…”(Micah 7:18 KJV).

There is an REWARD for obedience and there is a REWARD for disobedience. “...Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a person sows, this he(she) will also reap. For the one who sows to his (her) own flesh will reap destruction from the flesh, but the one who sows to the Spirit will reap eternal life from the Spirit...” (Galatians 6:7-8 NASB). “...You have plowed wickedness,you have harvested injustice, You have eaten the fruit of lies. Because you have trusted in your way, in your many warriors...” (Hosea 10:13 NASB). “...So they shall eat of the fruit of their own way, And be filled with their own schemes...” (Proverbs 1:31 NASB). “...One who sows injustice will reap disaster, And the rod of his fury will perish...” (Proverbs 22:8 NASB).

JUSTICE in God’s SYSTEM is NOT simply about getting what you RIGHTFULLY deserve or retribution. What most people and even the bible CALLS God’s wrath, punishment, judgement, or retribution is really HOW God’s JUSTICE responds to people’s OWN choices and actions. “... whatever a person sows, this he(she) will also reap (this is God’s JUSTICE) ...” (Galatians 6:7-8 NASB). “...You have plowed wickedness,you have harvested injustice (God’s JUSTICE)...” (Hosea 10:13 NASB). “...So they shall eat of the fruit of their own way. (God’s JUSTICE)..” (Proverbs 1:31 NASB). “...One who sows injustice will reap disaster (God’s Justice)...” (Proverbs 22:8 NASB).

“ …[God’s people said:]... will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT). “…[God said:].... my people have stubborn and rebellious hearts. ….” (JEREMIAH 5:23 NLT). “…My people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

“…They have turned away and ABANDONED me….” (JEREMIAH 5:23 NLT). “...[My people]… FORGOT all about ME,” says the Lord…” (Hosea 2:13 NLT). “…for years on end my people have FORGOTten ME…” (Jeremiah 2:32 NLT).

“…They ABANDONED ME and did not obey my word….”(JEREMIAH 16:11 NLT). “…They ABANDONED the Lord… they turned their backs on him….” (2 Chronicles 29:6 NLT).

“…. Again and again he rescued them ...Even so, he pitied them in their distress and listened to their cries. He remembered his covenant with them and relented because of his unfailing love…” (Psalms 106:42-48 NLT).

“…the righteous CRY and Lord the heareth and delivereth them out of ALL their troubles…” (Psalms 34:17 KJV). “…Again and again [God, the Holy Spirit] rescued them…” (Psalm 106:39-43 NLT).

Yet, HIS PEOPLE “... [continually]... chose to rebel against him... [until]... they were finally destroyed by their sin (god’s Justice)…” (Psalm 106:39-43 NLT). “...You have plowed wickedness, you have harvested injustice (God’s JUSTICE)...” (Hosea 10:13 NASB).

Yes, there will be a FINAL JUSTICE (or JUDGEMENT), but God’s system of spiritual justice is ALWAYS working to GIVE people what their RIGHTFUL reward. “... whatever a person sows, this he(she) will also reap (this is God’s JUSTICE. This is RIGHT) ...” (Galatians 6:7-8 NASB).

What SEEMS like God’s wrath, punishment, judgement, or retribution is God’s JUSTICE responding to mankind’s OWN choices and actions. God’s JUSTICE is both future and it is WORKING in the HERE and NOW.

God, the Holy Spirit’s, system of spiritual justice will ALWAYS find a way to RIGHT the WRONGS, without favoritism or partiality. “...For the one who does wrong will receive the consequences of the wrong which he (she) has done, and that without partiality...” (Colossians 3:25 NASB).

The unrighteous, ungodly, and unjust people who DO WRONG often SEEM to go on and on and on without FACING or ANSWERING to God’s system of JUSTICE. King AHAB, an EVIL leader, reigned for YEARS in Samaria and God’s people SEEMED to be the one’s FACING God’s system of justice. “...In the thirty-eighth year of Asa king of Judah, Ahab son of Omri became king of Israel, and he reigned in Samaria over Israel twenty-two years...” (1 Kings 16:29 NIV). “...Ahab son of Omri became king of Israel in the thirty-eighth year of Asa king of Judah. Ahab son of Omri was king over Israel for twenty-two years. He ruled from Samaria. Ahab son of Omri did even more open evil before God than anyone yet—a new champion in evil! It wasn’t enough for him to copy the sins of Jeroboam son of Nebat; no, he went all out, first by marrying Jezebel daughter of Ethbaal king of the Sidonians, and then by serving and worshiping the god Baal. He built a temple for Baal in Samaria, and then furnished it with an altar for Baal. Worse, he went on and built a shrine to the sacred whore Asherah. He made the God of Israel angrier than all the previous kings of Israel put together...” (1 Kings 16:29-33 MSG).

The righteous cried out: “...How long, Lord, will the wicked,
how long will the wicked be jubilant?...”(Psalms 94:3 NIV). “...God, the wicked get away with murder— how long will you let this go on? They brag and boast and crow about their crimes!...” (Psalms 94:3-4 MSG).

“...But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong.They are free from common human burdens; they are not plagued by human ills. Therefore pride is their necklace; they clothe themselves with violence. From their callous hearts comes iniquity; their evil imaginations have no limits. They scoff, and speak with malice; with arrogance they threaten oppression. Their mouths lay claim to heaven, and their tongues take possession of the earth. Therefore their people turn to then and drink up waters in abundance. They say, “How would God know? Does the Most High know anything?” This is what the wicked are like— always free of care, they go on amassing wealth. Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure and have washed my hands in innocence. All day long I have been afflicted, and every morning brings new punishments. If I had spoken out like that, I would have betrayed your children. When I tried to understand all this, it troubled me deeply...” (Psalms 73:2-16 NIV).

God, the Holy Spirit, is a God of JUSTICE. Looking at the wicked, their evil deeds, their worldly privileges, or their temporary comforts is NOT a picture of TRUTH. God’s system of spiritual justice is WORKING, right NOW! “...[when]... I entered the sanctuary of God (his presence); then I understood their (the wicked) final destiny. Surely you place them on slippery ground; you cast them down to ruin. How suddenly are they destroyed, completely swept away by terrors! They are like a dream when one awakes; when you arise, Lord, you will despise them as fantasies. When my heart was grieved and my spirit embittered, I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before you. Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory. Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Those who are far from you will perish; you destroy all who are unfaithful to you. But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds...” (Psalms 73:17-27 NIV).

“…If God (who is JUST) is for us, who is against us? ... …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “...No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper...” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV). “…He helps me (his people)…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “…The LORD will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [his people]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer...[your god of justice]…” (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

“...Don’t worry, judgment and justicewill be upheld…” (Job 36:16-21 NLT). “… entrust yourself] to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV).

“….Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren, YE HAVE DONE IT TO ME.” (Matthew 25:40 KJV).

“...Avenge not yourselves, beloved, but give place unto the wrath of God, for it is written: "Vengeance (making things JUST) belongeth unto to me (God, the Holy Spirit); I will recompense (make it JUST)," saith the Lord” (Romans 12:19 ASV).

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Published on February 03, 2021 01:52

February 2, 2021

GOD IS A GOD OF JUSTICE: VICTIM OR VICTORS, PART 2

GOD IS A GOD OF JUSTICE:

VICTIMS or VICTORS, Part 2

EVILS, UNFAIRNESSES, AND INJUSTICES

THEN we come to JESUS. “...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… they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them...Away with him, away with him, crucify him...And they took Jesus, and led him away…” (John 19:1-16 KJV).

One of the reasons God allowed JESUS to DIE upon the CROSS was to provide an ATONEMENT for mankind’s SIN. “…HE GAVE his only begotten Son…” (John 3:16 KJV). “…[God’s son, Jesus]... [GAVE]... His life a ransom for many...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV). “...For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given ...you...[Jesus]... to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul…” (Leviticus 17:11 KJV).

“...[God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus]... did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for us....” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…the just for the unjust, that he might bring ...[mankind back] to [himself] …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). “..[Mankind can NOW choose to be]... reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV). “…He restoreth [their]...SOUL[s]…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “….Jesus Christ [can]...maketh [mankind]... WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

God is a God of JUSTICE even when God’s “OWN” children are the victims of EVILS, UNFAIRNESSES, and INJUSTICES. God “…spared not his own Son, [from going through evils, unfairnesses, or injustices...] but delivered him up for us all….?” (Romans 8:32 KJV). “…Christ … suffered for us …” (1 Peter 2:21 KJV).

If his people are honest, they DON’T need to DEFEND God, the Holy Spirit, especially when they are going through and experiencing their OWN trials and tribulations; he ALREADY told them to EXPECT trials and tribulations while upon earth. “...In the world ye shall have tribulation...” (John 16:33 KJV). “... Here on earth you 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). “...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).

The STORY of JOB is a biblical truth about HOW God, the Holy Spirit, ALLOWS and CHOOSES his “own” children to GO THROUGH difficulties and troubles. However, he HELPS them through it all! “…He helps [his children]…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). . “…If God isfor [his children], who isagainst [them]? ... …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “...No weapon that is formed against [God’s children] shall prosper...” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV). “…The LORD will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [his children]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “… THE LORD … is [thei]r... rock and [thei]r...fortress, [thei]r... deliverer…” (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

His children, themselves, don’t UNDERSTAND why God, the Holy Spirit, has allowed or chosen them to be hurt or injured by various events or actions “…ye are a chosen generation…” (1 Peter 2:9 KJV). “...For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth...” (Deuteronomy 7:6). “...you are a chosen people…” (1 Peter 2:9 NIV). “…The God of our fathers hath chosen thee…” (Acts 22:14 KJV).

"…You did not choose me but I chose you…” (John 15:16 ASV). "... I (God, the Holy Spirit) chose ...[his “own” special, righteous children], and appointed ...[them]... that ...[they]... should go and bear fruit...” (John 15:16 ASV).

Like any other human being, upon earth, trials and tribulations disrupts his children’s lives, rock their HOPE, make them question God, the Holy Spirit, as a JUST God, and they, themselves, wonder how to reconcile their “own” HARDSHIPS with his GRACE and LOVE. “...He careth for you...” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV). “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…he remains faithful [even during the trials, testings, and tribulations of his children],for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…The “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “...Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).

How could ALL this EVIL, UNFAIRNESS, and INJUSTICE, his “OWN” children are experiencing, be a reasonable part of the Christian journey. “..In the day of prosperity be happy, But in the day of adversity (trials, testings, and tribulations) consider-- God has made the one as well as the other…” (Ecclesiastes 7:14 NASB).“...This isthe day (whatever day it is) which the LORD hath made; [his children]... will rejoice and be glad in it...” (Psalm 118:24 KJV).

During these difficult times God’s children OFTEN wonder is God, the Holy Spirit “AGAINST” them rather than “FOR” them. . “…If God is for [his children], who is against [them]? ... …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “…...Who [or what]... will separate [God’s children]... from the love of Christ? …”(Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

“…Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword …”(Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “...[NO] …But in all these things [God’s children HAVE]... overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us…”(Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

“…[Nothing]…will be able to separate [god’s children]... from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord…”(Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

Apostle Paul said: “…I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).

A CLOSER look, at JOB’s STORY, “reveals” his difficulties and troubles (deaths of his children, loss of his wealth, and physical sickness) were MORE redemptive and loving rather than damning or hateful. “...the Sabeans attacked and made off with them (job’s stuff)...“The fire of God fell from the heavens and burned up the sheep and the servants ...“The Chaldeans formed three raiding parties and swept down on your camels and made off with them. ...“Your sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house ...they are dead...” (Job 1:13-20 NIV).

“Then Job replied...“I know that you can do anything, and no one can stop you (grew more respectful of God’s sovereignty)...” (Job 42:1,6 NLT).“...now I have seen you with my own eyes (grew in revelation knowledge)....” (Job 42:1,6 NLT). “...I take back everything I said, and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance (grew in humility)...” (Job 42:1,6 NLT).

The BOOK of Job is in the bible for a reason. “…For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning…” (Romans 15:4 KJV).“...Now all these things happened unto them (Job and others) for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition…” (1 Corinthians 10:11 KJV).

Job was an upright man and God’s child who was full of integrity. God, the Holy Spirit, even complimented him. Job may have, even, had RENOWN as an upright man all over the land. In addition, Job, most likely, identified himself as an “upright” man too.

In fact, compared to other humans, upon earth, at the time, there was no person as upright as Job, even God said so. “…Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?...” (Job 2:3 KJV).

Job may have thought he’d arrived at some righteous pinnacle of piety. Yet God, the Holy Spirit, KNEW he STILL needed to grow and develop spiritually. Righteousness is a GIFT of God and wasn’t meant to become a prideful thing; whether intentional or unintentional. “…those who walk in pride … [God] is ableto humble...” (Daniel 4:37 NIV). “…everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted…” (Luke 18:14 ASV). “…do not think of yourself more highly than you ought…” (Romans 12:3 NIV).“...if anyone thinks he(SHE) is something when he (she) is nothing, he(she) deceives himself (herself)...” (Galatians 6:3 NASB).

Job thought being a righteous child of God should have PREVENTED and PROTECTED him from certain trials and tribulations. However, he SAW trials and tribulations as well as his righteousness through his OWN eyes. “…So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes…” (Job 32:1 KJV).

Elihu, one of his friends, inspired by the Spirit, questioned Job about his attitude. “…The spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life...” (Job 33:1-9 KJV). “...Surely thou hast spoken in mine hearing, and I have heard the voice of thy words, saying, I am clean without transgression, I am innocent; neither is there iniquity in me (Elihu heard Job’s image of himself). Behold, he findeth occasions against me, he counteth me for his enemy, He putteth my feet in the stocks, he marketh all my paths (Elihus heard Job’s attitude about his “season of suffering”). Behold, in this thou art not just (Elihu said this about Job): I will answer thee, that God is greater than man (Even in “seasons of suffering” God’s righteous ways are STILL JUST over man’s, including Job’s). Why dost thou strive against him? (Elihu asked Job) for he giveth not account of any of his matters (God is ALWAYS righteous and JUST even when he allows his people to go through “seasons of suffering”)...” (Job 33:8-13 KJV).

Elihu didn’t accuse Job of any secret sin like his other friends had, but he saw Job striving (fighting) against God, the Holy Spirit. Job didn’t AGREE with the EVIL, UNFAIRNESS, or INJUSTICE God was “allowing” him to go through or experience. Job had an opinion about it, especially because God allowed it “...without cause...” (Job 2:3 KJV).

“…Christ … suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps…” (1 Peter 2:21 KJV). “...In the world ye shallhave tribulation...” (John 16:33 KJV). “... Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows..." (John 16:44 NLT).

“...But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable (praiseworthy, admirable, etc) before God…” (1 Peter 2:19-23 NIV). Therefore, “…[entrust yourself] to him who judges JUSTLY…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV).

Elihu also informed Job he was justifying HIS “OWN” righteousness over the righteousness of God, who is immutably JUST. God, the Holy Spirit, doesn’t STOP being JUST when he allows and chooses his children to go through “trials and tribulations.” “…God is not human (he is not a body, the flesh, or a soul)…” (Numbers 23:19 NIV). “…“My thoughts are nothing like your [human]...thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine … my ways are higher [than human ways] … my thoughts higher [than human thoughts]…” (Isaiah 55:5-9 NLT).

“...[Mankind has often, mistakenly,]...thought that...[God, the Holy Spirit, was human like them]....” (Psalm 50:21 KJV). God SAYS: “… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). HE IS GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE. “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).

…everything [God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE]... does is right and all his ways are just....” (Daniel 4 NIV). “...all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he...”(Deuteronomy 32:4 NIV).“… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

“...[Thus, Job’s attitude is what]... kindled the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the kindred of Ram: against Job..., because he justified himself rather than God…” (Job 33:1-10 KJV).

Elihu saw Job’s attitude or opinion, which held his uprightness and integrity in a higher place than the uprightness and integrity of God, the Holy Spirit, of JUSTICE, who picked him out and allowed him to go through these particular “trials and tribulations”. “...Elihu spake moreover, and said (to Job), Thinkest thou this to be right, that thou saidst,My righteousness is more than God's?...” (Job 35:1-2 KJV).

Throughout chapters 36 and 37 Elihu witnesses and ministers to Job about the presence of God, the goodness of God, the sovereignty of God, the wonderful working power of God, and the divine greatness of God’s character, who is full of integrity and uprightness, and JUSTICE ALL the time. God NEVER changes. “...The LORD is righteous in all His ways And kind in all His deeds...” (Psalms 145:17 NASB). “....As for God, His way is blameless; The word of the LORD is tried; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him...” (Psalms 18:30 NASB). “...The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion...” (Psalms 116:5 NIV). “...You are righteous, LORD, and your laws are right...” (Psalm 119:137 NIV).

“…everything he (God, the Holy Spirit) does is right and all his ways are just...”(Daniel 4 NIV). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

“...For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to giveyou an expected end” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV). “ ... in the PROCESS of TIME “IT” CAME TO PASS…” (Genesis 4:3 KJV).

JOB’s other friends debated with Job by saying he was experiencing God’s JUSTICE by reaping something he’d sown. Satan is the enemy of God’s people. “...Be careful—watch out for attacks from Satan, your great enemy. He prowls around like a hungry, roaring lion, looking for some victim to tear apart” (1 Peter 5:8 NLT).

God SAID Job was a RIGHTEOUS man, meaning he was BLESSED in ALL ways and in EVERY area. However, his RIGHT STANDING with God, the Holy Spirit, did NOT put him in the position to accuse or judge God of being unfair or unjust. “...You asked, ‘Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorance?’ It is I—and I was talking about things I knew nothing about,things far too wonderful for me...” (Job 42:3 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, let Job know he was both sovereign and in control, which meant he had the right to allow or choose his children for particular trials and tribulations “without cause” or explanation (Job 2:3 KJV). “…Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause...” (Job 2:3 KJV).

. “…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). “… No onecan hold back his hand or say to him: “What have you done?...” (Daniel 4 NLT).

Earlier, I wrote that a VICTIM is someone who SUFFERS from or is HARMED by events or actions that are violent, destructive, injurious, heart-breaking, and life changing. But, a VICTOR is someone who ends up DEFEATING their enemy and becoming the WINNER.

GOD’S RIGHTEOUS PEOPLE ARE “ALWAYS” VICTORS NO MATTER WHAT THEY ARE GOING THROUGH; God, the Holy Spirit, the secret of their strength and victory. “...overwhelming victory is [ALWAYS THEIRS]... in christ ...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

“... the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil...” (1 John 3:8 NLT). Therefore, “...No weapon that is formed against thee (GOD’S RIGHTEOUS CHILDREN) shall prosper…” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV).

Elihu ministers to JOB in a WAY that reveals to the READER that God, the Holy Spirit, is truly a God of JUSTICE who “is” JUST in “all” his WAYS, which includes what his allows into the lives. His JUST WAYS are loving, harmless, and redemptive to his righteous children. “…everything he (God, the Holy Spirit) does is right and all his ways are just...”(Daniel 4 NIV). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

Satan and his evil followers “…intended to harm [God’s chidlren], but God intended it for ...[their]...good...” Genesis 50:20 NIV). “…The plans [God has]…for you…. [are]…plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you HOPE and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…Love does NO HARM to his neighbor …” (Romans 13:10 NASB).

Job was initially unaware of God’s redemptive work in allowing the deaths of his children, the loss of his wealth, or his physical sicknessws. Job felt his was being punished and unfairly, since he was so devoted to God, the Holy Spirit. Job inadvertently accuses God, the Holy Spirit of being unjust toward him. “…all things [are NOT good, but they]... work together for GOOD to them that LOVE GOD, to them who are THE CALLEDto his purpose” (Romans 8:28 KJV).

Nonetheless, Job GROWS spiritually. He learns God, the Holy Spirit is utterly SOVEREIGN, his gains a GREATER revelation knowledge of HIM, and he further HUMBLES himself under God’s mighty hand. “...Then Job replied...“I know that you can do anything, and no one can stop you (grew more respectful of God’s sovereignty)...” (Job 42:1, 6 NLT).“...now I have seen you with my own eyes (grew in revelation knowledge)....” (Job 42:1,6 NLT). “...I take back everything I said, and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance (grew in humility)...” (Job 42:1, 6 NLT).

It is AT THIS POINT - of spiritual GROWTH that Job surrenders to God’s WILL in obedience and intercedes for his accusatory friends - that God, the Holy Spirit, DELIVERS and BLESSES him. Job was considered “…blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.” (Job 1:7-12 NIV). Yet, he still needed to grow and develop spiritually. thus, he was allowed to go through “trials, testing, and tribulations.”

Job’s story is a classic example of the EVILS, UNFAIRNESSES, and INJUSTICES people go through, upon earth, but it also an example how those events and actions can TURN out VICTORIOUS too. “...overwhelming victory...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

The bible says all things work together for good: He didn’t say the things WERE good, but they work together for GOOD. “…All things work together for GOOD to them that LOVE GOD (by keeping commandments), to them who are THE CALLED (chosen by God) to his purpose” (Romans 8:28 KJV). Job’s experiences were ALWAYS going to “...work together for his good....” and he would have “...overwhelming victory...”

It is obvious that Job was pruned, disciplined, corrected, changed more and more into the IMAGE of godliness through his “trials and tribulation. He actually received a double, double blessings for all he had loss. 1. HE BECAME TWICE THE SPIRITUAL MAN HE ONCE WAS (DOUBLE): “... Then Job replied...“I know that you can do anything, and no one can stop you (respect for God’s sovereignty). I..” (Job 42:1,6 NLT).“...now I have seen you with my own eyes (revelation knowledge)....” (Job 42:1, 6 NLT). “...I take back everything I said, and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance (humility)...” (Job 42:1,6 NLT).

2. HE RECEIVED TWICE THE MATERIAL BLESSINGS (DOUBLE) “…Also the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before. The LORD blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning…” (Job 42:10, 12 KJV).

These REWARDS were NOT consolations prizes God’s GIVES because his children EARNED it for UNFAIR treatment, but they are part of the INHERITANCE of BLESSINGS promised to THEM. “…I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return a hundred times as many houses, brother, sisters, mothers, children, and property – along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life...” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).

Job SURRENDERED to God’s will through obedience and God BLESSED him as promised. “…everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return ....And in the world to come ...” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).

IN THE END Job BENEFITTED and GAINED “MORE” than he lost. Job was TRANSFORMED inside and outside. God, the Holy Spirit’s, redemptive work in Job’s life became a TIMELESS lesson for the past, present, and future generations, of God’s righteous children, to come. . “…For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning…” (Romans 15:4 KJV).“...Now all these things happened unto them (Job and others) for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition…” (1 Corinthians 10:11 KJV).

1. JOB BECAME TWICE THE SPIRITUAL MAN HE ONCE WAS (DOUBLE): “... Then Job replied...“I know that you can do anything, and no one can stop you (respect for God’s sovereignty). I..” (Job 42:1,6 NLT).“...now I have seen you with my own eyes (revelation knowledge)....” (Job 42:1, 6 NLT). “...I take back everything I said, and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance (humility)...” (Job 42:1,6 NLT).

2. JOB RECEIVED TWICE THE MATERIAL BLESSINGS (DOUBLE) “…Also the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before. The LORD blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning…” (Job 42:10, 12 KJV).

“...The steps of a good man (woman) are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his (her) way” (Psalms 37:23 KJV). Job said, “...Naked I came from my mother’s womb, And naked I shall return there.The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord…” Job 1:20-22 NASB).

“..though he slay me, yet will I trust in him…” (Job 13:15 KJV).

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Published on February 02, 2021 05:45

February 1, 2021

GOD IS A GOD OF JUSTICE: ARE HIS CHILDREN VICTIMS OR VICTORS? PART 1

IS A GOD OF JUSTICE:

VICTIMS or VICTORS, Part 1

EVILS, UNFAIRNESSES, AND INJUSTICES

There is no GREATER struggle, for a child of God, than to maintain that God is a God of JUSTICE, than when they FEEL or have real-life experiences as VICTIMS of evils, unfairnesses, or injustices.

A VICTIM is someone who SUFFERS from or is HARMED by events or actions that are violent, destructive, injurious, heart-breaking, and life changing.

These events and actions are OUT of the person’s control, have disrupted normal life, and have turned the victim’s life UPSIDE down.

These events or actions also have caused GREAT hurt and have changed the course of the victim’s life. These events or actions that hurt and change the course of people’s life can also IMPACT normal life, in a MAJOR way, spiritually, physically, emotionally, financially, and mentally.

Hurtful and life-changing events and actions can cause a DIASPORA for some victims, which drastically changed the direction and location of their lives forever.

God’s children go through these experiences too where, they face terrible deaths of family and friends, unfair treatments, divorce, unexpected sicknesses or disease, evil people, stock market crashes, lost jobs, injustices, hunger, sudden tragedies, fiery furnaces, lion dens, prison, etc.

ARE GOD’S CHILDREN “simply” VICTIMS LIKE EVERYBODY ELSE? “…But before very long there rushed down from the land a violent wind, called Euraquilo ... we (including Apostle Paul) gave way to it and let ourselves be driven along … ” (ACTS 27:14-19 NASB).

“... they brought Daniel (God’s prophet) and threw him into the lions’ den ...” (Daniel 6:16-18 NIV).

“… the most mighty men ...[bound]... Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego [God’s servants], and ...cast them into the burning fiery furnace…” (DANIEL 3).

“...the Sabeans attacked and made off with them (job’s stuff)...“The fire of God fell from the heavens and burned up the sheep and the servants ...“The Chaldeans formed three raiding parties and swept down on your camels and made off with them. ...“Your sons and daughters (job’s) were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house ...they are dead...” (Job 1:13-20 NIV).

... they stript Joseph [who was called of God]... out of his coat, his coat of many colours that was on him; And they took him, and cast him into a pit: and the pit was empty, there was no water in it … Then there passed by Midianites merchantmen; and they drew and lifted up Joseph out of the pit, and sold Joseph (AS A SLAVE) to the Ishmeelites for twenty pieces of silver: and they brought Joseph into Egypt... [Later]...Potiphar’s wife ... began to look at him lustfully. “Come and sleep with me,” she demanded. But Joseph refused ...Potiphar was furious when he heard his wife’s story [which was “not” true]... about how Joseph had treated her. So he took Joseph and threw him into the prison where the king’s prisoners were held, and there he remained (A PRISONER)...” (Genesis 39 NIV).

“...he proceeded to seize Peter (one of God’s righteous servants) also ...[and]... Peter was kept in prison...” (Acts 12:1-5 NIV).

“...Then Pilate therefore took Jesus [God’s only begotten SON], 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… they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them...Away with him, away with him, crucify him...And they took Jesus, and led him away…” (John 19:1-16 KJV).

Every one of these LIVES were seriously disturbed by a variety of events and actions and nothing was NORMAL anymore. It is INSIDE these moments and experiences that God’s children WONDER or QUESTION God as a God of JUSTICE. HOW or WHY does God, the Holy Spirit, ALLOW his “own” children to EXPERIENCE these HORRIBLE things?

“…But before very long there rushed down from the land a violent wind, called Euraquilo ... we gave way to it and let ourselves be driven along … ” (ACTS 27:14-19 NASB). Apostle Paul, the centurion, the staff, and the prisoners literally experienced the hurricane. The ship was caught up in the storm, driven by the wind, and NO BODY could control, secure, or stabilize the boat. The victims, including Apostle Paul, on the boat, experienced days of darkness where they DID NOT see, with their natural eyes, the sun or stars for days and went without food. It must have been scary and frightening. They thought they were DOOMED.

One of the reasons God may have allowed the men to go through this is to demonstrate the importance of listening to and keeping God’s commandments. “...Paul stood up before them and said: “Men, you should have taken my advice [from God, the Holy Spirit]...not to sail from Crete; then you would have spared yourselves this damage and loss...” (Acts 27:21 NIV).

“...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).“…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).

Daniel was devoted to God and EVIL PEOPLE were jealous of him and plotted EVIL, UNFAIRNESS, and INJUSTICE against him.“...All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute ... [and]... king Darius signed the writing and the decree...” (Daniel 6:5-10 KJV).

“...whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions...” (Daniel 6:5-10 KJV).

“... [Daniel]... went into his house ...he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime....” (Daniel 6:10-16 KJV). “...they brought Daniel and threw him into the lions’ den ...” (Daniel 6:16-18 NIV).

One of the reasons God may have allowed Daniel to go through this was to demonstrate that even though his children FACE unfairness and injustices, his FAVOR will shield them. “...In the world ye shallhave tribulation...” (John 16:33 KJV). “... Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows..." (John 16:44 NLT). “…You (God, the Holy Spirit) surround [your children] WITH FAVOR as with a shield…” (Psalms 5:12 NASB).

“…God has said “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…Behold, I am with… [you] and will keep… [you] whithersoever [you]… goest…I will not leave [you]…." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).. “…No weapon that is formed against [YOU]… shall prosper…” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV).

“…TRUST in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “…The LORD will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB).

“...the God of Daniel ... is the living God, and stedfast for ever, and his kingdom ...which shall not be destroyed, and his dominion shall be even unto the end. He delivereth and rescueth, and he worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth, who hath delivered Daniel from the power of the lions....” (Daniel 6:16:20 KJV). God “…. delivered [DANIEL] ... out of all [his] ... trouble…” (Psalms 54:7 KJV).

Then, “… the most mighty men ...[bound]... Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and ...cast them into the burning fiery furnace…” (DANIEL 3). The Hebrew Boys had STOOD upon God’s WORD and yet God allowed them to literally be THROWN into the fiery furnace. How SCARY was that?

God’s Word GOVERNED the Hebrew Boys behavior. “...Thou shalt have no other gods before me...” (Exodus 20:1-4 KJV). “...Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth...” (Exodus 20:1-4 KJV).

The HEBREW BOYS were threatened. “...if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?...” (Daniel 3:13-19 KJV).

“...Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up...” (Daniel 3:13-19 KJV).

One of the reasons God may have allowed the Hebrew Boys to go through this was to demonstrate that even though his children FACE unfairness and injustices, they are to choose to KEEP his commandments. The Hebrew Boys kept his commandment and continued to trust and depend upon him no matter what happened to them. However, God, the Holy Spirit, was WITH THEM, kept them SAFE, and DELIVERED them.“... DID NOT WE CAST THREE MEN BOUND INTO THE MIDST OF THE FIRE? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king. He answered and said, LO, I SEE FOUR MEN LOOSE, WALKING IN THE MIDST OF THE FIRE, AND THEY HAVE NO HURT; AND THE FORM OF THE FOURTH IS LIKE THE SON OF GOD ... Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego ... upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them. Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him ...there is no other God that can deliver after this sort…”(DANIEL 3).

“… THE LORD … is Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer...”(Psalms 18:3 NASB). “…I the LORD amthy Saviour...” (Isaiah 60:16 KJV).

Next there was JOB. “...the Sabeans attacked and made off with them (job’s stuff)...“The fire of God fell from the heavens and burned up the sheep and the servants ...“The Chaldeans formed three raiding parties and swept down on your camels and made off with them. ...“Your sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house ...they are dead...” (Job 1:13-20 NIV).

One of the reasons God may have allowed JOB to go through this was to demonstrate that NO MATTER how spiritually mature his children THINK they are, they STILL need to continue to GROW and DEVELOP spiritually. “..Then Job replied...“I know that you can do anything, and no one can stop you (he grew more respectful of God’s sovereignty)...” (Job 42:1, 6 NLT).“...now I have seen you with my own eyes (he grew in revelation knowledge)....” (Job 42:1,6 NLT). “...I take back everything I said, and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance (he grew in humility)...” (Job 42:1,6 NLT).“… grow in the GRACE and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ… Amen...” (2 Timothy 3:18 NIV).

It is clear, in the book of Job, that Satan cannot do anything to God’s children, without permission from God, the Holy Spirit. “..And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord” (Job 1:12 KJV). “..And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, he is in thine hand; but save his life...” (Job 2:9 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, PROTECTED Job’s LIFE and did NOT let Satan “…do [his life]... wrong...” God has said: “….touch not mine anointed (his righteous children who are set apart for his service) and do…[them] no harm...” (Psalm 105:14-15 KJV).

Yet, “...The LORD said to Satan, "Very well, then, everything he has is in your power, but on the man himself do not lay a finger." Then Satan went out from the presence of the LORD...” (Job 1:12 NIV). “...All right, you may test him,” the LORD said to Satan. “Do whatever you want with everything he possesses, but don’t harm him ...” So Satan left the LORD’s presence....” (Job 1:12 NLT). “...Then the LORD said to Satan, “Behold, all that he has is in your power; only do not reach out and put your hand on him.” So Satan departed from the presence of the LORD...” (Job 1:12 NASB). “...And Jehovah said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thy hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of Jehovah...” (Job 1:12 ASV).

The bible says: “…a man's (woman’s) life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he (she) possesseth…” (Luke 12:15 KJV).When Job’s earthly wealth, prosperity, family, physical well-being, and possessions were gone, the devil thought Job would SURELY stop SERVING God, the Holy Spirit.

“...And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, he is in thine hand; but save his life...” (Job 2:9 KJV). Life is often interchanged, in the study of the scriptures, for SOUL. “…What shall it profit a man (woman), if he (she) shall gain the whole world, and lose his (her) own soul (LIFE)?...” (Mark 8:36 KJV).

Satan tried to PROVE that Job, like so many of God’s children, today, ONLY serve HIM for the BOUNTIFUL BLESSINGS and GIFTS. “...Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. But now stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.” (Job 1:7-12 NIV).

Job OPENLY expressed his opinion about his personal “trials and tribulations”. “…Shall we (God’s children) accept good from God, and not trouble?...” (Job 2:10 NIV). No MATTER what is LOST or GAINED, God’s children continue to LOVE and TRUST him. “…[They are to]...love the Lord [their] ...God with all [their] ...heart and with all [their]... soul and with all your strength and with all your mind…” (Luke 10:27 KJV).

“…a man's (woman’s) life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he (she) possesseth…” (Luke 12:15 KJV). “…Anyone who wants to be [God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus’]... follower must love [him] far morethan he (she) does his (her) own father, mother, wife, children, brothers, or sisters—yes, more than his (her) own life—otherwise he (she) cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:26 NLT).“.. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever...” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT).

“... I desire you more than anything on earth...” (Psalm 73:23-26 NLT). “….everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [my]… Lord...” (Philippians 3:8 NLT). “...I ...belong to you; you hold my right hand.You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever...” (Psalm 73:23-26 NLT). “...Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever...” (Psalm 73:25-26 KJV). “... I said to the Lord, “You are my Master! Every good thing I have comes from you...” (Psalm 16:2 NLT).

For a SHORT time, especially compared to ETERNITY, God’s people may experience “trials, tribulations, and testing,” but can REMAIN peaceful, calm, and dependent upon God, the Holy Spirit. “…I have learned to be CONTENT whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation,whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).

Satan told God, the Holy Spirit: “…strike everything [Job]... has, and he will surely curse you to your face?…” (Job 1:7-12 NIV).

Job knew “... Every good thing...[he had came]... from [God, the Holy Spirit]...” (Psalm 16:2 NLT). Job said, “…Naked I came from my mother’s womb, And naked I shall return there. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord…” Job 1:20-22 NASB).

Job also said, “...though he slay me, yet will I trust in him…” (Job 13:15 KJV). “…Through all this Job did not sin nor did he blame God…” (Job 1:20-22 NASB).

One of the reasons God may have allowed JOSEPH to go through slavery and prison was to demonstrate that DETOURS and DELAYS serve the purpose of discipline and preparation for the CALLING on the lives of God’s children. “…Joseph, being seventeen years old, was feeding the flock with his brethren … Now Joseph had a dream … and his brothers said to him, “Shall you indeed reign over us? Or shall you indeed have dominion over us?” …” (Genesis 37: 2, 5-14, 41:37-46).

Joseph said to his brothers, who had been unfair and unjust to him: “…ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good…” (Genesis 50:20 KJV). “...Joseph was thirty years old when he stood before Pharaoh king of Egypt” (Genesis 37: 2, 5-14, 41:37-46).

In the New Testament, HEROD “...proceeded to seize Peter also ...[and]... Peter was kept in prison...” (Acts 12:1-5 NIV).

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Published on February 01, 2021 07:39

January 31, 2021

GOD IS A GOD OF JUSTICE; NOT INJUSTICE

GOD IS A GOD OF JUSTICE:

“…HE GAVE his only begotten Son…” (John 3:16 KJV). “…[God’s son, Jesus]... [GAVE]...His life a ransom for many...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV). “...For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given ...you...[Jesus]... to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul…” (Leviticus 17:11 KJV). “...[God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus]... did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for us....” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…the just for the unjust, that he might bring ...[mankind back] to [himself] …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). “..[Mankind can NOW choose to be]... reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV). “…He restoreth [their]...SOUL[s]…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “….Jesus Christ [can]...maketh [mankind]... WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit’s characteristic of JUSTICE sets HIM apart from ALL others. The WAY he has demonstrated and expressed his desire for the WELL-BEING of mankind’s SOUL is MORE than praise-worthy. “…[God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus].... came to seek and to save THAT WHICH WAS LOST…” (Luke 19:10 KJV). “…the body without (apart from) the spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV). “…It is the SPIRIT who gives “LIFE”; the flesh profits nothing…” (John 6:63 NASB).

Mankind OWED God, the Holy Spirit, a DEBT of SIN, which meant they’d PAY with their life through DEATH, but he DECIDED to PAY the DEBT “IN FULL” instead. “…the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “...through one man sin entered (gained access, through disobedience)... into the world, and death through sin, and so death passed to all men, for that all sinned—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). “...NOW all have sinned and fall short of the glory (the breath of life) of God...” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “...The life of the flesh is in the blood: and I (God, the Holy Spirit) have given ...you...[Jesus]... to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul…” (Leviticus 17:11 KJV). “...[God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus]... did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for us....” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

Thus, the WELL-BEING of mankind’s SOUL was COSTLY, because it required the DEATH of his SON, JESUS. “… [God]...spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all (all of mankind)...”(Romans 8:32 KJV). “…HE GAVE his only begotten Son…” (John 3:16 KJV). “…[God’s son, Jesus]... [GAVE]... His life a ransom for many...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV).

The MOTIVE behind God, the Holy Spirit, gesture of MERCY, through Jesus, regarding the well-being of man’s soul, was LOVE. “…God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son...” (John 3:16 KJV). “... Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us....” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…Christ (his son).... suffered for sins, the just for the unjust …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). “…There is no greater love …” (John 15:13 NLT).

God DESIRED to restore mankind’s SOUL and make them WHOLE again, AND he also DESIRED to be RECONCILED into a “covenant unity” relationship with them too. “…the just for the unjust, that he might bring ...[mankind back] to [himself] …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). “..[Mankind can NOW choose to be]... reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV). “…He restoreth [their]...SOUL[s]…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “….Jesus Christ [can]...maketh [mankind]... WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).“…May God himself [through Jesus]… make you holy and whole, put you together … [again]—spirit,soul, and body…” (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 MSG). “... and [mankind can become] ...living soul[s again]…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

The INTEREST of God, the Holy Spirit, in the well-being of mere, finite mankind’s SOUL speaks VOLUMES about his DIVINE character of HOLY LOVE. “...what are mere mortals (mankind) that [God, the Holy Spirit]... should think about...[them], [mere, finite human beings that [HE]... should care for [THEM?” (Psalm 8:4 NLT). "...What is mankind that you make so much of them, that you give them so much attention...” (Job 7:17 NASB). "...What are people, that you should make so much of [them[, that you should think of [them] so often?...” (Job 7:17 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit’s INTEREST in the well-being of mankind’s SOUL becomes a long-term commitment, he is WILLING to make and expresses it OPENLY. “…God [the Holy Spirit, through Jesus, his Word]... has said “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). Truly, “…God [is]..with us…” (Matthew 1:23 NASB). “…If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot denywho he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). It is a TRUTH, “…Not one of all the LORD's good promises … failed; every one was fulfilled...”(Joshua 21:45 NIV).

God, the Holy Spirit’s commitment to the well-being of mankind’s soul is FREE and UNDESERVING. “…[Salvation is FREE and comes] through God’s kindness …[It does] not [come]... by [mankind’s] good works. For in that case, God’s GRACE (unmerited favor) would not be what it really is—free and undeserved…” (Romans 11:5 NLT). “… [God is the ONE who was] …not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance...” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV). “… AS MANYas received him, to them GAVE HE POWER TO BECOME THE SONS (daughters) OF GOD, even to them that believe on his name…” (John 1:12 KJV). “…WHOSOEVER shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved...” (Romans 10:13 KJV).

God is NOT expecting reciprocity from mankind nor will he BENEFIT in anyway. “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…everything he (God, the Holy Spirit) does is right and all his ways are just....” (Daniel 4 NIV). “...He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he...”(Deuteronomy 32:4 NIV).“… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

God’s JUSTICE does not CHANGE it ALWAYS gives a person what they ARE DUE. “...whatever a person sows, this he(she) will also reap. ..” (Galatians 6:7-8 NASB). “...For the one who sows to his (her) own flesh will reap destruction from the flesh...” (Galatians 6:7-8 NASB).

God is ALWAYS FAIR because he NEVER shows BIAS toward people and EVERYONE is equally offered SALVATION through Jesus without impartiality. “……There is NEITHER Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female…” (Galatians 3:26-28 KJV). “…God SHOWS NO FAVORITISM. In every nationHE ACCEPTS thosewho fear him and do what is right—…there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all…” (Acts 10:34-36 NLT). “…God is no RESPECTER OF PERSONS: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. The word which God sent … preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)…” (Acts 10:34-36 KJV).

It is God’s FAIRNESS that SAVES, every lost and spiritually dead soul, through Jesus, from God’s JUSTICE or getting, the punishment, they TRULY deserve: DEATH. “...But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name...” (John 1:12). “...He predestined [the redeemed]... to adoption as sons and daughters through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will...” (Ephesians 1:5 NASB).

“...I give them eternal life...” (John 10:28 NLT). “... “…BY GRACE have ye been saved through… FAITH (through dependence upon God’s WORD); and that NOT OF YOURSELVES, IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD; not of works, that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “…The GIFT of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ….” (Romans 6:23 KJV).

“…But he(she) that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT….” (1 Corinthians 6:17). “…Jesus Christ is in [them]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “...[God’s people]...ARE ALL ONE (together) IN CHRIST JESUS…” (Galatians 3:26-28 KJV). Jesus said: “...I and my Father are one (forever)..." (John 10:30 KJV). “…that they also may be [one] in Us (forever)…” (John 17:21-23 NASB). “... [They]…are [ALL]… part of the same body, and enjoy the promise of blessings because they belong to Christ Jesus...” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).

“... thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light ...” (Colossians 1:12 NLT).“… [Everyone who belongs, to him through Jesus, however, and] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children… because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus was the FIRST and GREATEST philanthropist. A philanthropist MAKES “every” effort to IMPROVE the well-being of mankind by LOVING assistance or donations. Jesus Christ PROMOTES the welfare of the human soul “..[Mankind can NOW choose to be]... reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV). “…He restoreth [their]...SOUL[s]…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “….Jesus Christ [can]...maketh [mankind]... WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, is RICH. There is “... the riches of His grace...” (Ephesians 1:7-8 NASB). “…He is “SO” RICH in kindness…” (Ephesians 1:7 NLT). “… the riches of the glory (PRESENCE of God)…” (Colossians 1:27 NASB). “…the riches of his glorious inheritance (bountiful spiritual blessings)…” (Ephesian 1:18 NIV).“... RICH IN MERCY (debt of sin, paid in full)…” (Ephesians 2:1-5 KJV). (Isaiah 63:9 NASB).“… the riches…of [God’s]….wisdom and … [revelation]...knowledge….” (Roman 11:33-34). “…He is “SO” RICH ...that he purchased [mankind’s]... freedom [from sin]...with the blood of his Son and forgave [“all” their]... sins…” (Ephesians 1:7 NLT). “...the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering...” (Romans 2:4 ASV). “… HIDDEN RICHES of SECRET PLACES…” (ISAIAH 45:3).“…[God] …will generously (RICHLY) PROVIDE all … [mankind] need…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit is RICH and his GENEROUSLY SHARES his wealth with the POOR soul. “...If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord— and he will repay you...” (Proverbs 19:17 NLT). “...Blessed are those who are generous, because they feed the poor...” (Proverbs 22:9 NLT). “...Whoever gives to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to poverty will be cursed...” (Proverbs 28:27 NLT). “...If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person? Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions...” (1 John 3:17-18 NLT).

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

“...However...the riches [are]...inherited by God’s children…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).“… because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).

ALL of mankind is God’s CREATION, but HIS CHILDREN are those who BELONG to God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus Christ. “...But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name...” (John 1:12). “...He predestined [the redeemed]... to adoption as sons and daughters through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will...” (Ephesians 1:5 NASB).

Jesus said: “...I and my Father are one(forever)..." (John 10:30 KJV). “…that they also may be [one] in Us (forever)…” (John 17:21-23 NASB). “... [They]…are [ALL]… part of the same body, and enjoy the promise of blessings because they belong to Christ Jesus...” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, gives EVERY one of HIS CHILDREN the SAME INHERITANCE, through JESUS. God’s FAIRNESS is a part of his DIVINE nature, which NEVER changes, and explains WHY he TREATS every child the SAME with equal and equitable LOVE.

God’s character trait of FAIRNESS is GUIDED by his immutable HOLINESS and DIVINE LOVE. One child of God does NOT get MORE or LESS that any other child of God.

Thus, enjoying the BENEFITS of an, equal and equitable, inheritance DEPENDS upon each individual, redeemed child of God. God has EQUIPPED every child with the SAME gifts and bountiful spiritual blessings. “…The HOLY SPIRIT …gives all these [FREE]... GIFTS… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “… The God of peace … that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip[s] [his children]... with everything good for doing his will…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “… The God of peace … that great Shepherd of the sheep…work[s] in [his children]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…his divine power hath given unto [his children]... ALL THINGS…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV).

“…The GIFT by grace……” (Romans 5:15 KJV). ”… ye [are]…saved through faith…it is the GIFT of God…” (Ephesians 2:8 KJV). “…The GIFT of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ ….” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “….ye shall receive the GIFT of the Holy Ghost…” (Acts 2:38 KJV). “…the GIFT of righteousness…” (Romans 5:17 KJV). “…I am leaving you with a GIFT—peace of mind and heart...” (John 14:27 KJV). “…God has given us different GIFTS for doing certain things well…” (Romans 12:6 NLT). “…every man (woman) hath his proper GIFT of God...” (2 Corinthians 7:7 KJV). “…Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable GIFT(S)…” (2 Corinthians 9:16 KJV). “…[These are] ALL THINGS (and GIFTS) that pertain unto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV).

“…God is the one who provides …[for his children]...” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). “… God will supply all [his children need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…God will generously PROVIDE all … [his children NEED]…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT). “….The Lord is “[his children’s]” shepherd [they]... shall “not” want [for nothing]….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, HELPS his children too. “…He helps [his children]…” (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 helps[his children] in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “…You are my helper and my savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT).

“…God (the Holy Spirit)... is love…” (1 John 4:8 KJV). “…The …HOLY SPIRIT (and God, the Father) …is the SOURCE of [your HELP] …it is …God who does the work IN and THROUGH [HIS children]. The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of ...[his children] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

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

God, the Holy Spirit, will be FAITHFUL, to his children, forever. “…I AM “WITH” [my children]... ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). “…If … [my children] … are unfaithful, he (god, the holy spirit,]... remains faithful…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…The GIFT by grace (undeserved kindness)……” (Romans 5:15 KJV). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “...Jesus Christ (God’s WORD) is the same yesterday and today and forever...” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).

God is a God of JUSTICE and FAIRNESS; NOT REVENGE or INJUSTICE. God, the Holy Spirit PREFERS to MAKE people RIGHT with HIM, because he DELIGHTS in showing and sharing the RICHNESS of HIS MERCY instead of wrath, judgement, or punishment. “...HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV). “…Mercy triumphs over judgement.” (James 2:13 NASB).

God, the Holy Spirit and GREAT philanthropist demonstrates his LOVE and MERCY by reconciling mankind, restoring their souls, and making them WHOLE again, the lost and spiritually dead souls. “..[Mankind can NOW choose to be]... reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV). “…He restoreth [their]...SOUL[s]…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “….Jesus Christ [can]...maketh [mankind]... WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

However, they must CHOOSE to RECEIVE his provisional JUSTICE through Jesus. The human will can “…choosethis day this day whom [it wants to]...serve…” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “….if any man (woman) hear my voice, and open the door… repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions ... confess with thy mouth, the Lord Jesus ... [and]...in humility receivethe word implanted...[it]...is able to SAVE YOUR SOULS..” (Revelation 3:20, Romans 10:9-10, Ezekiel 18:30 KJV, & James 1:21 NASB).

“… AS MANY as received him, to them GAVE HE POWER TO BECOME THE “SONS” (daughters) OF GOD …” (John 1:12 KJV). “…God sent forth his Son…to redeem [mankind]….that [they].. might receive the adoption of sons…” (Galatians 4:4-5 KJV). “…You will receivethe GIFT of the Holy Spirit….” (Acts 2:38 NASB). “…A man (woman) can receive nothing, except it BE GIVEN him (her) from heaven…” (John 3:27 KJV). “…Every good GIFT and every perfect GIFT is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights…” (James 1:17 KJV).

The BRIGHT SIDE of God’s JUSTICE is that he is a GREAT philanthropist that GENEROUSLY and FREELY shares the RICHES of “HIS” SALVATION with LOST and spiritually POOR souls and it SAVES their lives from eternal condemnation, through Jesus’ atonement, and MAKES them RIGHT with God again.

HOW GREAT God, the Holy Spirit is and WORTHY of ALL the PRAISE! He could have, VERY EASILY, let ALL of MANKIND go to HELL and spend eternity separation from HIM.

In the Old Testament when God sent a tenth and final plague upon the Egyptians, his GENEROUS philanthropist activities SAVED the righteous and obedient Israelites INSTEAD of destroying them. The death of the firstborn of both people and animals was the tenth plague.

This meant ALL died, except the righteous and obedient who were COVERED by the BLOOD as God, the Holy Spirit had instruction them to for their PROTECTION. (READ Exodus 11:1-12:36). “…This is what the Lord says: At midnight tonight I will pass through the heart of Egypt. All the firstborn sons will die in every family in Egypt, from the oldest son of Pharaoh, who sits on his throne, to the oldest son of his lowliest servant girl who grinds the flour. Even the firstborn of all the livestock will die. Then a loud wail will rise throughout the land of Egypt, a wail like no one has heard before or will ever hear again. …” (Exodus 11:4-8 NLT).

The righteous and obedient children of Israel that painted their door posts with the sacrificial blood of an animal, as instructed, did not lose their firstborn to death. “… But among the Israelites (God’s children) it will be so peaceful that not even a dog will bark. Then you will know that the Lord makes a distinction between the Egyptians (his creations) and the Israelites (his children)…” (Exodus 11:4-8 NLT).

This created a FEAR in the hearts and minds of the Egyptians. “… All the officials of Egypt will run to me and fall to the ground before me. ‘Please leave!’ they will beg. ‘Hurry! And take all your followers with you.’ Only then will I go!” … The Lord caused the Egyptians to look favorably on the Israelites, and they gave the Israelites whatever they asked for. So they stripped the Egyptians of their wealth!...” (Exodus 11:4-8, 12:34 NLT). “...A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous...” (Proverbs 13:22 NIV).

“…BY THE WORD of the Lord the [Israel, his righteous children, were delivered out of the house of bondage] …” (Psalms 33:6 NASB). “…I am the Lord, I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians...” (Exodus 6:6-7 KJV). “…The Lord bought [Israel, his righteous children] out with a mighty hand and redeemed [them] out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of…Egypt. … (Deuteronomy 7:8 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, DELIVERED thousands that night. “…That night the people of Israel left Rameses and started for Succoth. There were about 600,000 men, plus all the women and children…” (Exodus 12:37 NLT).

The Israelites, God’s righteous children, had been in slavery, in the land of Egypt, for over 430 years. “…The people of Israel had lived in Egypt for 430 years. In fact, it was on the last day of the 430th year that all the Lord’s forces left the land. On this night the Lord kept his promise to bring his people out of the land of Egypt. So this night belongs to him, and it must be commemorated every year by all the Israelites, from generation to generation…” (Exodus 12:40-42 NLT).

“…I will rid you out of their bondage...”(Exodus 6:6-7 KJV). “…I will redeem you with a stretched out hand...”(Exodus 6:5:6-7 KJV). “…The Lord bought [Israel, his righteous children] out with a mighty hand and redeemed [them] out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of…Egypt. … (Deuteronomy 7:8 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, GIVES each one of his children the GIFT of righteousness. “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (Jesus) “INTO” [mankind’s HEART]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “… AS MANY as received him…” (John 1:12 KJV). “…receive the word implanted….” (James 1:21 NASB). “…[God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus]...GAVE [them the indwelling]... POWER TO BECOME THE SONS (daughters) OF GOD, evento them that believe on his name (Jesus’ name)…” (John 1:12 KJV). “...his gift of righteousness ...through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT). “…it is the blood [of Jesus] that maketh an atonement for the soul…” (Leviticus 17:11 KJV).

EVERYTHING, the God, the Holy Spirit, of FAIRNESS and JUSTICE did was to BENEFIT the well-being of mankind’s SOUL. He DONATED his only begotten son, he SHARED “all” his RICHES, he ENDOWED them with many GIFTS, he HELPED them when they needed him too, and even when THEY DON’T he remains FAITHFUL to his “covenant unity” commitment of loving, caring, and providing for them.

“…God is not human (he is not a body, the flesh, or a soul)…” (Numbers 23:19 NIV). “…“My thoughts are nothing like your [human]...thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine … my ways are higher [than human ways] … my thoughts higher [than human thoughts]…” (Isaiah 55:5-9 NLT).

The RELEVANCE of God, the Holy Spirit, being a God of FAIRNESS and JUSTICE is his EQUAL and EQUITABLE consideration for ALL of mankind and the well-being of EACH and EVERY one of their SOULS.

God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus did not COME to merely CONDEMN mankind through his JUSTICE, but he CAME TO SAVE them instead. “...For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son...” (John 3:17-18 NIV).

“...This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person’s failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him...” (John 3:17-18 MSG).

God is a God of JUSTICE, which mean ALL DEBTS must be paid by GIVING each and every person the WAGES of either a righteous or unrighteous life that is JUSTLY, FAIRLY, and RIGHTLY OWED to them. God’s JUSTICE is “NOT” revenge or injustice, but it is FAIR and JUST. “...whatever a person sows, this he(she) will also reap. ..” (Galatians 6:7-8 NASB). “...For the one who sows to his (her) own flesh will reap destruction from the flesh...” (Galatians 6:7-8 NASB). “...You have plowed wickedness, you have harvested injustice...” (Hosea 10:13 NASB). “...they shall eat of the fruit of their own way, And be filled with their own schemes...” (Proverbs 1:31 NASB). “...One who sows injustice will reap disaster...” (Proverbs 22:8 NASB).

The WORD of GOD proclaims the LOVE and MERCY of God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus, who offers, equally and equitably, to ALL of mankind, who CHOOSE to receive it, THE FREE GIFT of SALVATION!

God, the Holy Spirit, of JUSTICE sought, by sending Jesus Christ, to MAKE RIGHT the “covenant unity” relationship between HIMSELF and MANKIND.

When mankind FACES God’s WRATH, JUDGEMENT, or PUNISHMENT it WILL NOT be bias, unfair, or inequitable, but the ABSOLUTE and COMPLETE, fair and just payment OWED! “…everything [God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE]... does is right and all his ways are just....” (Daniel 4 NIV). “... A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he...”(Deuteronomy 32:4 NIV).“… “...I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

“...judgment and justicewill be upheld…” (Job 36:16-21 NLT).

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Published on January 31, 2021 06:39

January 29, 2021

GOD IS A GOD OF JUSTICE & HE MADE "YOU" THE SALT OF THE EARTH!

GOD IS A GOD OF JUSTICE:

HE MAKES THE RIGHTEOUS THE SALT OF THE EARTH

“… Abraham approached and said, “Will You indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? Suppose there are fifty righteous people within the city; will You indeed sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous who are in it? Far be it from You to do such a thing, to kill the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous and the wicked are treatedalike. Far be it from You! Shall not the Judge of all the earth deal justly?” So the Lord said, “If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare the entire place on their account.” ...Then he said, “Oh may the Lord not be angry, and I shall speak only this once: suppose ten are found there?” And He said, “I will not destroy iton account of the ten...” (Genesis 18:23-32 NASB).

God’s JUDGEMENT is HIS RESPONSE to the WRONGS, SINS, and INJUSTICES of the wicked and unrepentant. “… Abraham approached and said, “Will You indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? Suppose there are fifty righteous people within the city; will You indeed sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous who are in it? Far be it from You to do such a thing, to kill the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous and the wicked are treatedalike. Far be it from You! Shall not the Judge of all the earth deal justly?” So the Lord said, “If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare the entire place on their account...” (Genesis 18:23-32 NASB).

“...Abraham confronted him, “Are you serious? Are you planning on getting rid of the good people right along with the bad? What if there are fifty decent people left in the city; will you lump the good with the bad and get rid of the lot? Wouldn’t you spare the city for the sake of those fifty innocents? I can’t believe you’d do that, kill off the good and the bad alike as if there were no difference between them. Doesn’t the Judge of all the Earth judge with justice?” God said, “If I find fifty decent people in the city of Sodom, I’ll spare the place just for them...” (Genesis 18:23-32 MSG).

God’s JUSTICE exercises MERCY over the righteous. “...So the Lord said, “If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare the entire place on their account...” (Genesis 18:23-32 NASB). “...God said, “If I find fifty decent people in the city of Sodom, I’ll spare the place just for them...” (Genesis 18:23-32 MSG).

Abraham has a conversation with God, the Holy Spirit, about Sodom and Gomorrah. He doesn’t talk about the wicked, but he asks God, who deals JUSTLY, would he destroy the righteous along with the wicked. It is the righteous, who are God’s people and it the righteous who Abraham pleads for. “… Abraham approached and said, “Will You indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked?...” (Genesis 18:23-32 NASB).

Abraham, being a righteous man himself, boldly pleads for God’s JUSTICE toward the righteous living in the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. “...Abraham confronted him, “Are you serious? Are you planning on getting rid of the good people right along with the bad?...” (Genesis 18:23-32 MSG).

Abraham, respectfully, inquires about the JUSTICE of God by starting with fifty righteous and continues until he reduces it to ten righteous in an effect to KNOW God’s standard and depth of MERCY toward his people. “… Abraham approached and said, “Will You indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? Suppose there are fifty righteous people within the city; will You indeed sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous who are in it? Far be it from You to do such a thing, to kill the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous and the wicked are treatedalike. Far be it from You! Shall not the Judge of all the earth deal justly?” So the Lord said, “If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare the entire place on their account.” ...Then he said, “Oh may the Lord not be angry, and I shall speak only this once: suppose ten are found there?” And He said, “I will not destroy iton account of the ten...” (Genesis 18:23-32 NASB).

God, the Holy Spirit, is patient, during his fellowship with Abraham and answers every question. Abraham is humbled that God would take the time to allow for his questions, a mere mortal. “..And Abraham replied, “Now behold, I have ventured to speak to the Lord, although I am only dust and ashes...” (Genesis 18:27 NASB). “...Abraham came back, “Do I, a mere mortal made from a handful of dirt, dare open my mouth again to my Master?...” (Genesis 18:27 MSG).

It is the privilege of sons and daughters of God to come BOLDLY to God, the Holy Spirit’s throne of GRACE and FIND MERCY to HELP in a time of need. “..Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE, that we may obtain mercy, and find GRACE to help in time of need…” (Hebrews 4:16 KJV).

Abraham FULLY exercised his privileges and he was called A FRIEND of God, the Holy Spirit. “...the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “And Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called a friend of God...” (James 2:23). “...Abraham believed God and was set right with God,” includes his action. It’s that weave of believing and acting that got Abraham named “God’s friend.” Is it not evident that a person is made right with God not by a barren faith but by faith fruitful in works?...” (James 2:23 MSG).

The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah was SEEN as God’s WRATH, PUNISHMENT, JUDGEMENT, but it was really an ACT of his JUSTICE that was unfamiliar to his “covenant unity” people who were more accustomed to the MERCY and GRACE side of God’s JUSTICE.

Abraham was NOT unaware of God’s WRATH as an act of JUSTICE, because he’d witnessed it upon neighboring, wicked nations and understood it as his righteous judgement. “...Indeed this city has been to Me a provocation (incitement) of My anger and My wrath since the day that they built it, even to this day, so that it should be removed from My sight, because of all the evil of the sons of Israel and the sons of Judah which they have done to provoke (incite) Me to anger—they, their kings, their leaders, their priests, their prophets, the men of Judah, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem. They have turned their back to Me and not their face; though I taught them, teaching again and again, they would not listen to accept discipline...” (Jeremiah 32:31-33 NASB).

“... For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of people who suppress the truth in unrighteousness...” (Romans 1:18 NASB).

“...But because of your stubbornness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself..” (Romans 2:5 NASB).

However, God’s righteous people were COVERED by his MERCY and PROTECTED by his GRACE, which SAVED and DELIVERED them from being destroyed along with the wicked. “...God is ...a very present help in trouble...” (Psalms 46:1 KJV). “…[God is]…Your rockand Your fortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you can] … take refuge…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

What is NOTEABLE here is that Abraham, a son and friend of God, could GO BOLDLY to HIM, the Father and Holy Spirit and remind him of his promised MERCY upon the RIGHTEOUS. “..Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE, that we may obtain mercy…”(Hebrews 4:16 KJV). “…The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy…” (Psalms 103:8 KJV). “…For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him…” (Psalms 103:11 KJV). “…But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children's children…” (Psalms 103:17 KJV).

“….call upon me …and pray unto me and I will [LISTEN] unto you…” (Jeremiah 29:12-13 KJV). “...I am the one who answers your prayers and cares for you.....” (Hosea 14:5-9 NASB).

“...Abraham approached and said, “Will You indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? ....So the Lord said, “If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare the entire place on their account.” ...And He said, “I will not destroy it if I find forty-five there.” ...And He said, “I will not do it on account of the forty.”...And He said, “I will not do it if I find thirtythere.”...And He said, “I will not destroy it on account of the twenty.”...And He said, “I will not destroy it on account of the ten...” (Genesis 18:23-32 NASB).

God who is a God of JUSTICE told Abraham he would SPARE the WHOLE COUNTRY in an ACT of MERCY toward his righteous ones. “...he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy....”(Titus 3:5 NIV).

Placing the righteous in cities and nations of the WORLD is also a demonstration of God’s JUSTICE. Because of his righteous people, his destruction of those cities and nations are DELAYED, which actually gives the wicked and unrepentant a CHANCE to GET RIGHT with God, the Holy Spirit.

Sodom and Gomorrah was DESTROYED because there was NO righteous in it! NOT EVEN TEN RIGHTEOUS. “...And the Lord said, “The outcry of Sodom and Gomorrah is indeed great, and their sin is exceedingly grave...” (Genesis 18:20 NASB). “...And he said, I will not destroy it for ten's (righteous) sake...” (Genesis 18:32-33 KJV).“...we are about to destroy this place, because their outcry has become so great before the Lord that the Lord has sent us to destroy it.”...”(Genesis 19:1 -29 NASB).

“...Then the two men said to Lot, “Whom else do you have here? A son-in-law and your sons and daughters, and whomever you have in the city, bring them out of the place; ...So Lot went out and spoke to his sons-in-law, who were to marry his daughters, and said, “Up, get out of this place, for the Lord is destroying the city.” But he appeared to his sons-in-law to be joking. When morning dawned, the angels urged Lot, saying, “Up, take your wife and your two daughters who are here, or you will be swept away in the punishment of the city.” But he hesitated. So the men grasped his hand and the hand of his wife and the hands of his two daughters, because the compassion of the Lord was upon him; and they brought him out and put him outside the city. When they had brought them outside, one said, “Escape for your life! Do not look behind you, and do not stay anywhere in the surrounding area; escape to the mountains, or you will be swept away.” “...Then the Lord rained brimstone and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah from the Lord out of heaven, and He overthrew those cities, and all the surrounding area, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and what grew on the ground ...Now Abraham got up early in the morning and went to the place where he had stood before the Lord; and he looked down toward Sodom and Gomorrah, and toward all the land of the surrounding area; and behold, he saw the smoke of the land ascended like the smoke of a furnace. So it came about, when God destroyed the cities of the surrounding area, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the destruction, when He overthrew the cities in which Lot had lived...”(Genesis 19:1 -29 NASB).

WHO ARE the RIGHTEOUS? “...God’s wonderful ...gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:17 NLT). “... [Jesus made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “...[God’s people are]....the righteousness of God…”“in” Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:21).

RIGHTEOUSNESS is a FREE GIFT which comes from God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus Christ. “...God’s wonderful ...gift of righteousness, ...through ...Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:17 NLT). “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (Jesus) “INTO” [Y]OUR HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwell[s] in [his people, which “IS” the gift of righteousness)…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).

“…But he(she) that is joined unto the Lord is ONE (righteous) SPIRIT….” (1 Corinthians 6:17). “...renew a right (righteous) spirit within me....” (Psalms 51 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 new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

“… [He sent the] …one … who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “...God, who hath reconciled [his people]... to himself by Jesus Christ...” (2 Corinthians 5:18 KJV). . “...God’s wonderful ...gift of righteousness, ...through ...Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:17 NLT).

“...And you were [lost and spiritually]... dead in your offenses and sins, in which you previously walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all previously lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the rest. But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our wrongdoings, made us alive (righteous) together with Christ (by grace you have been saved)...” (Ephesians 2:1-5 NASB).

When you BECOME RIGHTEOUS how has God, the INDWELLING Holy Spirit, changed YOU to impact the environments, families, communities, cities, and nations in WHICH you LIVE?“… You arethe light of the world ..." (Matthew 5:14 KJV). “… [You].....serve as signs … from the Lord…” (Isaiah 8:18 NLT). “…[YOU are a NEW CREATION that]...DISPLAYS God’s power … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…[you are].... a BLESSING…” (Psalms 3:8 KJV; Psalms 21:6, Proverbs 10:6 NASB). “…[You are a WITNESS]... that everything [you]… have IS A GIFT “FROM” [God]…” (John 17:6-9 NLT). “…[You]... are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).“…by the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).

How are the righteous like a LIGHT do? “…LET YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE before men, that they may see your good works…” (Matthew 5:16 KJV). They ARE: “... A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB).

If the righteous are LIKE Jesus, how did Jesus SHOW he was a LIGHT, a SIGN, a DISPLAYER of God’s power, extremely GIFTED, and a BLESSING? “…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost (His indwelling SPIRIT)and WITH POWER (His indwelling working POWER). [And Jesus]...went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD (the indwelling 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).

“...[Jesus also] went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God...” (Luke 8:1 KJV). “.. [Jesus was also a) Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB). “...[Jesus]... revealed God to [the world]…” (John 1:18 NLT). “… [Jesus actually] ...reveal[ed]... [God’s]... thoughts to mankind…” (Amos 4:13 NLT).

“…[Jesus also] to preach[ed] ...the gospel to the poor; he ...heal[ed] the brokenhearted, ..preach[ed] deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, ...[he]...set at liberty them that [were]... bruised, [he]...preach[ed]... the acceptable year of the Lord…” (John 4:16-21 KJV).

“...the crowds learned about [the GOOD NEWS]... 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 through] … [Jesus] … what is pleasing to him [JUSTICE]…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…the Father... [that DWEL[T] within JESUS]… he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

If the righteous are LIKE Jesus, how can they begin to SHOW they are a LIGHT, a SIGN, a DISPLAYER of God’s power, extremely GIFTED, and a BLESSING too? They are to “… [change or transform]… into the SAME IMAGE …” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV).) “…[the]…image of HIS SON (Jesus)...” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “…[and into the]…fullness of CHRIST…” (Ephesians 4:14 NIV). By “… GROW[ING] (developing)... in the GRACE and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ…” (2 Timothy 3:18 NIV).

Are God’s RIGHTEOUS people a WITNESS of God’s JUSTICE? “…He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” (Micah 6:8 KJV). “…O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God…” (Micah 6:8 NLT).

Why would God’s righteous people BE so JUST and MERCIFUL? God, the Holy Spiritis RICH in MERCY and JUST in ALL his ways!“... RICH IN MERCY… [because of]... his great love…had quickened [mankind] together with Christ (by grace and mercy are ye saved)…”(Ephesians 2:1-5 KJV). “…Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever …” (Micah 7:18 KJV). “...HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV).

God’s RIGHTEOUS people are SENT into different situations and circumstances of life, families, friendships, communities, cities, or nations to become BLESSINGS to those people and places. “… [God’s]...BLESSING is upon THY PEOPLE…” (Psalms 3:8 KJV). “…YOU (God, the Holy Spirit) MAKE [your righteous people]… “MOST” BLESSED forever; …” (Psalms 21:6 NASB). “…You surround [your righteous people]… WITH FAVOR as with a shield…” (Psalms 5:12 NASB). “...God’s wonderful ...gift of righteousness, ...through ...Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:17 NLT).

The REDEEMED are MEANT to become A BLESSING, wherever they are, because they are God’s righteous child through Christ Jesus. “…I will BLESSthee …and thou shalt be a BLESSING…”(Genesis 12:2-3 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, for his righteous children, will BLESS EVERYTHING and EVERYBODY around for THEIR SAKE. For example: “…The Lord was with Joseph, and he was a successful man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. …” (Genesis 39:2-6 NLT). “….the Lord blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the Lord was on all that he had in the house and in the field. Thus he left all that he had in Joseph’s hand, and he did not know what he had except for the bread which he ate…” (Genesis 39:2-6 NLT).

Like Joseph, All of god’s righteous sons and daughters ARE that kind of BLESSING!! No matter WHERE you ARE; God’s presence is THERE too and will ALWAYS BLESS your environments. “…you will be a blessing…” (Genesis 12:2 NIV). “…He that is joined unto the LORD is ONE SPIRIT…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).“…God’s Spirit dwells in you?...” (1 Corinthians 3:16 NASB). God will “…never leave nor forsake you… …” (Hebrews 13:5).

God’s presence, his goodnesses, and his working power will ALWAYS BLESS the life around his righteous children. “….the Lord blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the Lord was on all that he had…” (Genesis 39:2-6 NLT).

“…BLESSINGS are on the head of the righteous…” (Proverbs 10:6 NASB). “…You surround [your righteous people] ... WITH FAVOR as with a shield…” (Psalms 5:12 NASB). “...God’s wonderful ...gift of righteousness, ...through ...Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:17 NLT).

God’s people “are” BLESSINGS, which means they automatically BLESS the environments wherever they are. God blessed Potipher’s house (atmosphere) for the sake of his righteous servant, Joseph’s. “….the Lord blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake…” (Genesis 39:2-6 NLT).

God makes his people A BLESSING through his indwelling Holy Spirit, which MAKES his righteous children PROSPEROUS (benefit) in ALL they DO. “…The Lord made all that he “did” to prosper in his hand…” (Genesis 39:3 KJV).

The biggest issue with God’s people, particularly within challenging situations and circumstances, is HOLDING and MAINTAINING their trust in and dependency upon God’s unchanging truth. “…you will be a blessing…” (Genesis 12:2 NIV). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…he remains faithful [INSIDE ALL situations and circumstances], for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…The plans [God has]…for ... [his righteous ones are]…plans to prosper [them]... and not to harm [them], plans to give [them]... HOPE and a future...” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV).

“...For I know the thoughts that I think toward [my righteous sons and daughters], saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give [them]... an expected end...” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV).

“…all things work together for GOOD to them that LOVE GOD, to them who are THE CALLEDto his purpose...” (Romans 8:28 KJV).

“…[You, God’s righteous sons and daughters]…will receive NOW in return (in this life, no matter where you are or what’s happening,) a hundred times as many houses, brother, sisters, mothers, children, and property…” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).

“….If God is for us, who [or what]... can be against us?”(Romans 8:31 NIV).

God, the Holy Spirit, who BLESSES his righteous children ALWAYS is the SAME in their days of PROSPERITY as he is in their DAYS of ADVERSITY. “..In the day of prosperity be happy, But in the day of adversity consider-- God has made the one as well as the other…” (Ecclesiastes 7:14 NASB). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

For God’s righteous ONES, “…all things [are, without a doubt]...work[ing]... together for GOOD to them (the righteous ones) that LOVE GOD, to them who are THE CALLED to his purpose...” (Romans 8:28 KJV).

Remember God made a promise to Habakkuk that EVERYTHING would be already. “...And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry...” (Habakkuk 2:2-3 KJV).

God TOLD Habakkuk that the RIGHTEOUS, in the days of trouble, are to CONTINUE to LIVE BY FAITH. “..Behold, his soul (the wicked soul) which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith...” (Habakkuk 2:4 KJV). “..For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith...” (Romans 10:17 KJV). “...But that no man (woman) is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith...” (Galatians 3:11 KJV). “...Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man (woman) draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him...” (Hebrew 10:38 KJV).

The righteous are encouraged to CONTINUE to trust and depend upon God, the Holy Spirit, and his WORD no matter what they SEE or are EXPERIENCING. “…live by faith, not by sight….” (2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV).

The righteous are BLESSED with the INDWELLING Holy Spirit that was GIFTED to them to strengthen them to ENDURE their present circumstances with confidence in the God of JUSTICE. “…I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).

HOW? “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

“...Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler...” (Psalm 91 KJV).

“… 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).

“…[The righteous SHALL] ...know that [God, the holy spirit, through jesus is their]... Saviour …” (Isaiah 60:16 KJV).

“…there is none like unto thee (God, the Holy Spirit)…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “…Jesus Christ (God’s word and promises to his righteous people)... is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).“…so [his righteous people]... will know that [HE “IS”] the Lord [god almighty!!!]…” (Exodus 10:1-2 NLT). “…Then [his righteous ones]... will know that [he is] the Lordyour God…’” (Exodus 16:12 NLT).

God’s JUSTICE exercises MERCY on BEHALF of HIS righteous sons and daughters. “...So the Lord said, “If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare the entire place on their account...” (Genesis 18:23-32 NASB). “...God said, “If I find fifty decent people in the city of Sodom, I’ll spare the place just for them...” (Genesis 18:23-32 MSG). “….the Lord blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the Lord was on all that he had…” (Genesis 39:2-6 NLT).

“…everything he does is right and all his ways are just....” (Daniel 4 NIV). “...all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he...”(Deuteronomy 32:4 NIV).“… he remains faithful [to his righteous sons and daughters], for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “… I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).

“…Trust in the Lord (the god of justice) with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding…”(Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “…You will abound in HOPEby the power of the Holy Spirit…” (Romans 15:13 NASB). “…God, the source ofHOPE, will fill you completely.... Then you will overflow with confident HOPE through thepower of the Holy Spirit…” (Romans 15:13 NLT).

THE FAITH of God’s righteous people will ALWAYS result in the witness of God’s JUSTICE through his presence, his goodnesses, and his working power in their situations and circumstances. “…HOW MUCH MORE DO I NEED TO SAY? It would take too long to recount THE STORIES OF the FAITH of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets… [Through]… FAITH [in God’s JUSTICE on BEHALF of his people, THEY]... overthrew kingdoms, ruled with justice, and receivedwhat God had promised them. They shut the mouths of lions, quenched the flames of fire, and escaped death by the edge of the sword. Their weakness was turned to strength. They became strong in battle and put whole armies to flight. Women received their loved ones back again from death….” (Hebrews 11:1-35 NLT).

And God’s LOVING JUSTICE “WILL” exercise MERCY on behalf of the righteous. “...So the Lord said, “If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare the entire place on their account...” (Genesis 18:23-32 NASB). “...God said, “If I find fifty decent people in the city of Sodom, I’ll spare the place just for them...” (Genesis 18:23-32 MSG).

The RIGHTEOUS are not just PROTECTED from God’s JUSTICE through his ACT of MERCY, but their PROTECTION helps SLOW down God’s JUSTICE, through his WRATH, JUDGEMENT, and PUNISHMENT of the unrepentant and the wicked.

God’s RIGHTEOUS one who are SENT into various place and situations are also an ACT of God’s MERCY. He doesn’t WANT anyone to perish, but it is THEIR CHOICE. “….[God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus came to earth] because HE was], NOT WILLING that any should perish, but that ALL should come to repentance…” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV).

However, everyone CHOOSES to"…REPENT AND RETURN, “SO” that your sins may be wiped away…” (Acts 3:19 NASB). “…EXCEPT YE REPENT, ye shall all likewise PERISH…” (Luke 13:3 KJV).

By living HOLY and RIGHTEOUS lives God’s people become LIVING WITNESSES of his JUSTICE as the SALTS of the EARTH! “...Let me tell you why you are here....” (Matthew 5:13 MSG).“...[YOU]... are the salt (preservative) of the earth...” (Matthew 5:13 NASB). “...I will spare the entire place on [the] account...[of my righteous ones]..” (Genesis 18:23-32 NASB). “...I’ll spare the place just for [my righteous ones]...” (Genesis 18:23-32 MSG). “….the Lord blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake…” (Genesis 39:2-6 NLT).

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Published on January 29, 2021 09:45

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