Pensacola Helene Jefferson's Blog, page 28

TRANSFORMING LOVE: GOD LOVES YOU WITH A HOLY LOVE, PART 1

TRANSFORMING LOVE WITH A “HOLY” LOVE, Part 1

“... [No]… greater love…than this …” (John 15:13 KJV).

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God, the Holy Spirit, has chosen you. God, the Holy Spirit’s, “good news” has drawn you.  God, the Holy Spirit’s “measure of faith” has been GIFTED to you, and now God, the Holy Spirit’s, HOLY, unconditionally love promises to BOND you to his heart, forever! “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). He has “….loved [his people]...with an everlasting  … love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV). “…There is no greater  … LOVE …” (John 15:13 NLT).

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

Because human LOVE has become so common, devalued, tainted, disrespected, dishonored, and abused it is HARD to get a TRUE grasp of God’s HOLY LOVE. God’s LOVE is “SO” SAFE and SECURE, you can ABIDE or REST in it FOREVER. “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

“…I AM WITH [my people] ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV).  Truly, “…God with us…” (Matthew 1:23 NASB). “…If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot denywho he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

“…abidein me, and I in you…” (John 15:4 KJV). To “abide in God, who is love” is to stay engulfed, surrounded, covered, or soaked IN His HOLY LOVE, which is experienced “in” Christ. “… [the [UNCONDITIONAL, holy] love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord…” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

 

 All true lessons in love begin with God’s kind of love HE says, “….as I have loved you… love one another….” (John 13:34 ASV).

If God’s people don’t, personally, KNOW how God has LOVED them, how can they truly LOVE others in the SAME WAY? “...Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is begotten of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love...” (1 John 4:7-8 ASV).

“….as I have loved you… love one another….” (John 13:34 ASV).

When God’s people begin to learn about God’s HOLY LOVE their OWN hearts will reveal the difference between how HE loves and how they love. “...For from within, out of the heart of man, proceed evil thoughts… wickedness… pride...  All these evil things come from within, and defile a person...” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV).

God says, “…love your enemies…” “…pray for them which persecute you...” “…if your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; if he be thirsty, give him water to drink...” “…do good to them which hate you….” “..bless them that curse you...” “….pray for them that despitefully use you…” “…lay not … sin [against people]…” AND “[don’t pay]…one evil for [another] evil…” (Matthew 5:44; 1 Samuel 24:17; Proverbs 19:11; Proverbs 25:21; Luke 6:27-28; Acts 7:60; Romans 12:20; and 1 Thessalonians 5:15 KJV).

“…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).“..Jesus’ ...[was]... the EXACT representation of his being (Holy loving nature)…”(Hebrews 1:3 KJV). “…In this world [God’s people]... are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). They are to “...Be[come] … imitators of [Jesus]…”(Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:1 ASV).“… growing in every way more and more like Christ…” (Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT).

When God’s people love like Jesus “… [they demonstrate they are] children of [their heavenly]... Father which is in heaven; for He maketh his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sendeth rain on the just (righteous) and the unjust.(unrighteous)…” (Matthew 5:45 KJV).

“….as I have loved you… love one another….” (John 13:34 ASV). How has God “LOVED YOU” and how does that love “TRANSFORM YOU?” “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…God (LOVE) chose [YOU]... in Christ beforethe foundation of the world…” (Ephesians 1:4).

“…God SHOWED HIS GREAT LOVE FOR [YOU] by “SENDING” Christ to DIE for [you] WHILE [you] were still [a sinner]…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT).

“…He did this, not because [YOU]... DESERVED it, but because that was his [loving]... plan from before the beginning of time …” (2 Timothy 1:9 NLT).

“... [THEN God]... predestined [YOU]... to [be ADOPTED]... AS [HIS]...SONS (daughters) through Jesus Christ to HimselfACCORDING TO THE KIND INTENTION OF HIS WILL …” (Ephesians 1 NLT).

“…[Thus, God]…sent His Son...” (1 John 4:10 KJV).   “… [He sent the] …one … who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “…This is what he wanted (CHOSE) to do, and it gave him great pleasure…” (Ephesians 1 NLT).

“...to the praise of the glory of His grace, with which He favored us in the Beloved...” (Ephesians 1:6 NASB).

“… [God]…hath made [his people]... ACCEPTED in the beloved…” (Ephesians 1:6 KJV). “...In Him [his people]... have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of [their[ wrongdoings, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on [them]. In all wisdom and insight...” (Ephesians 1:7-8 NASB).

“…He is “SO” RICH in kindness and GRACE that he purchased [their].. freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave [their]... sins…” (Ephesians 1:7 NLT).

“…God, in his grace, freely makes [his people]... right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed [them]... from the penalty for [their]... sins…” (Romans 3:21-26 NLT).

“...In Him [his people]... also have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things in accordance with the plan of His will...” (Ephesians 1:11-12 NASB).

“… [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). 

“....  I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, …” (Ephesians 1 NLT). “...and what is the boundless greatness of His power toward us who believe....” (Ephesians 1:18-19 NASB).

“…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in [God’s children]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…He restoreth my SOUL…” (Psalm 23 KJV).

“….Jesus Christ maketh [his people]... WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... and [they become] ...living soul[s again] …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

“…If any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a NEW CREATURE …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “… [New creations]… are HIS workmanship, created in Christ Jesus (the true VINE) unto good works …” (Ephesians 2:10 KJV).

ALL OF THIS, “… because the LordlovesHis people…” (2 Chronicles 2:11 NASB). “… I have loved [them]... with an everlasting love; Therefore I have drawn [them]... with lovingkindness…” (Jeremiah 31:3 NASB).  “… Indeed, He lovesthe people…” (Deuteronomy 33:3 NASB).

God is the ORIGIN of LOVE. “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…God’s  love has been poured out INto …[his people’s]… heartsthrough the Holy Spirit, who has been given to [them]…” (Romans 5:5 NIV).

“…Herein is love,not that [God’s people]... lovedGod, but that HE [first] LOVED [them]...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “...[god’s people]... love, because [god, the holy spirit]… “FIRST” LOVED [them]…” (1 John 4:19 ASV). “….God SHOWED HIS GREAT LOVE FOR [them]…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT).

“…There is no greater LOVE [than god, the holy spirit’s love] …” (John 15:13 NLT). SO, “….as I have loved you… love one another….” (John 13:34 ASV).

 

God’s people who proclaimed they’ve been SAVED by the God of LOVE and have FREELY received his many GIFTS of love, often won’t offer that SAME love to others. “...So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them…” (Matthew 7:12 RSV).

“….as I have loved you… love one another….” (John 13:34 ASV).

 God’s HOLY LOVE is the most powerful expression, demonstrate, and BOND available to mankind. “…God is  love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “… I have loved [my people]... with an everlasting love; Therefore I have drawn [them]... with lovingkindness…” (Jeremiah 31:3 NASB). “…Love … is the perfect BOND of unity...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB).  

Humanity, without God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE, can weaken the true expression and demonstration of love. “… [My]… thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways…..as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts…” (Isaiah 55:8-9 ASV). 

Love has become WAX COLD as well as severely abused, disrespected, dishonored, and tainted over the years.  “….Apart from ...[God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE, his people]… can do nothing …” (John 15:5 NIV).

Without God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE, human love is limited to human efforts and is just a FLESHY connection. "…That which is born (originates from) of the flesh is flesh…” (John 3:6 KJV).“...the flesh profits nothing…” (John 6:63 NASB).

It is impossible to truly experience a spiritual LOVE BOND or spiritual CONNECTION without God, the Holy Spirit. “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The [Holy] Spirit of God dwell[s] in you (in the hearts of HIS people)…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…He [or she]… that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT….” (1 Corinthians 6:17). "…That which is born (originates from) of the Spirit is spirit…” (John 3:6 KJV).

Sex (a physical bond), alone, does not and will not produce the BOND that spiritual love does. “…Put on love (God is LOVE), which is the perfect BOND of unity...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB). And, “...But he (she) that is joined (indwelled by the Holy Spirit) unto the Lord is one spirit...” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

In order to EXPERIENCE spiritual love, a person chooses to BECOME “ONE SPIRIT” with God, the Holy Spirit, FIRST. “...But he (she) that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit...” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). "…That which is born (originates from) of the Spirit is spirit…” (John 3:6 KJV).

BECOMING “ONE SPIRIT” with God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus, is becoming “ONE SPIRIT” with LOVE. “…God is love…” (1 John 4:8 KJV).

 “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).When God’s people truly KNOW God, who is love, they will begin to imitate him.  “…every one that loveth …. KNOWETH God. He that loveth NOT KNOWETH NOT God; for God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

It is a KNOWN fact, that who you hang with can impact and influence your behavior and you’ll start becoming like the company you keep. “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV) “...Walk with the wise (LOVE) and become wise (LOVING), for a companion of fools suffers harm...” (Proverbs 13:20 NIV).

Jesus said, “…..what he seeth (from keeping company with him) the Father doing… he doth… in like manner...” (John 5:19 KJV). “...Walk with the wise (LOVE) and become wise (LOVING)..” (Proverbs 13:20 NIV).

According to the scriptures, a distinguishing MARKof God’s people is that they “…have love one to another...” (John 13:35 KJV). “…Ye shall [be known]… by [your]… fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV). “…[One of]...the fruit of the Spirit is love…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “…All men (women) will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another…" (John 13:35 NASB).“...Anyone (NO EXCEPTIONS) who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God...” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT).

In addition, the WORD says the greatest commandments are “… you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself” (Luke 10:27 RSV).

God’s people can desire and follow after many, many things; spiritual or non-spiritual pursuits, but the scriptures tell THEM to “…follow the way of love…” (1 Corinthians 14:1 NIV).

What you CHOOSE to follow or PRIORITIZE is a directive expression of your wants and desires. “…They ABANDONED the Lord… they turned their backs on him….” (2 Chronicles 29:6 NLT).  “…We will continue to live as WE WANT TO, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT). “…My people would not listen to me. They KEPT DOING WHATEVER THEY WANTED, following the stubborn desires of their [OWN] evil hearts…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

“…follow the way of love…” (1 Corinthians 14:1 NIV). What you follow and focus upon becomes your master and teacher. “...Walk with the wise (LOVE) and become wise (LOVING)..” (Proverbs 13:20 NIV). “…to whom [YOU willfully choose to] yield yourselves servants to obey, his (her) servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16 KJV). “...Anyone(NO EXCEPTIONS) who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God...” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT).

The BIBLE says: “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV) Therefore, God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE is the reality of love, the definition of love, the behavior of love, the attitude of love, the personification of love, the faithfulness of love, the immutability of love, the Spirit of love and the purity or holiness of love. “...God, [the Holy Spirit]... is love…” (1 John 4:8).

Man’s love without God, is limited by sinful flesh, but God’s HOLY LOVE is “NOT.”  “...[His] ways are higher than [mankind’s] ways [and His] thoughts than [their] ways...” (Isaiah 55:9 KJV).“… I the LORD am...[the]...Saviour ...[of my people]…” (Isaiah 60:16 KJV). “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

God is loveand he is his OWN standard for LOVE, which he expresses and demonstrates by what he does. His STANDARDS for LOVE are much HIGHER than mankind’s standards. “… [My]… thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways…..as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higherthan your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts…” (Isaiah 55:8-9 ASV). 

I thought I was a LOVING person, but I can attest I was NOT as LOVING as I thought I was. I didn’t truly KNOW love until I learned of God’s love for me through revelation knowledge. It was only then that I understood how to genuinely and authentically love myself and others. “... [God’s people] love, because he first loved [them]...” (1 John 4:19 ASV).

Corinthians chapter thirteen says:  “...Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres, Love never fails...” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV).  

My description of God’s awesome love, will be meager, but I will give it a good old college try:

God’s love is patient and enduring. God’s people are biblically assured over and over that God’s “…..lovingkindness endureth for ever…” (Psalm 106:1, Psalm 100:5, 1 Chronicles 16:34 KJV).

 God’s love is faithful. God’s people never have to worry about the abandonment of God’s love; it will patiently continue forever and ever.

God’s people are guaranteed that “….neither death, nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate [you]… from the love of God which is “in” Christ Jesus our Lord...” (Romans 8:38-39 KJV).

Nothing they say or do will stop God, the Holy Spirit, from loving them.  God’s people can be assured that “….the…faithful love of the Lord, [for them], never ends...!”(Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT).

His love for his people never runs out, because its UNCONDITIONAL. God is so very patience with his people that he waits for them no matter what is happening or how long it’s been happening.

God loves his people for FREE on PURPOSE and “…his faithful love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods….His faithful love endures forever……His faithful love endures forever…” (Psalm 136:1-3 NLT).

Other people may start out loving you and later stop loving you, but God’s love is patience and enduring. God is always in right standing with his people, in regard to his “enduring love”, even if they are NOT in right standing with HIM. “…If [his people]... are unfaithful, [God, the Holy Spirit]... remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “...God, [the Holy Spirit]... is love…” (1 John 4:8).

Human love may not endure all things or last a lifetime, but God’s love “…endureth all things… [and] endureth forever...” (1 Corinthians 13:7 & Psalm 106:1).

When God’s people are out of fellowship with God, it is their CHOICE; not his choice. Nonetheless, God’s remains FAITHFULLY patience. “….the…faithful love of the Lord, [for them], never ends...!”(Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT).

God’s love is kind. “….God careth for [his people]… (1 Peter 5:7 KJV). “…He cares for those who trust in him...” (Nahum 1:7 NIV). “…How great is [God’s benevolent kindness], which [He lays] up for them that fear [Him]… [or] for them that take refuge in [Him]…” (Psalm 31:19-20 KJV).

God’s very nature is kind, which means “….he is good [deeply caring]... “ALL” the time (1 Chronicles 16:34, Ezra 3:11, and Psalm 107).

God’s kindness can be experienced through the richness of grace, his daily mercy, his role as our “good” Shepherd, in Christ’s death on the cross, and in all the ways in which he pours out his kindness upon ALL humanity.

How great is God’s benevolent kindness who, “… maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? (Matthew 5:46-48 KJV).  

 People, in general, can be unkind at times or display aspects of a mean, hateful heart. Unkind acts can be witnessed in behaviors such as prejudice, stubbornness, pride, rebellion, revenge, murder, unforgiveness, judgement, or selfishness.

God’s kindness is immutably “….tenderhearted… [and]… forgiving…” God’s kindness is generous towards his people at all times. He causes his “goodness and lovingkindness [to]… follow [his people]… all the days of [their]… life…” (Psalm 23:6 KJV).  

God’s very presence is an act of kind toward his people. “...Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spiritfrom me …” (Psalms 51:10-19 KJV). “…[god’s] Presencewill go with [his people]…” (Exodus 33:14 NIV). “...You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand...” (Psalms 16:11 NIV).

God, the Holy Spirit’s, tender, loving care “runneth over” for his people and he is purposefully generous to them. (Psalm 23:5).

God is so KIND he stays close to his people in case they call out to him. “..The LORD is nigh to them that call upon him, to all that call on him in truth...” (Psalm 145:18 KJV). The bible says, “…they will call upon me, but I will not answer; they will seek me diligently, but they shall not find me...” (Proverbs 1:28 ASV).  “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

However SIN and HOLINESS naturally SEPARATE; just like oil and water. “…Your [continual practice of]...INIQUITIES (sin) [can] separated  ... you and your God (Holy) …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…It’s YOUR [continual, ongoing practice of]...SINS that [will]... cut you off from God (who is HOLY)…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT).

If God’s people willing choose to go back to practicing wickedness and not obey, they should remember, “…God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly person who does his will (Job 35:13).   

“…..God will not hear [their]… empty cry; neither will the Almighty regard it….” (Job 35:13 ASV).

“...[The wicked] cried, but there was none to save [them] –unto [God], but answered [he] them not...”(Psalm 18:41 ASV).

“...He… [fulfills] the desire of them that fear (respect) him; he… [hears] their cry and… [saves]… them” (Psalm 145:19 ASV).

God’s “kind” love is a “covenant unity” relationship with his people. “…Like a will that takes effect when someone dies, the new covenant was put into action at Jesus’ death. His death marked the transition from the old plan to the new one, canceling the old obligations and accompanying sins, and summoning the heirs to receive the eternal inheritance that was promised them. He brought together God and his people in this new way…” (Hebrews 9:16-17 MSG).

A covenant with God is not like a covenant with mankind, but much greater. Mankind’s covenants may be an equal exchange of favors. The covenant with God is not an equal exchange. It seems almost one-sided since God REMAINS faithful no matter WHAT.

God, through Jesus gave his life to establish a new covenant with his people, again. “…This is the blood of the covenant commanded by God.” He did the same thing with the place of worship and its furniture. Moses said to the people, “This is the blood of the covenant God has established with you.” Practically everything in a will hinges on a death. That’s why blood, the evidence of death, is used so much in our tradition, especially regarding forgiveness of sins” (Hebrew 9:20 MSG).

When God is in covenant with his people, through Jesus Christ, HIS faithful is guaranteed, but his people’s faithfulness is not guaranteed. “...If we give up and turn our backs on all we’ve learned, all we’ve been given, all the truth we now know, we repudiate Christ’s sacrifice and are left on our own to face the Judgment—and a mighty fierce judgment it will be! If the penalty for breaking the law of Moses is physical death, what do you think will happen if you turn on God’s Son, spit on the sacrifice that made you whole, and insult this most gracious Spirit? This is no light matter. God has warned us that he’ll hold us to account and make us pay. He was quite explicit: “Vengeance is mine, and I won’t overlook a thing” and “God will judge his people.” Nobody’s getting by with anything, believe me...” (Hebrews 10:20-31 MSG).

Again, the “covenant unity” relationship is unique to God where his people are actually the more FAVORED, because God, the Holy Spirit goes ALL IN.   “...And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. Therefore I say unto you,  What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them...” (Mark 11:22-24 KJV)

“...For [the Lord] blesses the righteous (his people), [and surrounds] him (her) with favor as with a shield...” (Psalm 5:12 ASV).

"...Behold, I am with… [you, my people] and will keep… [you] whithersoever [you]… goest, and will bring …[you] again into this land. For I will not leave [you]… until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of…." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

“…This is love…” (1 John 4:10 NLT). “…God is [unconditonal]… LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…There is no greater love …” (John 15:13 NLT).

 

 

TRANSFORMING LOVE: THE MEASURE OF FAITH

             
TRANSFORMING LOVE

“…..according as God hath dealt to each man the measure of faith” (Romans 12:3 KJV).

God has chosen you, God has drawn you, and now he gives you a “measure of faith”. This “measure of faith” is a holy, spiritual gift and does NOT originate from humans. “…God hath dealt (GIVEN)… to every man THE measure of FAITH…” (Romans 12:3 NIV).  “…[One of]... the fruit of the Spirit… is…FAITH…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “…God has allotted to each a measure of faith…” (Romans 12:3 NASB).

 “...For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast...”(EPHESIANS 2:8-9 KJV).

“…Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly. Along with faith … that are [“through” the power of the WORD of GOD]…” (1 Timothy 1:13-14 NIV). “...[God’s] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12: 4-11 NLT).

God “…dealt (GAVE) to every man (woman) the measure of faith...” (Romans 12:3 KJV). “….IT IS THE “GIFT” OF GOD…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

The “measure of faith” and the “spiritual fruit of faith, is definitely from God, the Holy Spirit and that is the perspective of faith, we’ll attempt to look at. “…God hath dealt (GIVEN)… to every man (woman) THE measure of FAITH…” (Romans 12:3 NIV).  “…[One of]...the fruit of the Spirit ...is FAITH... [and is produced by God, the Holy Spirit]…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “…God has allotted to each a measure of faith…” (Romans 12:3 NASB).

The BIBLE says that “faith” IS the assurance, certainty, or confidence of things hoped for and evidence or proof of things not YET seen. “…Now FAITH “IS” the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen…” (Hebrews 11:1 KJV).

Faith is a spiritual FRUIT of certainty and it is the evidence of “THINGS” hoped for or expected from God.

From this perspective, “gifted” Faith is something REAL and PRESENT that EXISTS “within” the believer. “… FAITH “IS”…” (Hebrews 11:1 KJV). “…[One of]...the fruit of the Spirit “is” …faith…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “…The measure of faith... [is “given” by god]...”(Romans 12:3 KJV). “….IT IS THE “GIFT” OF GOD…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

HEARING God’s WORD “empowers’ this faith. “… [The measure of or the spiritual fruit of] …Faith cometh by HEARING… the WORD of God…” (Roman 10:17 KJV).

HEARING God’s Word, the spiritual, living water, will produce the spiritual of faith, within the heart of the believer where the spiritual seed is planted. The spiritual, living water empowers the spiritual fruit of faith to grow, within the believer, through the indwelling, working POWER of the Holy Spirit. “…According to the POWER (the Holy Spirit) that works WITHIN us…” (Ephesians 3:20 NASB).

When “the measure of faith” or the “spiritual fruit of Faith” empowers or strengthens the heart of the believer, it is experienced as complete trust and dependency upon God’s WORD. “…Trust in the Lordwith 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).

When common human, finite faith motivates people it is dependent on self-effort, invented spirituality or values, human reason, established bodies of human knowledge, human logic, or scientific theories.

However, without God’s WORD (the spiritual living water), the spiritual fruit of faith is not produced. “…[The measure of or the spiritual fruit of] ...Faith cometh by HEARING… the word of God…” (Roman 10:17 KJV).

Human faith is often experienced as trust in one’s OWN understanding OR someone else’s understanding, character, expertise, logic, reason, human knowledge, self-made spirituality, or invented religion. “… LEAN NOT unto thine own understanding…” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).

When “the measure of faith” or the “spiritual fruit of Faith” empowers or strengthens the believer it depends on hearing the trustworthy WORD of God to become ACTIVATED.

It is experienced and witnessed as a strong, confident dependence upon the Lord, which also the WORD and the indwelling WORK of the Holy Spirit. “…Trust in (depend upon) the Lord (the word) with ALL thine heart…” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, MADE the “measure of faith” and “the spiritual fruit of faith,” DEPENDENT upon “HEARING” his WORD. “…Faith cometh by HEARING… the WORD of God…” (Roman 10:17 KJV). “…In him(Jesus, the Word) ALL THINGS  (including FAITH)…hold together…” (Colossians 1:7 NIV). “… [God through Jesus, his WORD is]…sustaining ALL THINGS (including his people’s faith) … by his powerful word…” (Hebrews 1:3 NIV).

“…Looking unto Jesus the AUTHOR (the WORD and originator) and FINISHER (sustainer) OF [God’s people’s]…[indwelling, spiritual fruit of]… FAITH…” (Hebrews 12:2a KJV). “…The LORD (the WORD) WILL PERFECT (grow, mature) that which concerneth me…” (Psalms 138:8 KJV). “…HE (God, the Holy Spirit) “WILL” KEEP [his people]... STRONG to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).

 “….The decrees (WORDS) of the Lord are TRUSTWORTHY, making wise the simple…” (PSALM 19:7 NLT).  “…All your commands are TRUSTWORTHY…” (PSALM 119:86 NLT). “…your laws are perfect and completely TRUSTWORTHY…. “(PSALMS 119:138 NLT). “…This hope is a strong and TRUSTWORTHY anchor for our souls…” (HEBREWS 6:19 NLT). “...Everything you have heard and seen is TRUSTWORTHYand true…” (REVELATION 22:6 NLT).

 “… [God is]… WATCHING OVER [his] WORD TO PERFORM IT …” (Jeremiah 1:12 NASB). “…So shall my word … that goeth forth out of my mouth: IT SHALL NOT RETURN UNTO ME VOID, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV).  “…Not one of the good promises which the Lordhad made to the house of Israel failed; ALL CAME TO PASS…” (Joshua 21:45 NASB). 

“… [God through Jesus is]…sustaining ALL THINGS (including his people’s faith) … by his powerful word…” (Hebrews 1:3 NIV).

Why does God GIVE his people a “GIFT of FAITH” that must be sustained by HEARING the WORD of God? “… [God through Jesus, his WORD is]…sustaining ALL THINGS (including his people’s faith) … by his powerful word…” (Hebrews 1:3 NIV).

They need to SEE clearly they were SAVED by GRACE through spiritualFAITH and NOT themselves. It was a GIFT. “...For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves...” (EPHESIANS 2:8-9 KJV). “....it is the gift of God...”(EPHESIANS 2:8-9 KJV).

“...Not of works, lest any man (woman) should boast...”(EPHESIANS 2:8-9 KJV).

They need to SEE, clearly, it is God’s FAITH that overflows or transfers to them in order for them to RECEIVE salvation.“…Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out (flowed or transferred) on me abundantly. Along with faith… that are ...[from God “through” Jesus, his WORD]…” (1 Timothy 1:13-14 NIV).

Everything God’s people NEED from God, the Holy Spirit, they GET it and RECEIVE by FAITH. However, “that” kind of faith is a GIFT. “…The flesh profiteth nothing (in the spiritual realm)…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…It is God which worketh [by producing the spiritual fruit of faith] in [his people]…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “… Jesus Christ is in [God’s people]…” (2 Corinthians KJV). “…the righteous, [God’s people,]... will live by “his” faith…” (Habakkuk 2:4 NASB).“… [God’s people] live by“the faith”of the Son of God.   …” (Galatians 2:20 KJV). “…Apart from [Jesus, the spiritual seed that produces the spiritual fruit of faith], you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). “...[God’s] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12: 4-11 NLT).

Salvation and ANYTHING else God’s people trust and depend upon God for is obtained BY the spiritual fruit of FAITH and is GIFTED to them BY the Holy Spirit. “…The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, ALONG WITH FAITH…” (1 Timothy 1:13-14 NIV). “….For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?” (1 Corinthians 4:6 NIV).  “…For what gives you the right to make such a judgment? What do you have that God hasn’t given you? And if everything you have is from God, why boast as though it were not a gift?...” (1 Corinthians 4:7 NLT).

The BIBLE SAYS: “…God hath dealt (GIVEN)… to every man THE measure of FAITH…” (Romans 12:3 NIV).  “...One of “…the fruit of the Spirit… is…FAITH…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

“…God has given [you] HIS Spirit as PROOF that … he [dwells]…in [you]…” (1 John 4:13 NLT). “… [One of]…the fruit of  ... [HIS] Spirit is… FAITH…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “….IT IS THE “GIFT” OF GOD…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

The indwelling, spiritual fruit of faith is a GIFT. “…You will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit….” (Acts 2:38 NASB). “… It is …[the]... Holy Spirit who gives all these gifts and POWERS… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).  “….every good gift and every perfect gift … cometh down from the Father of lights…..” (James 1:17 KJV). “…The LORD SHALL GIVE that which is good…” (Psalms 85:12 KJV). “…A man (woman) can receive nothing, except it BE GIVEN him (her) from heaven…” (John 3:27 KJV). “…[SO]...What do you have that God hasn’t given you?...”(1 Corinthians 4:7 NLT). “… [One of]…the fruit of ... [HIS] Spirit is… FAITH…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “… [The GIFT is]… NOT OF YOURSELVES … not of works, that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “….IT IS THE “GIFT” OF GOD…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

“…The righteous (God’s people) will live by his [gift of] faith…” (Habakkuk 2:4 NASB).“…Christ liveth in [his people SO]…live bythe [indwelling gift of] faith [which is]...of the Son of God.   …” (Galatians 2:20 KJV). 

“…It was BY FAITH that Abel BROUGHT(something God’s WORD empowered him to do by faith) A MORE ACCEPTABLE OFFERING than Cain did. Abel’s offering gave EVIDENCE that he was a righteous man (you will know God’s people by their fruit), and God SHOWED his approval of his gifts (God is pleased when his people LIVE by faith in HIM). Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by HIS EXAMPLE OF FAITH…” (Hebrews 11 NLT).

“…Trust in the Lord with all thine heart…”(Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “….Without faith it is impossible to please God…” (Hebrews 11:6 KJV). “…God hath dealt (GIVEN)… to every man (woman) THE measure of FAITH…” (Romans 12:3 NIV).

God, the Holy Spirit, GIFTED each of his children with a “measure of FAITH” to ENSURE they would be PLEASING to HIM!    

The indwelling, spiritual fruit of faithempowers or strengthens God’s people to do something that they WOULD “NOT” be able to do on their own. “…It was BY FAITH that Abel BROUGHT (something God’s Word empowered him to do by faith) …” (Hebrews 11 NLT).

What God’s people do in obedience to his Word is EVIDENCE that the spiritual fruit of faith is WORKING “through” them. “…Ye shall know them by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV).

"...My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so PROVE to be My disciples” (John 15:8 NIV). “…The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

“…It was BY FAITH that …Abel’s offering gave EVIDENCE that he was a righteous man (the spiritual fruit of faith was the evidence)…” (Hebrews 11 NLT). . “…Ye shall know them by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV).

Manifested PROOF of God’s presence is “always” the WITNESS of his display of spiritual fruit, produced by the Holy Spirit, that is WORKING “IN” and “THROUGH” God’s people! “…It was BY FAITH that Abel brought (did something by faith) … [and] God SHOWED his approval of his gifts (God was pleased)…” (Hebrews 11 NLT). “….Without faith it is impossible to please God…” (Hebrews 11:6 KJV).

“… [One of]…the fruit of ... [HIS] Spirit is… FAITH…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “… [God GAVE each of his people] the measure of faith…” as a gift (Romans 12:3). “...For by grace are ye SAVED THROUGH FAITH; and that NOT of yourselves: IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD...” (EPHESIANS 2:8-9 KJV).

Every SAVED person has already experienced the work of God-given faith. The Holy Spirit works “IN”, “THROUGH, and “FOR” them AT salvation.

First, God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus SAVES. “….The gospel of Christ (God’s WORD, activates) … [HIS invisible]… POWER...TO...[SAVE]... EVERY ONE THAT BELIEVETH (accepts, receives, chooses to depend, etc.)…” (Romans 1:16 KJV).

The Holy Spirit’s working POWER is witnessed through salvation. Spiritual GRACE and FAITH is transferred to the convert. Apostle Paul provides an example of how he obtained the “Spirit of faith” and totally understood it was gifted to him by God, through Jesus, during the salvation process. “…Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on(transferred to) me abundantly, ALONG WITH FAITHand love that are in Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 1:13-14 NIV).

The Spirit of Faith is a Gift of along with GRACE. “…the grace of God which is GIVEN ...by Jesus Christ...” (1 Corinthians 1:4 KJV). “…The GIFT by grace……” (Romans 5:15 KJV).

The Spirit of Faith is the WORK of God, the Holy Spirit SENDS the Spirit of his SON into the hearts of new converts. “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son “INTO” [the] HEARTS [of his people]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him...” (John 6:28-29 KJV). “…God has given [his people] his Spirit as PROOF…” (1 John 4:13 NLT).  “…Jesus Christ is in [them]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…The righteous will live by “his” faith…” (Habakkuk 2:4 NASB).

“…This is the work of God, that ye believe on Him...” (John 6:28-29 KJV). “…It is the gift of God …” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “…HE WHICH HATH “BEGUN” A GOOD “WORK” IN YOU WILL “PERFORM” IT until the day of Jesus Christ…” (Philippians 1:6 KJV). “…Jesus [is]… the AUTHORand FINISHER OF [his people’s indwelling, spiritual fruit of]… FAITH…” (Hebrews 12:2a KJV). “…The Father [through Jesus] … he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“… I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God.  …” (Galatians 2:20-21 KJV). “…by the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).

“… [One of]…the fruit of ...[HIS] Spirit is… FAITH…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “…Ye shall know them by their fruit…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV). “…The fruit of the [invisible indwelling Holy]… Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, FAITH, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). "…My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so PROVE to be My disciples” (John 15:8 NIV). “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT).

The Spirit of faith is “always” WITNESSED by miraculously DEEDS God’s people are EMPOWERED or STRENGTHENED to do. “…BY FAITH these people 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).

The WORK of the Holy Spirit is witnessed through the WORKS of FAITH, done, IN, THROUGH, and FOR God’s people. “…You will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit….” (Acts 2:38 NASB). “…I will put a NEW SPIRIT in you…” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT). “… IT IS THE “GIFT” OF GOD…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “…Ye shall know [those with the indwelling Spirit of FAITH]… by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV).

“…He (she) who ABIDES in Me and I in him, he (she) bears much fruit… ” (John 15:1-11 NASB). "…My Father is glorified by this, that “YOU” bear much fruit, and so PROVE to be My disciples” (John 15:8 NIV).  “…The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, FAITH, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

God gives his people the “measure of faith” to ensure they receive all the benefits, favors, blessings, and abundant life he promises them.“…I am come that THEY MIGHT have life, and that THEY MIGHT have it more abundantly…” (John 10:10 KJV). “…NOW UNTO HIM THAT IS “ABLE” to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the POWER that worketh in us…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).

“…As many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes …also … Amen …” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NASB).

 “…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).

“…WALK BY [the Spirit of] FAITH...” (2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV).  “...believe on him (the WORD) whom [God, the Holy Spirit] hath sent” and do “…the work of God [by “HIS” faith]...” (John 6:29 KJV).

 “….God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory…” in Christ Jesus. “… God hath dealt to each man the measure of faith...” (Romans 12:3 KJV). “…IT SHALL BE DONE TO [God’s people]... ACCORDING TO ...[ THEIR indwelling, spiritual fruit of] FAITH…” (MATTHEW 9:29 NASB).  “…The righteous (God’s people) will live by “his” faith…” (Habakkuk 2:4 NASB). “…Christ liveth in [his people SO they are to]…live by (via, through, by the use of, etc.) “the faith” of the Son of God.  …” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).

You can‘t conjure up the spiritual fruit of faith, or increase it, or decrease it, but you can water it with spiritual living water. “…Faith cometh by hearing … by the word of God” (Roman 10:17 KJV). That’s why the bible tells you to “…let the word of Christ dwell in you richly…” (Colossians 3:16 KJV).

The spiritual fruit of faith is PRODUCED every time it hears the Word, not any word, but the Word of God. Faith is not positive thinking either. Positive thinking is a product of self-effort.

Human faith becomes self-invented faith, a self-made belief system, and puffs up human ego or pride with self-motivated religiousness giving a person a reason to boast about self-effort apart from God. “….without [God-given] faith it is impossible to please God…” (Hebrews 11:6 KJV). “….Apart from [Jesus]… you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

Dependence upon the indwelling, spiritual fruit of faith involves choosing to receive God’s GIFT. “…Choose LIFE…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “…Jesus said… I am the LIFE…..” (John 11:25 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 their production of the spiritual fruit of faith)… which concerns [his people]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “…The steps of a good man (woman) are ordered by the Lord: …” (Psalms 37:23 KJV). “….Apart from [Jesus]… [God’s people]... can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). “… [However, God’s people] can do all things through Christ (the originator of their faith) which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

“…God will supply all [his people’s need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…What is the riches of the glory…; …CHRIST IN [them]…” (Colossians 1:25-28 KJV). “…Jesus Christ is in [each of them]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…Christ in [them] …” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwell in [his people]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  “…The Father (the SPIRIT) that dwelleth in [them] he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “... God will supply all  [their need for the spiritual fruit of faith through Jesus]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

“…The righteous will live by “his” (jesus’) faith…” (Habakkuk 2:4 NASB).“…Christ liveth in [God’s people SO they can CHOOSE to]…live by (via, through, by the use of, etc.) “the faith” of the Son of God.  …” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).

“…Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable GIFT...[of faith “IN” Jesus Christ]…” (2 Corinthians  9:16 KJV). “…His [“HOLY” indwelling] POWER hath GIVEN unto [his people]… ALL THINGS that pertain unto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV). “... God will supply all [their need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

If God SUPPLIES “ALL” your NEED and he GAVE you a “measure of faith” or produces the “spiritual fruit of faith” evidently it’s necessary. “…Without [God-given] faith it is impossible to please God…” (Hebrews 11:6 KJV). Apart from Jesus Christ, “…ye can do nothing…” holy or righteous (John 15:5 KJV).“… [God] work[s] IN [you]… what is pleasing to him…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…It is God which worketh in you…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “…the Father that dwelleth in [his people], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“...[God’s people]… can do all things through Christ who strengthens [them]…” (Philippians 4:13). God-given faith allows God’s people to REST in his loving CARE for them expressed in HIS WORD. “......Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief...”(Hebrews 4:10-11 KJV).

James says, “…But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did.  And the scripture was fulfilled that says, ‘Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,’ and he was called God’s friend. You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone...” (James 2:18-24 NIV). God-given faith allows God’s people to actively rest in the promises of HIS Word.

Often God’s people THINK they “LACK FAITH,” but that is NOT the problem. What they LACK is the “EXERCISEof faith,” which comes from HEARING the WORD of God.  “…Faithcometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God…” (Romans 10:17 KJV).   “…Have faith in God [by HEARING his WORD]…” (Mark 11:23-24).

“…[Choose to rely on] the Lord (God’s word) with all thine heart …” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “… [choose “not” to lean]unto thine own understanding…” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). If God says GIFTED faith comes from HEARING His Word, remember “...not one of the good promises which the Lord ...made failed; [but] all came to pass...” (Joshua 21:45 NASB). Faith comes... “ by hearing ... Word of God…” (Romans 10:17 KJV).  

Exercising God-given faith is hardest when human effort interferes. Most believers’ faith fails because of human effort instead of following God’s instructions to HEAR his WORD. “...Therefore they said to Him, "What shall we do, so that we may work the works of God?" Jesus answered and said to them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent" (John 6:28-29 NASB). Faith (or belief in HIM) comes... “ by hearing ... Word of God…” (Romans 10:17 KJV).  

The Christian walk is a walk of faith. “...the JUST (God’s people) SHALL live by faith...” (Romans 1:17 KJV). There are two WAYS to walk by faith; HEARING the Word of God often and getting to KNOW the Word of God, personally. Faith comes... “ ...by hearing ... Word of God…” (Romans 10:17 KJV). “...The people who KNOW their God SHALL be STRONG and DO great things...[by faith]...”(Daniel 11:32 KJV).  

HEARING the Word helps God’s people to both KNOW God and EXERCISE their faith at the same time.

God’s people can read the word quietly, read it out loud, listen to it by audio, watch it on DVD, or hear it through preaching as a way to build faith.

 If God’s people choose NOT to exercise their faith it will become weak and inactivate. The walk of FAITH cannot be done in the flesh. “…The flesh profiteth nothing…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…Human effort (human faith) accomplishes nothing….” (John 6:63 NLT). “….Don't put your confidence in … people [human effort, not even your own.]… there is NO HELP for you there….” (Psalms 146: 3 NLT). “…It is impossible to please God without FAITH…” (Hebrews 11:6 NLT). "…That which is born of the flesh is flesh…” (John 3:6 KJV).

 “…I  (without God’s help) want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t….I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…Who will free [you] from this life that is dominated (disabled from the Holy Spirit) by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…I will put a NEW SPIRITin you…” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT).

There are more doubting Thomases than people are willing to admit. Many rely solely on what they see, but NEW CREATIONS rely solely on their God-given FAITH, without SEEING. Christ said, “...blessed are they that have NOT seen and yet have believed….” (John 20:29 KJV).

Doubt is a part of the Christian journey and every one experiences it sooner or later. Believing without seeing is not a natural practice, but a supernatural one. God is Spirit and it is normal for HIM to make things CLEARLY visible out of that which is invisible. “…The invisible [Holy Spirit]…from the creation of the world …clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made …” (Romans 1:20 KJV). “…he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…What we now SEE did not come from anything that can be SEEN…” (Hebrews 11 NLT).

Because humans prefer to keep their experiences limited to the tangible realities; spiritual realities are way beyond their control, inquiries, or thinking. God, the Holy Spirit, “… is able TO DO exceeding abundantly ABOVE all that we ask or think…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV). “…he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).  “…the things which are impossible with men … POSSIBLE …” (Luke 18:27 KJV). 

However, God-given faith is unique to Christianity and it is given to all believers via a gift from God. “…God has allotted to each a measure of faith…” (Romans 12:3 NASB). “…the things which are impossible with men … are POSSIBLE with God…” (Luke 18:27 KJV).  “…The fruit of the Spirit… is…FAITH…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “[God’s] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12: 4-11 NLT).

Human faith, which is flesh is NOT God-given faith, which is Spirit.  "…That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit…” (John 3:6 KJV).

“….every good gift and every perfect gift … cometh down from the Father of lights…..” (James 1:17 KJV).“…The LORD SHALL GIVE that which is good…” (Psalms 85:12 KJV). “…A man can receive nothing, except it BE GIVEN him from heaven…” (John 3:27 KJV). “…What do you have that God hasn’t given you?”(1 Corinthians 4:7 NLT). “… [One of]…the fruit of the [HIS] Spirit is… FAITH…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “… [The GIFT is]… NOT OF YOURSELVES, … not of works, that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “….IT IS THE “GIFT” OF GOD…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV),

In addition, the object of God-given faith also makes it unique from other objects of faith since the object is God, the SOVEREIGN Holy Spirit. “… there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things and we in Him; and one Lord, Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by Him…” (1 Corinthians 8:6 KJV).

“… I am God, and there is none else… I am God, and there is none like me…" (Isaiah 46:9-10 KJV). “… there is NONE like unto thee, O LORD; thou art great, and thy name is great in might.…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

God-given faith, when exercised, will empower and strengthen God’s people to be CERTAIN and CONFIDENT of who God is, what he says, and what he can DO. “…for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him…” (Hebrew 11:6 KJV).

God-given faith was NOT given to make you feel condemned, but to HELP you. God is COMMITTED to HELPING you that why he gave you the “measure of faith” or the “spiritual fruit of faith.” “…I do believe, [choose, accept your way God, but] help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24 NIV).  “…A double minded man (or woman) is unstable in all [of] his (her) ways…” (James 1:8 KJV).

 “…He helps [his people]…” (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 people]... in [their]... weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “…[God is his people’s]... helper and ... savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT).

Struggling with faith is quite common and many great saints have struggled with faith. King David, during one of his many struggles said, “…why art thou cast down, O my soul: and why are thou disquieted within me…?” (Psalm 43:5 KJV).

King David used his God-given faith and said to himself “……hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God….” (Psalm 43:5 KJV).

Many cry out to God, “….help thou mine unbelief….” (Mark 9:24 KJV). God will answer and send the Holy Spirt to help our infirmities “… The Holy Spirit helps [his people]... in [their]... weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT).

Even though King David struggled with his faith, God said he was a man “…after his own heart…” (1 Samuel 13:14 KJV).

Believers are encouraged to walk by faith and are reminded that “….without faith it is impossible to please God…” (Hebrews 11:6 KJV).

HEARING the Word powerfully empowers or strengthens God’s people to RESPOND BY FAITH through obedience. “...God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill...” (Numbers 23:19 NIV).

“Not one of all the LORD's good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled” (Joshua 21:45 NIV).

If God said his God-given FAITH comes by HEARING; then it does. It’s up to you to choose to trust and depend upon HEARING the Word of God in order to truly WALK by the indwelling, spiritual fruit of faith.

“….according to your faith (whichever one you are using (human or divine)… let it be done to you…” (Matthew 9:29 ASV).

THE BENEFITS, FAVORS, BLESSINGS, AND GIFTS FROM BEING CHOSEN BY GOD & ACCEPTING HIM

I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU OR FORSAKE YOU

GOD CHOOSING YOU, PART 2

“....God chose us (every one of us)... in Christ before the foundation of the world.” (Ephesians 1:4)

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God’s HOLY nature and mankind’s sinful nature can’t reconcile without Jesus. Why?  “[Because]…the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would” (Galatians 5:17).

The sinful nature is A “sinful” nature. “… sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of anger, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies…” (Galatians 5:19-21 NIV).

The sinful nature is identified through acts of …“Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings,” (Galatians 5:19-21 KJV).

In addition, the human heart is also defiled by the sinful nature with “….evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies…” (Matthew 15:19 KJV).

You may read this list of sins and think they don’t apply to you, because you don’t do any of “these” sins. However, the bible says, “…who can say, ‘I have made my heart pure; I am pure from my sin?...” (Proverbs 20:9 KJV).

SIN is “not” just a collection of behaviors based on what you do or don’t do; sin is a symptom of what YOU ARE; a sinful nature.

“...The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin.I don’t really understand myself, for I want to 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 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 that is … within me. Who will free me from this life that is dominated by [the sinful NATURE]? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

Sin, therefore, is the symptom of an INNATE CONDITION of the sinful nature. Every male and female is born with one. "…That which is born of the flesh is flesh…” (John 3:6 KJV).

This sinful nature was inherited from Adam and Eve. Adam and Eve could ONLY reproduce what they had become, FLESH, because they were SEPARTED from God, the Holy Spirit. Thus, “… all have sinned (all have this nature), and come short of the glory of God (all come short of God’s indwelling presence)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).

“,,, [Therefore,] ...through one man sin entered (physical life without the indwelling Holy Spirit entered) into the world, and [spiritual] ...death through sin, and so [spiritual] death passed to all men [and women], for that all sinned (all have been born with a sinful nature]—“(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 LIGHT)—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).

“... When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought [spiritual] ... death, so [spiritual] ... death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned (everyone is born with merely a sinful nature) ... But there is a great difference between Adam’s sin and God’s gracious gift. For the sin of this one man, Adam, brought [spiritual] death to many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of forgiveness to many through this other man, Jesus Christ [who brought spiritual LIFE (God’s indwelling Holy Spirit). And the result of God’s gracious gift is very different from the result of that one man’s sin. For Adam’s sin led to condemnation, but God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God (being reconciled to God, restored to his Holy Spirit, and MADE WHOLE again), even though [mankind (the world)]... are guilty of many sins. For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused [spiritual] ... death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness (spiritual life and reconciliation to God), for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ (the Word)...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT).

 “...If we say that we have no sin (no sinful nature), we deceive ourselves and the truth (God’s indwelling Holy Spirit) is not in us...” (1 John 1:8 KJV). “...Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? then may ye (a sinful nature) also do good, who are accustomed to do evil...”(Jeremiah 13:23 KJV).

“…The sinful nature wants to do evil ....so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions. ……” (Galatians 5 NLT).

 “…The sinful natureis always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

“… there is none righteous; no not one:” (Romans 3:10 KJV). 

Many people have decided “…there is no God…” and “…they are corrupt, they have done abominable works [and] there is none who doeth good...” (Psalms 14:1 KJV).

God’s HOLY nature CAN’T mix with a SINFUL nature. “…for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness...?” (2 Corinthians 6:14 KJV).

There is a BARRIER or SEPARATION, between God and mankind, made by sinful nature. This separation is like a CHASM between the natural realm and the supernatural realm.

It creates a gulf for sinful mankind, which keeps them from reaching the HOLY God and they cannot have a “covenant union” with HIM. “... And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm(barrier) has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

This chasm separates mankind from God, cuts them off from him, permanently, and because they are in two different realms, he can’t even accept them, hear them, or look upon them with any kind of favor. “… [God, the Holy Spirit] can not look on wickedness with favor…” (Habakkuk 1:13 NASB). “… [God, the Holy Spirit’s]... eyes are too pure to approve (accept) evil…” (Habakkuk 1:13 NASB). “…Because of YOUR SINS, [God, the Holy Spirit has] … turned away and can… not listen anymore [because he is in the spiritual realm and YOU are not]…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT).

HOLINESS simply can NOT bond, MIX, UNITE, or be yoked together with SIN on ANY level (big or small). SIN creates a REAL separation just like OIL and WATER does. “…Be ye NOT unequally yoked together with unbelievers for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?...” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV). “... And besides all this, between us and you [there is] a great chasm (barrier) …” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

The fruit of the SPIRIT or CHARACTER of God is identified with “...holiness...” “…righteousness…” “…peace…” “…truth…” “…pure thoughts…” ..spiritual life….” “…purity…” “…spiritual riches….”….light….” “….Holy love…” “…stability…” “….sovereignty…” “….goodness…” “….wisdom…” “...omniscient....omnipresent…” …cleanliness…” “…mercy…” “…grace…” “…forgiveness….” “...faithfulness…” “…Holy Spirit’s working power…” “…joy…” “…justice…” “…majestic beauty…” 

The angels in heaven call out to one another saying, “….holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts, the whole earth is filled with his glory… (Isaiah 6:3 KJV).

The bible tells us, “…..O Lord… for thou ONLY art holy….” (Revelations 15:4 KJV).

God is totally separated from sin, evil, and darkness. God “only” has a propensity for holiness. “… what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?...” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).

God tells his people DO not “...be … unequally yoked...” (2 Corinthians 6:14 KJV). YET,…GOD CHOSE YOU. “…the things which are impossible with men are possible with God…” (Luke 18:27 KJV).

The bible says: "...You did not choose me but I chose you....” (John 15:16 ASV).  God is the Chooser. “...So it is God who decides to show mercy. We can neither choose it nor work for it...” (Romans 9:14-16 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).

“… [God, the Holy Spirit SENT the] … …one… who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

Paul said: “...For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me” (Romans 7:18-20 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).

“Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots [the sinful nature]? then may ye also do good, who are accustomed to do evil (Jeremiah 13:23 KJV).

“…The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

God’s CHOOSES mankind, SAVES mankind, and GIVES them a new identity.  “….But ye are...[NOW]... a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light;” (1 Peter 2:9 KJV).

You are “….a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

“…For [NOW] all the promises of God “in” him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us...” (2 Corinthians 1:20 KJV).

 “…old things are passed away, behold all things are new…” (2 Corinthians 5:21 KJV).  

When the lost and spiritually dead soul is mixed with the ingredients of God’s grace, mercy, forgiveness, salvation, cleansing power of his Word, Holy love, and the indwelling SPIRIT they become NEW CREATIONS! “….[Their]... life is [now] hid with Christ in God….” (Colossians 3:3 KJV).

 “...Christ arrives right on time to make this happen. He didn’t, and doesn’t, wait for us to get ready. He presented himself for this sacrificial death when we were far too weak and rebellious to do anything to get ourselves ready. And even if we hadn’t been so weak, we wouldn’t have known what to do anyway. We can understand someone dying for a person worth dying for, and we can understand how someone good and noble could inspire us to selfless sacrifice. But God put his love on the line for us by offering his Son in sacrificial death while we were of no use whatever to him...” (Romans 5:8 MSG).

Also “…This is how God showed his love for us: God sent his only Son into the world so we might live through him. This is the kind of love we are talking about—not that we once upon a time loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to clear away our sins and the damage they’ve done to our relationship with God...” (1John 4:10 MSG).

“…..God so loved … [mankind] that he gave his ONLY…” (John 3:16 KJV).  

 “….he [Jesus] …humbled himself and became obedient unto death – even the death of the cross….” (Philippians 2:8 KJV).

“…[God said:]... my righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he...[bore]... 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).

“…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole (SAVES, RESTORES, and reconciles mankind to God, the Holy Spirit, AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

Thus, God urges, his people, to “….give [HIM their]....heart[s]….. present [their]... bodies…keep [God’s] commandments…..abide in [God’s]... love… [so] that [God’s]... joy might remain [within them]… [and tells his people to] grow in the grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ…” (Proverbs 23:26, Romans 12:1, John 14:15, John 15:10-11 and 2 Peter 3:18 KJV).

When God’s people are baptized it signifies they are reconciled to God, restored to his indwelling Holy Spirit, made whole, again, “in” Christ, are committed to living a new life, are made holy, are dead to sin, and are a “new creation.”

“...Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in the newness life...” (Romans 6:4 KJV).

When God chooses mankind, it is up to mankind to ACCEPT HIM through their own choosing. Paul said, “……those who received (accept) his Word were baptized….” (Acts 2:41 KJV). “….walk in the newness of life….” (Romans 6:4 KJV).

Baptism doesn’t save you, but accepting Jesus as Savior does. The entrance into the “covenant unity” relationship with God comes through faith, “…ye are saved through faith…” (Ephesian 2:8-9 KJV).

”…  ye [are]…saved by grace through faith…it is the GIFT of God…” (Ephesians 2:8 KJV). “…Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly. Along with faith… that are [“through” the power of the WORD of GOD]…” (1 Timothy 1:13-14 NIV).

Faith is amanah in Hebrew which means supportor fixed provision.  It is a NEW WAY to “SEE” or your NEW spiritual eyesight.  That’s why “…..God hath dealt to every [one of us] the measure of faith.” (Roman 12:3 KJV). “…faith (spiritual sight) cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God” (Roman 10:17 KJV) and that the Word of God “….is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth…’ (Romans 1:16 KJV).

Salvation means, according to Strong’s concordance, redemption, or deliverance from sin, its effects and its consequences.

If the gospel, the Word, Jesus is the power of God unto salvation, it is God’s way of bringing, reconciling, and restoring MANKIND to himself.

“…faith is the substance (reality) of things hoped for, the evidence (Proof) of things not seen...”(Hebrew 11:1 KJV).

 “…Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God” (Roman 10:17 KJV).  “...For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast...”(EPHESIANS 2:8-9 KJV).

“…..God hath dealt to every [one of us] the measure of faith....” (Roman 12:3 KJV). “...Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith (the measure of faith, the fruit of faith, the indwelling faith, etc.)... of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me...” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).

Let’s take a LOOK at gifted faith:

1. FAITH COMES – WHEN IT HEARS JESUS (THE WORD).

2. FAITH IS SUBSTANCE –THE REALITY OF (what empowers the creative working power of God’s SPIRIT to DO what his WORD says to DO.

3. FAITH IS EVIDENCE – PROOF (the guarantee that God’s powerful working SPIRIT WILL DO whatever the WORD of God tells it to DO).

4. FAITH IS A GIFT FROM GOD (a gift from God).

5. FAITH DOES NOT ORIGINATE FROM HUMANITY NOR IS IT HUMAN EFFORT.

6. FAITH (gifted faith) AND WORKS (God’s working SPIRIT) ARE A TEAM.

“… Shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.” (James 2:18 KJV).

The book of Hebrews demonstrates that faith is always teamed up with a powerful work of God. The powerful works of God in this chapter is CLEARLY SEEN.

Read the entire chapter eleven of Hebrews to see how faith and Godly works team up together. Here are some excerpts, from Hebrews, chapter 11, on faith and Godly works.

BY FAITH ABEL OFFERED UP…..

BY FAITH ENOCH WAS TRANSLATED….

BY FAITH NOAH WAS MOVED WITH FEAR (REVERANCE)……

BY FAITH ABRAHAM OBEYED AND WENT OUT…

BY FAITH ABRAHAM OFFERED UP ISAAC ….

BY FAITH SARA RECEIVED STRENGTH TO CONCEIVE…

BY FAITH MOSES WAS HID FOR THREE MONTHS…

BY FAITH THEY PASSED THROUGH THE RED SEA...

BY FAITH THE WALLS OF JERICHO FELL DOWN...

BY FAITH KINGDOMS WERE SUBDUED, RIGHTEOUSNESS WAS WORKED, PEOPLE OBTAINED PROMISES, THEY STOPPED THE MOUTH OF LIONS, QUENCHED THE VIOLENCE OF FIRE, ESCAPED THE EDGE OF THE SWORD, OUT OF WEAKNESS WAS MADE STRONG, WAXED VALIENT IN FIGHT, TURNED TO FLIGHT THE ARMIES OF THE ALIENS, WOMEN RECEIVED THEIR DEAD RAISED TO LIFE AGAIN: AND OTHERS WERE TORTURED, NOT ACCEPTING DELIVERANCE, THAT THEY MIGHT OBTAIN A BETTER RESURRECTION.

NONE of these would have happened if it wasn’t for the GIFT of faith and the powerful WORKS of God. “..Ye see then how that by works (done by the working SPIRIT) a man (woman) is justified, and not by faith only...” (James 2:24 KJN).

The GIFT of faith comes, grows, is exercised, or manifested by hearing the gospel. The gospel is “…the [Word of God is what FUELS the working]... POWER of God [to MIRACULOUSLY “SAVE].... everyone that believeth…” (Romans 1:16 KJV).

When gifted faith hears the Word (Jesus, the speaking SPIRIT) it grows and produces more faith which empowers God’s people with expectant hope in God’s powerful working SPIRIT to DO the works. “… God  … work[s] … in … [his people] … what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…the Father... [that DWELLS within his people]… he doeth the works…”(John 14:10 KJV).

.“…It is …God [the indwelling Holy Spirit] ... who does the work IN and THROUGH all of us who are his… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The [indwelling]...HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH [his people] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “...the Holy Spirit produces [spiritual]...fruit in [the]... lives...[of his people] …” (Galatians 5 NLT).

Faith is the eyesight or vision for New Creations. The struggle with the NEW identity comes from NOT using the “measure of faith” to SEE the WAY more clearly. “… Jesus opened a new and life-giving way  ... into the Most Holy Place…” (Hebrews 10:19-20 NLT). “...Jesus saith…I am the way…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…"This is the way; WALK in it…" Isaiah 30:21 NIV).

The “measure of faith” is activated when God’s people “hear” the Word of God, which EMPOWERS them to SEE into the spiritual realm.

God’s people can’t conjure gifted faith up, or force it, or increase it through self-effort, or positive-think your way to it. “…..God hath dealt to every [one of us] the measure of faith....” (Roman 12:3 KJV). “…Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Roman 10:17 KJV).  “...it is the gift of God ...”(EPHESIANS 2:8-9 KJV).

God’s “measure of faith” works in God’s people when they “…[HEAR the WORD and LET] the Word of Christ dwell in [them]... richly…” (Philippians 2:13; Colossian 3:16 KJV).

To enjoy all the BENEFITS, FAVORS, BLESSINGS, and GIFTS bestowed upon them, God’s people choose to LEARN how to USE their “measure of faith” by habitually “hearing the Word of God.” 

All of God’s CHOSEN people have been GIFTED with a “measure of faith” to enable them to SEE with their NEW EYES as NEW CREATIONS in Christ!

God who is SPIRIT gives GIFTS that are SPIRIT too. They must be used for the SPIRITUAL LIFE new creations have been given. When God CHOOSES a man or woman and they ACCEPT him, they become SPIRITUAL beings!!

NEW CREATIONS learn about the TRUTHS of being “chosen“in” Christ “...before the foundation of the world...” (Ephesians 1:4).

They LEARN that “...[nothing] shall be able to “separate [them]... from the love of God, which is “in” Christ…” (Romans 8:38-39). They also learn that “... [God’s people] have redemption…… [and] the forgiveness of sins…“ in” Christ (Ephesians 1:7). In addition, they are “...are sinless before God...” “in” Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:21). And last, but not least, “...[God’s people are’....the righteousness of God…” “in” Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Even further, they are new creatures “in” Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17); they are children of God by faith “in” Christ (Galatians 3:26); they are seated in heavenly places while on earth “in” Christ (Ephesians 2:6); God’s promises are yes and amen, to them, “in” Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20); they are sanctified “in” Christ (1 Corinthians 1:2); All their needs are supplied “in” Christ (Philippians 4:19); God’s peace will keep their hearts and minds “in” Christ (Philippians 4:7); they have eternal life “in” Christ (Romans 6:23); and they are made spiritually alive “in” Christ (1 Corinthians 15:22). 

The benefits, favors, blessings, and gifts to those who are CHOSEN by God “IN” Christ go on and on and are boundless.

By being “chosen” by God through Christ, people are put into a position with all the rights and privileges of a “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, again.

God chooses every one of his people, ON PURPOSE, with the intention of NEVER leaving them or forsaking them EVER!"...You did not choose me but I chose you, and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide:  that whatsoever you ask of the Father in my name he may give to you...” (John 15:16 ASV).  God is the Chooser.

“…I AM WITH [my chosen people]... ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). 

…Behold, I AM WITH… [my chosen people] … and  … I WILL NOT LEAVE [them] …." (Genesis 28:15 ASV). “… Behold, I am  with … [my chosen people] and will keep … [them] whithersoever [they]… goest…I will not leave [them] ..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

“… The LORD thy God …will not fail [his chosen people], nor forsake the[m]…” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV).

“...God chose [his people]... in Christ before the foundation of the world...” (Ephesians 1:4).

“…[God’s people]... are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that [they]... should shew forth the praises of him who hath called [them]... out of darkness into his marvellous light…(1 Peter 2:9 KJV). “…God has said “Never will “I” leave [my chosen people ]; never will “I” forsake [them]…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV).“…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “...[God, the Holy Spirit]... remains faithful…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). 

 

GOD'S PEOPLE DON'T CHOOSE GOD, HE CHOOSES THEM, BUT THEY CHOOSE TO ACCEPT HIM.

I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU OR FORSAKE YOU

GOD CHOOSING YOU, PART 1

“God chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world.” (Ephesians 1:4)

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"...You did not choose me but I chose you, and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide:  that whatsoever you ask of the Father in my name he may give to you...” (John 15:16 ASV).  God is the Chooser.

“...God chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world...” (Ephesians 1:4).

“…ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light…(1 Peter 2:9 KJV).

God’s people can’t DENY they have been chosen by God through Christ. God doesn’t CHOSE people because they are special, are deserving, or worthy, or have earned his favor. “……There is NEITHER Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female…” (Galatians 3:26-28 KJV).

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

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

The ONLY motivated reason God CHOSE each one of his children is his LOVE for them.  “...IN LOVE....[God, the Holy Spirit]... predestined [his people]... to ADOPTION AS SONS (daughters) through Jesus Christ to Himself ACCORDING TO THE KIND INTENTION OF HIS WILL …” (Ephesians 1 NLT).

“...He predestined [his people]... to adoption as sons and daughters through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will...” (Ephesians 1:5 NASB).

Not ONLY does he CHOOSE his people out of HIS LOVE, but he OFFERS them GRACE in order to FAVOR them with his FREE GIFT of SALVATION. “…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).

Every male and female upon earth was born WITHOUT God’s, indwelling Holy Spirit and without Jesus, the atoning sacrifice of sin, mankind is deserving of death. “…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)….” (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[ful nature] …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…the wages of sin is [spiritual]... death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “…For all have sinned (all have been BORN “without” the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are missing God’s indwelling PRESENCE)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).

HOWEVER, “…God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16 KJV).

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

“…Christ (the HEALING solution or CURE) also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us [back] to God …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV).

"...You did not choose me but I chose you...” (John 15:16 ASV). 

Everyone who RESPONDS to his choosing THEM will become his people. “… AS MANY as received him…” (John 1:12 KJV). “…receive the word implanted….” (James 1:21 NASB).  “…God has sent forth the Spiritof His Son (the Word) “INTO” [YOUR HEART]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB).

“…Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly. Along with faith … that are [“through” the power of the WORD of GOD]…” (1 Timothy 1:13-14 NIV).

God is“... RICH IN MERCY…” (Ephesians 2:1-5 KJV).  “… delighteth in mercy…” (Micah 7:18 KJV).

 “...God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT).  “…the Lord loves His people …” (2 Chronicles 2:11 NASB). “...God, …sent his Son ….” (1 John 4:10 NIV).  In “… His love and in His mercy He redeemed them…” (Isaiah 63:9 NASB).

 “...God said to Moses, “I will show mercy to anyone I choose, and I will show compassion to anyone I choose.” So it is God who decides to show mercy...” (Romans 9:14-16 NLT).

“...We (mankind or God’s people) can neither choose it nor work for it...” (Romans 9:14-16 NLT).

God chose you and chose to show you MERCY on his own sovereign volition. This LOVING opportunity is the WAY God, through Christ, made it possible to be in a “covenant unity” relationship with HIM again.

This TRUTH tells us that it is God, the Holy Spirit, “only” one who determines the PLAN of SALVATION. "...You did not choose me but I chose you...” (John 15:16 ASV). 

He chose you with the intention of bestowing upon you everlasting love, multiple blessings, miraculous mercy, unlimited favor, amazing grace, and bountiful spiritual gifts.  “…in [him] whom also we were made a heritage, having been foreordained according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his will...” (Ephesians 1:11 KJV).

God loves the unlovable and the worst sinner, which is everyone with a sinful nature. Mankind has to trust God’s love and “… lean not upon [our]… own understanding…” (Proverbs 3:5 KJV).

The bible says “…in all thy getting, get understanding…” however, that kind of understanding comes by faith.“...By faith we understand that the worlds have been framed by the word of God, so that what is seen hath not been made out of things which appear...” (Hebrew 11:3 ASV).

“O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and the knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past tracing out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?” (Romans 11:33-34 ASV).

God has also said, “… my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways…..as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than you ways and my thoughts than your thoughts…” (Isaiah 55:8-9 ASV).

God’s HOLY character, words, and actions have untold depths. “….the [depths] of the riches…of [God’s]….wisdom and … knowledge….” (Roman 11:33-34).  Often God’s “…ways [are] past tracing out…”

Thus, it is NOTHING, but AMAZING that God loves wretched mankind and chooses them to become his people.  “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9 NIV).

God said “this” about Israel, “...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).

I am NOT an expert on the topic of predestination, but the following paragraphs are my three perspectives, for now, after a little studying. First, predestination (includes salvation’s all-inclusive invitation “to every one that believeth...or CALLS upon the name SHALL be saved...” (Romans 10:4, 13 KJV) = This is God’s will).

Second, predestination (includesselect election “…he chose us (the elect) in him before the foundation of the world…” (Ephesians 1:4-5 ASV) = based on God’s will too).

Third, predestination (includes foreknowledge “…whom he did foreknow, he also did predestine…” (Romans 8:28-30 KJV) = (all God’s will).

Here’s a quick review: A). Predestination says EVERYONE who BELIEVES and CALLS upon Jesus shall be saved (Romans 10:4, 13). B). Predestination says God CHOOSES people to be saved. C). Predestination says it is through God foreknowledge that some are saved. 

Are those views right? Are they contradictory? Can anyone be saved or are some elected? Predestination is based on God’s sovereign will, which is “...done in earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10 KJV).

GOD SAID: "...You did not choose me but I chose you...” (John 15:16 ASV). 

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

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

Being predestined to be CHOSEN actually doesn’t exclude anyone. “…God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believethin him, should not perish, but have everlasting life...” (John 3:16 KJV).

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

“…RECEIVE (obtain, accept, etc.) ... theengrafted WORD, which is able to SAVE your souls…” (James 1:21 KJV).  “…everyone who asks receives (obtains, accepts, etc.)…” (Matthew 7:8 NIV).  “... AS MANY as received (obtained, accepted, etc.)him (the WORD of GOD), to them GAVE HE [INDWELLING] ... POWER TO BECOME THE SONS OF GOD, even to them that believe (depend upon) ...his name (the WORD of GOD)…” (John 1:12 KJV).

YOU willfully RECEIVE or ACCEPT this gift of God. “…BY GRACE have ye been saved through… FAITH (through dependence upon the WORD of GOD); and that NOT OF YOURSELVES, IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD; not of works, that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

GOD SAID: “... 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). "...You did not choose me but I chose you...” (John 15:16 ASV). 

What matters is that YOU are chosen by God and that you “…..[were] predestinedaccording to [His]… purpose who worketh  all things after the counsel of his own  will...” (Ephesians 1:11 KJV).

God chose mankind (the world) “…before the foundation of the world…” (Ephesians 1:4),

God is sovereign and omniscient. Thus, whatever “predestination” view you choose, if you are part of the world, God has personally, called YOU to respond by faith. “...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).

God chooses you. “No one can come to me except the Father which hath sent Me draw him...” (John 6:44 KJV).

And the only criterion for His choosing you is based on his love for you and NO other reason. “...Jehovah did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all peoples...” (Deuteronomy 7:7 ASV).

NO human being can DO anything to be chosen by God. "...You did not choose me but I chose you, and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide:  that whatsoever you ask of the Father in my name he may give to you....” (John 15:16 ASV).  God is the Chooser.

Mankind is the RECIPIENTS who ACCEPT his choosing. “...To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made [the lost and spiritually dead souls]... accepted in the beloved” (Ephesians 1:6 KJV).

 “...He (she)... that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).  Jesus said, "I and my Father are one." (John 10:30 KJV).Remember true “covenant unity” ONENESS is unique to God and can be experienced by the relationship with Him through Christ.

Jesus said God “….sheweth him all things that himself doeth” (John 5:20 KJV) and “….whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner” (John 5:19) and the “...Son can do nothing of Himself” (John 5:19 KJV).

“...he (she) that is joined unto the Lord is one(intimate) spirit...” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

 

LEAVING AND FORSAKING GOD, PART 2

I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU OR FORSAKE YOU

CHOOSING TO LEAVE GOD, PART 2

 “…God has said “Never will I leave [my people ]; never will I forsake [them]…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…I AM WITH [my people]... ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). 

“... IN LATTER TIMES “SOME” SHALL DEPART FROM the FAITH!!!!...” (1 Timothy 4:1-3 KJV).

*

God, the Holy Spirit, MADE a unilateral covenant with Abraham. “... He (God, the Holy Spirit) said to him (Abraham), “Bring Me a three year old heifer, and a three year old female goat, and a three year old ram, and a turtledove, and a young pigeon.” Then he brought all these to Him and cut them in two, and laid each half opposite the other...Now when the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram; and behold, terror and great darkness fell upon him.  God said to Abram, “Know for certain that your descendants will be strangers in a land that is not theirs, where they will be enslaved and oppressed four hundred years.  But I will also judge the nation whom they will serve, and afterward they will come out with many possessions ... It came about when the sun had set, that it was very dark, and behold, there appeared a smoking oven and a flaming torch which passed between these pieces.  On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying, To your descendants I have given this land, From the river of Egypt as far as the great river, the river Euphrates...” (Genesis 15:9-21 NLT).

The unilateral covenant that God, the Holy Spirit entered with Abraham, gave him and his descendants the promise land and demonstrated God’s unconditional faithfulness to HIS covenant VOWS and PROMISES. God was the ONLY one to walk through the bloodied animals, because Abraham was asleep. “...Now when the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell upon Abram ...On that day the Lordmade a covenantwith Abram, saying, To your descendants I have given this land, From the river of Egypt as far as the great river, the river Euphrates...” (Genesis 15:9-21 NLT).

Abraham was asleep and didn’t participate in the covenant agreement, but God made it anyway and Abraham’s descendants were given the promise land. God KEPT his promise, which was an unconditional commitment to Abraham.

All of Abraham’s descendants made it to the promise land EXCEPT those who choose not to trust in or depend upon God’s unconditional faithfulness to the covenant promise he made. “... “Indeed, did not all those who came out of Egypt led by Moses? And with whom was He angry for forty years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose bodies fell in the wilderness?  And to whom did He swear that they would not enter His rest, but to those who were disobedient? So we see that they were not able to enter because of unbelief...” (Hebrews 3:7-19 NASB).

The “covenant unity” relationship God forges with EACH of his people is SECURE because of HIS UNCONDITIONAL LOVE and FAITHFULNESS.  “... [Nothing]…will be able to separate us from the love of God (GOD’s PEOPLE ARE SECURE IN HIS LOVE), which is in Christ Jesus our Lord…” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “…[God’s] ... love .... is the perfect BOND of unity...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB).

“…He [ALSO]… remains faithful (WE ARE SECURE IN HIS HOLY FAITHFULNESS)…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…I am with you always, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). God will “…Never leave nor forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 KJV). 

GOD is always FAITHFUL to the “covenant unity” HE makes with his people. They are SECURE “IN” Christ.

HOWEVER, "His people" can willfully choose to abide WITHOUT Christ or the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.  It is the CHOICE and will of his people to trust in or depend upon Him or the finished work of Christ upon the cross.  “…abidein me, and I in you. (John 15:4 KJV). “...Was it not with those who sinned, whose bodies fell in the wilderness?  And to whom did He swear that they would not enter His rest, but to those who were disobedient? So we see that they were not able to enter because of unbelief...” (Hebrews 3:7-19 NASB).

“…If a man (WOMAN) abide NOT in me, ‘he(SHE) is cast forth as a branch, and is withered…” (John 15:6 KJV).“…The branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me... apart from Me you can do nothing…” (John 15:4-6 NASB).

"... He (Jesus) said, IT IS FINISHED…” (John 19:28-30 KJV).  “…HIS divine power hath given unto us ALL THINGS that pertain unto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV). “…[ IT IS] … SO GREAT … [OF A] … SALVATION … with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and GIFTS OF THE HOLY GHOST, according to his own will (HIS OWN HEARTS DESIRE)...” (Hebrews 2:3-5 KJV). “...HOWEVER, …abide in me, and I in you…” (John 15:4 KJV). “...bodies fell in the wilderness...[and it was those who sinned]... we see that they were not able to enter because of unbelief...” (Hebrews 3:7-19 NASB).

God, basically, makes an unilateral covenant with HIS PEOPLE. While his faithfulness is UMMUTABLY; God’s people’s faithfulness to him is NOT and thus, it is a willful, voluntary, CHOICE to trust in, depend upon, obey, and abide with God, the indwelling Holy Spirit.  “…[YOU CHOOSE]...  this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “…[YOU CHOOSE to]...abide in me, and I in you…” (John 15:4 KJV).

Again, it is the choice of his people’s HUMAN WILL that DECIDES to TRUST, DEPEND, OBEY, and ABIDE with God, the Holy Spirit. “…[YOU CHOOSE]...  this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “…[YOU CHOOSE to]...abide in me, and I in you…” (John 15:4 KJV).

CHOOSING to TRUST, DEPEND, OBEY, and ABIDE with God, the HOLY SPIRIT is a life-long commitment. “... continue in the faith (continue to trust, depend, obey, and abide being) grounded and settled, and ...not moved away ...” (Colossians 1:22-23 KJV).

God doesn’t LEAVE his people to try to keep this commitment, to HIM, alone, but he HELPS them.“…He helps [his people]…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “…The Lord who made [his people] and helps [them]says: Do not be afraid …my servant …my chosen one…” (Isaiah 44:2 NLT). “… The Holy Spirit helps [his people] in [their]... weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “…You are [your people’s]... helper and [their]... savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT).

Jesus, therefore, EMPOWERS his people, if they choose to have faith in him, to be committed to the “covenant unity” relationship they SHARE. “..Therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE, that [you]… may obtain mercy, and find GRACE to help in time of need…”(Hebrews 4:16 KJV). God will “…strengthened [his people]… with might by his Spirit in the[ir] inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV). “… [God will strengthen his people]…according to the POWER that worketh IN [them]…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).

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

“...[Nonetheless]... we see ...[some of god’s people]....were not able to enter...[the promised land]... because of unbelief...” (Hebrews 3:7-19 NASB).

The book of JUDE discusses the HISTORY of those who CHOSE willfully and voluntarily to LEAVE God, the Holy Spirit. “...Dear friends ... some ungodly people have wormed their way into your churches, saying that God’s marvelous grace allows us to live immoral lives. The condemnation of such people was recorded long ago, for they have denied our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ. So I want to remind you, though you already know these things, that Jesus (the Word) first rescued the nation of Israel from Egypt, but later he destroyed those who did not remain faithful. And I remind you of the angels who did not stay within the limits of authority God gave them but left the place where they belonged. God has kept them securely chained in prisons of darkness, waiting for the great day of judgment. And don’t forget Sodom and Gomorrah and their neighboring towns, which were filled with immorality and every kind of sexual perversion. Those cities were destroyed by fire and serve as a warning of the eternal fire of God’s judgment...” (Jude 1 NLT). 

“... These things happened as a warning to us, so that we would not crave evil things as they did, or worship idols as some of them did. As the Scriptures say, “The people celebrated with feasting and drinking, and they indulged in pagan revelry.  And we must not engage in sexual immorality as some of them did, causing 23,000 of them to die in one day. Nor should we put Christ to the test, as some of them did and then died from snakebites. And don’t grumble as some of them did, and then were destroyed by the angel of death. These things happened to them as examples for us. They were written down to warn us who live at the end of the age...” (1 Corinthians 10:9-11 NLT).

“...For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world by the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them...” (2 Peter 2:20-23 NASB).

“... it would be better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn away from the holy commandment ......” (2 Peter 2:20-23 NASB).

“...It has happened to them according to the true proverb, “A dog returnsto its own vomit,” and, “A sow, after washing, returns to wallowing in the mire...” (2 Peter 2:20-23 NASB).

These passages are TALKING about redeemed souls who ONCE had a “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit.

Accepting JESUS CHRIST is the BEGINNING of the Christian journey. It is not a FREE PASS into eternal LIFE. After a person is SAVED, they willfully CHOOSE to “….WORK OUT[their]… own salvation…” (Philippians 2:12 KJV).

“WORKING” out your OWN salvation IS A sanctifying PROCESS God’s people will experience WHILE they follow THE PATH that LEADS to ETERNAL LIFE. “…Jesus (the WORD) opened a new and life-giving WAY  ... into the Most Holy Place (THE CENTER OF GOD'S HEART and LOVE)…” (Hebrews 10:19-20 NLT). “Jesus saith…I am THE WAY…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…"This is the WAY; WALK in it…" Isaiah 30:21 NIV). “…THE WAY is narrow that LEADS TO LIFE, and there are FEW who find it…” (Matthew 7:13-14 NASB).

Working out your own SALVATION (the being saved and sanctifying process) includes: “…[Choosing to put]… aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to SAVE YOUR SOULS….” (James 1:21 NASB).

It is actively “…[choosing to] …throw offyour old sinful nature and your former way of life…” (Ephesians 4:22 NIV).

“…You must [also choose to]…put off falsehoodand speak truthfully to your neighbor…” (Ephesians 4:25 NLT).

It is “….[choosing to]…let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice…” (Ephesians 4:31 KJV).

“….Ye also [choose to]…put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth….” (Colossians 3:8  KJV).

“…Wherefore [choose to lay] … aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings…” (1 Peter 2:1 KJV).

The redeemed soul is EMPOWERED to “work out their own salvation” through Jesus Christ. “….WORK OUT[YOUR]… own salvation…” (Philippians 2:12 KJV).

 “…[They]... can do ALL THINGS through Christ which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). .“…it is God (the indwelling Holy Spirit) which worketh in [them]…both to will and to do...” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “….Apart from Me (the INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT), [they]... can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

“...Working out their OWN SALVATION...” is God’s people’s CHOICE. “….WORK OUT [YOUR]… own salvation…” (Philippians 2:12 KJV).

 “…the God of peace… that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

“… [You]… are given...exceeding great and precious promises: that by theseye might be PARTAKERS of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance PATIENCE; and to PATIENCE godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ…GIVE DILIGENCE (attention) TO MAKE YOUR CALLING AND “ELECTION” SURE; FOR IF YOU (choose to) “DO” THESE THINGS, YE SHALL NEVER FALL...” (2 Peter 1: 4-9 KJV).

“...HE (SHE) THAT “SHALL” (choose to) ENDURE UNTO THE END SHALL BE SAVED...” (Matthew 24:13 KJV).

GOD’S UNCONDITIONAL LOVE and FAITHFULNESS TO THE UNILATERAL-LIKE “COVENANT UNITY” makes it SECURE.

GOD’S UNCONDITIONAL LOVE and FAITHFULNESS TO THE UNILATERAL-LIKE COVENANT relationship with his REDEEMED people provides them with numerous chances to grow in his GRACE, his MERCY, to get it right, to live more righteous, and to empower them to endure.

The APOSTATE, who breaks or has broken the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spiritcan CHOOSE to repent and return to God as long as they have breath in their physical body.  “ ... Return ... to the Lord ... [your] ... God... [AND GOD] ... will heal [your] ... apostasy ... [AND] ... will love [you]... freely..” (Hosea 14:1-4 NLT). “… the GRACE of God, and the gift by GRACE, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath ABOUNDED unto many…” (Romans 5:15 KJV). 

“…God is able to make all GRACE abound toward ...[his people]; that ...[they will], always having all sufficiency in all things…” (2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV). “…My GRACE is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness...” (2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV). “..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).

“…where sin abounded, GRACE did much more abound…” (Romans 5:20 KJV). “…They which receive abundance of GRACE … shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ…” (Romans 5:17 KJV). “….mercy triumphs over judgement…” (James 2:13 NASB).

God is“... RICH IN MERCY…” (Ephesians 2:1-5 KJV). “…The Lord is ...of great mercy…” (Number 14:18 KJV). “…The LordGod, [IS] merciful …” (Exodus 34:6 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, because HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV). “…Mercy triumphs over judgement.” (James 2:13 NASB).  

Therefore, “…He helps [his people]…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “…The Lord helps them, rescuing them from the wicked. He saves them, and they find shelter in him…” (Psalms 37:40 NLT). “…Blessed are those who wait for his help…” (Isaiah 30:18 NLT). “…The Lord who made you and helps you says: Do not be afraid …my servant …my chosen one…” (Isaiah 44:2 NLT). “… The Sovereign Lord helps me…” (Isaiah 50:7 NLT).  “… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT).

“…You are my helper and my savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT). “..Therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE, that [you]… may obtain mercy, and find GRACE to help in time of need…”(Hebrews 4:16 KJV). “….Then you will know that I am the Lord your God…’” (Exodus 16:12 NLT).

GOD’S UNCONDITIONAL LOVE and FAITHFULNESS TO THE UNILATERAL-LIKE “covenant unity” relationship is the APOSTATE’S “ONLY” SAVING GRACE.  “ ... Return ... to the Lordyour God, For you have stumbled because of your iniquity (YOUR apostasy). Take words with you and return to the Lord. Say to Him, “Take away all iniquity And receive us graciously, That we may present the fruit of our lips.“Assyria will not save us, We will not ride on horses; Nor will we say again, ‘Our god,’To the work of our hands; For in You the orphan finds mercy.” [THE LOVING and FAITHFUL GOD SAYS:] ... I will heal their apostasy, I will love them freely, For My anger has turned away from them...” (Hosea 14:1-4 NLT).

Even if you have had a rebellious soul for years, God, the Holy Spirit’s,  LOVE and FAITHFULNESS is UNIQUE and MIND-BLOWING. There is NONE like God! “…… I am God, and there is none like me…" (Isaiah 46:9-10 KJV). “… “I AM”WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). indw  “… [God also says to his people, I AM] … Your rockand Your fortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you] … take refuge; Yourshield and the horn of Your salvation, YOURstronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

God’s people are bonded ALWAYS to God’s LOVE and his unconditionally FAITHFULNESS.

God, the Holy Spirit, is always in the ROLE of husbandman and man’s soul is always in the ROLE of recipient if they willingly choose to be.

God’s ROLE is immutable. His LOVE and FAITHFULNESS to his people will NEVER be BROKEN, CUT-OFF, or SEPARATED through HIS CHOICE or his DOING.

 God, the Holy Spirit can GUARANTEE his unconditional love and never ending faithfulness to his people? “…Great is his love toward [HIS PEOPLE], and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD” (Psalms 117:2 KJV). “… [GOD] remembered his covenant with [his people through Abraham]  …” (Psalms 106:42-48 NLT).

Though HIS people had LONG forgotten, God remembered the covenant he’d made with Abraham? “ ...On that day the Lordmade a covenantwith Abram, saying, To your descendants I have given this land, From the river of Egypt as far as the great river, the river Euphrates...” (Genesis 15:9-21 NLT).

The bible PROVES, through his covenant with Abraham and the SALVATION offered to every redeemed soul that God REMAINS FAITHFUL. “…If we are unfaithful, he remainsfaithful, for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “… [God has]... loved [his people]...with an everlasting love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  

He keeps his part of the covenant through thousands and thousands of generations. “…Showing love to a thousand generationsof those who love me and keep my commandments…” (Exodus 20:6 NIV).

Even when God’s people don’t keep their part of the covenant relationship, God faithfully continues immutable LOYALTY. God says, I “…am WATCHING over my word to PERFORM it…” (Jeremiah 1:12 NASB “…So shall MY WORD bethat goeth forth out of my mouth: it SHALL NOT return unto me void, but it SHALL ACCOMPLISH that which I please, and it SHALL PROSPER in the thing whereto I sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV).

“…If we are unfaithful, he remainsfaithful, for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).  

Because of God’s faithfulness to the Abrahamic covenant  – Israel (Abraham's descendants) took possession of the land. “…So the Lord gave to Israel all the land he had sworn to give their ancestors, and they took possession of it and settled there. And the Lord gave them rest on every side, just as he had solemnly promised their ancestors. None of their enemies could stand against them, for the Lord helped them conquer all their enemies. Not a single one of all the good promises the Lord had given to the family of Israel was left unfulfilled; everything he had spoken came true. …” (Joshua 21:43-45 NLT).

God’s FAITHFUL love and commitment to his covenant vows survived the continual and repeated abandonment of his people as witnessed in biblical history. WHY? God has “….loved [them]... with an everlasting love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV). “….neither death, nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate [his people]… from the love of God which is “in” Christ Jesus our Lord…” (Romans 8:38-39 KJV). “... [God’s]…love never fails…” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV).  “…notthat we loved God, but that he loved us ...” (1 John 4:10 KJV).

God’s FAITHFUL LOVE endures the CHRONIC rejections and apostasies of his people. “..When Israel was a child, I loved him, and I called my son out of Egypt. But the more I called to him, the farther he moved from me,offering sacrifices to the images of Baal and burning incense to idols. I myself taught Israel how to walk,leading him along by the hand. But he doesn’t know or even care that it was I who took care of him. I led Israel along with my ropes of kindness and love. I lifted the yoke from his neck, and I myself stooped to feed him. “But since my people refuse to return to me, they will return to Egypt and... They will destroy them, trapping them in their own evil plans. For my people are determined to desert me. They call me the Most High, but they don’t truly honor me. “Oh, how can I give you up, Israel? How can I let you go? How can I destroy you …My heart is torn within me, and my compassion overflows. No, I will not unleash my fierce anger. I will not completely destroy Israel,for I am God and not a mere mortal. I am the Holy One living among you, and I will not come to destroy. For someday the people will follow me.I, the Lord, will roar like a lion. And when I roar, my people will return …And I will bring them home again,” says the Lord….” (HOSEA 11 NLT).

“...And now, O our God, what can we say after all of this? For ONCE AGAIN we have ABANDONED your commands!” (Ezra 9:10 NLT).

“….They refused to obey and did not remember the miracles you had done for them. Instead, they became stubborn and appointed a leader to take them back to their slavery in Egypt. But you are a God of forgiveness, gracious and merciful, slow to become angry, and rich in unfailing love. You did not abandonthem…” (Nehemiah 9:17 NLT).

God’s MAKES an IMMUTABLE covenant with his people. “... I (God, the Holy Spirit) will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them...” (Ezekiel 37:26).

God’s people OFTEN forget about the covenant they’ve made with HIM. “ for years on end my people have FORGOTten ME…” (Jeremiah 2:32 NLT). “…They ABANDONED the Lord… they turned their backs on him….” (2 Chronicles 29:6 NLT). “…They kept doing whatever they wanted…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

“…They (MY PEOPLE) broke [THEIR] ... covenant [WITH ME], though I loved them as a husband loves his wife,” says the Lord…” (Jeremiah 31:32 NASB).

God ALWAYS remains LOVING and FAITHFUL to the covenant HE makes with HIS PEOPLE. “…If [God’s people] are unfaithful [to the covenant relationship], he [God, the Holy Spirit]... remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). 

“…God has said “Never will I leave [my people ]; never will I forsake [them]…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…I AM WITH [my people]... ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). 

…Behold, I AM WITH… [my people] … and  … I WILL NOT LEAVE [them] …." (Genesis 28:15 ASV). “… Behold, I am  with … [my people] and will keep … [them] whithersoever [they]… goest…I will not leave [them] ..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

“… The LORD thy God …will not fail [his people], nor forsake the[m]…” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV). NONETHELESS, “... IN LATTER TIMES “SOME” SHALL DEPART (leave) FROM the FAITH!!!!...” (1 Timothy 4:1-3 KJV).

“…The Lord replies, “This has happened because my peoplehave ABANDONED MY INSTRUCTIONS; they have refused to obey what I said….” (JEREMIAH 9:13 NLT).

 “….THOU HAST “LEFT” THY FIRST LOVE….” (REVELATION 2:4 KJV). “…They ABANDONED the Lord… they turned their backs on him….” (2 Chronicles 29:6 NLT).

LEAVING AND FORSAKING GOD, PART 1

I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU OR FORSAKE YOU

CHOOSING TO LEAVE GOD, PART 1

 “…God has said “Never will I leave [my people ]; never will I forsake [them]…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…I AM WITH [my people]... ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). 

“... IN LATTER TIMES “SOME” SHALL DEPART FROM the FAITH!!!!...” (1 Timothy 4:1-3 KJV).

*

The bottom line is that God, the Holy Spirit, “NEVER” leaves of forsakes his people EVER. Yet, God, the Holy Spirit, REMAINS faithful to them.“… he remains ...(STAYS)... faithful, for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

This means God, the Holy Spirit, sticks to or adheres to his WORD. “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, will KEEP every covenant promise he has made with EACH one of his people.  “...Jesus Christ (God’s WORD) is the same yesterday and today and forever…” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).

God, the Holy Spirit, will NEVER wane, waiver, or weaken on ANY responsibility or obligation of his position as SOVEREIGN RULER to his people. “…He has granted to [his people]… His precious and magnificent promises…” (2 Peter 1:4 NASB).  “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, is immutably TRUSTWORTHY! “…All he does is just and good, and all his commandments are TRUSTWORTHY (dependable)….” (PSALMS 111:7 NLT).

He KEEPS his WORD to his people. “…God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship (covenant unity through) ... his Son Jesus Christ our Lord (God’s living Word)…” (1 Corinthians 1:9 KJV).

Faithfulness is an attribute of God, the Holy Spirit. He NEVER changes. “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit’s FAITHFULNESS is both an ATTRIBUTE and a righteous STANDARD which expresses and demonstrates his commitment to his “covenant unity” with his people. “...His faithfulpromises are your armor and protection…” (Psalms 91 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, himself, the KING of kings, the LORD of lords, and the GOD of gods, CHOOSES, on his OWN sovereign volition, to be FAITHFUL to his people. .“…he remains ...(STAYS)... faithful,…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

He willingly BOUNDS himself, faithfully, to his people. .“…he [is]... faithful,for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

FAITHFULNESS is a HOLY STANDARD that God sticks to and adheres to. It is also an ATTRIBUTE that is a WITNESS to his HOLY nature or character. “...God is faithful... (HE is the STANDARD) ...” (1 Corinthians 1:9 KJV). “…But the fruit of the Spirit is faithfulness ...(It is an ATTRIBUTE of God’s)...” (Galatians 5:22-23).

 “...Great is his faithfulness... (both his standard and attribute)...” (Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT).

“… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  

God, the Holy Spirit “IS” who he SAYS he is. “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

God will NEVER change his HOLY STANDARD or HOLY ATTRIBUTE regarding faithfulness. “…he remains ...(STAYS) ... faithful…(it is his STANDARD)...” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…hecannot deny who he is…(it is his ATTRIBUTE)...” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). 

So when his people willingly choose to commit and practice APOSTASY what happens to the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit? The bible DOES SAY. “... [His people]... “WERE” SEALED ...WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT OF PROMISE.…” (Ephesians 1 NLT).

However, the bible also SAYS: “…It’s YOUR SINS that have cut you off from God. …” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT). God says, “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

“…MY [faithful]...WORD … that goeth forth out of my mouth: it SHALL NOT return unto me void, but it SHALL ACCOMPLISH that which I please, and it SHALL PROSPER in the thing whereto I sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV).

“…It’s YOUR [ongoing practice of]... SINSthat have cut you off from God. …” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT).

“…[God is faithfully]... WATCHING over [his] word to PERFORM it…” (Jeremiah 1:12 NASB). T

herefore, “... the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit,....” (Hebrews 4:12 NASB).

The WORD of God is truth and will FAITHFULLY do what it says it will DO. Thus, THE WORD SAYS: “... the word of God quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword,  ...piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit,....” (Hebrews 4:12 NASB).

“…It was for freedom that Christ set [his people] free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. Look! I, Paul, tell you that if you have yourselves circumcised, Christ will be of no benefit to you. And I testify again to every man who has himself circumcised, that he is obligated to keep the whole Law. You have been severed from Christ, you who are seeking to be justified by the Law; you have fallen from grace…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT).

 “... I suspect you would never intend this, but this is what happens. When you attempt to live by your own religious plans and projects, you are cut off from Christ, you fall out of grace. Meanwhile we expectantly wait for a satisfying relationship with the Spirit...” (Galatians 5:4-5 MSG).

Apostasy can be viewed as any form of rejection, departure, rebellion or defection of God’s holy commandments.

It also means the spiritual duties and responsibilities of the person of God has been willfully forsaken and abandoned by them. “… [God’s people]… FORGOT all about [HIM],” says the Lord…” (Hosea 2:13 NLT). “…They ABANDONED the Lord… they turned their backs on him….” (2 Chronicles 29:6 NLT). “...[His OWN]...people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching....” (2 Timothy 4:3-4 NLT). “... They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear...” (2 Timothy 4:3-4 NLT). “...They will reject the truth and chase after myths...” (2 Timothy 4:3-4 NLT).

“...some will turn away from the true faith...” (Hebrews 4:1-2 NLT).

“...they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons...” (Hebrews 4:1-2 NLT).

“...These people [who CLAIM to be God’s people]... are hypocrites and liars, and their consciences are dead...” (Hebrews 4:1-2 NLT).

 “…[They are saying “we will continue to live as WE WANT TO, stubbornly following our own evil desires”…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

 “…[God said: My people would not listen to me. They KEPT DOING WHATEVER THEY WANTED, following the stubborn desires of their [OWN] evil hearts…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

Apostasy can be viewed as any form of rejection, departure, rebellion or defection of God’s holy commandments.

It is also a spiritual process, a person of God takes, when they begin renouncing and disassociating themselves from God, the Holy Spirt, his righteousness and his holy ways. “... a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths...” (2 Timothy 4:3-4 NLT).

“...Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons. These people are hypocrites and liars, and their consciences are dead...” (Hebrews 4:1-2 NLT).

“...the people replied, “…We will continue to live as WE WANT TO, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

 “…my people would not listen to me. They KEPT DOING WHATEVER THEY WANTED, following the stubborn desires of their [OWN] evil hearts…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

God’s OWN people, just like in the Old Testament, willfully CHOOSE to abandon and forsake the “covenant unity” relationship with God and return to a life without HIM or his indwelling Holy Spirit. “...For if, after they (those who were in a “covenant unity” relationship with God) have escaped ... they (those  who were in a “covenant unity” relationship with God) are AGAIN entangled in them (their former sinful lifestyles practices) ... it would be better for them (those who were in a “covenant unity” relationship with God) not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn away from (by choice) the holy commandment ... It has happened to them (those who were in a “covenant unity” relationship with God) according to the true proverb, “A DOG RETURNS TO ITS OWN VOMIT (apostasy),” and, “A sow, after washing, returns to wallowing in the mire (apostasy) ...” (2 Peter 2:20-23 NASB).  “... EVERYONE (NO EXCEPTIONS) who practices sin (any form of apostasy) also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness ... the one who practicessin is of the devil ... No one who is born of God practices sin, because His seed abides in him (her); and he (she) cannot sin, because he (she) is born of God. By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practicerighteousness is not of GOD...” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB).

“…what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ (the HOLY Word of TRUTH) with Belial(the unholy DEVIL or Father of LIES)? Or what part hath he (she) that believeth (one that depends upon God) with an infidel (one who doesn’t depend upon God)?” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).

 “…My people would not listen to me. They KEPT DOING WHATEVER THEY WANTED, following the stubborn desires of their [OWN] evil hearts…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

 “…It’s [THEIR ongoing practice]... SINS that have cut [them] offfrom God. …” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT). “......piercing ... asunder ...soul and spirit,....” (Hebrews 4:12 NASB). Remember SIN and HOLINESS naturally SEPARATE; just like oil and water. “…[they]... have been cut offfrom Christ! …” (Galatians 5:4 NLT).

Apostates have also CHOSEN to abandon previously held beliefs (vows) and have decided to defy or rebel against the practice of those same beliefs.“...dear brothers and sisters.Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God. You must warn each other every day, while it is still “today,” so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God...” (Hebrews 3:12-13 NLT).

“...God’s promise of entering his rest still stands, so we ought to tremble with fear that some of you might fail to experience it...” (Hebrews 4:1 NLT).

The reason for APOSTASY, varies, but could entail anything from a desire to continue to practice a sinful lifestyle to ongoing spiritual infidelity. “... They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear...” (2 Timothy 4:3-4 NLT). “...They will reject the truth and chase after myths...” (2 Timothy 4:3-4 NLT).

“…For years on end my people have FORGOTten ME…” (Jeremiah 2:32 NLT).  “…They ABANDONED the Lord to serve Baal (other objects of faith)…”(Judges 2:13 NLT). “…Ever since I brought them from Egypt they have continually ABANDONED ME and followed other gods (other objects of faith)…” (1 Samuel 8:8 NLT). “…For my people have ABANDONED ME and offered sacrifices to pagan gods (other objects of faith)…” (2 Kings 22:17 NLT).

In the instant of spiritual APOSTASY against God, the Holy Spirit, only one party wants to forsake or abandon the covenant relationship. God, the Holy Spiritconcedes to the other party’s willful CHOICE. "… I hate divorce," says the LORD, the God of Israel..." (Malachi 2:16 NASB). “…[Yet]...GOD GAVE THEM OVER to a reprobate mind (apostasy) to do those things which are convenient...being filled with all unrighteousness...” (Romans 1:28 KJV). “…, …We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT). “… my people have stubborn and rebellious hearts. They have turned away and ABANDONED me….” (JEREMIAH 5:23 NLT). “…They kept doing whatever they wanted…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

God’s people can willfully CHOOSE to LEAVE God, the Holy Spirit, but God, the Holy Spirit, doesn’t ever LEAVE or FORSAKE them. “…I am with you always, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). God will “…Never leave nor forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 KJV).  “…Behold, I am with … [you] and will keep … [you] whithersoever [you]… goest…I will not leave [you] ..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

However, God, the Holy Spirit, concedes, to his people’s CHOICE to LEAVE HIM. “...The Lord said, My [Holy]...Spirit shall not always strive with man…” (Genesis 6:3 KJV).“…They DID NOT like to retain God in their knowledge (MINDS), GOD GAVE THEM OVER to a reprobate mind (wicked, unrepentant mind)…” (Romans 1:28 KJV). “...God gave them over in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, so that their bodies would be dishonored among them...” (Romans 1:24 NASB). “...God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do those things which are not proper...” (Romans 1:28 NASB). “....I gave them over to worthless decrees and regulations that would not lead to life...” (Ezekiel 20:25 NLT).“...It has happened to them according to the true proverb, “A dog returns to its own vomit,” and, “A sow, after washing, returns to wallowing in the mire...” (2 Peter 2:20-23 NASB).

“… I will remove thy candlestick out of his place…” (Revelation 2:5 KJV). “… the dividing asunderof soul and spirit…” (Hebrews 4:12 KJV).“…[god’s people, by their own choice]... have been cut off from Christ! …” (Galatians 5:4 NLT). “…[They, by their own choice,] have fallen away from God’s GRACE…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT).

The bible presents the scenario, in regard to, human relationships, which says if you are married to someone who is NOT believing STAY committed to them.  However,  “...if the unbelieving one leaves, let him (her) leave; the brother or the sister is not under bondage in such cases, but God has called us to peace. For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife?” (1 Corinthians 7:15-16 NASB).

Similarly, God, the Holy Spirit, concedes to the man or woman’s willful CHOICE to LEAVE him, yet he REMAINS faithful to his covenant promises to them. “…If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

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

God, the Holy Spirit, would NEVER let his “covenant unity” people perish or let anyone SNATCH them out of his hands. “...I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me...” (John 10:28 NLT).

However, if God’s “covenant unity” person chooses to LEAVE his hands, he concedes to their desires.  “...Remain in me, and I will remain in you...” (John 15:4). “...Abide in me and I in you...” (John 15:4 KJV). “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). …If a man (woman) abide NOT in me, ‘he (she) is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned…” (John 15:6 KJV).

God’s FAITHFUL and LOVING role in the “covenant unity” relationship with his people is SOLID.” “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  “...[My Word to my people].... is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).

However, God’s people have been given a human willto CHOOSE. “…Choose you (through human will)this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

Every “covenant unity” vow and promise God makes, through his WORD, to his people, is TRUSTWORTHY. “…MY WORD …that goeth forth out of my mouth: it SHALL NOT return unto me void, but it SHALL ACCOMPLISH that which I please, and it SHALL PROSPER in the thing whereto I sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV).

God says, I “…am WATCHING over my word to PERFORM it…” (Jeremiah 1:12 NASB). “…He has granted to [his people]… His precious and magnificent promises…” (2 Peter 1:4 NASB).

“…As many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes …also … Amen …” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NASB). “…Not one of the good promises which the Lord had made … failed; all came to pass…” (Joshua 21:45 NASB).

 Nonetheless, God’s people’s vows and promises to HIM are NOT SOLID or TRUSTWORTHY. “... You, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight (THE NEXT VERSE REQUIRES HUMAN WILL OR HUMAN CHOICE) “If” ye (CHOOSE TO) continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister...” (Colossians 1:21-23 KJV). “... Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters (God’s people)...” (Hebrews 3:12 NLT).“...Take heed, [people of god], lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing (LEAVING) from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin (any form of apostasy). For we are made partakers of Christ, (THE NEXT VERSE REQUIRES HUMAN WILL OR HUMAN CHOICE) “if” we (CHOOSE TO) hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end...” (Hebrews 3:12-14 KJV). .“...HE (SHE) THAT “SHALL” ENDURE (THROUGH HUMAN WILL OR HUMAN CHOICE) UNTO THE ENDSHALL BE SAVED...” (Matthew 24:13 KJV).

The bottom line is that any form of continual APOSTASY can cause the dissolution of the “covenant unity” relationship with God. God’s people willfully CHOOSE to FORSAKE or ABANDON the “covenant unity” relationship with God in order to END it. “…If you love me, you will (CHOOSE TO.) keep my commandments…” (John 14:15). However, “…My people would not listen to me. They kept (CHOOSING TO DO) ...whatever they wanted…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “… The people replied, “Don’t waste your breath. We will continue to (CHOOSE TO) live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT). “…Thus saith the Lord; ‘Cursed be the MAN (or woman) ... whose HEART (WILLFULLY) departeth from the Lord…” (Jeremiah 17:5 KJV) Thus, “…They (MY PEOPLE) broke [THEIR] ... covenant [WITH ME BY CHOICE], though I loved them as a husband loves his wife,” says the Lord…” (Jeremiah 31:32 NASB).

“… to ... those who were once enlightened— AND THEN [CHOOSE TO]...TURN AWAY…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT). “… repent and DO the first works (CHOOSING to ABIDE with God, the Holy Spirit)…” (Revelation 2:5 KJV).

 “…Choose you (through human will) this daywhom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

“... REPENT AND RETURN, “SO” that your sins may be wiped away…” (Acts 3:19 NASB). “ ... Return ... to the Lord ... [your] ... God... [AND HE] ... will heal [your] ... apostasy ....” (Hosea 14:1-4 NLT). “…EXCEPT YE REPENT, [God’s people]... shall all likewise PERISH…” (Luke 13:3 KJV).  

The “covenant unity” relationship with God is like that of marriage. It is also a binding agreement that was meant to join man’s soul and God’s SPIRIT together forever. Jesus said, "I and the Father are one." (John 10:30). The bible says, “…that they (the redeemed) may ALL BE ONE; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, …” (John 17:21-23 NASB).

The soul in a “covenant unity” relationship, with God, who is SPIRIT, has accepted Christ, been reconciled with God, has become restored to the indwelling Holy Spirit and has been made WHOLE again. The redeemed soul decides to show their love, to God, the Holy Spirit, by keeping his commandments. “…Confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and … believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved...” (ROMANS 10:9 KJV).  “...But he(she) that is joined (in a covenant) unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT...” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “...If you love me, you will keep my commandments…” (John 14:15).

KEEPING God’s commandments is one of the commitments, God’s people, lovingly choose to DO to show their LOVE for God. “…If you love me, you will keep my commandments…” (John 14:15).

The redeemed soul willfully chooses to trust in and depend upon, the indwelling Holy Spirit, to empower them to keep this life-long “covenant unity” with God, the Holy Spirit. “... For it is God who worketh in [his people], both to will (to desire to keep the covenant) and to do (to actually keep it) of His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “…I can do all things through Christwhich strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit and the redeemed soul are bonded by love and connected through HIS indwelling Holy Spirit. “… Love ...the perfect BOND of unity…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 NASB).  “... But he that is joined (in a covenant with) unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT...” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

While God, the Holy Spirit has an unconditional, immutable, committed role in the “covenant unity” relationship; the redeemed soul DOES NOT, however, both roles include certain responsibilities that RELY solely on character and CHOICE. “…I amthe vine, you are the branches…” (John 15:1-11 NASB). “… abide in me, and I in you…” (John 15:4 KJV).

Most covenant relationships are bilateral, with equal and equitable responsibilities allotted to each party. The covenant, God, the Holy Spirit, makes with the redeemed soul SEEMS unilateral because HE remains FAITHFUL regardless of what the redeemed soul does or not.

The unilateral-like covenant God makes with the redeemed soul seems to FAVOR them, BLESS them, and GIFT them. The role one of the redeemed soul seems to be MERELY of trust, dependency upon God, and obedience to his commandments. God, the Holy Spirit becomes the husbandman, who TOTALLY provides, and supports EVERY need of his people or redeemed souls.

GOD'S PRESENCE WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU OR FORSAKE YOU

 

I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU OR FORSAKE YOU

GOD’S PRESENCE NEVER LEAVES YOU

“ “…God has said “Never will I leave [my people]; never will I forsake [them]…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…I AM WITH [my people]... ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). 

“…Behold, I AM WITH… [my people] … and  … I WILL NOT LEAVE [them] …." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

 “… Behold, I am with … [my people, faithfully] and will keep … [them] whithersoever [they]… goest…I will not leave [them] ..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

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If God’s people are “IN” God’s presence it means they are in the SAME place as God is and are close enough where he can HEAR them, SEE them, and LOOK them in the FACE. “...Thou God seest me...” (Genesis 16:13 KJV). “...You’re the God who sees me!...” (Genesis  16:13 MSG).

“...My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret...” (Psalm 139 NASB). “…Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes…” (Hebrews 4:13 NLT). “...You are a God who sees me...” (Genesis 16:13 NASB).

On the other hand, if God’s people are “IN” God’s presence it means God is in the SAME place as they are and they are also close enough to HEAR him, SEE him, and LOOK into the FACE of his GLORY too.

THEY HEAR HIS VOICE through jesus: “...if anyone hearsMy voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him (her), and he(she) with Me...” (Revelation 3:20 NASB). “And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day:” (Genesis 2:8-11 KJV).

“...a voice came from heaven…” (Daniel 4 NLT). “...I heard thy voice in the garden...” (Genesis 2:8-11 KJV). “...we have heard his voice out of the midst of the fire: we have seen this day that God doth talk with man, and he (she) liveth…” (Dueteronomy 5:24 KJV).

“...He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out...they follow him because they know his voice...” (John 10:1-10 NASB).

THEY SEE HIM (god, who is SPIRIT) THROUGH JESUS: “…The invisible [Spirit]…from the creation of the world is …clearly seen, being understood by the things that are MADE …”(Romans 1:20 KJV).

“The Son is ... the EXACT representation of his being (which is SPIRIT)…” (Hebrews 1:3 KJV). “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…Jesus saith unto him… he that hath SEEN ME HATH SEEN the Father (his presence or GLORY) …” (John 14:9 KJV).

THEY witness HIS GLORY OR PRESENCE THROUGH CREATION AND THROUGH JESUS:  “… The heavens declare His righteousness, And all the peoples have seen His glory…” (Psalms 97:6 NASB). “..Behold, the Lord our God hath SHEWED [his people]... his GLORY …” (Deuteronomy 5:24 KJV).

“...[When]... the Word (God, through Jesus, the speaking SPIRIT) became flesh, and dwelt among us ...[mankind]... saw His glory...” (John 1:14 NASB). “The Son (God, through Jesus, the speaking SPIRIT) is the RADIANCE of God’s glory...”  (Hebrews 1:3 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit wanted his people BACK in his presence. So, God sent THE ONE (Jesus, his WORD) to reconcile their LOST and spiritually dead souls and his Holy SPIRIT back together again. “… [He (God, who is SPIRIT) sent the] …one  (his WORD, which is also God who becomes the speaking SPIRIT through Jesus)… who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

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

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

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

“... and man (woman) became a living soul (soul AGAIN)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).  The LIVING is God’s indwelling SPIRIT and the soul, which means the ONCE lost and spiritually dead soul shares an intimate “covenant unity” with God, the Holy Spirit.  

There is NO LONGER a barrier or chasm between your soul and God, who is SPIRIT.“... And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm(barrier) has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

“…[their] ...INIQUITIES … separated … [them from] ... God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…It’s YOUR SINS that … [will] ...cut you offfrom God…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT).

“… [So God, the Holy Spirit sent the] …one … who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus (through whom God becomes the speaking SPIRIT)…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

Each one of God’s people, who have accepted Jesus, his WORD, by faith, into their hearts, have the PRESENCE of God within them through the indwelling Holy Spirit.

“…BY GRACE have ye been saved through… FAITH; and that NOT OF YOURSELVES, it is the gift of God; NOT OF WORKS, that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

“….ye shall receive the GIFT of the [indwelling]...Holy [Spirit]…” (Acts 2:38 KJV).

“…God...[the Holy Spirit SENDS]... the Spirit of His Son (his WORD) “INTO” [Y[OUR HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB).“…He (she) that is joined unto the LORD is ONE SPIRIT…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

“...your life is hidden with Christ in God...” (Colossians 3:3 NASB). The butter blends into the CAKE batter becoming HIDDEN until there is NOTHING left but ONE single, undivided,  NEW CREATION called a CAKE.

“...[Thus]...any man(woman) be in Christ, he(she) is a new creature...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “...This makes it clear that our great ... [indwelling]...power is from God, not from ourselves…” (2 Corinthians 4:7 NLT).

“…the Spirit of God dwell in [New creation]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  “….the Spirit of God dwelleth in [new creations]..” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV). “…[The New Creation’s]... body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in [them], which [they] have [received]... of God, and [they]... are not [their[... own?” (1 Corinthians 6:19 KJV).

“…God hath said, I will dwell in [new creations], and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people...” (2 Corinthians 6:16 KJV).

“…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in [New Creations]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).“…Jesus Christ (his WORD) is IN [New Creations]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “ …[New Creations]... have this treasure  (the indwelling Holy Spirit) “in” earthen vessels…” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV).

“…God [is]...with [his people]…” (Matthew 1:23 NASB).

God’s people often FAIL to realize that being in the PRESENCE of God, the Holy Spiritmeans to BE in the presence of GREATNESS. “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). “…You are veryGREAT;You are clothed in SPLENDER Covering Yourself with LIGHT as with a cloak…”(Psalm 104:1-2 NASB).

“…His radiance is like the sunlight; He has rays flashing from His hand…” (Habakkuk 3:4.NASB).

“… Who is like You among the gods, O Lord? Who is like You, majestic in holiness,Awesome in praises, working wonders?...” (Exodus 15:11 NASB).

“…God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all…” (1 John 1:5 NASB). “…the BEAUTY of … [god’s] … holiness…” (2 Chronicles 16:29 KJV).

“… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV). “… I, the LORD, am the first, and with the last …[of HOLINESS] ... I am He...'" (Isaiah 41:4 NASB). “… I am the first and I am the last, And there is no … [HOLY] … God besides Me…”(Isaiah 44:6 NASB). “… there is none holy as the Lord…” (1 Samuel 2:2 KJV). “… Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come…” (Revelation 4:8 KJV).   

“… You set [your people]... in Your presence forever…” (Psalms 44:12 NASB). “…YOU MAKE [your people]... “MOST” BLESSED forever … in YOUR PRESENCE…” (Psalms 21:6 NASB).

“…Jesus Christ is in [God’s people]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…Christ in [God’s people] …” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwell[s] in [God’s people]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  “...[God’s people are].... crucified with Christ: nevertheless [they[... live; yet not [them], but Christ liveth in [them]…” (Galatians 2:20 KJV). “…if Christ be in [God’s people]… [then] …the Lord …[is] … in [their]... presence…” (Romans 8:10 KJV &Exodus 33:16-23 NIV).

It is the REDEEMED, RECONCILED, and RESTORED soul, made WHOLE, through Jesus, that is allowed to enter into the most holy of holies, which is God’s PRESENCE. Jesus is the WAY. “…Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life …” (John 14 6 KJV). “…This is the way; WALK in it…" Isaiah 30:21 NIV). “… Jesus opened a new and life-giving way  ... into the Most Holy Place…” (Hebrews 10:19-20 NLT).

“...let [God’s people]... come boldly to the throne of our gracious God (to HIS PRESENCE). There [God’s people]... will receive his mercy, and [they]... will find grace to help [them when [they]... need it most...” (Hebrews 4:16 NLT).

“… [God]...you set [your people]... in Your presence forever…” (Psalms 44:12 NASB). “… because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).

“…[god’s people]... are a chosen people. [They]... are royal priests, a holy nation, God's very own possession. As a result, [they]... can show others the goodness of God, for he called [each of them]... out of the darkness into his wonderful light…” (1 Peter 2:9 NLT).

From the moment the lost and spiritually dead soul comes INTO God’s PRESENCE, through Jesus, their lives are NEVER the same. “…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). God “….is …not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV).

God, who is SPIRIT, becomes the LIVING WORD who becomes the speaking SPIRIT. The WORD or speaking SPIRIT is “…the [becomes the POWERFUL working SPIRIT] ...of God [that SAVES everyone who trusts in and depends upon his WORD to do what it says it will do]…” (Romans 1:16 KJV). “…God sent ... his Son (his WORD through Jesus) ... that the world THROUGH HIM (god, the speaking spirit) might BE SAVED…” (John 3:17 KJV).

“... I, am the Lord (the word of god, who is spirit); and beside me (God’s word) there is no saviour. I (God, who is Spirit, through Jesus) have declared, and have saved …the Lord (the word of god, who is spirit “is”), your redeemer…: (Isaiah 43:10-15 KJV).

“… [THE WORD of GOD, who is SPIRIT]... It [also]... is the [working]...power of God at work (miraculously), saving everyone who believes (trusts and depends)…” (Romans 1:16 NLT).

“….TO [THOSE]…WHO ARE SAVED, [THE WORD of god, who is spirit] IS [also]...THE POWER OF GOD….” (1 Corinthians 1:18 KJV).

“…UNTO THEM, WHICH ARE CALLED…[THE WORD of god, who is spirit IS]…THE POWER OF GOD…” (1 Corinthians 1:24 KJV). It is the POWERFUL WORD of God, who is SPIRIT that becomes the powerful working SPIRIT that results in salvation.

” “…THE WORDS THAT I (Jesus) SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT (god)…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Word [is]...God … (John 1:1-4 NASB).

If you could have obtained salvation, by your own efforts, then Christ would NOT have had a need to die upon the cross. “… The life which [God’s people] now live in the flesh [they]... live by the [indwelling fruit of]... faith [produced and empowered by] ... the Son of God (the WORD of GOD, who is SPIRIT) … for if righteousness come by the law (self-effort, self-autonomy, etc.), then Christ... [...also the atoning sacrifice]... is dead in vain…” (Galatians 2:20-21 KJV).

“…the Father (God, who is SPIRIT) that dwelleth in me (Jesus), he doeth the [powerful]...works…” (John 14:10 KJV).“…Apart from Me (Jesus, his WORD), [God’s people]... can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).     “… if keeping the law (self-effort, one’s own power) could make [them]... right with God, then there was no need for Christ to die…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT). “…Who will free [the lost and spiritually dead soul] from this life that is dominated by SIN (self-effort, self-autonomy etc.)? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD of GOD, who is SPIRIT and becomes the speaking SPIRIT and the powerful working SPIRIT through JESUS)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

“For [it is] Christ …[who]…. died for sins ONCE for all,the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us... [BACK]... to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the SPIRIT…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “… Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And ... he was buried, and …he rose again the third day according to the scriptures…” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4 KJV).

What HAPPENS when the lost and spiritually dead soul comes FACE to FACE with God’s PRESENCE? They “…RECEIVE (obtain, accept, etc.) ... theengrafted WORD, which is able to SAVE [their]. souls…” (James 1:21 KJV).  GOD’S PRESENCE SAVE.

“…everyone who asks receives (obtains, accepts, etc.)…” (Matthew 7:8 NIV). GOD’S PRESENCE OFFERS SALVATION TO ALL THAT ASK AND RECEIVES.  

“... AS MANY as received (obtained, accepted, etc.)him (the WORD of GOD), to them GAVE HE [INDWELLING] ... POWER TO BECOME THE SONS OF GOD, even to them that believe (depend upon) ...his name (the WORD of GOD)…” (John 1:12 KJV). GOD’S PRESENCE MAKES THOSE WHO RECEIVE HIS OFFER OF SALVATION HIS CHILDREN.

 “…BY GRACE have ye been saved through… FAITH (through dependence upon the WORD of GOD); and that NOT OF YOURSELVES, IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD; not of works, that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). GOD’S PRESENCE OFFERS SALVATION AS A “FREE” GIFT.

Salvation is the FIRST manifestation of God’s PRESENCE to the lost and spiritually dead soul, which is OFFERED “through” his WORD and  experienced through the WORKING POWER of his Spirit. “…If any man be in Christ, he is a NEW CREATURE …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

“… [New creations]… are HIS workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works …” (Ephesians 2:10 KJV). “…it is God which worketh in [new creations]…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).

“…NOT that [new creations]… are ADEQUATE IN [THEMSELVES]… to consider anything as coming from [themselves]… but [THEIR]… ADEQUACY IS FROM GOD…” (2 Corinthians 3:5 NASB).

“…Now GOD GIVES [new creations] many kinds of special abilities … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “… The ... Holy Spirit ... is the source of ... all ... [special abilities done by new creations]… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…There are different kinds of service to God …but it is the same GOD WHO “DOES” THE WORK IN AND THROUGH ... [new creations]... who are his… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

“…The Holy Spirit “displays” God’s power THROUGH each [new creation]… … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…It is the ... Holy Spirit who gives [new creations]... all these gifts and powers, deciding which each one of [them] should have… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

“… [Because of God’s presence, God’s people are] ... ...NEW creature[s] …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “…old things are passed away…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).   “…ALL THINGS are become NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).  

“…God has given [his people] HIS [HOLY] ...Spirit as PROOF that … he [dwells]…in [them]…” (1 John 4:13 NLT “…God … SENT forth the Spirit of His Son (the WORD of God, who is SPIRIT) “INTO” [their]… HEARTS (in seed form)…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB).

“…The Spirit of God dwell[s] in [his people. They are reconciled to God, restored to his SPIRIT, and made WHOLE again)…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…THE WORDS ... they ARE SPIRIT (God)…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…the Word was [and is]... God… (John 1:1-4 NASB).

“… [The WORD of GOD, who is SPIRIT]... liveth in [his people]…” (Galatians 2:20 KJV). “…[New creations]... can do all things through Christ  (the word of God, who is spirit) which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

“… [God, the Holy Spirit] grant[s]… [new creations]… to be strengthened with might by his [holy] ... Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV).

“… The God of peace … that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip[s] [new creations]... with everything good for doing his will, and …work[s] in [new creations]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

“…NOW UNTO [THE WORD OF GOD, who is SPIRIT]... THAT IS “ABLE” TO DO… according to the [HOLY]... POWER that worketh in [new creations]…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).

“…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). “…The things which are impossible with men are possible with God…” (Luke 18:27 KJV).

“….Apart from Me (God, the Holy Spirit), [new creations]... can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).  “…[A new creation’s]... great power is from God [who is SPIRIT]…” (2 Corinthians 4:5-7 NLT).

“…BY THE WORD of the Lord [God’s people are INDWELLED with the PRESENCE of God’s GREAT POWERFUL GLORY]…” (Psalms 33:6 NASB). “…His divine ... [indwelling] ... power hath given [new creations] ... ALL THINGS that pertain unto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV).

“…All things [COME] into being through Him (the WORD of GOD, who is SPIRIT), and apart from [the WORD of GOD, who is SPIRIT] nothing [COMES] into being that [WILL or HAS] come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB). “... O TASTE and “see” that [Word of GOD, who is SPIRIT]... is GOOD...” (Psalms 34:8 KJV).

“...BLESSED(happy, nourished) is the man (woman) that trusteth in him (and depends upon him)...” (Psalms 34:8 KJV).

God the Holy Spirit’s  PRESENCE surrounds his people with FAVOR, spiritual blessings, and untold GIFTS. “…You surround … [your children] … WITH FAVOR (blessings and gifts) as with a shield…” (Psalms 5:12 NASB).

”…  ye [are]…saved through faith…it is the GIFT of God…” (Ephesians 2:8 KJV). “…The GIFT by grace……” (Romans 5:15 KJV). “…The GIFTof 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 [his people].. ALL THINGS that pertain unto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV).

“…you will fill [your people] with JOY in your presence…” (Psalms 16:11 NIV).

“…God[‘s PRESENCE) has said “Never will I leave [my people  without MY WORD]; never will I forsake [them]…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…I AM (my presence is) WITH [my people]... ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). 

“…Behold, I AM (my PRESENCE is) WITH… [my people] … and  … I WILL NOT LEAVE [them] …." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

“… Behold, I am (my presence is) with … [my people, faithfully] and will keep … [them] whithersoever [they]… goest…I will not leave [them] ..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

“…[God, who is SPIRIT]... will fill [his people]... with JOY in [his] PRESENCE …” (Psalms 16:11 NIV). “… The LORD thy God (who is the PRESENT SPIRIT)…will not fail [his people], nor forsake the[m]…” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV).

“….The JOY of the Lord, [that comes from god’s presence]... is [the] strength [of God’s righteous people]…” (Nehemiah 8:10 KJV).

GOD'S WORD WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU OR FORSAKE YOU

I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU OR FORSAKE YOU

GOD’S WORD NEVER LEAVES YOU

“… [His word] shall not return unto [him]… void, but it shall accomplish that which [God, the Holy Spirit]… please[s], and it shall prosper in the thing whereto [God, the Holy Spirit]… sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV).

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

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The WORD of God was “IN” the beginning with and WAS God. “…THERE ARE THREE that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and THESE THREE ARE ONE...”(1 JOHN 5:7 KJV).  

“…THERE IS NO GOD, BUT ONE…” (1 JOHN 5:7 KJV). There is God, the Father; God, the Word, and God, the Holy Spirit and these three equal ONE God. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  

God is SPIRIT (Father). His WORD is SPIRIT (Son). His POWER is SPIRIT (Holy Ghost). “...the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: ... THESE THREE ARE ONE...” (1 JOHN 5:7 KJV).

Who God is, what he says, and what he does are ONE undivided UNITYthat is ALWAYS in agreement. “...THESE THREE ARE ONE...” (1 JOHN 5:7 KJV).

Who God is, what he says, and what he does NEVER changes. “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

“…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  “… he remains faithful[ly spirit]... for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).  

From this perspective, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit are all God, who IS SPIRIT. THERE IS LIQUID, ICE, AND STEAM, BUT THEY “ALL” H2O.

God, the Holy Spirit, chooses to express himself, to mankind, through his WORD and the demonstration of his POWER. “…the invisible things (SPIRITUAL things) of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are MADE, [They display]... his eternal power and Godhead (his presence, his WORD, his actions); so that [mankind becomes a witness to the things that are MADE and] are without excuse…” (Romans 1:20 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit expresses himself to mankind through his WORD.

God, the Holy Spirit, “is” SPIRIT and so is HIS WORD. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  “…The Lord is that Spirit (too)…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV).

 “…In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God…” (John 1:1-4 NASB).

 “…. All things came into being through Him (God’s WORD), and apart from Him (God’s WORD) nothing came into being that has come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB).

“…the invisible things (SPIRITUAL things) of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are MADE, [They display]... his eternal power and Godhead (his presence, his WORD, his actions)…” (Romans 1:20 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, expresses himself through his WORD, which is backed-up by the demonstration of his POWER. “…powerbelongs to God…” (Psalms 62:11 NASB). “… Jesus (the WORD of GOD) …came and SPAKE, unto them saying, “All POWER is given unto me IN heaven and earth…” (Matthew 28:18 KJV).

Who God “IS,” what God “SAYS,” and what God “DOES” are ALL in AGREEMENT. “...the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost...” (1 JOHN 5:7 KJV). “...THESE THREE ARE ONE (in agreement)...” (1 JOHN 5:7 KJV).

 “…if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven…” (Matthew 18:19 KJV).

“....Can two walk together, except they be agreed?...” (Amos 3:3 KJV).

“…there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit (Father), and the water (Holy Spirit), and the blood (the Word): and these three agree in one…” (1 John 5:8 KJV).

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

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

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

Jesus was a special MADE work of God, the HOLY SPIRIT. “… [Jesus, the WORD made flesh]...which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God…” (John 1:13 KJV).

“…The Holy Spirit shall come upon you (Mary, the human mother of Jesus), and the power of God shall overshadow you; so the baby born to you will be utterly holy—the Son of God…” (Luke 1:35 NLT).

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

God initiates the communication between himself and mankind. In the Old Testament God used things in creation or human mouthpieces like the prophets to SPEAK or reveal himself to mankind.

God also used burning bushes, a pillar of cloud, a pillar of fire, smoke, donkeys, angels, etcetera TO SPEAK or reveal himself to mankind.

Throughout nature God uses creation to SPEAK or reveal himself to mankind too.

 JESUS CHRIST, however, was the most unique form of communication from God.

 Jesus, God’s WORD, was a specially MADE, earthen vessel, who was a mouthpiece for communicating a MESSAGE of unconditional LOVE directly from GOD’S HEART (bosom). “…No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father (in the most intimate place of God’s heart), he hath declared him…” (John 1:18 KJV). “…the Word was “with” god… (John 1:1-4 NASB).

“…No one has ever seen God. But the unique One (the LIVING Word), who is himself God, is near to the Father’s heart. He has revealed God to us…” (John 1:18 NLT). “…the Word … was god… (John 1:1-4 NASB).

Jesus was “MADE” special so God, the Holy Spirit could personally express and reveal his heart, full of unconditional LOVE, to mankind. “….Thus, the WORD was made flesh….” (John 1:14 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, CAME to earth, through Jesus, to communicate with, express his unconditional LOVE, and reveal his HOLY nature to mankind. “…God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten (specially MADE) Son (his WORD)…” (John 3:16 KJV). “… His (Jesus, the WORD’s) name Immanuel,” which translated means, “God with us…” (Matthew 1:23 NASB).

 “…He (God, the Holy Spirit) was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received him not…” (John 1:10-12 KJV).

"...He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him..." (John 1:10 NIV).  

"...He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not..." (John 1:10 KJV).

"...He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him..." John 1:10 NASB).

 “… Jacob awake out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the LORD is in this place; and I knew it not…” (Jacob 28:16 NASB).

Jesus CAME in human flesh and his OWN people, who were EXPECTING him, didn’t recognize him. They LOOKED at the OUTSIDE and determined he couldn’t BE the MESSIAH of the scriptures. "...He came into the very world he created, but the world didn't recognize him..." John 1:10 NLT)

 “...God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, …” (1 Samuel 16:7 NASB).

 “… I and my Father are ONE…” (John 10:30 KJV). Together they were THE WORD OF GOD!

 “… [Jesus came]…NOT … to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV).   “…Father, …not Mywill, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).

“… [Jesus]…humbled himself and became obedient unto death, eventhe death of the cross…” (Philippians 2:8 KJV). Jesus “… present[ed his body as]... a living sacrifice …” (Romans 12:1 KJV).

Jesus’ righteous works and spiritual fruit drew the LOST, OPPRESSED, SPIRITUALLY DEAD, and NEEDY to God. “...the crowds learned about it and followed him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing...” (Luke 9:11 KJV).

“...And wherever he went—into villages, towns or countryside—they placed the sick in the marketplaces. They begged him to let them touch even the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed...” (Mark 6:56 KJV).

“...Large crowds followed him, and he healed them there...” (Matthew 19:2 KJV). “...the people all tried to touch him, because power was coming from him and healing them all...” (Luke 6:19 KJV).

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

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

Jesus, the WORD expressed and demonstrated God's presence, his goodness, and his working power by being spiritually FRUITFUL. “...[Jesus] went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God...” (Luke 8:1 KJV). “... The word of God spread....” (Acts 6:7 NIV).

“... the word of God continued to spread and flourish...” (Acts 12:24 NIV). “... So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed...” (Act 12:20 KJV). “...God’s word [was un]chained...” (1 Timothy 2:9 NIV). “... the word of God [was un]bound...” (1 Timothy 2:9 KJV).

"...He (God, the Holy Spirit) was in the world (through Jesus, his WORD), and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him..." (John 1:10 NIV). 

Jesus, God’s LIVING Word, in a human vessel, empowered by the Holy Spirit, preached the GOSPEL and drew the crowds. “...the crowds learned about it and followed him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing...” (Luke 9:11 KJV).

“...And wherever he went—into villages, towns or countryside—they placed the sick in the marketplaces. They begged him to let them touch even the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed...” (Mark 6:56 KJV).

“...Large crowds followed him, and he healed them there...” (Matthew 19:2 KJV). “...the people all tried to touch him, because power was coming from him and healing them all...” (Luke 6:19 KJV).  “…the Father (spirit)... [that DWELT within JESUS (SPIRIT)]… he (SPIRIT) doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“...the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost ...” (1 JOHN 5:7 KJV). “...THESE THREE ARE ONE (in agreement)...” (1 JOHN 5:7 KJV).

The “preaching” of the Gospel, was heard through Jesus, the earthen mouthpiece, but the WORDS were God, the Holy Spirit’s Words.  The WORKS were God, the Holy Spirit’s WORKS. “…the Father ....doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…[God, the Holy Spirit]... always hear[s his word]....” (John 11:41-42 NLT).

“… [His word] shall not return unto [him]… void, but it shall accomplish that which [God, the Holy Spirit]… please[s], and it shall prosper in the thing whereto [God, the Holy Spirit]… sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV).

“…God [the Holy Spirit]... does the work IN and THROUGH all of [those]... who are his [people like Jesus]… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

“...The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s [presence, goodness, and working power]... THROUGH each of [his people] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

“…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV)..   “…God ...does the work ....The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are CLEARLY SEEN…” (Romans 1:20 KJV).

Jesus was a specially created human vessel, but the WORDS he spoke were God, the Holy Spirit’s WORDS. “…The only begotten (specially created) Son (Jesus, the WORD), of the Father, he hath declared (expressed his heart or REVEALED) him…” (John 1:18 KJV).

God’s people are specially created “IN” Christ Jesus. “…If any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a NEW creature …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).  “... The old life is gone...” (2 Corinthians 5:14-18 NLT). “… [because] … all things are … [MADE] … NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

“…God is not human …” (Numbers 23:19 NIV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in [new creations who are now God’s people]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).

The Holy Spirit EMPOWERS, INDWELLS, and ANOINTS his people. The Holy Spirit empowered, indwelled, and anointed Jesus, the LIVING Word of God to DO his WILL. “…The Spirit of the Lord [was] upon [him[, because he hath anointed [him] to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent [him] to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord…” (John 4:16-21 KJV).

“…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER:who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

It was NOT Jesus, the earthen vessel, who DID the WORKS, but it was Jesus, EMPOWERED by the Holy Spirit, who DID the WORKS? “…[Jesus said]…the Fatherthat dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).  “…God [the Holy Spirit]... publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know. …” (ACTS 2:22 KJV).

The CREATION tells of the Glory of God. Jesus, God’s special CREATION, also tells of the Glory of God. HOW? “…The Son (God’s LIVING Word) is the RADIANCE of God’s glory and the EXACT representation of his being…” (Hebrews 1:3 KJV). “…Jesus saith unto him, Have I (Jesus, the WORD of GOD and SPIRIT) been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He (she) that hath SEEN ME (Jesus, the WORD of GOD) HATH SEEN the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father?” (John 14:9 KJV).

“… I (the WORD of God) and my Father (SPIRIT) are ONE [SPIRIT]…” (John 10:30 KJV). “…THERE ARE THREE that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy [Spirit]: and THESE THREE ARE ONE.…” (1 John 5:6-8 KJV). “….the WORD was “made” flesh….” (John 1:14 KJV).

Jesus was the WORD of GOD in an earthen vessel. Through, Jesus, mankind can HEAR the heart of God expressed and witness the demonstration of God’s POWER. “…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

Jesus was a living expression and demonstration of the WORD and WORKS of God, the HOLY Spirit. “…The Spirit of the Lord  … anointed [him] to preach (God’s WORDS) the gospel to the poor; he hath sent [him] to heal (God’s working POWER)the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord…” (John 4:16-21 KJV).

“…[Jesus] went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressedof the devil; for GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

The credibility of Jesus, as the WORD of GOD, was solely dependent upon the WORKS “DONE” through HIM by God, the Holy Spirit. God, the Holy Spirit was the SOURCE of Jesus’ POWER to SPEAK with an anointing and to do anointed WORKS.

“…powerbelongs to God…” (Psalms 62:11 NASB).  Jesus says: “… All poweris given unto me in heaven and in earth…” (Matthew 28:18 NASB).

Jesus’ other name gives CREDENCE to the calling upon his life and his purpose. “… He (Jesus) had a name written, that no man knew … his name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB).

The EXPRESSION of God’s HEART of LOVE is heard in Jesus’ every WORD.  When Jesus (the Word of God) PREACHED, God’s WORDS, through HIM, had the POWER to SAVE lost and spiritually dead souls. “… [The] Good News about Christ (or the WORD of GOD)… is the power of God at work (miraculously), saving everyone (every lost and spiritually dead soul) who believes…” (Romans 1:16 NLT). “…BY THE WORD of the Lord [lost and spiritually dead souls are SAVED]…” (Psalms 33:6 NASB).

 “…All things came into being (like Jesus, God’s plan of SALVATION) through Him (the WORD of GOD), and apart from [the WORD] nothing came into being that has come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB).

Jesus, The WORD of GOD, has the POWER to SAVE SOULS, HEAL THE BROKENHEARTED, SET THE CAPTIVES FREE, RETURN SIGHT TO THE BLIND, FREE PEOPLE FROM THE BONDAGE OF SIN, DELIVER DEMONIACS, AND DO GOOD. “…The Spirit of the Lord … anointed [him] to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent [him] to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord…” (John 4:16-21 KJV). “…[AND HE]…went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

“…All things [COME] into being through Him (the WORD of GOD), and apart from [the WORD] nothing [COMES] into being that [WILL] come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB).

In Ezekiel 37 how did the BONES “come back” to LIFE? IN Ezekiel 37 you can CLEARLY “SEE” how GOD the speaking SPIRIT and the powerful working SPIRIT. “…Prophesy (God gives instructions to the prophet about the dry bones)… and [tells him to] say to them. This is what the Sovereign Lordsays…”(Ezekiel 37 NIV).

It doesn’t matter the MOUTHPIECE that is USED to SPEAK God’s WORD.  “ALL THINGS” come into BEING or EXISTENCE whenever the WORD OF GOD is SPOKEN.

Whoever is speaking the Word of God, as instructed, can ACTIVATE the powerful working SPIRIT.

God instructed Ezekiel to SPEAK “his” WORD and Ezekiel SPOKE God’s WORD as he was instructed:  “ …‘My people …I will PUT my SPIRIT in you and you will LIVE …Then you will know that I the Lord have spoken, and I have done it, declares the Lord...’” (Ezekiel 37 NIV).

“…As [Ezekiel]… was prophesying (SPEAKING GOD’S WORD as God instructed him to do), there was a noise (The Holy Spirit started making, creating, or bringing  into existence), a rattling sound, and THE BONES CAME TOGETHER, BONE TO BONE. [Ezekiel]… LOOKED, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them … [then]… BREATH ENTERED THEM; they came to LIFE and STOOD UP on their feet—a vast army… I HAVE DONE IT, declares the Lord…’” (Ezekiel 37 NIV).

BY THE WORD OF GOD ALL THINGS COME INTO BEING. “…I HAVE DONE IT, declares the Lord…’” (Ezekiel 37 NIV). “…the Father (the INSTRUCTOR) that dwelleth in me (Jesus, the WORD), he doeth the works (the Holy Spirit doeth the works) …” (John 14:10 KJV). The FATHER’sWORD “is” POWER and they are ONE. “…THERE ARE THREE that bear record in heaven, the Father (GOD), the Word (JESUS), and the Holy Ghost (POWER): and THESE THREE ARE ONE.…” (1 JOHN 5:6-8 KJV).

The POWER of GOD’s WORD or speaking SPIRIT … is CLEARLY SEEN in EZEKIEL in chapter 37.  “…Since the creation of the world God’s …[POWER]… have been CLEARLY SEEN, being UNDERSTOOD FROM WHAT HAS BEEN MADE…” (Romans 1:20 NIV). “… [THE BONES] …came to LIFE…’” (Ezekiel 37 NIV). “ … BREATH ENTERED THEM; they … STOOD UP on their feet—a vast army... I HAVE DONE IT, declares the Lord…’” (Ezekiel 37 NIV).

 “…  THE ENTIRE UNIVERSE WAS FORMED at God’s command (God’s WORD) … what we now SEE (ALL EXISTENCE) did not come from anything that can be SEEN (the WORK of the INVISIBLE Holy Spirit)…” (Hebrews 11:3 NLT). “…BY THE WORD  (God’s WORD) of the Lord (his word spoken by jesus) the heavens were made (the Holy Spirit DID THE WORK), And by the breath of His mouth all their host…” (Psalms 33:6 NASB).

“…All things [COME] into being through Him (the WORD of GOD), and apart from [the WORD] nothing [COMES] into being that [WILL] come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB).

God has GIVEN his people his WORD. The WORD saves, creates, reconciles, restores, turns people into new creations, brings things into existence, and can powerfully and miraculously plant Jesus, the speaking SPIRIT into the hearts of God’s people.

The LIVING Word or speaking SPIRIT has inherent POWER. It is the powerful working SPIRIT that DOES the WORK.

The LIVING Word or speaking SPIRIT supernaturally CREATES or MADES ALL THINGS. “…All things [COME] into being through Him (the WORD of GOD or speaking SPIRIT)… (John 1:1-4 NASB).

The LIVING Word or speaking SPIRIT SAVES and MAKES mankind into NEW CREATIONS.

The LIVING Word or speaking SPIRIT dwells within each of God’s people.

The LIVING Word or speaking SPIRIT produces spiritual fruit when watered by the “LIVING WATER.”

The LIVING Word or speaking SPIRIT empowers God’s people with spiritual strength.

The LIVING Word or speaking SPIRIT works “in” and “through” God’s people to DISPLAY God’s glory (his presence, his goodness, and his working power).

The LIVING Word or speaking SPIRIT says EXACTLY what God tells his SPIRIT to say to his people.

The LIVING Word or speaking SPIRIT communicates directly to his people’s hearts or through the written WORD.

The LIVING Word or speaking SPIRIT ACTIVATES the powerful working Spirit when trusted in and depended upon by God’s people.

The LIVING Word or speaking SPIRIT SANCTIFIES and CLEANSES God’s people.

The LIVING Word or speaking SPIRIT renews the minds of God’s people, which enables them to be transformed into the image of Jesus.

The LIVING Word or speaking SPIRIT DRAWS sinners to repentance and DRAWS his people grow in his GRACE and revelation knowledge.

The LIVING Word or speaking SPIRIT directs God’s people to the inspired scriptures, which shows them the WAY, like a lamp, to righteous, holy living. “…We have … confidence in the message proclaimed by the prophets. You must pay close attention to what they wrote, for their words are like a lamp shining in a dark place …” (2 Peter 1:19 KJV).

“..Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, WHICH THE HOLY GHOST BY THE MOUTH OF DAVID SPAKE before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus…” (Acts 1:16 KJV).  “…But those things, WHICH GOD BEFORE HAD SHEWED BY THE MOUTH OF ALL HIS PROPHETS, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled…” (Acts 3:18 KJV).

They “…SPAKE as they were MOVED BY THE HOLY GHOST…” (2 Peter 1:21 KJV). “Moved” implies they were EMPOWERED by the Holy Spirit as a ship is MOVED along by the wind. “…We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God SPAKE as they were moved by the Holy Ghost…” (2 Peter 1:19-21 KJV).

Holy men, who were MOUTHPIECES, spoke as they were moved by God, who “is” the Holy Spirit. “…Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled WHICH WAS SPOKEN OF THE LORD “BY” THE PROPHET, saying…” (Matthew 1:22 KJV). “…And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled WHICH WAS SPOKEN OF THE LORD “BY” THE PROPHET,saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son…” (Matthew 2:15 KJV).

“..Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, WHICH THE HOLY GHOST BY THE MOUTH OF DAVID SPAKE before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus…” (Acts 1:16 KJV).  “…But those things, WHICH GOD BEFORE HAD SHEWED BY THE MOUTH OF ALL HIS PROPHETS, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled…” (Acts 3:18 KJV).

“…And the Lord came down in a cloud, and spake unto him, and took of the spirit that was upon him, and gave it unto the seventy elders: and it came to pass, that, when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied,and did not cease.…” (Numbers 11:25 KJV). “And the Spirit of the Lord will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them, and shalt be turned into another man…” (1 Samuel 10:6 KJV).  

“….And when they came thither to the hill, behold, a company of prophets met him; and the Spirit of God came upon him, and he prophesied among them…” (1 Samuel 10:10 KJV). “…And Saul sent messengers to take David: and when they saw the company of the prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing as appointed over them, the Spirit of God was upon the messengers of Saul, and they also prophesied….” (1 Samuel 19:20 KJV).

“…And he went thither to Naioth in Ramah: and the Spirit of God was upon him also, and he went on, and prophesied, until he came to Naioth in Ramah…” (1 Samuel 19:23 KJV). “…Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. Then said I, Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak…” (Jeremiah 1:6-8 KJV).

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

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

“…The [speaking SPIRIT]... is ….sustaining all things by his powerful WORD…” (Hebrews 1:3 NIV). “…Heaven and earth shall pass away, but [God, who is Spirit and is the speaking SPIRIT, his WORDS]... SHALL NOT pass away…” (Matthew 24:35 KJV).

“…God (the speaking SPIRIT) has said “Never will I leave [my people  without MY WORD]; never will I forsake [them]…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…I AM WITH [my people]... ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). 

“…Behold, I AM (the speaking SPIRIT is) WITH… [my people] … and  … I WILL NOT LEAVE [them] …." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

“… Behold, I am (the speaking spirit is) with … [my people, faithfully] and will keep … [them] whithersoever [they]… goest…I will not leave [them] ..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

“...[God’s WORDS]... SHALL NOT pass away…” (Matthew 24:35 KJV). “… The LORD thy God (the speaking SPIRIT)…will not fail [his people], nor forsake the[m]…” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV). 

GOD'S FAITHFULNESS NEVER LEAVES YOU OR FORSAKES YOU

I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU OR FORSAKE YOU

GOD’S FAITHFULNESS WILL NEVER YOU

 “….the…faithful love of the Lord, never ends...” (Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT).   “...His faithfulpromises are your armor and protection…” (Psalms 91 NLT).

“...If we confess our sins, HE is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness…” (1 John 1:9 KJV). “…God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship (bondship) of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord…” (1 Corinthians 1:9 KJV).

 “… he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  

“…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

 

*

 “… he remains ...(STAYS)...faithful, for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). This means God, the Holy Spirit, sticks to or adheres to his WORD. God, the Holy Spirit, will KEEP every covenant promise he has made with EACH one of his people.

God, the Holy Spirit, will NEVER wane, waiver, or weaken on ANY responsibility or obligation of his position as SOVEREIGN RULER to his people. “…He has granted to [his people]… His precious and magnificent promises…” (2 Peter 1:4 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).

God, the Holy Spirit, is immutably TRUSTWORTHY! “…All he does is just and good, and all his commandments are TRUSTWORTHY (dependable)….” (PSALMS 111:7 NLT).

He KEEPS his WORD to his people. “…God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship (covenant unity through) ... his Son Jesus Christ our Lord (God’s living Word)…” (1 Corinthians 1:9 KJV).

Faithfulness is an attribute of God, the Holy Spirit. He NEVER changes. “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit’s FAITHFULNESS is both an ATTRIBUTE and a righteous STANDARD which expresses and demonstrates his commitment to his “covenant unity” people. “...His faithfulpromises are your armor and protection…” (Psalms 91 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, himself, the KING of kings, the LORD of lords, and the GOD of gods, CHOOSES, on his OWN sovereign volition, to be FAITHFUL. He willingly BOUNDS himself, faithfully, to his people.

FAITHFULNESS is a HOLY STANDARD that God sticks to and adheres to and it is an ATTRIBUTE that is a WITNESS of his HOLY nature. “...God is faithful... (HE is the STANDARD) ...” (1 Corinthians 1:9 KJV). “…But the fruit of the Spirit is faithfulness ...(It is an ATTRIBUTE of God’s)...” (Galatians 5:22-23).

 “...Great is his faithfulness... (both his standard and attribute)...” (Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT).

“… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  God, the Holy Spirit “IS” who he SAYS he is. “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). God will NEVER change his HOLY STANDARD or HOLY ATTRIBUTE regarding faithfulness. “…he remains ...(STAYS) ... faithful…(it is his STANDARD)...” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…hecannot deny who he is…(it is his ATTRIBUTE)...” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

To BE any other way than FAITHFUL would mean God, the Holy Spirit, would have to DENY who he is and he won’t, because he NEVER changes. “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

Not only does God, the Holy Spirit, set the STANDARDS for FAITHFULNESS, but he willingly BOUNDS himself to those standards too. “...Jesus Christ (THE WORD) is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV). ““... I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

Thus, God, the Holy Spirit, not only sets the STANDARD for faithfulness, but he “IS” the example, definition, witness, personification, manifestation, and living representative of FAITHFULNESS. “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…there is  none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, is TRUE to his standards of holy faithfulness and he is true to his character. [God] … is Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you] … take refuge; Yourshield and the horn of Your salvation, YOURstronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

“...God is faithful...” (1 Corinthians 1:9 KJV).

“...The lord [God, the Holy Spirit]... is GOOD…” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). “..…there is none good but one, that is, God” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV).  “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

Within the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, his people make mistakes, they struggle with the old nature, they are imperfect, they are weak, and they fail, but through it all, HE never changes. God remains faithful. “… he remains ...(STAYS) ... faithful …(it is his STANDARD)...” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

To “remain” faithful means God, the Holy Spirit doesn’t LEAVE, walk away, vacate, move on, divorce, separate, or break away from his covenant promises to his people or to them, no matter what.

The SECURITY of his unconditional LOVE, his amazing GRACE, and his endless MERCY is linked to his FAITHFULNESS, which is BASED on God, the Holy Spirit’s IMMUTABLE standards and attributes.

The SECURITY OF the FAITHFULNESS of God, the Holy Spirit, in the “covenant unity” relationship with HIM is that he doesn’t change and thus, WILL NEVERLEAVE “HIS” PEOPLE!  “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “…I am with [my people]... always, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV).

God will “…Never leave nor forsake [his people]…” (Hebrews 13:5 KJV).  “…Behold, I am with … [my people] and will keep … [them] whithersoever [they]… goest…I will not leave [my people] ..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

The SECURITY OF FAITHFULNESS in the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, is that he promises, his people, he WILL be the Lord, their God!! “…… I am God, and there is none like me…" (Isaiah 46:9-10 KJV). “… “I AM” WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). indw  “… [God] … is Your rockand Your fortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you] … take refuge; Yourshield and the horn of Your salvation, YOURstronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

“ …My people …I will PUT my SPIRIT in you and you will LIVE …Then you will know that I the Lord have spoken, and I have done it, declares the Lord...’” (Ezekiel 37 NIV).  

“…so you will know that [GOD “IS”] the Lord…” (Exodus 10:1-2 NLT).

“…Then you will know that [GOD is] the Lordyour God…’” (Exodus 16:12 NLT).

God’s people can say, “this is MY GOD” The God who has expressed and demonstrated, more than abundant, his unconditional LOVE, his undeserving GRACE, his immutably MERCY, and his UTTER faithfulness to mankind and to each and every one of his children/people/citizens/ambassadors/ and redeemed.

Every opportunity, benefit, gift, blessing, and interaction with his presence, goodness, and power is BASED on God, the Holy Spirit’s, decision and CHOICE to express and demonstrated his LOVE toward wretched mankind.

In return God, the Holy Spirit asks his people to trust in him, depend upon him, and KEEP his commandments.

In biblical history, just like NOW, we can see God’s people didn’t listen to him and did not remain faithful either.

“ …[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).

“...[YOU]… 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).

“…he remains ...(STAYS) ... faithful…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

“…. Again and again he rescued them, but they chose to rebel against him,and they were finally destroyed by their [own] ...sin. 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). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  “

God STAYED faithful. “…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).

Because of God’s faithfulness, he repeatedly rescued them. “… Their enemies (personal SINS that oppress them or people oppressors) [would crush] them and [bring] them under their cruel power. Again and again [God] rescued them, but they [continually]... chose to rebel against him... [until]... they were finally destroyed by their sin…” (Psalm 106:39-43 NLT).

While God is immutably FAITHFUL to his people, they must remember HE is also immutably FAITHFUL to his WORD.

His WORD SAYS: “… we are each responsible for our own conduct …Don’t be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit…” (Galatians 6:5-8 NLT).

“... Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality,  idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God...” (Galatians 5:19-21 NASB).

"…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).

“…The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes ...Your servant is warned. …”(Psalm 19:7-11 NASB).

“…For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning...” (Romans 15:4 KJV). “...Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition (WARNING)...” (1 Corinthians 10:11 KJV).

 “… Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man (woman) soweth, that shall he (she) also reap…” (Galatians 6:7 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, KNOWS his STANDARD and ATTRIBUTE of FAITHFULNESS. He is a COMPASSIONATE God so he informs mankind and his people AHEAD of time what his faithful WORD says. “… The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to angerand filled with unfailing love and faithfulness…” (Exodus 34:6 NLT). “… I will show mercy to anyone I choose, and I will show compassion to anyone I choose…” (Exodus 33:19 NLT).

“… The Lord was gracious unto them, and had compassion on them, and had respect unto them, because of his [faithfulness to his]... covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and would not destroy them, neither cast he them from his presence as yet…” (2 Kings 13:23 KJV).

However, “…The Lord, the God of their ancestors, repeatedly sent his prophets to warn them, for he had compassion on his people…” (2 Chronicles 36:15 NLT).

“…he, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity, and destroyed them not…” (Psalms 78:38 KJV). 

“… Thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth…” (Psalms 86:15 KJV).

“…The Lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love…” (Psalms 103:8 NLT). “… The Lord is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him…” (Psalms 103:13 NLT).

“… He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the Lord is gracious and full of compassion…” (Psalms 111:4 KJV). “… Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous…” (Psalms 112:4 KJV).

“… the Lord will give justice to his people and have compassion on his servants…” (Psalms 135:14 NLT). “…The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all his creation…” (Psalms 145:9 NLT).

“… The Lord must wait for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help…” (Isaiah 30:18 NLT). “… The Lord has comforted his people and will have compassion on them in their suffering…” (Isaiah 49:13 NLT).

“… with everlasting love I will have compassion on you,” says the Lord, your Redeemer…” (Isaiah 54:8 NLT). “…It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassionsfail not…” (Lamentations 3:22 KJV).

“...Again and again [God] rescued them, but they [continually]... chose to rebel against him... [until]... they were finally destroyed by their sin…” (Psalm 106:39-43 NLT).

“... Everyone  (no exceptions) who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness ...  the one who practices sin is of the devil ...  No one who is born of God practices sin, because His seed abides in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone (no exceptions) who does not practice righteousness is not of GOD...” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB).

“…he remains ...(STAYS) ... faithful (to the “standards” of his word) …” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…hecannot deny who he is (so there are “no” exceptions)…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

“…EXCEPT YE REPENT, ye shall all likewise PERISH…” (Luke 13:3 KJV).

The MOST important FACT about God, the Holy Spirit’simmutable FAITHFULNESS to HIS STANDARDS and his CHARACTER is the BENEFIT it provides for HIS “REDEEMED” people, children, citizens, holy nation, chosen, special possessions, or those who belong to him.

“…Because you belong to him, …” (Romans 8:1-14 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). “… AS MANY as received him…” (John 1:12 KJV).

 “...Anyone (NO EXCEPTIONS) who does not live righteously and does not love other believers DOES "NOT' BELONG TO GOD...” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT).

 “…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).

“…those who do nothave the [indwelling Holy]... Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to himat all.….” (Romans 8:8-11 NLT).

“… because the LordlovesHis people…” (2 Chronicles 2:11 NASB).  “…God is faithful, by whom [his people]... were called unto the fellowship (covenant unity) of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord…” (1 Corinthians 1:9 KJV).

“…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “… Indeed, He lovesthe people…” (Deuteronomy 33:3 NASB).  “…God’s  love has been poured out INto …[his people’s]… heartsthrough the Holy Spirit, who has been given to [them]…” (Romans 5:5 NIV).  

“… [God, the Holy Spirit, has]... loved [them]... with an everlasting love; Therefore [God, the Holy Spirit has]... drawn [them]... with lovingkindness…” (Jeremiah 31:3 NASB).

GOD SAID TO ABRAHAM “… I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed…” (Genesis 12:3 KJV).

AND TO THE the CONVERTED “in” CHRIST, God SAYS: “…Christ hath redeemed us ….That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith…” (Galatians 3:13-14 KJV).

God’s spiritual BLESSINGS depend STRICTLY upon his “covenant unity” relationship with YOU.

There are GENERAL BLESSINGS that are bestowed upon the righteous and unrighteous, but there are SPECIFIC BLESSINGS that are bestowed ONLY upon the righteous.

GENERAL blessings are things such as air, sunshine, rain, resources of the earth, the OPPORTUNITY to be saved, and physical life, which are bestowed on the righteous and unrighteous. “…He causes His sun to rise on theevil and the good, and sends rain on therighteous and the unrighteous…” (Matthew 5:45 NASB).

SPECIFIC blessings such as ALL the “unmerited,” abounding, unlimited FAVORS FROM God are bestowed upon his children “IN” Christ Jesus. “… [They, those “IN” Christ]… enjoy the promise of blessingsbecauseTHEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  

Blessings or “unmerited” favor from God are expressed and demonstrated through God’s INDWELLING presence, goodness, and working power. “…. [God’s people] ... are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that [their]... great power is from God, not from [them]selves…” (2 Corinthians 4:5-7 NLT). “…[People will]… know (witness) that everything [God’s people have]…  IS A GIFT “FROM” [God, the Holy Spirit]…” (John 17:6-9 NLT).  

“...when you received the wordof God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the wordof God, which is indeed at work in you who believe...” (1 Thessalonians 2:13 NIV). “ …[God’s people]... have this treasure “in” earthen (human) vessels…” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). 

God is the BLESSOR and HIS people are the RECIPIENTS. “…Your blessing be upon “Your people!” Selah…” (Psalm 3:8 NASB). “…The LORD “will” BLESS his people with peace…” (Psalm 29:11 KJV).

“…We are HIS PEOPLE...” (Psalms 100:3 KJV). WHO? “…Those who BELONG TO Christ Jesus …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…Because YOU BELONG to him … (And remember that those who do not havethe Spirit of Christ living in them DO NOT BELONG TO HIM at all.)” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

“… [Everyone]… who 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).  “….You (also) belong to God…” (1 John 4:4 NLT). “…He (she) that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT [with God, the Holy Spirit]…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

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

God is immutably FAITHFUL to those who are in a “covenant unity” relationship with HIM. “….thosewho do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them DO NOT BELONG TO HIM at all.)” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

Those who BELONG to God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus Christ are the ones who will SHARE in the INHERITANCE of gifts and blessings. They are HIS CHILDREN and BELONG to God, the Holy Spirit. “…  [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 … [provisions] … becauseTHEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  “… [They, those “IN” Christ]… enjoy the promise of blessingsbecauseTHEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).

God’s FAITHFULNESS “NEVER” leaves or forsakes his people. “…We (redeemed)... are HIS PEOPLE...” (Psalms 100:3 KJV). WHO? “…Those who BELONG TO Christ Jesus …” (Galatians 5 NLT).

GOD is immutably FAITHFUL to “HIS” redeemed people, “…Because [they]... BELONG to him … (And remember that those who do not havethe Spirit of Christ living in them DO NOT BELONG TO HIM at all.)” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

“…what fellowship [can God, the Holy Spirit of] righteousness [have]... with unrighteousness? And what communion [can God, the Holy Spirit of]... light [have]...with darkness?...” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).

 “…[God, the Holy Spirit] … is faithful, by whom [the redeemed]... were called unto the fellowship(a “covenant unity” relationship) … [with]… his Son Jesus Christ our Lord …” (1 Corinthians 1:9 KJV).

“… “God[‘s faithfulness is]... with [his people]…” (Matthew 1:23 NASB).“…God has said “Never will I leave [my people  without MY FAITHFULNESS); never will I forsake [them]…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…I AM WITH [my people]... ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV).  “…Behold, I AM WITH… [my people] … and  … I WILL NOT LEAVE [them] …." (Genesis 28:15 ASV). “… The LORD thy God …will not fail [his people], nor forsake the[m]…” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV).  “… Behold, I am with … [my people, faithfully] and will keep … [them] whithersoever [they]… goest…I will not leave [them] ..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

“…[God, the Holy Spirit] … is faithful…” (1 Corinthians 1:9 KJV).

GOD'S MERCY NEVER LEAVES YOU OR FORSAKES YOU

I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU OR FORSAKE YOU

GOD’S MERCY NEVER LEAVES YOU

““…The Lord is ...of great mercy…” (Number 14:18 KJV). “…The LordGod, [IS] merciful …” (Exodus 34:6 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, because HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV).

“…Mercy triumphs over judgement.” (James 2:13 NASB).  

 

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God, the Holy Spirit is a MERCIFUL God, which means HE withholds FAIR and JUST punishment from mankind for their many transgressions against HIM. “…The LordGod, [IS] merciful …” (Exodus 34:6 KJV).

“…Who isa 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, because HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV). “…Mercy triumphs over judgement.” (James 2:13 NASB).

There are several verses in the bible that express and demonstrate God’s MERCY toward mankind.

Those who trust in and depend upon God’s MERCY will not and do not RECEIVE the PUNISHMENT they deserve, are worthy of and have earned.

King DAVID asked God for MERCY.  “...Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me...Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit...Deliver me from bloodguiltiness...” (Psalms 51 KJV).

King David KNEW God, the Holy Spirit, would have MERCY on him and asked boldly. “...Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me...Deliver me from bloodguiltiness...” (Psalms 51 KJV).

“…Who isa 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, because HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV). “…Mercy triumphs over judgement.” (James 2:13 NASB).

God’s unconditional love not only extends GRACE, but MERCY to his OFFENDERS, but he also forgives, heals, and cleanses them form ALL unrighteousness. “...because HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…”(Micah 7:18 KJV).

Life can lead mankind to become wretched, guilty, and depraved sinners SEPARTED from God, the Holy Spirit, with NO possible BACK to HIM.

PRAISE be to God, the Holy Spirit, and his MERCY that COMES to help. “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “…The Lord helps them, rescuing them from the wicked. He saves them, and they find shelter in him…” (Psalms 37:40 NLT). “… The Sovereign Lord helpsme…” (Isaiah 50:7 NLT).

God’s GRACE gives mankind what they DON’T deserve and God’s MERCY keeps them from RECEIVING what they DO deserve.

SALVATION is an expression of unconditional LOVE as well as both GRACE and MERCY. . “…God so loved the world that HE GAVE his only begotten Son…” (John 3:16 KJV). God “…spared not his own Son, but delivered him up (GRACE) for us all….?”(Romans 8:32 KJV).  “...[Jesus]... said, It is finished…” (John 19:28-30 KJV). “… I lay down my life... [FOR YOU] …” (John 10:17-18 KJV).  Jesus did “…not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many (MERCY)...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV). “...

Herein is [unconditional] ...  love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and SENT His SON to be the propitiation (substitute, intervention) for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…There is no greater love …” (John 15:13 NLT).

MERCY withholds FAIR and EQUITABLE punishment from mankind. “…[because God’s] ...Mercy triumphs over judgement.” (James 2:13 NASB).

In the story of the Ungrateful Servant, God’s mercy withheld the punishment of selling off his wife, children, and property. God is“... RICH IN MERCY…” (Ephesians 2:1-5 KJV). (Isaiah 63:9 NASB). “...[Thankfully]... it is God who decides to show mercy. We can neither choose it nor work for it...” (Romans 9:14-16 NLT).

Read the parable again and see God’s GRACE and MERCY expressed and demonstrated. “…The Kingdom of Heaven can be compared to a king who decided to bring his accounts up to date with servants who had borrowed money from him. In the process, one of his debtors was brought in who owed him millions of dollars. He couldn’t pay, so his master ordered that he be sold—along with his wife, his children, and everything he owned—to pay the debt.

“But the man fell down before his master and begged him, ‘Please, be patient with me, and I will pay it all.’ Then his master was filled with pity for him, and he released him and forgave his debt.

But when the man left the king, he went to a fellow servant who owed him a few thousand dollars. He grabbed him by the throat and demanded instant payment.

“His fellow servant fell down before him and begged for a little more time. ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it,’ he pleaded. But his creditor wouldn’t wait. He had the man arrested and put in prison until the debt could be paid in full. “When some of the other servants saw this, they were very upset. They went to the king and told him everything that had happened.

Then the king called in the man he had forgiven and said, ‘You evil servant! I forgave you that tremendous debt because you pleaded with me. Shouldn’t you have mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?’ Then the angry king sent the man to prison to be tortured until he had paid his entire debt.

“That’s what my heavenly Father will do to you if you refuse to forgive your brothers and sisters from your heart…” (Matthew 18:23-35 NLT).

Though the “ungrateful servant” had received MERCY, he was NOT generously in GIVING mercy to other. “…DO NOT repay evil with evil or insult with insult…” (1 Peter 3:9 NIV).

 “..his master was filled with pity for him, and he released him and forgave his debt. “BUT when the man left the king, he went to a fellow servant who owed him a few thousand dollars. He grabbed him by the throat and demanded instant payment.  “His fellow servant fell down before him and begged for a little more time. ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it,’ he pleaded. But his creditor wouldn’t wait. He had the man arrested and put in prison until the debt could be paid in full…” (Matthew 18:23-35 NLT).

God’s word informs his people how to respond to opportunities to show MERCY to others.  “...Avenge not yourselves, beloved, but give place unto the wrath of God, for it is written: "Vengeance (justice, not revenge) belongeth unto to me; I will recompense (repay)," saith the Lord…” (Romans 12:19 ASV).

Some of God’s own people DO NOT practice MERCY. “…Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done. They have become filled with every kind of wickedness …they have no understanding, no fidelity, NO LOVE, NO MERCY. Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.…” (Romans 1:32 NASB).

What does the bible say about the UNMERCIFUL? “...‘You evil servant! I forgave you that tremendous debt because you pleaded with me. Shouldn’t you have mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you?’…” (Matthew 18:23-35 NLT).

The MERCILESS are people who intentionally aim to punish or get revenge on another person, because they did something to them and they want to get them back. “…DO NOT repay evil with evil or insult with insult…” (1 Peter 3:9 NIV). “Avenge not yourselves, beloved, but give place unto the wrath of God, for it is written: "Vengeance belongeth unto to me; I will recompense (repay)," saith the Lord…” (Romans 12:19 ASV). “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

God is immutably MERCIFUL to even the worst offenders, the worst sinners, and the worst rebels. “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, itis not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, It is not easily angered, It keeps no record of wrongs. Lovedoes not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres, Love never fails…” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV).

“…He maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust…” (Matthew 5:45 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, KNOWS evil and unjust are guilty of offending and sinning against him in MANY ways. YET, “…[God, the Holy Spirit’s]...mercy triumphsover judgement.” (James 2:13 NASB). “…[God]…WILL HEAL their apostasy, [and]…love them freely…” (Hosea 14:4 KJV).  “...Fortunate for the undeserving, “...HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, SAYS: “..Come boldly unto the throne of GRACE ...[and]...obtain mercy…”(Hebrews 4:16 KJV). God is“... RICH IN MERCY…”(Ephesians 2:1-5 KJV).

“...Herein is [merciful]…love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation(substitute, intervention) for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “...For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God[‘s merciful Love] ...”(EPHESIANS 2:8-9 KJV).

God redeemed mankind BACK into a right relationship with Him through Jesus Christ. . “…Christ …. died for sins ONCE for all,the just for the unjust, SO THAT HE MIGHT BRING US [BACK]…TO GOD…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

Everybody or “…ALL have sinned (including you and everyone else you KNOW has) ...fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23).

MERCILESS people FAIL to realize the very punishment they seek to inflict on someone else is DUE them.

MERCILESS people, who have been SAVED by GRACE, have forgotten that they, themselves, have sinned against the HOLY God who SHOWED them MERCY. King David said to God, “…Against you, and you alone, have I sinned; I have done what is evil in your sight. You will be proved right in what you say, and your judgment against me is just…” (Psalms 51:4 NLT).

“…against thee, thee only, have I sinnedand done this evil in thy sight, that thou mightiest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest…” (Psalms 51:4 KJV).

It is GOOD to know, without a doubt, that God “IS” “... rich in mercy… [because of]... his great love…even when [you] were dead in sins, had quickened [you] together with Christ (by grace are ye saved)…”(Ephesians 2:1-5 KJV). “…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).

NOT “ONE” human being, without Jesus, can meet God’s standards of righteousness or holiness, That’s why God CAME to mankind with HIS free GIFT of Salvation in Jesus Christ, which are expressions and demonstrations of GRACE and MERCY. “...For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God[‘s merciful Love] ...”(EPHESIANS 2:8-9 KJV).

NO human being upon earth deserves salvation, or earns it, nor are they worthy of it. “...he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy....” (Titus 3:5 NIV). “…[In HIS] ... love and in His mercy He redeemed [mankind]…” (Isaiah 63:9 NASB).  “…Christ died for [mankind’s] sins according to the scriptures;  And …he was buried, and … rose again the third day according to the scriptures...” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4 KJV).

God, being “... 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).

“…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). “...because HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV

God’s mercy is generously offered to sinners and his people. He has told and shown, his people, in particular, what is good through his OWN expression and demonstration of GRACE and MERCY toward them. “…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, because HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV).

“…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “…it is God who works in [his people]... to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV).

Being MERCILESS toward others is NOT becoming of a child of God and does NOT offer HIM glory. “…Talk and act like a person expecting to be judged by the Rule that sets us free. For if you refuse to act kindly, you can hardly expect to be treated kindly. Kind mercy wins over harsh judgment every time...” (JAMES 2:12-13 MSG). “…Mercy triumphs over judgement.” (James 2:13 NASB).

It doesn’t matter what someone has done to you, or how long they’ve done it, or how horrible it was, or how deserving they may be of punishment; it is NOT for God’s people to avenge or get revenge for themselves.  “…DO NOT repay evil with evil or insult with insult…” (1 Peter 3:9 NIV). “...Avenge not yourselves, beloved, but give place unto the wrath of God, for it is written: "Vengeance belongeth unto to me; I will recompense (repay)," saith the Lord…” (Romans 12:19 ASV).

God “...delights in MERCY" whether than punishment (Micah 7:18).“..O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is GOOD; for his mercy endureth for ever...” (1 Chronicles 16:34 KJV).

“...It came …to pass, as … [they] praised the Lord, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever…” (2 Chronicles 5:13-14 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).

God’s MERCY is full of compassion and empathy toward with his people. “...For [God’s people]... do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with [their]... weaknesses, but [they]... have one who has been tempted in every way, just as [they]... are--yet he (Jesus) did not sin” (Hebrews 4:15 NIV).

God, the Holy Spirit’s, expression and demonstration of MERCY reveals HIS HOLY unconditional love toward mankind. “...Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation (substitute, intervention) for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit through Jesus, put on human flesh just to BECOME our understanding, MERCIFUL and faithful SAVIOR!  “...Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people…” (Hebrew 2:17 NLT).

“...We love, because HE FIRST LOVED US…” (1 John 4:19 ASV). “…[God]...delighteth in mercy…” (Micah 7:18 KJV).

“…A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. …” (John 13:34-35 KJV). “...By thisshall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another…” (John 13:34-35 KJV).   

And it “…prove(s) [to you]…what [is in your own]…heart, whether [you]…wouldest keep his commandments, or no...” (Deuteronomy 8:2 KJV). “….the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold that perisheth though it is proved by fire, may be found unto praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ:” 1 Peter 1:7 ASV). “...[God] knoweth the way that I take; when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold…” (Job 23:10 KJV).

“…In this world we are like Jesus (forgiving and full of merciful love)…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “…it is Godwho works in you to willand to act (keep NO record of wrongs) in order to fulfill his good purpose…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “… [YOU]… can do all things THROUGH CHRIST which strengtheneth… [you]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

“…In this world [god’s people]... are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “...Be … imitators of [Jesus]…”(Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:1 ASV). “… growing in every way more and more like Christ (merciful)…” (Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT).God who “…delighteth in mercy…” (Micah 7:18 KJV).

God’s requires his people to be merciful. “…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).  

To show MERCY is costly. It will cost you your PRIDE, but it will also humble you through obedience. “...Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he (she) must deny himself (herself), and take up his (her) cross and follow Me...” (Matthew 16:24 NASB). “...humble yourselves under the mighty power of God...” (1 Peter 5:6).

WHATEVER and EVERYTHING you give up or gave up to follow in obedience to God – God, the Holy Spirit, will give it back to you multiplied. “…‘We’ve given up everythingto follow you…” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT). And Jesus said, “…I assure you that everyone who has given up...[ANYTHING or WHATEVER]... for my sake and for the Good News, will receive now in return a hundred times...[ANYTHINGs and WHATEVERs]...– along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life...” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).

You don’t have to like God’s merciful attribute that is governed by his unconditional love for mankind or understand it, but you do have to respect that MERCY is his delightful will. “… delighteth in mercy…” (Micah 7:18 KJV). “...Are [Job and his friends]… saying, then, that God was unfair? Of course [he’s]…not! For God said to Moses, “I will show mercy to anyone I choose, and I will show compassion to anyone I choose.” So it is God who decides to show mercy. We can neither choose it nor work for it...” (Romans 9:14-16 NLT).

It gives God, the Holy Spirit, pleasure or great delight to show MERCY, to human beings, no matter how undeserving. “…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, because HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV).

Showing and demonstrating GRACE and MERCY to the underserving may be one of the hardest characteristics of Jesus to imitate. “…In this world [god’s people]... are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “...Be … imitators of [Jesus]…”(Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:1 ASV).

God’s people CANNOT do it (show true mercy) without, the empowerment, of the indwelling Christ. “….apart from Me, you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). “...is there anything too hard for [God, the Holy Spirit]?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). “...I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me...” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

“…For it is Godwho works in [his people]… to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…this is what [God, the Holy Spirit]... requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God…” (Micah 6:8 NLT).  

AGAIN, God “… delighteth in mercy…” (Micah 7:18 KJV); simply because God is“... RICH IN MERCY…” (Ephesians 2:1-5 KJV). “…The Lord is ...of great mercy…” (Number 14:18 KJV). “…The Lord God, [IS] merciful …” (Exodus 34:6 KJV).

So God’s unconditional, merciful “love …always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres, [God’s]…love never fails…” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV).

God is MERCY. God, the Holy Spirit of MERCIFUL LOVE continually offers his SALVATION and gifts FREELY to EVERYONE who chooses to receive them, even the WORST, unrepentant sinners. ”…  ye [are]…saved through faith…it is the GIFTof God…” (Ephesians 2:8 KJV). “…The GIFT by grace……” (Romans 5:15 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 GIFTSfor 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 pertain unto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV).

MERCY is a hard thing to elicit from most human beings after some offenses, but NEVER from God. God’s MERCY is immutable and is always GOVERNED by his HOLY unconditional, LOVE.  “… [God, the Holy Spirit]...delighteth in mercy…” (Micah 7:18 KJV).

When human mercy is nowhere to be found God’s MERCY is there for you FOREVER!! “..O LORD, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old…” (PSALM 25:6 KJV).

God is the SOURCE of immutable MERCY. “...[God’s] …Holy Spirit [of MERCIFUL LOVE] …is the SOURCE [of  it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail. THEY ARE NEW EVERY MORNING….” (LAMENTATIONS 3:22-23).

“…O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is GOOD; for his mercy endureth for ever” (1 Chronicles…” 16:34 KJV). God said he nor his MERCY will “…[ever] ... leave nor forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 KJV).