Pensacola Helene Jefferson's Blog, page 32

IT IS "POSSIBLE" AND NOT TOO HARD FOR GOD TO ERADICATE DYSFUNCTION

THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, YOUR SOURCE FOR LOVE # 2

“[God’s]…love never fails…” (1 Corinthians 13:8 NIV).  

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 “...love is the fulfillment of thelaw...” (Romans 13:10 NASB). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:8 KJV). When the lost and spiritually dead soul is reconciled to God, the Holy Spirit, they are reconciled to HOLY LOVE. “… [He sent the] …one… who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “..[The lost and spiritually dead soul is]... reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).

The lost and spiritually dead soul is not only reconciled to God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE, but it is also made WHOLE through this reconciliation.“…Jesus Christ makeththee whole…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

Jesus RESTORES (repairs) the soul and reconciles it to God, who is HOLY LOVE. “…God is love…” (1 John 4:8 KJV). “..[The lost and spiritually dead soul is]... reconciled to God...[the Holy Spirit of HOLY LOVE]...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).

“….He restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT).God is a “…restorer of thy life (spiritual life)…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV). “…He restoreth my SOUL…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “…The law of the LORD (the WORD of God) is perfect, restoring the SOUL…” (Psalm 19 NASB). “….He (the WORD OF GOD) restorethmy soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “…I (God, the Holy Spirit) will restore…” (Jeremiah 30:17 KJV).

God desires his people to prosper and be in GOOD health as their soul has prosper, which means he wants them restored and WHOLE mentally, physically, spiritually, emotionally, and financially. “...I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers...” (3 John 2 NASB). “...For I will restore you to health'... declares the LORD..."' (Jeremiah 30:17 NASB).  “...He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds (makes healthy)... (Psalms 147:3 NASB). “...[God, the Holy Spirit]...heals all your diseases (makes healthy)...” (Psalms 103:3 NASB). “...For You have delivered my soul from death (makes healthy),...” (Psalms 56:13 NASB). “...O LORD my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me.(makes healthy)...” (Psalms 30:2 NASB).

Without having an adequate connection or resource of healthy or wholesome love, the human psyche is effected in a variety of ways. God’s HOLY LOVE is consistently demonstrated through his words and acts of kindness he does by choice and on purpose toward those he loves.

God, the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE is LOVE. When HE chooses people to be in a “covenant unity” relationship with HIM, he forms a DEEP bond of love with them and connects on a very intimate, spiritual, level.“…“God with us…” (Matthew 1:23 NASB). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…Love … the perfect BOND of UNITY...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB). “…He that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT…[with God, the Father through Jesus Christ, our Lord] …”  (1 Corinthian 6:17 KJV).

When God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE restores the lost and spiritually dead soul by reconciling with them through Jesus Christ they BECOME “New Creations.” “..[The lost and spiritually dead soul is]... reconciled to God by the death of his Son (Jesus Christ)...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).“...Therefore if any man(woman) be in Christ, he(she) is a NEW CREATURE: old things are passed away; behold, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME (MADE) NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

One of the directives for New Creations is “…be conformedto the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV).  “...Do not conformto the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will...” (Romans 12:2 NIV).

To CONFORM, in this chapter, will mean to behave in ways that REFLECT the dominant standards, attitudes, practices, abuses, mistreatments, shortcomings, etc. of the environments in which you currently exist or previously existed in.

The REASON a person CONFORMS to these dominant standards, attitudes, practices, abuses, mistreatments, shortcomings, etc. is to succeed in getting their NEEDS and human DESIRES met in the environments in which they exist.

CONFORMING to dominant standards, attitudes, practices, abuses, mistreatments, shortcomings, etc. requires FORMING behavior patterns (healthy or unhealthy), often without question, in order to create peace or harmony within that environment.

The environment (includes people too) trains you, inadvertently, to behave in ways that you are expected to behave, required to behave, or are have been forced to behave.

Whenever the CONFORMED person comes into a similar environment like the traditional one in which he or she was raised or trained to behave, they will automatically, unconsciously get into place and begin to comply with the established rules

One of the most prominent REASONS a person CONFORMS to these dominant standards, attitudes, practices, abuses, mistreatments, shortcomings, etc. is to get their NEED and human DESIRE for love met.

If the CONFORMED person NEVER gets their NEEDS or HUMAN DESIRES met, within the FIRST environment, they will develop and learn dysfunctional relationship patterns, they’ll repeat over and over again BECAUSE they’re familiar.

The FIRST environment created the dysfunctional relationship pattern, but because the CONFORMED person didn’t get their needs or human desires met they will continue to SEEK them in the SAME kind of environments.

When the CONFORMED person continues to SEEK their needs and human desires in the SAME kind of environments they WILL NEVER fulfilled.

Thus, the CONFORMED person REPEATS experiences of feeling UNLOVABLE, UNWORTHY, being treated DISREPECTFUL and without little or NO attention, because it is what is familiar.

This dysfunctional relationship pattern has, obviously, affected the CONFORMED person in an adverse way. Feeling unloved or unworthy USUALLY stems from experiences or training within earlier environments.

Some individuals become desperate in their efforts to GAIN what they need or desires from their environments (whether it’s healthy or not). “…God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “….Human desire is NEVER SATISFIED…” (Proverbs 27:20 NLT). AND “…[Only God will]… satisfy …” (Jeremiah 31:25 NASB).

“...Do not conform [any longer]...to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind....” (Romans 12:2 NIV). ““…Take no thought, saying What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Where withal shall we be clothed? …your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things…” (Matthew 6:32 KJV). “… [Your heavenly Father] ... will supply all your [need]… according toHis riches in glory in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

Everyson and daughter of God WILL benefit from the providential CARE of their heavenly Father, who is God, the Holy Spirit of immutable LOVE. “... If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith?So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well....” (Matthew 6:30-33 NIV).

“...If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don’t you think he’ll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I’m trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God’s giving. People who don’t know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met...” (Matthew 6:30-33 MSG).

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

There is NO VOID of LOVE in the lives of God’s people UNLESS they BELIEVE it is. “…Your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things…” (Matthew 6:32 KJV). “…God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). 

“...[Jesus]...went about doing good, and healing allthat were oppressed of the devil …” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).“

will restore you to health. And I will heal you of your wounds,' declares the LORD, 'Because they have called you an outcast..."' (Jeremiah 30:17 NASB).  “...He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds ... (Psalms 147:3 NASB). “...[God, the Holy Spirit]...heals allyour diseases...” (Psalms 103:3 NASB). “...O LORD my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me.(...” (Psalms 30:2 NASB).

“…  I, the Lord, am your healer…” (Exodus 15:26). THE LORD … is Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer (and “healer”)…” (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

It will take TIME to HEAL from dysfunctional relationship patterns, but it BEGINS with the NEW SOURCE and transforming YOUR MIND by learning to trust and depend upon God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE to meet your needs and desires.  “…[God promises HE] will supply all [their]... NEED…” (John 12:32 KJV). “…God (the holy spirit) is the one who provides …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). 

“…God (the Holy Spirit) will generously PROVIDE all you need…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT). “...He careth for [them]...” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV). “…The LORD (the indwelling Spirit) “WILL” accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [his people]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “…His DIVINE POWER hath given unto [his people] ALL THINGS that pertain unto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV).

You were conformed by dysfunctional relationship patterns, then you BECAME a “New Creation.“…Therefore if any man(woman) be in Christ, he(she) is a new creature...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). Thus, “… Be not conformed to this world...[any longer].…” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “…be conformed to the imageof his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV).

How are you CONFORMED into the IMAGE of Jesus? “…let the ...[god, the]...Holy Spiritguide your lives. …” (Galatians 5 NLT). Follow God’s Words right out of dysfunction. “...The steps (every single step) of a good man (woman) are ordered (DIRECTED) by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way...” (Psalms 37:23 KJV).  Change dysfunctional ways of thinking by READING God’s Word. “…be ye transformedby the renewing of your mind (from “old” images)…” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “...old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

Being changed into the IMAGE has GREAT PROFIT for the righteous! “..bodily discipline (conforming to a worldly image) is only of little profit, but godliness (conforming to a Godly image) is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come...” (1 Timothy 4:8 NASB).

“...Physical training is good (for an outward image), but training for godliness (for a Christlike image) is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come...” (1 Timothy 4:8 NLT)

“...You’ve been raised on the Message of the faith and have followed sound teaching. Now pass on this counsel to the followers of Jesus there, and you’ll be a good servant of Jesus. Stay clear of silly stories that get dressed up as religion. Exercise daily in God—no spiritual flabbiness, please! Workouts in the gymnasium (for body image) are useful (helps keep you healthy), but a disciplined life in God (developing the Christlike image) is far more so, making you fit (spiritually) both today and forever. You can count on this. Take it to heart. This is why we’ve thrown ourselves into this venture so totally. We’re banking on the living God, Savior of all men and women, especially believers...” (1 Timothy 4:8-10 MSG).

For the righteous, chasing after things and people outside of themselves has NO eternal value and the “little” value that it does have has a SHORT profitability. “...’For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well....” (Matthew 6:32-33 NIV).

“..bodily discipline (outward pursuits) is only of little profit...” (1 Timothy 4:8 NASB).

“...Physical training is good (an outward pursuit), but...” (1 Timothy 4:8 NLT).

“...Workouts in the gymnasium (outward pursuits) are useful (helps keep you healthy), but...” (1 Timothy 4:8-10 MSG).

Outward pursuits for the purpose of being HEALTHY is fine.  In order to be an USEFUL earthen vessel for the indwelling Holy Spirit exercise is PROFITAB for the body.  

After all, “…Jesus Christ is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…[you]…have this treasure in [your]…earthen vessel (body)...” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV).

Having a healthy and fit earthen vessel is advantageous for the temporary time the righteous is upon the earth as ambassadors for Christ. “...your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own ... therefore glorify God (be a witness of his presence, his goodness, and his power) in your body...” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NASB).

“...If any man (woman) destroys the temple of God, God will destroy him (her), for the temple (your body, earthen vessel) of God is holy, and [that is what you are...” (1 Corinthians 3:17 NASB).

“...No one hates his(her) own body but feeds and cares for it, just as Christ cares for the church...” (Ephesians 5:29 NLT).

Remember, “The Son (jesus Christ) is ...the exact representation (IMAGE) ofhis being…”(Hebrews 1:3 KJV). “…Jesus Christ is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…[you]…have this treasure in [your]…earthen vessel (body)...” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). “...your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you...” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NASB).

God’s people pursuit, above ALL else, what will serve a DIVINE purpose NOW and LATER. “..godliness (the Christlike image) is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come...” (1 Timothy 4:8 NASB).

“...training for godliness (the Christlike image) is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come...” (1 Timothy 4:8 NLT).

“...a disciplined life in God (developing the Christlike image) is far more so, making you fit (spiritually) both today and forever. You can count on this. Take it to heart. This is why we’ve thrown ourselves into this venture so totally. We’re banking on the living God, Savior of all men and women, especially believers...” (1 Timothy 4:8-10 MSG).

The IDEAL or “your” old IDEAL of getting your needs and desires met will DO NOTHING, whatsoever, to PROMOTE a Christlike IMAGE!!! “…be conformed to the imageof his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV).

The Christlike IMAGE is promoted when the righteous focus on and pursuit becoming God, the Holy Spirit’s WITNESSES, above ALL else, and allow him to DISPLAY HIS glory “in” and “through” their earthen vessels. “...you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere (through your BODY or TEMPLE)...” (ACTS 1:8 NLT).

“...you (earthen vessels) will be my witnesses...” (ACTS 1:8 NLT).

“…Stephen, (an earthen vessel), performed great wonders and signs among the people…” (Acts 6:8 NIV).  “…God did extraordinary MIRACLES through Paul (an earthen vessel)…” (Acts 19:11 NIV). “…I persevered in demonstrating among you the marks of a true apostle, including signs, wonders and MIRACLES (God, himself, does through earthen vessels)…” (2 Corinthians 12:12 NIV). “…the Father that dwelleth in [earthen vessels], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

It is “…God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of us (earthen vessels) who are his. The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of us (earthen vessels) …… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

However, God’s people CHOOSE, willingly to pursue and SEEK after God’s rule over their lives and his righteousness, KNOWING all other NEEDS and DESIRES will be provided for.“...If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don’t you think he’ll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I’m trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God’s giving. People who don’t know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met...” (Matthew 6:30-33 MSG).

God the Holy Spirit of LOVE is the SOURCE of love for his people at ALL TIMES! God says, “… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).

“... If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well....” (Matthew 6:30-33 NIV).

“…the [“covenant unity” relationship with God, the] … HOLY SPIRIT … is the source of [EVERYTHING]. …” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). When God, the Holy Spirit of Love becomes “your” SOURCE of LOVE it eradicates dysfunctional relationship patterns with others.

It may be unbelievable that God, the Holy Spirit, can eradicate your dysfunctional relationship patterns, because you’ve tried, possibly, for years and years, but it is NOT impossible for God. “…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). “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). God is a “…restorer of thy life…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV). “…He restoreth my SOUL …” (Psalm 23 KJV).

You are reconciled to God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE who eradicated and wiped-out ALL sin from your life. “...If the Son therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed…” (John 8:36 KJV). Sins you’ve personally committed and those committed against you, so that you are FREE to live the LIFE Jesus died for you to have. “... It was for freedom that [god, through]...Christ set us free; therefore.... do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery...” (Galatians 5:1 NASB).

 “...It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don’t use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom.Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that’s how freedom grows. For everything we know about God’s Word is summed up in a single sentence: Love others as you love yourself. That’s an act of true freedom. If you bite and ravage each other, watch out—in no time at all you will be annihilating each other, and where will your precious freedom be then?...” (Galatians  5:13 MSG).  “...brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another...” (Galatians 5:13 KJV). 

With God, the Holy Spiritof LOVE, his people can WALK in FREEDOM from past pains, heartbreaks, abuses, disappointments, mistreatments, and any other dysfunction. “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “...He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds ... (Psalms 147:3 NASB). “…is there any thing too hard for me?...” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). “...[It is]...possible with God…” (Luke 18:27 KJV).    

“…God will supply all [his people’s need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). GOD says, “…I… satisfy  …” (Jeremiah 31:25 NASB).

 ONLY GOD CAN SATISFY his people’s NEED FOR LOVE: “…YOU SATISFY ME MORE THAN THE RICHEST FEAST …” (Psalms 63:1-5 NLT).

HE IS THEIR SOURCE FOR LOVE AND THERE IS NO OTHER. “[YOUR] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

 

GOD'S HOLY LOVE EMPOWERS THE FULFILLMENT OF EVERY PROMISE HE'S EVERY MADE!

 

THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, YOUR SOURCE FOR LOVE

“[God’s]…love never fails…” (1 Corinthians 13:8 NIV).  

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Love is the most essential need mankind has and impacts the inner life more than any other human attribute. “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “God’s HOLY“…love is patient, [God’s HOLY]…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. [God’s HOLY]…love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres, [God’s]…love never fails…” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV).

“...he (she) who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law...” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).

 ”...For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “You shall loveyour neighbor as yourself...” (Galatians 5:14 NASB).

“...You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the sons of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself; I am the Lord...” (Leviticus 19:18 NASB)

“...however, you are fulfilling the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well...” (James 2:8 NASB).

Holy LOVE is not based on emotions, but it is based on TRUTH and expressed through a purposeful act of one’s will.

THE TRUTH IS: “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

“…the Lord (god) loves His people …” (2 Chronicles 2:11 NASB). “… [God has]... loved ...[them]... with an everlasting love…” (Jeremiah 31:3 NASB).

 “...God’s HOLY“…love is patient, [God’s HOLY]…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. …” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV). “... [God’s HOLY]…love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres…” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV).

“...[God’s]…love [for his people]... never fails…” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV).

“…What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who isagainst us?...Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?...[NO] …But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. …[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 WILLINGLY CHOSE TO EXPRESS HIS LOVE. “…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).

“… I will bring them home again,” says the Lord….” (HOSEA 11 NLT). God “…spared not his own Son, [from suffering,] but delivered him up for us all…” (Romans 8:32 KJV).

So“...Christ also died for sins ONCE for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us...[BACK]... to God...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

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

“… [God, the Holy Spirit’s]... righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous,for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT).  

“…[He sent the] …one … who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

GOD CHOSE each of HIS people, ON PURPOSE, to LOVE. "…You did not choose… (God, the Holy Spirit]...” (John 15:16 ASV).  God, the Holy Spirit, says, "… I chose you….” (John 15:16 ASV).   “... [God, the Holy Spirit] ...chose ...[you] ...” (Ephesians 1:11 NLT). "…You did not choose [God]... but [God]... chose you…” (John 15:16 ASV).  “…[God’s people]... are a chosen generation…” (1 Peter 2:9 KJV). “...[God’s people] art an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen [them]... to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth...” (Deuteronomy 7:6). “...[God’s people]... are a chosen people…” (1 Peter 2:9 NIV). “…The God of our fathers hath chosen [each of HIS people]…” (Acts 22:14 KJV). "… I have chosen you….” (John 15:16 KJV). “….according to [His]... purpose…” (Ephesians 1:11 KJV).   

“…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “… Indeed, He loves the people…” (Deuteronomy 33:3 NASB).

God’s HOLY LOVE, for each of his people, is truth, expressed through his actions, is something he chooses to do on purpose, and is GOVERNED by his OWN counsel. “...O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God!how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? Or who hath been his counsellor?...” (Romans 11:33-34 KJV). “...all things after the counsel of his own will...” (Ephesians 1:11 KJV)

 “...  God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant...”(Deuteronomy 7:9 NASB). “...He ... is called Faithful and True...”(Revelation 19:11 NASB). “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).  “… he remains faithful...[to LOVING his people], for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

GOD’S ONLY MOTIVE IS TO LOVE “EACH” OF HIS PEOPLE WITH HIS “HOLY” LOVE. “... Herein is love...God ...loved [his people] and sent His Son to be the propitiation for [their]... sins...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…the just for the unjust, that he might bring ...[his people back] to [himself, the god who is love] …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). “..[God’s people]... were reconciled to God (LOVE) by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).

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

“...I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends...” (Revelations 3:20 NLT). “…I (the Word) am come [and was sent]... that THEY (God’s people) MIGHT have (spiritual) LIFE, and that THEY MIGHT have [SPIRITUAL LIFE] ... more abundantly…” (John 10:10 KJV).

God’s shows HIS people that his HOLY love is NOT harmful, and that he SINCERELY cares about each of them, personally. “...God ...loved [his people] and sent His Son...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). God “…spared not his own Son, [from suffering,] …” (Romans 8:32 KJV). “...Christ ...died for sins ONCE for all...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “... the just for the unjust,...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “...that He might bring us...[BACK]... to God...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “… I will bring them home again,” says the Lord….” (HOSEA 11 NLT). “...[God’s people]... were reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).

“...He (God, the Holy Spirit) careth for [his people]...” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV). “…There is no greater love …” (John 15:13 NLT). “… [God’s]... righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possiblefor many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT).

“..[God’s people]... were reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV). “...that He might bring us...[BACK]... to God...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “… I will bring them home again,” says the Lord….” (HOSEA 11 NLT).

Bring his people BACK to GOD. “…God is LOVE (the God of LOVE is HOME)…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “...God’s HOLY“…love is patient, [God’s HOLY]…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. [God’s HOLY]…love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres, [God’s]…love never fails…” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV).

God says: “… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). God is the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE. “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).

 God, the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE made a WAY to bring each of HIS people back into a COVENANT UNITY” relationship with HIM, AGAIN.

 “…THE WAYis narrow that LEADS TO LIFE…” (Matthew 7:13-14 NASB). “...Jesus saith…I am the way…” (John 14:6 KJV). “… Jesus opened a new and life-giving way  ... into the Most Holy Place …” (Hebrews 10:19-20 NLT). “… I will bring them home again,” says the Lord….” (HOSEA 11 NLT). HOME to God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE.

Though LOVE can be experienced emotionally, emotion is NOT a sign of HOLY LOVE. Love is a SPIRITUAL fruit EMPOWERED, developed, grown, or enabled by Holy Spirit, which motivates actions that will witness to and reveal God’s Glory or his presence, his goodness, or his working power.

God, the Holy Spirit of love is motivated, ALWAYS, to show HIS HOLY LOVE, to each of his people, whether HE receives a response from them or not.

God, the Holy Spirit of love is motivated, ALWAYS, to show HIS HOLY LOVE, to each of his people, even if they overtly choose to REJECT HIM.

God, the Holy Spirit of love is motivated, ALWAYS, to show HIS HOLY LOVE, to each of his people, even if they OFFEND him or DISRESPECT him.

God, the Holy Spirit of IMMUTABLE LOVE, loves first, loves continually, and loves forever.  “... he first loved us...” (1 John 4:19 KJV). He has “… [Nothing]…will be able to separate [God’s people]...from the love of God…” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).   “….[God has]...loved [his people]...with an everlasting love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV).

“...Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” And He said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’  This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’  On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets...” (Matthew 22:36-40 NASB).

“...love is the fulfillment of the law...” (Romans 13:10 NASB).

The law in Romans 13:10 refers to God’s holy standards for righteous behavior. The law was given and sent to God’s people to reveal and expose sinful behavior. Further, it also shows his people how far they’ve deviated from his holiness. “…I had not known SIN, but by the law: for I had not known LUST, except the law had said, THOU SHALT NOT COVET…” (Romans 7:7 KJV). “…It was the law that showed me my sin. I would never have known that coveting is wrong if the law had not said, “You must not covet.” (Romans 7:7 NLT).

The violation of God’s Holy standards is called a transgression or sin. “... EVERYONE (NO EXCEPTIONS) who practices sin also practiceslawlessness; and sin is lawlessness ... the one who practices sin is of the devil ... No one who is born of God practices sin, because His seed abides (WORD/WORDS ABIDE) 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 who does not practice righteousness is not of GOD...” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB).

“….I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT)."…That which is born of the flesh is flesh…” (John 3:6 KJV). “….I was born a sinner (I was born without the indwelling Holy Spirit)—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).

“…[Now]... all have sinned (all have been born with a sin nature)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born missing or WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).

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

Some people may WANT to follow God’s Holy standards. “...I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t.I want to do what is good, but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

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

No matter how much effort a person puts into trying to follow God’s HOLY standards, because of their SINFUL NATURE, they can’t. “...The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin (through the sinful nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “...Apart from [Jesus Christ]… [mankind cannot]... do nothing [they cannot change their nature]…” (John 15:5 NIV).

“...Who will free me from this life that is dominated by [the sin nature and its images]?” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

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. It “IS” what it “IS.” “….I was born a sinner—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).

“...Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin...” (Romans 3:20 NIV).

“...For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus...” (Romans 3:23-24 NIV).

“...As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:” (Romans 3:10 KJV). “...There is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not...” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV).

“...God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT).

“… [God, the Holy Spirit’s]... righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possiblefor many to be counted righteous…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “…a right ...[covenant] ... relationship with God…comes by faith…” (Romans 4:13 NASB).

“...apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify...” (Romans 3:21 NIV).

“...This righteousness is given through faith inJesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile...” (Romans 3:22 NIV).  

“...God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it ...through ...Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT). “…[Jesus]...the GIFT of righteousness…” (Romans 5:17 KJV).

“...love is the fulfillment of the law...” (Romans 13:10 NASB).

God’s HOLY LOVE will totally achieve the holy standards of the law. God says: “… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). God is the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE. “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  

God, the Holy Spirit of Love is LOVE. Love, therefore, is NOT an emotion for God, but is the authentic, sincere, and truthful lifestyle that GOVERNS every aspect of God’s DIVINE character.

Because LOVE is a lifestyle and governs God’s character as well as everything HE says, does, or allows is consistent with WHO HE IS. God says: “… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). God is the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE. “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).

In the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit his HOLY LOVE for his children is the SAME day after day after day after day. “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  “Jesus Christ (god’s word) is the sameyesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  

God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE is FOREVER faithful to the “covenant unity” obligations of promises laid out in his Holy Word. “…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).I “…am WATCHING over my word to PERFORM it…” (Jeremiah 1:12 NASB). God says, “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

“…As many as are the promises of God, in Him (Jesus) they are yes …also … Amen …” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NASB).   “…He has granted to [you]… His precious and magnificent promises…” (2 Peter 1:4 NASB).“…Not one of the good promises which the Lord had made … failed; all came to pass…” (Joshua 21:45 NASB).

“...  Know therefore that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His lovingkindness to a thousandth generationwith those who love Him and keep His commandments...” (Deuteronomy 7:9 NASB). “...He ...iscalled Faithful and True...” (Revelation 19:11 NASB). “… he remains faithful [to LOVING his people], for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “… Indeed, He lovesthe people…” (Deuteronomy 33:3 NASB).

 “...love is the fulfillment of thelaw...” (Romans 13:10 NASB).

God says: “… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). God is the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE. “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).

God says LOVE is the fulfillment of his HOLY standards, because it GOVERNS his DIVINE character. God instructs HIS people from a place of experience. “...If you love me, you will keep my commandments...” (John 14:15). 

“...love is the fulfillment of the law...” (Romans 13:10 NASB).

Jesus witnessed to God’s redeemed people his OWN love for God by KEEPING God’s commandments.  “...not My will, but Yours be done..." (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).

The “covenant unity” relationship between God, the Holy Spirit and Jesus is the purist form of “oneness” where their hearts were “knit together” and they were SERVING each other “in love.” LOVE SERVES.

“...We love, because he first loved us...” (1 John 4:19 ASV). “...our hearts....knit together in love...” (Colossians 2:2 KJV). “...with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing (like a servant towards) one another in love...” (Ephesians 4:2 KJV). "...I and my Father are one..." (John 10:30 KJV).

 “…what he seeth the Father doing … these the Son also doeth in like manner” (John 5:19 ASV) and he boasted that “….the Father loveth the Son, and showeth him all things that he himself doeth...” (John 5:20 ASV). “...not My will, but Yours be done..." (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).

 “...He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” When they hurled their insults at him, HE DID NOT RETALIATE; when he suffered, HE MADE NO THREAT. “INSTEAD,” he entrusted himself to him who judges justly...” (1 Peter 2:19-23 NIV).

“...Because of the JOY awaiting him, HE ENDURED THE CROSS, disregarding its shame…” (Hebrews 12:2 NLT). “…AT the PROPER TIME [Jesus]... WILL REAP A HARVEST if [he didn’t]... do give up” (Galatians 6:9 NIV).

“…What we do see is Jesus, who for a little while was given a position “a little lower than the angels”; and because he suffered death (death to SELF and death on the CROSS) for [he loved God and kept his commandments], he is NOW “crowned with glory and honor.” Yes, by God’s grace, Jesus tasted DEATH for everyone…” (Hebrews 2:9 NLT).

“…Therefore, God ELEVATED him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth…” (Philippians 2:9-10 NLT).

“...If you love me, you will keep my commandments...” (John 14:15). “...not My will, but Yours be done..." (Luke 22:42-43 NIV). “...love is the fulfillment of thelaw...” (Romans 13:10 NASB).

 

THE SATISFIED SOUL IS ANCHORED IN THE LORD!!!

THE SATISFIED SOUL

“…My soul is satisfied …?” (Psalm 63:5 NASB). “….The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. ….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “…the … HOLY SPIRIT … is the source of [EVERYTHING]. …” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

*

As I begin studying this topic about resources and the source, I was lead to research the topics regarding happiness and satisfaction too. God, the Holy Spirit is the SOURCE of EVERYTHING and is the ONE who SUPPLIES ALL that his people NEED.

Whatever his people need, no matter the resource or entity in which it comes, it ORIGINATES with God, the Holy Spirit.

Resources, which can be an outlet in the form of a person, place, or thing, are USED to supply the needs of God’s people, temporarily. “...The ravens brought him bread and meat each morning and evening, and he drank from the brook. But after a while the brook dried up ….” (1 KINGS 17:1-7 NLT). “...So the people of Israel ate manna for forty years until they arrived at the land where they would settle. ….” (Exodus 16 NLT).

In other words, God’s supplies his people’s NEED through various resources, but it always begins with HIM, the “SOURCE.” “…After this, the armies of the Moabites, Ammonites, and some of the Meunites declared war on Jehoshaphat. Messengers came and told Jehoshaphat, “A vast army from Edom is marching against you from beyond the Dead Sea. They are already at Hazazon-tamar.” (This was another name for En-gedi.). Jehoshaphat was terrified by this news and begged the Lord for guidance.” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).  

Jehoshaphat called on the “SOURCE” for help. He didn’t call on his own army, which had been a RESOURCE for many previous victories.

“...He prayed, “O Lord, God of our ancestors, you alone are the God who is in heaven. …We can cry out to you to save us, and you will hear us and rescue us.’ …O our God, won’t you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help.” …” (2 Chronicles 20: 1-30 NLT).

King Jehoshaphat’s current army had been God’s resource for many victories, but he NEVER lost sight of who his real “SOURCE” was. “…As all the men of Judah stood before the Lord with their little ones, wives, and children, the Spirit of the Lord came upon one of the men standing there. His name was Jahaziel son of Zechariah, son of Benaiah, son of Jeiel, son of Mattaniah, a Levite who was a descendant of Asaph…” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

King Jehoshaphat trusted in and depended upon God, the SOURCE and God, the SOURCE sent him a “message” through Jahaziel. God told Jehoshaphat HE would supply his NEED. “… [God, the Holy Spirit] … will supply all [his people’s need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…He said, “Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the Lord says: Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.…you will not even need to fight. Take your positions; then stand still and watch the Lord’s victory. He is with you …Do not be afraid or discouraged. Go out against them tomorrow, for the Lord is with you!” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

“…God with us…” (Matthew 1:23 NASB).“…God has said “Never will I leave you (without my PRESENCE); never will I forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV).  “… The LORD thy God …will not fail …” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV).  “… Behold, I am with … [you] and will keep … [you] whithersoever [you]… goest…I will not leave [you] ..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV). “…God will generously PROVIDE all you need…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

The old resource (the old army) had “dried up” and was NOT enough to fight this NEW war. Jahaziel gave King Jehoshaphat God’s HOLY instructions to follow. “…Early the next morning the army of Judah went out into the wilderness of Tekoa. On the way Jehoshaphat stopped and said, “Listen to me, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Believe in the Lord your God, and you will be able to stand firm. Believe in his prophets, and you will succeed.” After consulting the people, the king appointed singers to walk ahead of the army, singing to the Lord and praising him for his holy splendor. This is what they sang: “Give thanks to the Lord; his faithful love endures forever!” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

King Jehoshaphat KEPT God’s commandments.  “... If you love me, you will keep my commandments...” (John 14:15). He ENTRUSTED himself and his people to God, the SOURCE. “…Trust in (depend upon) [GOD] ... with all thine heart…” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).  “…[God, the Holy Spirit],  “WILL” accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “...Casting all your care upon him (God, the Holy Spirit); for he careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV).  

The King was joyful over the Words of God, spoken through the prophet. He and his people went out to war singing and praising God, their SOURCE. “…I saythese things….so that [my people]... may have the full measure of my JOY within them...” (John 17:13 NIV). “…I have told [my people the things in my word]... so that my JOY may be in [them] and that [their] JOY may be complete…” (John 15:11 NIV). “…Ask and you will receive, and your JOYwill be complete…” (John 16:24 NIV).“…Rejoice and be glad…” (Matthew 5:12 NIV).

It sounds crazy for the King and his army to go to war singing and praising to God; so what happened? “…At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the Lordcausedthe armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves. The armies of Moab and Ammon turned against their allies from Mount Seir and killed every one of them.

After they had destroyed the army of Seir, they began attacking each other. So when the army of Judah arrived at the lookout point in the wilderness, all they saw were dead bodies lying on the ground as far as they could see. Not a single one of the enemy had escaped.

….On the fourth day they gathered in the Valley of Blessing which got its name that day because the people praised and thanked the Lord there. It is still called the Valley of Blessing today. …the Lord had given them victory over their enemies.

They marched into Jerusalem to the music of harps, lyres, and trumpets …When all the surrounding kingdoms heard that the Lord himself had fought against the enemies of Israel, the fear of God came over them.So Jehoshaphat’s kingdom was at peace, for his God had given him rest on every side… (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

King Jehoshaphat had the SAME army (resource), for many victories, but God, did not USE them this time to defeat the vast army coming against his kingdom.“...The ravens brought him bread and meat each morning and evening, and he drank from the brook. But after a while the brook dried up ….” (1 KINGS 17:1-7 NLT). “...So the people of Israel ate manna for forty years until they arrived at the land where they would settle. ….” (Exodus 16 NLT).

Fortunately, King Jehoshaphat “knew” that his army was only a temporary “resource” and God was “STILL” the main “SOURCE.” “….Apart from Me (God’s LIVING word) ..[God’s people could]… do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). However,“…[They]…can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth …[them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

Therefore, the King called on God’s help. Jehoshaphat followed these instructions: “….Don't put your confidence in … people; there is no help for you there….” (Psalms 146: 3 NLT).

King Jehoshaphat was concerned about the vast army coming against his kingdom, and he didn’t have all the resources he NEEDED, so he turned to the SOURCE.  He turned to the ONE who promised to supply ALL his NEED, which reveals he never lost sight of who his “SOURCE” really was. “….After consulting the people, the king appointed singers to walk ahead of the army, singing to the Lord and praising him for his holy splendor….” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

God has promised to supply all your need through Christ Jesus. “… [God, the Holy Spirit] … will supply all [his people’s need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). This is the PROMISE many of God’s people stumble over the MOST. While most of them believe God CAN supply his people’s need, but NOT necessarily theirs.

For some it is hard to get pass the losses, the disappointments, the heartbreak, the hard experiences, being let down, betrayed, or abused, because “it seems” God did NOT meet their NEED.

Even, in the bible, Job lost family, finances, and his health, Joseph was sold into slavery and became a prisoner, Daniel was thrown into the lion’s den, the Hebrew boys were cast into the fiery furnace, Mary and Martha’s brother died, and Jesus was beaten and hung upon a cross.

Though there is a victorious end in each of the biblical stories, it is what God allowed them to go through BEFORE he met their NEED that boggles the mind. The HARDEST thing about God’s promise to “supply EVERY need” is his TIMING. “…Blessed are those who wait for his help…” (Isaiah 30:18 NLT). “...Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord....” (Psalm 27:13-14 KJV).

“…My Lord delayeth his coming…” (Luke 12:45 KJV).

“…THOUGH IT TARRY, WAIT FOR IT….” (Habakkuk 2:3 KJV). “…For the vision [is] yet FOR AN APPOINTED TIME, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, WAIT FOR IT; because IT WILL SURELY COME, it will not tarry….” (Habakkuk 2:3 KJV).

“… They that WAIT UPON the LORD shall renew [their] strength…” (Isaiah 40:31 KJV).  “…WAIT ON the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: WAIT, I say, on the LORD…” (Psalms 27:14 KJV). “…The LORD [is] good unto them that WAIT FOR HIM…” (Lamentations 3:25 KJV).

“…Hope deferred  (delayed) makes the heart sick, …” (Proverbs 13:12 NASB).“…Unrelenting disappointment leaves you heartsick…” (Proverbs 13:12 MSG). “…How long, O LORD? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me?” (Psalms 13:1 NASB. “…Since I am afflicted and needy, Let the Lord be mindful of me. You are my help and my deliverer; Do not delay, O my God… (Psalms 40:17 NASB). “…I am weary of my crying: my throat is dried: mine eyes fail while I wait for my God…” (Psalms 69:3 KJV).

“…The plans [God has]…for you…. [are]…plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you HOPE and a future..” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV).  “…all things work together for GOOD to them that LOVE GOD, to them who are THE CALLED to his purpose” (Romans 8:28 KJV). “…[God’s people, who wait upon him]…will receive NOW in return (in this life) a hundred times as many houses, brother, sisters, mothers, children, and property…” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT). “….If God is for us, who [or what]... can be against us?” (Romans 8:31 NIV).

“...despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours ...” (Romans 8:37 NLT). “...“Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man the things which God hath prepared for those who love Him…” (1 Corinthians 2:9 KJV).

“…Blessed are those who wait for his help…” (Isaiah 30:18 NLT).“...God, the one and only— I’ll wait as long as he says. Everything I hope for comes from him, so why not? He’s solid rock under my feet,breathing room for my soul, An impregnable castle: I’m set for life...” (Psalm 62:5 MSG). “...My soul, wait in silence for God only, For my hope is from Him...” (Psalm 62:5 NASB).

Waiting is a CHALLENGE and the longer it lasts the more CHALLENGING it becomes. Waiting upon God to supply your NEED, especially when the MOMENT you NEEDED it has passed seems redundant.

God, the Holy Spirit, didn’t meet Mary and Martha's needs when they wanted him to, how they wanted him to, or in the waythey expected him to, but when he DID it EXCEEDED what they asked for or thought! “…He that was DEAD came forth ....‘Loose him, and let him go.’” (John 11:44 KJV).

When God DID finally met their need every tear was dried, every heart mended, broken relationships were fixed, faith grew, blessings flowed, families reunited, hope replenished, God’s presence felt, God’s goodness experienced, God’s working power witnessed, etc. “…exceeding abundantly above all that [Mary or Martha could]... ask or think, …” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).

God's people are going through joblessness, homelessness, find themselves hungry, sick, alone, or lacking essential needs upon earth. Nonetheless, HIS people, WAIT ON HIM anyway. Apostle Paul said: “…I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).

“…I have learned the secret …” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).  “…I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me….” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

“...I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord....” (Jeremiah 29:11 NLT).

“WAITING” is God MEETING your NEED. God’s allows HIS people to WAIT as a means to EMPOWER them and to teach them to become satisfied in HIM, the Holy Spirit.  The “… trying of [his people’s]… faith [(trust and dependency upon God, the Holy Spirit, which]...worketh patience…” (James 1:2-6 KJV).

“...[Thus,]....let patience have her perfect (spiritually empowering & teaching) work, that ye may be perfect and entire (spiritually mature and whole), wanting nothing…”(James 1:2-6 KJV).

“…[God] knoweth the way that [his people]... take; when he hath tried ...[them], [they] shall come forth as gold...” (Job 23:10 KJV). AND “….the proof of [his people’s]…faith (trust & dependency upon HIM), 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).

“WAITING UPON GOD” can be long and feel as if God has left you alone to be defeated by life.  “…In the world ye have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 ASV).

When the “WAITING UPON GOD” lasts TOO long and experiences begin to mirror being in a fiery furnace, it doesn’t feel like you are overcoming IT, but that IT is overcoming you.

Trusting God’s sovereignty, to meet your NEEDS, when he has MISSED the moment, becomes questionable. Mary and Martha said: “… Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died… ” (John 11:20-22 KJV).

WAITING UPON GOD often comes alone with long-term distresses, losses, heartache, disappointments, getting older, burying dreams, and seriously diminished faith. It also feels as if God didn’t, won’t, or haven’t met your need and left you defeated by the whole situation. Yes, God said through Jesus, “…I have overcome…,” but he forgot you (John 6:33 KJV). 

WAITING over LONG periods of time with so much lost, disappointment, time, and lost dreams makes NO SENSE. “...O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? Or who hath been his counsellor?” (Romans 11:33-34 KJV).

God “… ways [are often]…past finding out…” and his ways will NOT always make human sense (Romans 11:33-34 KJV).

In the story of Lazarus, Jesus simply didn’t come to the situation “on time” and he was DELAYED on purpose.

What is the point of continually trusting and depending upon God, through Jesus, to meet a need, when the moment has past and the situation or circumstance is a MOOT point now.

It is at these PLACES that God’s people are highly tempted to “give up” or DO give up and blatantly or silently accuse Jesus of not meeting their NEEDS, in that “desperate” moment as he promised.

Lazarus’ sister, Martha said, “… as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming … Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died… ” (John 11:20-22 KJV). She boldly accused Jesus of not being there and implied it was TOO LATE, so she said, “… Lord, by this time, he stinketh: for he hath been dead for four days …” (John 11:39 KJV).

Is God still sovereign, when he doesn’t met your need, in the moment, you asked him to?

Well, God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus showed up in his sovereign timing and for a sovereign purpose for Lazarus.

Martha, Mary, and others were DONE trusting and depending upon God once Lazarus was dead. God is still sovereign. God’s DELAYS come with the intent to help HIS people develop a GREATER and STRONGER experience with FAITH “IN” his empowering WORD. “…[That]…ye MAY BELIEVE…” (John 11:14 KJV).

OR “...[so HIS people].... may be perfect and entire (become spiritually mature and whole), wanting nothing…”(James 1:2-6 KJV). “...I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).

“…I have learned the secret …” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).  “…I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me….” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “...whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV). “...[HIS people become].... perfect and entire, wanting nothing…”(James 1:2-6 KJV). “….The Lordis my shepherd; I shall not want. ….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT).

Wherever God sent his disciples and wherever they went or ended up they NEVER lacked anything essential for their journal, experiences, or travels. “...Then Jesus asked them, “When I sent you without purse, bag or sandals, did you lack anything?” “Nothing,” they answered...” (Luke 22:35 NIV). “…God is the one who provides…” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). “… God will supply all [their need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

WAITING UPON GOD means HIS PEOPLE are going through situations and circumstances where their human desires and what they think and believe are “essential” needs are NOT being met. The brooks (resources) had dried or are drying up and the manna (resource) has stopped or will soon stop. They ARE NOT happy.

Here is an important TRUTH: God did not send Jesus to make you HAPPY, but he sent Jesus to make you WHOLE. “…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “…God (the Holy Spirit) ... Himself SANCTIFY you entirely; and may [HIS indwelling Holy]... Spirit and [your]... soul and body be preserved [together]... complete…” (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NASB). “…A living (Spirit)soul(soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). 

Jesus RESTORES the soul making it WHOLE so it LACKS nothing. “….He restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “...so that you are not lacking in any gift...” (1 Corinthians 1:7 NASB). “...Now you have every spiritual gift you need as you eagerly wait for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ....” (1 Corinthians 1:7 NLT). “...The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing...” (Psalm 34:10 NIV). “…his divine power hath given unto us ALL THINGS that pertainunto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus, is a “…restorer of thy life(spiritual life)…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV). “…He restoreth my SOUL…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “…The law of the LORD (the WORD of God) is perfect, restoring the SOUL…” (Psalm 19 NASB). “….He (the WORD OF GOD) restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “…I (God, the Holy Spirit) will restore…” (Jeremiah 30:17 KJV).  “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

“...So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (into your situations or circumstance nor when he returns again)...” (1 Corinthians 1:7 KJV).

.“… [He sent the ] …one … who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). Jesus RECONCILES God, the Holy Spirit and man’s soul “... and man (woman) became a living soul (WHOLE again) …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

Happiness is a state of mind or an emotion that is random, momentary, temporary, and usually occurs or depends upon have one’s needs or human desires being fulfilled.

Being made whole is a gift of satisfaction that comes with the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit. “….human desire is NEVER SATISFIED…” (Proverbs 27:20 NLT). “…[God ALONE will]… satisfy …and refresh [his “covenant unity” people and everyone] …” (Jeremiah 31:25 NASB).

Satisfaction is also a state of mind or inner contentment that is steadfast, enduring, long-term, usually doesn’t depend or occur just when one’s needs or human desires are met.

Satisfaction removes that constant, gnawing pursuit to spend every waking hour worrying and fretting over how to get one’s every whim, personally important need (real or imagined), or human desire met. “...If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don’t you think he’ll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I’m trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God’s giving. People who don’t know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met...” (Matthew 6:30-33 MSG).

“...If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith?  So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’  For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well...” (Matthew 6:30-33 NIV).

The world promises happiness, but it doesn’t last. God sent Jesus, to die upon the cross, to give HIS people promises and an abundant, joyful life that would last forever! “…As many as are the promises of God, in Him (Jesus) they are yes …also … Amen …” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NASB). “…I am come that THEY MIGHT have life, and that THEY MIGHT have it more abundantly…” (John 10:10 KJV). “…I have told you this so that my JOY may be in you and that your JOY may be complete…” (John 15:11 NIV).

Reaching a satisfied state of mind COMES when God’s people discover that the indwelling Holy Spirit is the SOURCE OF EVERYTHING they will EVER NEED. “...whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).

“…I have learned the secret …” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).  “…I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me….” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).  “... [God’s] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of  it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

“...[HIS people become].... perfect and entire, wanting nothing…”(James 1:2-6 KJV). “….The Lordis my shepherd; I shall not want. ….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT).

 “...Then Jesus asked them, “When I sent you without purse, bag or sandals, did you lack anything?” “Nothing,” they answered...” (Luke 22:35 NIV). “…God is the one who provides …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). “… God will supply all [their need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

“...so that you are not lacking in any gift...” (1 Corinthians 1:7 NASB). “...those who seek the Lord lack no good thing...” (Psalm 34:10 NIV). “…his divine power hath given unto us ALL THINGS that pertainunto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV).

God’s people LACK NOTHING. “... [God’s] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of  it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). King Jehoshaphat was satisfied from trusting and depending upon God to meet his need.“...God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam ...“Be still, and know that I am God ... The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress...” (Psalms 46 NLT).

God will FIGHT for his people and TAKE CARE of the things that concern them. “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). . “…If God isfor us, who is against us? ... …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “...No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper...” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV). “…The LORD will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB).

King Jehoshaphat said: “…We can cry out to you to save us, and you will hear us and rescue us.’ …O our God, won’t you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help.” …” (2 Chronicles 20: 1-30 NLT).

God spoke through a prophet and said: “…“Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the Lord says: Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s. …you will not even need to fight. Take your positions; then stand still and watch the Lord’s victory. He is with you … Do not be afraid or discouraged. Go out against them tomorrow, for the Lord is with you!” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

This is what the Lord did : “..the Lord caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves. The armies of Moab and Ammon turned against their allies from Mount Seir and killed every one of them.

After they had destroyed the army of Seir, they began attacking each other.So when the army of Judah arrived at the lookout point in the wilderness, all they saw were dead bodies lying on the ground as far as they could see. Not a single one of the enemy had escaped…the Lord had given them victory over their enemies...”(2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

God was gloried by the way he supplied his need. We saw God’s presence in King Jehoshaphat’s situation. We saw God’s goodness, and we saw his working power. "...My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples” (John 15:8 NIV).

King Jehoshaphat and his army displayed spiritual fruit of JOY “before” God won the battle for them. They were “….singing to the Lord and praising him for his holy splendor…” which demonstrated, they KNEW, who their SOURCE was based on upon HIS WORD alone (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

THE SATISFIED SOUL is a soul that has learned the difference between being randomly happy and permanently satisfied by knowing God, the Holy Spiritis your ONE true Source no matter what you are facing or how long you’ve been facing it. “…only believe…” God, “…will (TRULY) supply ALL your NEED…” (John 12:32 & Philippians 4:19 KJV).

THE SATISFIED soul had also learned to trust and depend on the immutable God who is the CONSISTENT anchor for the soul and for suppyling his people’s EVERY need. “...This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil...” (Hebrews 6:19 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).

Godspeed,

Dr. Pensacola

 

GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, IS THE SOURCE OF IT ALL!

 

THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP RESOURCES (HELP) COMES FROM THE SOURCE (GOD)

“….Don't put your confidence in … people [or things]… there is no help for you there….” (Psalms 146: 3 NLT).

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 THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, Volume 1, is about how the “covenant unity” is united by the bond of HOLY love and connected through the HOLY Spirit. “…“God with us…” (Matthew 1:23 NASB). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…Love … the perfect BOND of UNITY...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB). “…He that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT…[with God, the Father through Jesus Christ, our Lord] …”  (1 Corinthian 6:17 KJV).

THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, Volume 2, is about the transformation of the lost and spiritually dead soul into a “living soul.” “...Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).   “... and man (woman) became a living soul (again) …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, Volume 3, is about the “covenant unity” being the source for supplying ALL needs for God’s people: “…God will supply all [their need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…God will generously PROVIDE all you need…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT). “... [God’s] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of  it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

God, as the SOURCE of IT ALL refers to the Holy Spirit as the ORIGIN from which his people’s NEEDS are primarily obtained. "… I am the Alpha and the Omega…" (Revelation 1:8 NASB). “… I..[AM]… the first, and with the last...'" (Isaiah 41:4 NASB). “…All things (including God’s people’s needs) ...[COME] into being through Him (GOD, the Holy Spirit), and apart from [his WORD] nothing [COMES] into being that [has or WILL] come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB). God is the ORIGIN. “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  

A resource, on the other hand, refers to conduits (entities) which God uses as secondary outlets to HELP or ASSIST in meeting the NEEDS of his people. In the following scriptures the ravens were temporary resources ONLY. “…the Lord said to Elijah, “Go to the east and hide by Kerith Brook, near where it enters the Jordan River. Drink from the brook and eat what the ravens bring you, for I (God, the Holy Spirit has) ...commanded them to bring you food.” So Elijah did as the Lord told him and …The ravens brought him bread and meat each morning and evening, and he drank from the brook ...” (1 KINGS 17:1-7 NLT).

NEEDS vary from one person to another and is deemed essential, unique, and personal to each individual in order to survive and live a healthy life. “…Your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things…” (Matthew 6 KJV).

 

Essential NEEDS are usually the drive and motivation behind most decisions and behaviors. These drives and motivations can also help individuals become aware of why they do the things they do. “… [Your heavenly Father] ... will supply all your [need]… according toHis riches in glory in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

When individuals discover why (the motives) they do the “things” they do in order to get their needs met, they can also discover whether those “things” (motives) are healthy or unhealthy. The “…hidden man (woman) of the heart (where the MOTIVES are)…” (1 Peter 3:4 KJV). It is“… from within, out of the heart of man (woman), proceed ...thoughts … [as well as right or wrong MOTIVES] … these … come from within, and defile a person...” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV). The HEART “…is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked…who can know it [except God?]…” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV).

Getting one’s needs met, in a healthy manner, can create peace of mind, stability, overall well-being, and harmony of soul.“…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole …” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “…God (the Holy Spirit) ... Himself SANCTIFY you entirely…” (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NASB). “…[May HIS indwelling Holy]... Spirit and [your]... soul and body be preserved [together]... complete …” (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NASB).

Nonetheless, healthy human relationships can be excellent conduits for love, sharing life, elevating loneliness, having support through life, getting regular validation, enjoying an adventure partner, having someone to serve kindnesses to, having a comforter during afflictions, having a project partner, reaching personal goals, creating peaceful connections and environment, etc.

God’s said to Adam, “…it is not good that the man should be alone; I will make …a helpmeet [to have a “covenant unity” relationship with] ... him...” (Genesis 2:18 KJV). God puts Adam into “…a deep sleep... [takes] one of his ribs …..[and makes him] a [physical] woman, and … [brings] her [to him]...” (Genesis 2:21-22 KJV).

 

Healthy human relationships are GREAT resources for getting many of one’s needs met. However, no human relationship will EVER met 100% of one’s needs. “…God is  [holy]...love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…There is no greater love …” (John 15:13 NLT). “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). “…God (the holy spirit) is the one who provides …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV).  “…God (the Holy Spirit) will generously PROVIDE all (100%) you need…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

The bible says, “….human desire is NEVER SATISFIED…” (Proverbs 27:20 NLT). Therefore, “…[Outside of God, the Holy Spirit, his people]… are NEVER SATISFIED….” (HABAKKUK 2:5 NLT).

"...The leech has two daughters, 'Give! Give!'they cry. "There are three things that are NEVER SATISFIED, four that never say, 'Enough!'…” (Proverbs 30:15 NIV).

Thankfully, “…God will supply all [his people’s need; 100%]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…[God ALONE will]… satisfy …and refresh [his “covenant unity” people and everyone] …” (Jeremiah 31:25 NASB). “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

God’s “covenant unity” people can quote this scripture: “…O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water.I have seen you in your sanctuary and gazed upon your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you!I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. YOU SATISFY ME more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy…” (Psalms 63:1-5 NLT).

“…God will [truly]...supply all [his people’s need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “… [GOD ALONE WILL]…satisfy  …” (Jeremiah 31:25 NASB). “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

Many of God’s people have been UTTERLY blessed with temporary resources, especially through great relationships (family, friends, romance, etc.).  Many people are surrounded with the favor temporary resources bring to the table of life and they DO make one’s soul happy, but don’t truly or fully SATISFY them.

God and God, the Holy Spirit, ONLY can satisfy the soul: “…YOU [God, the Holy Spirit]... SATISFY ME MORE THAN THE RICHEST FEAST …” (Psalms 63:1-5 NLT). AND “....[Truly YOUR] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of ALL that satisfies the soul]…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). “…[God ALONE will]… satisfy …and refresh [his “covenant unity” people and everyone] …” (Jeremiah 31:25 NASB).

Mankind was NEVER meant to be, upon earth, without God, the Holy Spirit. The first “covenant unity” relationship was established when God, the Holy Spirit entered into the earthen vessel with the soul called Adam. God called that UNION a “LIVING (God) SOUL (Adam).

When Jesus reconciles God, the Holy Spirit with mankind’s soul again, they are called NEW CREATIONS, which are also LIVING SOULS too. “… [God sent the ] …one … who can reconcile (the “covenant unity” relationship between) God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “…He (she) that is joined (reconciled) unto the Lord (Jesus) is ONE SPIRIT … [or in a “covenant unity” relationship with God again]” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

“Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “….Jesus Christ maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... and man (woman) became a living soul …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

“….God saw everything he had made…and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV). This means the “covenant unity” relationship he’d created between HIMSELF and mankind was ALSO “very good.”

This spiritual relationship between God, the Holy Spiritand mankind was healthy and beneficial for the soul. “… it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV). The soul was created with the image and likeness of God, the Holy Spirit, who was also the SOURCE of WHOLENESS, blessings, provisions, and WELL-BEING. “....[The] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit gave spiritual life, spiritual gifts, spiritual blessings, and spiritual provisions to the soul. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT). The soul, with God, the Holy Spirit, is the BEST and most EXCELLENT version of itself. “…Abide in Me, and I in you. …apart from Me you (lost and spiritually dead soul) can do nothing …” (John 15:4-6 NASB).

The soul’s CONNECTION with God, the Holy Spirit improves OVERALL health and well-being. The soul, without God, the Holy Spirit, is LOST and SPIRITUALLY dead. “…the Holy Spirit gives birth to (or restores) SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT).  

God is a “…restorer of thy (spiritual) life…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV). “…He restoreth my SOUL…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “…The law of the LORD (the WORD of God) is perfect, restoring the SOUL…” (Psalm 19 NASB). “….He (the WORD OF GOD) restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “…I (God, the holy spirit) will restore…” (Jeremiah 30:17 KJV).  “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE …” (Acts 9:34 KJV).“... and man (woman) became a living soul (AGAIN)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

Relationships can CHANGE you. When you are in a new relationship with someone and you’ve fallen in love, people will start to notice. They’ll say things like: “What’s gotten into you?” “You look so happy these days.” “Are you seeing someone special?”

You, yourself, have noticed you are feeling happier, in love, and on top of the world. You’ve stop seeing other people, you talk about “them” excessively, you’re spending all your free time with “them, you’re making plans, together, for the present and future, you’ve met each other’s families, you’ve shopped for the wedding ring, you’ve decided on the honeymoon, and where you will eventually live. “... old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

You are FEELING much better these days, but what or who is the source of all this? It’s that special someone who is causing you to experience all this wonderfulness. In the meantime, you are also hearing: “Good things don’t last forever” “You better get your head out of the clouds and come back to earth” “Keep on living…you’ll see” “You are living in a fantasy land” “Enjoy it while it lasts”

The doom and gloom prophecies eventually come true and your source for “FEELING GOOD”, over time, reduces drastically, or becomes unreliable, or is consistently wishy-washy. “...The ravens brought him bread and meat each morning and evening, and he drank from the brook. But after a while the brook dried up ….” (1 KINGS 17:1-7 NLT). “...So the people of Israel ate manna for forty years until they arrived at the land where they would settle. ….” (Exodus 16 NLT).

You discover, people are finite human beings just like you. “...the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak...” (Matthew 26:41 KJV). They are not your ongoing “source” of wholeness or happiness. In addition, asking or expecting them to be is WAY “TOO” much responsibility for another finite human being. “...Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God...” (2 Corinthians 3:5 NIV). “…. [They]... now have this light shining in [their] hearts ...This makes it clear that [their] great power is from God,not from [them]selves…” (2 Corinthians 4:5-7 NLT).

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

People, we are in relationships with, are meant to BRING happiness into our lives to enjoy as a free gift byway of the connection with them, but it is NOT their JOB. “…Now GOD GIVES [his people] many kinds of special abilities (and gifts) … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). They, “... [are] a gift of God…” (Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 KJV).

When you see YOUR happiness as someone else’s JOB and not a FREE GIFT, as a result of the connection you share with them, you will blame, resent, play victim, and criticize them when they don’t live up to your expectations. “…It is the ... Holy Spirit who gives [his people]... all these gifts and powers… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…Since it is (these gifts & powers) through God’s kindness (GRACE), then it is not by [your] good works (or because you earned them or are entitled to them, but) ...it... is—free and undeserved…” (Romans 11:5 NLT).

Unfortunately, many people enter into various relationships, with others, based on what they can DO for them or HOW they can meet one or more of their NEEDS. “...[Love]...is NOT self-seeking...” (1 Corinthians 13:5 NIV).

Seldom does a person enter into relationships because they simply CHOOSE that person to love. "…You did not choose… (God, the Holy Spirit]...” (John 15:16 ASV).  God, the Holy Spirit, says, "… I chose you….” (John 15:16 ASV). “...The Lord your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession. The Lord did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples...” (Deuteronomy 7:6-7 NIV).

When your MOTIVES are unselfish, you won’t be looking for that person to redeem you from ALL your personal  unhappinesses. “...God, your God, chose you out of all the people on Earth for himself as a cherished, personal treasure. God wasn’t attracted to you and didn’t choose you because you were big and important—the fact is, there was almost nothing to you. He did it out of sheer love, keeping the promise he made to your ancestors. God stepped in and mightily bought you back out of that world of slavery, freed you from the iron grip of Pharaoh king of Egypt. Know this: God, your God, is God indeed, a God you can depend upon. He keeps his covenant of loyal love with those who love him and observe his commandments for a thousand generations...” (Deuteronomy 7:6-7 MSG).

Loving relationships can bring you happiness, but it should be a benefit and NOT a requirement. “...A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul...” (Proverbs 13:19 NIV).  However, “….human desire is NEVER SATISFIED…” (Proverbs 27:20 NLT). “…[Outside of God, the Holy Spirit, the soul is]…  NEVER SATISFIED….” (HABAKKUK 2:5 NLT). “…O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you ... YOU SATISFY ME more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy…” (Psalms 63:1-5 NLT).

When you realize and accept that your relationships with others are NOT your source of happiness, what should you do? “…O God ...YOU SATISFY ME more than the richest feast…” (Psalms 63:1-5 NLT). “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

First, choose to accept you cannot rely on someone else to be your source of happiness. “….Don't put your confidence in … people; there is no help for you there….” (Psalms 146: 3 NLT). “….Don't put your trust in mere human beings….” (Isaiah 2:22 NLT). “…"Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans, who rely on human strength….” (JEREMIAH 17:5 NLT).

Second, choose to trust and depend upon God to supply every single need you have all the time, consistently, without fail. He will NEVER change. “…My 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 YOU…” (Colossians 1:25-28 KJV). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

Last, but not least, choose to trust and depend upon the HOLY love God has for you, personally. Further, choose to love God back by keeping his commandments and the blessings (bestowed happiness) upon your life will be clearly witnessed.“…the invisible [Holy Spirit]…from the creation of the world …[is]..clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made ……” (Romans 1:20 KJV).  AGAIN, “….CLEARLY SEEN, being understood BY THE THINGS THAT ARE MADE…” (Romans 1:20 KJV).

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

The fact that he made you brand new ought to be “…clearly seen…” by others.

The fact that you display spiritual fruit ought to be “...clearly seen…” by other too.

The fruit you display is the PROOF that you are truly in a relationship with God through Christ. Displaying spiritual fruit is a blessing (sign of happiness) and gives GLORY to God, the Holy Spirit. “...The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of ...[his people] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…[God’s people] CAN DO all things (become New Creations, display spiritual fruit, give God glory, and be blessed (happy)) THROUGH Christ which strengtheneth [empowers them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “…My Father is glorified by this, that [his redeemed “covenant unity” people]... bear much fruit, and so PROVE to be [God, the Holy Spirit’s]... disciples…” (John 15:8 NIV).  

THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT will be and IS the happiness, satisfaction, and rest for God’s people’s soul. “...How blessed (happy)is the man (woman) who has made the LORD his trust...” (Psalm 40:4 NASB). “…[God ALONE will]… satisfy …and refresh [his “covenant unity” people and everyone] …” (Jeremiah 31:25 NASB). “...Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him...” (Psalm 62:1 NIV).

“...God, the one and only— I’ll wait as long as he says. Everything I hope for comes from him, so why not? He’s solid rock under my feet,breathing room for my soul, An impregnable castle: I’m set for life...” (Psalm 62:5 MSG). “...My soul, wait in silence for God only, For my hope is from Him...” (Psalm 62:5 NASB).

“...My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him...” (Psalm 62:5 KJV). “...Surely I have composed and quieted my soul; Like a weaned child rests against his mother, My soul is like a weaned child within me...” (Psalm 131:2 NASB). “...Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child...” (Psalm 131:2 KJV).

“…the [“covenant unity” relationship with God, the] … HOLY SPIRIT … is the source of [EVERYTHING]. …” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

DOES GOD HAVE TO SUPPLY YOUR NEEDS "IN" YOUR TIMING?

THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP SUPPLIED IN "HIS" TIMING

“…I WILL SUPPLY ALL YOUR NEED…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV)

*

God did NOT leave his children, the Hebrew Boys, alone in the fiery furnace. “…Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, DID NOT WE CAST THREE MEN BOUND INTO THE MIDST OF THE FIRE? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king.He answered and said, LO, I SEE FOUR MEN LOOSE, WALKING IN THE MIDST OF THE FIRE, AND THEY HAVE NO HURT; AND THE FORM OF THE FOURTH IS LIKE THE SON OF GOD...” (DANIEL 3).

Because God was WITH the Hebrew Boys he was MORE than the king, his army, and fiery furnace that was AGAINST them. “…No weapon that is formed against [God’s children]… shall prosper…” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV). “…If God is for [his children], who …[or what]…is against [them]? …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

God miraculously protects ALL of his children, letting no one “…do them wrong...” and says “….touch not mine anointed (his righteous children who are set apart for his service) and do…[them] no harm.” (Psalm 105:14-15 KJV).

“...Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire. And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king's counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them. …” (DANIEL 3).

A need is something, most people, deem essential. If God doesn’t supply something you “think” you need, in the moment you NEED IT, continue trusting God anyway. “…Your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things…” (Matthew 6 KJV). “…God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

“For [God knows]... the thoughts that [he has]... toward [each of his children...” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV).

“…[God has already made it possible for]...all things work together for GOOD to them that LOVE GOD, to them who are THE CALLEDto his purpose...” (Romans 8:28 KJV).

 “…[God’s children, that continue to trust and depend upon him]…will receive NOW in return (in this life) a hundred times as many houses, brother, sisters, mothers, children, and property…” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).

“...Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego , who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort … Then the king PROMOTED Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, in the province of Babylon…” (DANIEL 3).

When God’s children have a NEED and LACK the RESOURCES to met those NEEDS, regardless of what they FACE, God is with them and has a PURPOSE for allowing them to go through the moment. “… [King] …Nebuchadnezzar full of fury ...commanded the most mighty men...bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and ... cast them into the burning fiery furnace…” (DANIEL 3).

Bible students get excited that the Hebrew Boys were delivered, but are often too remiss about what they actually FACED “before” deliverance. They were literally charged with a crime, bound up ropes, and cast into a fiery furnace. “...[If you Hebrew Boys don’t worship our gods]...ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace...”(Daniel 3:13-19). “...bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and ... cast them into the burning fiery furnace…” (DANIEL 3).

While experiencing being charged with a crime against the king, while being bound up, or while being thrown into the fiery furnace, the Hebrew Boys could have STOPPED trusting and depending upon God.

When situations and circumstances get beyond God’s people’s control and God doesn’t MET their needs, in the moment, like they expected, they will BLAME God and his WORD like Mary and Martha did. … Lord (Jesus, the Word of God), if thou hadst been here (been present), my brother had not died… ”(John 11:20-22 KJV).

“…Your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things…” (Matthew 6 KJV). “…God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

“For [God knows]... the thoughts that [he has]... toward [each of his children...” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV).

“…God assured us, “I’ll never let you down, never walk off and leave you,” we can boldly quote, God is there, ready to help; I’m fearless no matter what. Who or what can get to me?” (Hebrews 13:5 MSG).

“…As many as are the promises of God, in Him (his Word) they are yes …also… Amen …” (2 Corinthians 1:2 NASB). “…Jesus (God’s Word) said to her, "Did I not say to you that if you believe (trust in me, depend upon me, and my word no matter what), you will see the glory of God (his presence, his goodness, his working power, or all three in your life)?..." (John 11:40 KJV).

“…Jesus said…I am the resurrection and I am the LIFE…..” (John 11:25 KJV).  JESUS, the LIVING Word said: “…Lazarus COME FORTH…he that was dead came forth…” (John 11:43-43 KJV).

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

God, the Holy Spirit, didn’t meet their needs when they wanted him to, how they wanted him to, or in the way they expected him to, but he DID it EXCEEDED what they asked for or thought! “…He that was DEAD cameforth ....‘Loose him, and let him go.’” (John 11:44 KJV).

When God met their need every tear was dried, every heart mended, broken relationships were fixed, faith grew, blessings flowed, families reunited, hope replenished, God’s presence felt, God’s goodness experienced, God’s working power witnessed, etc. “…exceeding abundantly above all that [mary or Martha could]... ask or think, …” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).

“...“Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man the things which God hath prepared for those who love Him…” (1 Corinthians 2:9 KJV).

“…Blessed are those who waitfor his help…” (Isaiah 30:18 NLT).

.“... Trust in the Lord ...Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him ...those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth ...and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace…" (Psalm 37:1-11 KJV).

What if “…My Lord delayeth his coming…” (Luke 12:45 KJV).

 “...Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord....” (Psalm 27:13-14 KJV).

“…THOUGH IT TARRY, WAIT FOR IT….” (Habakkuk 2:3 KJV). “…For the vision [is] yet FOR AN APPOINTED TIME, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, WAIT FOR IT; because IT WILL SURELY COME, it will not tarry….” (Habakkuk 2:3 KJV).

“… They that WAIT UPON the LORD shall renew [their] strength…” (Isaiah 40:31 KJV).  “…WAIT ON the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: WAIT, I say, on the LORD…” (Psalms 27:14 KJV). “…The LORD [is] good unto them that WAIT FOR HIM…” (Lamentations 3:25 KJV).

“…Your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things…” (Matthew 6 KJV). “…God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

“… 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).

Whether God people go into joblessness, homelessness, find themselves hungry, sick, alone, or lacking essential needs, WAIT ON GOD anyway. Apostle Paul said: “…I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).

Regardless of what God’s people face, God is their CARGIVER. They KNOW God is in control of our days, prosperous or adverse.

God’s people KNOW to TRUST in him, DEPEND upon him, and continually follow his WORD no matter what their days bring. “...This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it...” (Psalm 118:24 KJV). “..In the day of prosperity be happy, But in the day of adversity consider-- God has made the one as well as the other…” (Ecclesiastes 7:14  NASB).

God’s people find their SECURITY in the “covenant unity” with God, the Holy Spirit’s IMMUTABLE nature of HOLY LOVE. “..I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).

God’s people find their CONTENTMENT in the “covenant unity” with God, the Holy Spirit, “…whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV). BECAUSE “...[His people]...can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth [them]..” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

God’s people find their STABILITY in “covenant unity” with God, the Holy Spirit. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever(Hebrews 13:8 NIV). “…Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock,in whom [you can] … take refuge; Yourshield and the horn of Your salvation, YOURstronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

God’s people find their REFUGE and STRENGTH in the “covenant unity” with God, the Holy Spirit. His people can say: “...God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalms 46:1 KJV). “...O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, ...my strength, in whom I will trust ... so shall I be saved from mine enemies (my adversity)…” (Psalms 18:1-3 KJV).

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

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

“...Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee. Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked. Because thou hast made the Lord , which is my refuge , even the most High, thy habitation...” (Psalm 91 KJV).

“...There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet...” (Psalm 91 KJV).

“...Because [God’s “covenant unity” people love him and keep his commandments through it all, he] will ...deliver ...[them]... [god]... will set [them]... on high , because [they have]... known my name. [God’s “covenant unity” people]... shall call upon [him], and [he]...will answer [them] ... [god]...will be with [them]... in trouble ; [god].. will deliver [them] , and honour [them[. With long life will [god] satisfy [them] , and shew [them his]...salvation... ” (Psalm 91 KJV).

THUS, “…Blessed are [the “covenant unity” people who wait for his help…” (Isaiah 30:18 NLT).

.“... Trust in the Lord ...Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him ...those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth ...and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace…" (Psalm 37:1-11 KJV).

EVEN if “…My Lord delayeth his coming [his “covenant unity” people will continue to trust and depend upon God, the Holy Spirit]…” (Luke 12:45 KJV).

 “...Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord....” (Psalm 27:13-14 KJV).

“…THOUGH IT TARRY, WAIT FOR IT….” (Habakkuk 2:3 KJV). “…For the vision [is] yet FOR AN APPOINTED TIME, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, WAIT FOR IT; because IT WILL SURELY COME, it will not tarry….” (Habakkuk 2:3 KJV).

“… They that WAIT UPON the LORD shall renew [their] strength…” (Isaiah 40:31 KJV).  “…WAIT ON the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: WAIT, I say, on the LORD…” (Psalms 27:14 KJV). “…The LORD [is] good unto them that WAIT FOR HIM…” (Lamentations 3:25 KJV).

Resources are ALWAYS temporary and eventually dry up or stop. The main SOURCE, which is God, the Holy Spirit, NEVER dries up or stops. “…For all the animals of the forest are mine, and I own the cattle on a thousand hills…” (Psalms 50:10 NLT).

“…The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein…” (Psalm 24:1 KJV). “…for the world is mine, and the fulness thereof…(Psalm 50:12 KJV). “…Thine, O Lord is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine…” (1 Chronicles 29:11 KJV).

God’s people are to enjoy the resources God gifts them with to supply their needs or desires, but they are not to become dependent upon them. “…This is what the LORD says: "Cursed are those who put their trust (dependency) in mere humans (or other temporary resources or those)... who rely (depend) on human strength (or the strength of temporary resources)…” (Jeremiah 17:5 NLT).

This warning came during Old Testament times. God told his people NOT to put their trust in MERE humans or other temporary resources, “…This is what the LORD says: "Cursed are those who put their trust (dependency) in mere humans (or other temporary resources or those)…” (Jeremiah 17:5 NLT).

God’s “covenant unity” people may be “IN” the fiery furnace of life, but God, the Holy Spirit says continue to “…believe (trust and depend) on him (Jesus, HIS Word) whom he (God, the Holy Spirit) hath sent…” (John 6:29 KJV). Even “IN” the fiery furnace “…your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things…” (Matthew 6 KJV). “…God will supply all [your need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). 

It is OKAY to get WEAK during the fiery furnace experiences, but remember this:  “… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “…[God’s people]... are sufficient of [themselves]... to think any thing as of [them]selves; but [their]... sufficiency is of God…” (2 Corinthians 3:5 KJV).  “….it is God who worketh in [his “covenant unity” people], both to will and to do of His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).

God says, “… I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life [when in the fiery furnace]…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV).  Jesus, the Word of God is “…the way and the truth, and the LIFE…” (John 14:6). “…Jesus Christ (the life and God’s Word) is in you…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).“...[God’s “covenant unity” people]...CAN DO (choose life) all things through Christ which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

“…[With FULL assurance]...God will supply all [his people’s need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).  God has “… [made] known… [to his “covenant unity” people]...the riches of the glory … which is Christ in you…” (Colossians 1:27 KJV).

“…Jesus Christ is in [God’s people]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in [God’s people]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  “…Christ in [God’s people] …” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “…Christ liveth in [God’s people]…” (Galatians 2:20 KJV). “…if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in [his people…” (Romans 8:11 KJV).   “…[them their bodies are]... the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in [them]…” (1 Corinthians 6:19 KJV). “…God hath said, I will dwell in [MY people[…” (2 Corinthians 6:16 KJV).

AND, “…God will supply ALL [his people’s need]…” (Philippians 4:19 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, will “…never leave nor forsake [his “covenant unity” people]…” (Hebrews 13:5 KJV). “…[God, the Holy Spirit is]... always [with his “covenant unity” people], to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). “…[God’s love]… always perseveres… [God’s]…love never fails…” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV).

The bible says, “….human desire is NEVER SATISFIED…” (Proverbs 27:20 NLT). Therefore, “…[Outside of God, the Holy Spirit, his people]… are NEVER SATISFIED….” (HABAKKUK 2:5 NLT).

"...The leech has two daughters, 'Give! Give!'they cry. "There are three things that are NEVER SATISFIED, four that never say, 'Enough!'…” (Proverbs 30:15 NIV).

Thankfully, “…God will supply all [his people’s need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…[God ALONE will]… satisfy …and refresh [his “covenant unity” people and everyone] …” (Jeremiah 31:25 NASB).

God’s “covenant unity” people can quote this scripture: “…O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water.I have seen you in your sanctuary and gazed upon your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you!I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. YOU SATISFY ME more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy…” (Psalms 63:1-5 NLT).

“…God will [truly]...supply all [his people’s need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “… [GOD ALONE WILL]…satisfy  …” (Jeremiah 31:25 NASB).

Many of God’s people have been UTTERLY blessed with temporary resources and many are surrounded with the favor those temporary resources bring into our lives, but if they are honest, temporary resources DO make them happy, but they don’t truly SATISFY.

I am ONE of those BLESSED people.

However, to God and God, the Holy Spirit, ONLY can I personally say: “…YOU [God, the Holy Spirit]... SATISFY ME MORE THAN THE RICHEST FEAST …” (Psalms 63:1-5 NLT). AND “....[Truly YOUR] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of ALL that satisfies my soul]…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

HAS GOD SUPPLIED "ALL" YOUR NEED? BE HONEST!

THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WILL IT “REALLY” SUPPLY “ALL” YOUR NEEDS?

“…I WILL SUPPLY ALL YOUR NEED…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV)

*

Before you were saved, God was not your SOURCE. Without God, the whole world is under the power of the evil one. The evil one’s resources are all you have and because of it, many human beings are like slaves clamoring for his evil supplies. “….when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey…” (Romans 6:16 NIV). “…We know …that the whole world lies under the power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV).

You become so dependent on the evil one’s carnal resources; you CAN’T stop craving them. “… I am all too human, a slave to sin [or the devil’s resources]. 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 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 . I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want (WILL) to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong.  I [am] …a slave to the sin [or the devil’s resources]… that is … within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am!

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).

Every human being starts off depending on the evil one’s carnal resources until they are “… called out of darkness into his marvellous light” (1 Peter 2:9 KJV). “…Once [they]… were dead because of [their]… disobedience and [their]… many sins. [They]… used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world …All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature…” (Ephesians 2:1-5 NLT).

Who or whatever your RESOURCE is; it will be clearly seen by the way you act. “...You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act …” (Matthew 7:16 NLT).

For instance, “… 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 …” (Galatians 5:20-22 NASB). “… Everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes NOT from the Father but from the world…” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT). We know …that the whole world lies under the power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV).

However, God’s people are encouraged to “…throw off [their]... old sinful nature and their former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception…” (Ephesians 4:17-32 NLT). AND“…come out from their midst and be separate,” says the Lord…”(2 Corinthians 6:13-17 NASB).

“…if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “…put on the new man (new creation)...” (Ephesians 4:2 KJV).

“…You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires (appetites).…” (Ephesians 4:22 NIV). “…Everything connected with getting our own way and mindlessly responding to what everyone else calls necessities is killed off for good—crucified…” (Galatians 5:24 MSG).

Regardless of what your old RESOURCES were, God, the Holy Spirit SUPPLIES all the needs of HIS “own” people. God’s allows certain RESOURCES to be temporary suppliers of his people’s needs, but God is the ultimate SOURCE for the RESOURCE. Within the “covenant unity” relationship, “…[God] ...the …HOLY SPIRIT …is the [immutable]...SOURCE of [IT ALL!!!] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

A SUPPLY is a provision with the necessary amount of whatever it is you need at the time. Provisions such as: the ravens, the brook, the quail, and manna in the following stories were temporary resources ONLY. “…the Lord said to Elijah, “Go to the east and hide by Kerith Brook, near where it enters the Jordan River. Drink from the brook and eat what the ravens bring you, for I have commanded them to bring you food.” So Elijah did as the Lord told him and …The ravens brought him bread and meat each morning and evening, and he drank from the brook. But after a while the brook dried up, ….” (1 KINGS 17:1-7 NLT). The brook eventually dried up: it was a temporary resource.

 “…Then the Lord said to Moses, “Look, I’m going to rain down food from heaven for you. Each day the people can go out and pick up as much food as they need for that day.” That evening vast numbers of quail flew inand covered the camp. When the dew evaporated, a flaky substance as fine as frost blanketed the ground. The Israelites were puzzled when they saw it. “What is it?” they asked each other. And Moses told them, “It is the food the Lord has given you to eat. ...Each family had just what it needed. The Israelites called the food manna. It was white like coriander seed, and it tasted like honey wafers. So the people of Israel ate manna for forty years until they arrived at the land where they would settle. ….” (Exodus 16 NLT). After 40 years the manna stopped; the resource was no longer needed.

RESOURCES are multiple and varied, but the SOURCE is single. “… the gate is wide and …broad that leads to destruction, …the gate is small and ….narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it.…” (Matthew 7:13-15 NLT).

RESOURCES come in many different packages and can be people too, but they are all supplied by ONE SOURCE. “…Now God gives us many kinds of special abilities, but it is the same Holy Spirit who is the source of them all. There are different kinds of service to God, but it is the same Lord we are serving. There are many ways in which God works in our lives, but it is the same God who does the work in and through all of us who are his.

The Holy Spirit displays God’s power through each of us as a means of helping the entire church. To one person the Spirit gives the ability to give wise advice; someone else may be especially good at studying and teaching, and this is his gift from the same Spirit.

He gives special faith to another, and to someone else the power to heal the sick. He gives power for doing miracles to some, and to others power to prophesy and preach. He gives someone else the power to know whether evil spirits are speaking through those who claim to be giving God’s messages—or whether it is really the Spirit of God who is speaking.

Still another person is able to speak in languages he never learned; and others, who do not know the language either, are given power to understand what he is saying. It is the same and only Holy Spirit who gives all these gifts and powers, deciding which each one of us should have… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

The temporary RESOURCE is chosen by God as a vessel USED to supply his people’s needs, for a moment, for hours, for days, for weeks, for months, or for years, but God REMAINS the main “ultimate” SOURCE of ALL resources. “…Now God gives us many kinds of special abilities, but it is the same Holy Spirit who is the SOURCE of them all…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

Too often God’s people become dependent upon the temporary resource and lose sight of God, the Holy Spirit as the supplier of their needs. “… [Your heavenly Father] ... will supply all your [need]…”(Philippians 4:19 NASB).   

Even if the “resource” is cruel, abusive, inconsistent, or destructive to your health and well-being, you can BECOME dependent upon it or them or it. “… I am all too human, a slave to sin [or the devil’s resources]. I don’t really understand myself, for I wantto do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do [and allow]...what I hate…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “...I have the right to [choose to]... do anything ...but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to [choose to]... do anything”—but not everything is constructive...” (1 Corinthians 10:23 NIV).

The temporary “resource” takes on the role of a master and you the role of a slave.“…you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey (dependent upon)? …” (Romans 6:16 NLT).

If a dictating master has what you feel you want or desire and you “choose” to willfully to do what “they” or “it” wants to get your needs met, you’re dependent. “…Don’t you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey [or depend upon]? ….” (Romans 6:16 NLT). “…I do [and allow]...what I hate…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

If the temporary “resource” is a cruel taskmaster, and it usually is, then it will cost you your dignity, especially if you tolerate their or its abusive treatment. “…you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? ….” (Romans 6:16 NLT).“… I am all too human, a slave to sin [or the devil’s resources]. I don’t really understand myself ...I do [and allow]...what I hate…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

Even worst, believing someone or something is a “source” instead of a “resource” can cause fear at the thought of losing it or them. “…I wantto do what is right, but I don’t do it (you’ve become dependent upon the resource)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

You may fear losing negative, temporary resources, more than you hate the way they treat you. “…I do [and allow]...what I hate…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). Maybe you are afraid to be left without any “resources” at all and experience something like being left in a desert without water. “...I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong.  I [am] …a slave to the ...[devil’s resources]… what a miserable person I am! …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

Being left without any resources or left in the desert of life is like being abandoned. “...I [am] …a slave to the ...[devil’s resources] …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). When you are cut-off from healthy and wholesome “resources” of life you feel option-less. “...Who will free me from this life that is dominated by [my need for the devil’s resources]? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

 

Feeling option-less can make you feel insignificance and like you’re in a desert place where loneliness, unworthiness, sadness, rejection, unbearable pain, emptiness, and lack of support reside. “...Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

It is a place where you have been abandoned by life’s experiences and your lack of “resources” have left you feeling hopeless. “...Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

When your “resources” are dominated by sin and you are the victim of those resources it is normal to internalize it as if it is a confirmation of “your” unworthiness. You internalize negative experiences, with temporary resources, when you begin to say to yourself: “I am unlovable” “Something must be wrong with me” “I am not good enough” “MaybeI deserve to be treated like this” “They are too good for me” “Why won’t they love me?’ “If I improve maybe they’ll give me what I need” “What’s wrong with me?” “How can they do me like this?” “They shut me out of their lives and I feel rejected. What did I do?”

Good or bad, NO RESOURCE is permanent, they are ALL temporary. “…the Lord said to Elijah, “Go to the east and hide by Kerith Brook, near where it enters the Jordan River. Drink from the brook and eat what the ravens bring you, for I have commanded them to bring you food.” So Elijah did as the Lord told him and …The ravens brought him bread and meat each morning and evening, and he drank from the brook. But after a while the brook dried up, ….” (1 KINGS 17:1-7 NLT). The brook eventually dried up: it was a temporary resource.

“…Then the Lord said to Moses, “Look, I’m going to rain down food from heaven for you. Each day the people can go out and pick up as much food as they need for that day.” That evening vast numbers of quail flew inand covered the camp. When the dew evaporated, a flaky substance as fine as frost blanketed the ground. The Israelites were puzzled when they saw it. “What is it?” they asked each other. And Moses told them, “It is the food the Lord has given you to eat. ..Each family had just what it needed. The Israelites called the food manna. It was white like coriander seed, and it tasted like honey wafers. So the people of Israel ate manna for forty years until they arrived at the land where they would settle. ….” (Exodus 16 NLT). After 40 years the manna stopped; the resource was no longer needed.

RESOURCES appear in the lives of God’s people and only serve a temporary, momentary purpose such as the burning bush, the speaking donkey, the serpent, or Jahaziel, DID. “…And the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and …the bush was not consumed….” (Exodus 3:2 KJV).

“…Then the LORD opened the donkey's mouth, and it said...” (Numbers 22:28 NIV).

“…Now the serpentwas more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman…” (Genesis 3:1 KJV).

 “…the Spirit of the Lord came upon one of the men standing there. His name was Jahaziel …He said, “Listen… all This is what the Lord says…” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

All RESOURCES are CREATED inanimate objects (things) or finite (limited) human beings.

RESOURCES have NO magic powers, they are NOT your master, they DON’T decide who you are, they are NOT your everlasting source, they DON’T determine your value. “...Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “...For in him we live, and move, and have our being (identity) ... we are also his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).

The treatment of temporary RESOURCES can’t and don’t determine God’s people’s worth. “….For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him…” (Colossians 1:16 NIV).

Some people have mistakenly and blindly “…worshiped and served created things (resources) rather than the Creator (the source of it all)…” (Romans 1:25 NIV).

Temporary RESOURCES are sent to PASS through your life and will have a PURPOSE that impacts you in one way or another. They COME and they GO. For instance, whether we like it or not, people are temporary resources and they come into our live through family, friends, or romantic relationships.

These people die, drift apart, break-up, or end for one reason or another. When people are temporary resources and they leave it usually has a long-term impact.

How you move forward can either honor or dishonor the role they were sent to serve in your life. People are gifts, whether they made you laugh or cry and it is God who allowed them to APPEAR in your life. Gratefulness is the best way to thank God for the time you had with them.

When I look back over my life, even those who were NOT so pleasant changed my life for the better. God has empowered me to “be in the moment” with people which allows me to love them, enjoy them, make memories with them, and accept they are gifts for RIGHT NOW.

When a romantic relationship broke-up it was sad and it broke my heart, but I wasn’t so dependent upon it I couldn’t move forward without it.

People are temporary resources and they won’t be in your life forever, but if I enjoy the time and moments I’ve been given with each of them, I can move forward strengthened with priceless lessons or good memories of times shared, and no regrets. “...The Lord is my portion (my everlasting resource),” says my soul...” (Lamentations 3:21-24 NASB). God will “…never leave nor forsake you (his people)… …” (Hebrews 13:5). God’s “…..lovingkindness endureth for ever…” (Psalm 106:1, Psalm 100:5, 1 Chronicles 16:34 KJV). “…He willkeep you strong to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).

“….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). It may not seem like it, but “….the…faithful love of the Lord, [for you], never ends...!”(Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT).  “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).   “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “… he remains faithful …” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

“...Great is Your faithfulness...” (Lamentations 3:21-24 NASB). “...Therefore I have hope in Him...” (Lamentations 3:21-24 NASB).

“…The …[indwelling] ...HOLY SPIRIT …is the SOURCE of [EVERYTHING]… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

 “…God [promises he]... will supply all [his people’s need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). God’s people don’t need the evil one’s resources any longer. They can leave them in the past. “…For the time...[HAS]... past …when [his people] walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries…” (1 Peter 4:1-3 KJV).

“….[God’s people]... have had enough in the past of the evil things that godless people enjoy—their immorality and lust, their feasting and drunkenness and wild parties, and their terrible worship of idols….” (1 Peter 4:3 NLT).

“…[God’s people have]... already put in [their]... time in that God-ignorant way of life, partying night after night, a drunken and profligate life. Now it’s time to be done with it for good…” (1 Peter 4:3 MSG).

God USES resources (people or things), to supply his people’s needs, temporally. However, it is NOT the resources, but the SOURCE who is actually supplying the need. “…God will supply ALL[your need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus…”(Philippians 4:19 NASB).

Whatever God’s people need, as a dependent child of God, he promises to supply their need. ““…Take no thought, saying What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Where withal shall we be clothed? …your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things…” (Matthew 6 KJV). “…God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

God’s people may have financial, spiritual, emotional, mental, or physical need and the bible says: “…Your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of allthese things…” (Matthew 6 KJV).

I don’t know HOW he will do it, but I just know that HE WILL. Sometimes his people “still” go through the experience of LACK or the fiery furnace, like the Hebrews Boys , but also, like them, God’s people “choose” to CONTINUE to trust and depend upon God.

THE HEBREW BOYS LOVED GOD AND CHOOSE TO KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS. “...Thou shalt have no other gods before me...” (Exodus 20:1-4 KJV). “...Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth...” (Exodus 20:1-4 KJV).

KEEPING GOD’S COMMANDMENTS MEANT THE HEBREWS WOULD FACE SERIOUS TROUBLE: “...Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up? Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?...” (Daniel 3:13-19 KJV).

THE HEBREW BOYS DIDN’T KNOW “HOW” OR “IF” GOD WOULD DELIVER THEM FROM THE SITUATION OR NOT, BUT THEY WERE CONFIDENT “HE COULD!” “...Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up...” (Daniel 3:13-19 KJV).

The truth of the matter is that GOD CAN meet every NEED you have, but even “IF” he doesn’t, HIS people “KNOW” he CAN! Regardless, God promises to meet EVERY need, so HE WILL.

“…Your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things…” (Matthew 6 KJV). “…God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). God KNEW his children (the Hebrews Boys needed him, so what did he do?

However, did the Hebrew “STILL” get thrown into the fiery furnace? YES.  “...ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?...” (Daniel 3:13-19 KJV). “… [King] …Nebuchadnezzar full of fury ...commanded the most mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace…” (DANIEL 3).

The Hebrew Boys were “STILL” thrown into the fiery furnace, even after STANDING on God’s WORD by “keeping” his commandments. “... Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world..." (John 16:44 NLT).

In the FIERY FURNACES OF LIFE, the bible says: “... BE STRONGand of good courage, FEAR NOT, “NOR” BE AFRAID of them (problems, issues, trials, tribulations, concerns, divorces, or any of life’s sudden stresses, etc.): for the Lord thy God, he it is that DOETH GO with thee; he SHALL NOT FAILthee; “NOR” FORSAKE thee...” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV).

“…God has said “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…Behold, I am with… [you] and will keep… [you] whithersoever [you]… goest…I will not leave [you]…." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD WILL CHANGE YOU

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

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

Actually, I was the typical religious person. I was more moral and ethical than holy or righteous. “…Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity…” (Matthew 7:22-23 KJV).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

ITS THE COVENANT RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD THATS THE CHANGE AGENT

THE CHANGE AGENT

 “…that they might KNOW…..the only true God and Jesus Christ…” (John 17:3)

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When the soul RECONCILES with God, the Holy Spirit allows them to experience “the powers of the age to come.” So HOW do you TASTE the POWERS of the world to come? Your first experience is through salvation? You“…RECEIVE (obtain, accept, etc.) ... the engrafted 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 THE POWER (THE HOLY SPIRIT POWER OR THE CHANGE AGENT) TO BECOME THE SONS OF GOD, evento them that believe (trust in and depend upon) ...his name (the WORD of GOD)…” (John 1:12 KJV).

The WORD OF GOD is “…the POWER of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth…” (Romans 1:16 KJV).

The redeemed soul had to willfully RECEIVE or ACCEPT God’s gift of salvation. “…BY GRACE have ye been saved through… FAITH (through trusting in and depending upon the “powerful” 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).

The gift of Salvation is the FIRST experience or TASTE of the POWER of God’s WORD to SAVE the lost soul “through” the “powerful” WORK of the Holy Spirit. “... POWER TO BECOME THE SONS OF GOD…” (John 1:12 KJV). “…the POWER of God unto salvation…” (Romans 1:16 KJV).“...thosewho have... tasted (experienced)... the power of the age to come…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, gives the redeemed a TASTE of the powers to come when he REVEALS or introduces himself through the enlightenment of his WORD. “… His (Jesus) name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “… I am ... [jesus, the word of god] ...thelight of the world..." (John 9:5, 8:12 KJV).. “…The Lightwhich … enlightens every man…” (John 1:19 NASB).

God, the Holy Spirit, gives the redeemed soul a TASTE of the powers to come when his indwelling Holy Spirit is SENT to LIVE within them.“…God has given [you] HIS Spirit as PROOF that … he [dwells]…in [you]…” (1 John 4:13 NLT).  “…God … SENT forth the Spirit of His Son (his WORD) “INTO” [Y]OUR… HEARTS …” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “….THE WORDS ... they are SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).   “…The Spirit of God dwelleth in you...” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV).  “…Christ (the Word of God) [dwells] in your hearts by faith (trust & dependency upon God) …” (Ephesians 3:17 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit, gives the redeemed soul a TASTE of the powers to come when he produces spiritual fruit “IN” their hearts and “THROUGH” their lives. “…The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). "....The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in [their] lives …” (Galatians 5 NLT) “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE [and spiritual fruit] …” (John 3:6 NLT). “…Then THE WAY YOU LIVE will … will produce every kind of good fruit…” (Colossians 1:9-10 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, gives the redeemed soul a TASTE of the powers to come when he EMPOWERS them to display HIS GLORY (his presence, goodness, & working power) upon earth.“…the Spirit of God dwell in [God’s people]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…God gives [his people] many kinds of special abilities, but ... the ...Holy Spirit ... is the source of them all. ... … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “...God who does the work in and through all of [redeemed people]... who are his…… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “...The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of [his people] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, gives the redeemed soul a TASTE of the powers to come when he GIFTS them with special abilities and powers that confirm his GLORY within them “…There are diversities of gifts , but the same Spirit…” (1 Corinthians 12:4 KJV). “…He gave gifts  ...unto men (and women)…” (Ephesians 4:8 KJV). “…The GIFT by grace……” (Romans 5:15 KJV). ”…  ye [are]…saved by grace through faith…it is the GIFT of God…” (Ephesians 2:8 KJV). “…The GIFT of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ ….” (Romans 6:23 KJV).  “….ye shall receive the GIFT of the Holy Ghost…” (Acts 2:38 KJV). “…the GIFTof righteousness…” (Romans 5:17 KJV). “…I am leaving you with a GIFT—peace of mind and heart...” (John 14:27 KJV). “…God has given [his people]... different GIFTS for doing certain things well…” (Romans 12:6 NLT). “…every man (woman) hath his (her) proper GIFTof God...” (2 Corinthians 7:7 KJV). “…Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable GIFT[S]…” (2 Corinthians  9:16 KJV). “…It is the ...Holy Spirit who GIVES all these gifts and powers… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, gives the redeemed soul a TASTE of the powers to come with HIS immutable PRESENCE “…He … remains faithful …” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  “…God has said “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV).  “…Behold, I AM WITH… [YOU] and  …I WILL NOT LEAVE [YOU]…." (Genesis 28:15 ASV). “…The LORD thy God …will not fail thee…” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV).  “…Behold, I am with… [you] and will keep… [you] whithersoever [you]… goest…I will not leave [you]..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

God, the HOLY SPIRIT gives the redeemed soul a TASTE of the WORLD to come by confirming the POWER of his WORD through signs, wonders, and miracles! “…The disciples (God’s people) went everywhere and preached, and the Lord worked through them, confirming what they said bymany miraculous signs…” (Mark 16:20 KJV). “…The …HOLY SPIRIT …is the SOURCE of [salvation, the indwelling Spirit, spiritual fruit, gifts, and powers]. … … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (supernatural WORKS) THROUGH each of [his people] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The Fatherthat dwelleth in [redeemed souls], he doeth the works [of confirming his “own” Word]…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“… at God’s [WORD] … what we now SEE (everything witnessed and experienced) did not come from anything that can be SEEN (it came from the “powerful” WORK of the Holy Spirit)…” (Hebrews 11:3 NLT).

When the soul RECONCILES with God, the Holy Spirit it has RETURNED to its former GLORY or “covenant unity” relationship with God. The redeemed soul has become “...enlightened, has experienced the good things of heaven, shares in the Holy Spirit, tastes the goodness of God’s Word, and experiences the powers of the age to come.”

The “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit “IS” the change agent for the lost and spiritually dead soul.

“… if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature(CHANGED): old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “...For in him [the redeemed soul]... live, and move, and have [their]... being (their spiritual being or identity) ... we are also his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).

“…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]… in[HIS PEOPLE]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).

How is the “covenant unity” a CHANGE AGENT for the redeemed soul?

First, God has enlightened them through his Holy Spirit that “literally” dwells within them. Second, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is “literally” a gift, a good thing, sent from heaven. Third, because of the indwelling, God’s people are “literally” sharing in the Holy Spirit by the “ONE” Spiritconnection through Jesus. Fourth, Jesus, the implanted good seed, “literally” gives God’s redeemed people tastes or experiences with the goodness of God’s Word. And finally, by God’s power they experience salvation, the indwelling, spiritual fruit, gifts, his immutable presence, etc., which are ALL “literal” tastes or experiences with the powers of the age to come.

God said, “….LET US MAKE man … after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…in his own image…..male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV).

God is the HOLY SPIRIT; so ANY image or likeness, God’s people have, has to be related to his Holy Spirit. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). (Romans 8:9 KJV).

“…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body),and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Holy Spirit); and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “….God saw every thing he had made……and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

Becoming a “LIVING SOUL” was good, but being a lost and spiritually dead soul is NOT. “...and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “….God saw every thing he had made……and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

It is the LIVING SOUL that is STAMPED with God’s image and likeness not a lost or spiritually dead soul. “ … after our likeness…”(Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…in his own image…..male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “….God saw every thing he had made……and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

“…Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “...and man became a living soul (soul, again)…”(GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

In Christ, the LOST and SPIRITUALLY DEAD soul is restored or reconciled to God’s imageand likeness again. Spirit and soul are ONE unit, again. When Jesus reconciles the covenant relationship between God and his redeemed people, the SOUL is RESTORED to its former glory. “…the Holy Spirit gives birth to (or restores, reconciles, etc.,) SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT).  God is a “…restorer of thy [spiritual]... life…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV).

 

“…He restoreth my SOUL [to his image and likeness]…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... and man became a living (spirit) soul (soul) …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

The lost and spiritual dead soul is reconciled to God, the Holy Spirit. The lost and spiritual dead has been FOUND and made SPIRITUALLY ALIVE again. “…God made [the redeemed soul]... ALIVE with Christ. He forgave [them]… all [their]… sins…” (Colossians 2:13 NIV). Like the prodigal son, “… [they were spiritually]…. DEAD and [have been made]… ALIVE AGAIN; [the redeemed soul was]… lost and [have been]… found…” (Luke 15:24 NIV).

“... in Christ, he (she) is a new creature (changed)...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).“... a living (spirit) soul (soul) (changed)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). The soul was restored and reconciled to its former GLORY with God, the Holy Spirit.

“…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “…God ... Himself SANCTIFYyou entirely (CHANGES THE SOUL ENTIRELY); and may [HIS indwelling Holy]... Spirit and [your]... soul and body be preserved [together again]... complete…” (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NASB). “..preservedin Jesus Christ....” (Jude 1:1 KJV).

The GLORY of God was returned to the soul. God’s HOLY GLORY is basically manifested in the MANY expressions of his invisible PRESENCE. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). Jesus said, "I and my Father are…ONE…" (John 10:30 KJV).  “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]… in [HIS PEOPLE and becomes the CHANGE A GENT for their SOUL]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).This means “… the Lord, [is]...in [his people’s] presence…” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV). “...[god has set them in his]... presence forever…” (Psalms 44:12 NASB). “…[GOD MAKES HIS PEOPLE]... “MOST” BLESSED forever … in [his]... PRESENCE…” (Psalms 21:6 NASB).

“…Jesus Christ is in [God’s people…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…Christ in [God’s people is a CHANGE AGENT]…” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwell[s] in [God’s people]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me…” (Galatians 2:20 KJV). 

“...clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ...” (Roman’s 13:14 NLT). “…if Christ be in you… [then] …the Lord …[is] … in your presence …” (Romans 8:10 KJV & Exodus 33:16-23 NIV).

God’s HOLY GLORYis also the PRESENCE,  his HOLY GOODNESS. “… “I will cause all my GOODNESS to pass in front of you …” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV). “… since the creation of the world His invisibleattributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made…” (Romans 1:20 NASB). “….the whole earth is full of [God’s]…glory (manifested goodness)…” (Isaiah 6:3). “….God saw every thing he had made……and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

“…Thou are GOOD and doest GOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV). The bible says, “…for the lord is GOOD…” (Psalm 100:5 KJV). ““…Oh how great is thy GOODNESS…” (Psalm 31:19 KJV). “…for he is GOOD…” (Psalm 107:1 KJV). “..The lord is GOOD…” (Nahum 1:7 KJV). “…GOODand upright is the Lord…”(Psalm 25:8 KJV). “…For thou, Lord, is GOOD…” (Psalm 86:5 KJV). Thou are GOOD and doest GOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV).

God’s HOLY GLORYis also the PRESENCE,  of his HOLYworking POWER. The Holy Spirit empowered Jesus, his Word to do miraculous good and heal the oppressed. “…God anointed (empowered) Jesus of Nazareth (HOW?) with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER: (WHAT DID JESUS, THE WORD, DO?) [HE] ... went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; [HOW WAS HE ABLE TO DO THOSE THINGS?]... GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

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

Jesus, the WORD, had an earthen vessel, just like God’s redeemed people do today, so WHO “actually” DID the “powerful” WORKS through HIM? The Holy Spirit, within Jesus, actually DID the “powerful” WORKS. “…[Jesus said]…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).  “…God publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know. …” (ACTS 2:22 KJV).

“…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

Now that God’s redeemed people are reconciled to their former GLORY with God, the Holy Spirit, what did Jesus say they could DO? .“....we are witnesses of all things which he (Jesus, God’s Word) did …” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV). “…Verily, verily, I say unto you, He (she) that believeth on me (Jesus, God’s Word), the works that [he did]... (the LIVING Word did) shall he (she) do also; and GREATER WORKS (not different works, but greater) than these shall he(she) do…” (John 14:1 KJV).

In the beginning God said to the LIVING SOULS:“...God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have DOMINION overthe fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth….” (Genesis 1:26-28 KJV).

Today, God has NOT changed. “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). The bible SAYS: “… [God, through Christ]… freely give [his children]... all things…” (Romans 8:32 KJV). “…God will supply all [their need]… according to His richesin glory in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

Now that God’s redeemed people have been reconciled to their FORMER GLORY he wants them to take dominion through Jesus, his Word.“… The Son of Man (the WORD) has authority on earth to forgive sins...” (Matthew 9:6 NASB). “… Jesus (the WORD) …SPOKE to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Mein heaven and on earth…” (Matthew 28:18 NASB).

 “…God, who ha[s]... given such authority to men (or to his people through jesus]…” (Matthew 9:8 NASB). “… Jesus (THE WORD) ….gave them power and authority to cast out all demons and to heal all diseases…” (Luke 9:1 NASB).

“… I (JESUS, THE WORD has) ...given [God’s people]... authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing will injure you…” (Luke 10:19 NASB).

“…[God’s people]... can ask for anything in my name (in god’s word which has “all” authority), and I will do it...” (John 14:12-14 NLT).

“….[god’s people]... may ask for anything [they]... want…”(JOHN 15:7 NASB).  “...[if they]...ask...[by faith]... it will be given to ...[them]…” (Matthew 7:7 NIV). “…everyone...[of his children]... who asks receives…” (Matthew 7:8 NIV).

“…[god]... will do whatever ...[his people]...ask in my name (god’s word, god’s authority), so that the Father may be glorified (revealed or witnessed through his presence, goodness, and working power) in the Son (the WORD, the GOOD seed)…” (John 14:13 NIV).

“…And this is the confidence that ...[God’s people]... have in him (Jesus, the WORD,), that, if [they]... ask any thing according to his will (which is in his word), he heareth us…” (1 John 5:14 KJV).

“…Jesus (the WORD)…said, “Father (Holy Spirit), thank you for hearing me (the WORD of God).You always hear me (the WORD of God)….” (John 11:41-42 NLT).

“… [God’s people] … Receive from him anything ...[they]... ask, because ...[they]... keephis commands (follow HIS instructions] and dowhat pleases him…” (1 John 3:22 NIV).

“...he (the indwelling holy spirit) work “IN [them]” what is pleasing to him,through Jesus Christ (the Word,)…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…the Father doeth the works (of empowering his people’s authority)…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“…May he (God, the Holy Spirit continue to) work in [his people]... what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ (the Word of God)…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…If [God’s people]... know that HE hears [them]—whatever [they]... ask—[they]... know that [they]... havewhat [they] asked of him…” (1 John 5:15 NIV). “…Jesus (the WORD)…said, “Father (Holy Spirit)… You always hear me(the WORD of God)….” (John 11:41-42 NLT).

The POWER and AUTHORITY God gives to his people, through Jesus, his WORD, empowers them to be his witnesses and give him glory upon earth. “...you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere...” (ACTS 1:8 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, by the “covenant unity” relationship, through Jesus, CHANGES the soul. “…Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “…by the grace of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV). “…I will put a new spirit in you. …” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT). “…It is God(the Holy Spirit) which worketh in [his people]…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “… [Therefore, his people]…  … are changedinto the same image [of Christ] from glory to glory …” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV).

 God, the Holy Spirit, also, through Jesus (God’s Word), RENEWS the mind of the soul in order for them to actually experience their transformation. “…Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV).

 “…the willof God (his heart’s desire, his choice, what he wants, etc.), [is his people’s]... SANCTIFICATION …” (1 Thessalonians 4:3 NASB). God’s desired WILL, not his FORCED will “IS” his people’s sanctification. The bible says: “…Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “…beconformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV).

God has RECONCILED your soul and does desire your sanctification, but renewing your mind, conforming to God’s image, and sanctification is a free choice, made through the human will. “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

GOD is in control, but he is NOT controlling and will NEVER force his people to choose the “covenant unity” relationship “IF” they don’t want it. “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “...It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don’t use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom. Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that’s how freedom grows. For everything we know about God’s Word is summed up in a single sentence: Love others as you love yourself. That’s an act of true freedom. If you bite and ravage each other, watch out—in no time at all you will be annihilating each other, and where will your precious freedom be then?...” (Galatians  5:13 MSG).  “...brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another...” (Galatians 5:13 KJV).  “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit loves his people and has proven that in so many ways. God always encourages his people to stay with his love,  his care, and his protection, but they have FREE WILL. “…Abide in Me, and I in you ... apart from Me (God, the Holy Spirit) you can do nothing…” (John 15:4-6 NASB).“…Choose LIFE (SPIRITUAL LIFE) …” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). Jesus (the Word) saith…I am THE [spiritual]...LIFE…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…I (the Word) am come that THEY MIGHT have (spiritual) LIFE, and that THEY MIGHT have [SPIRITUAL LIFE] ... more abundantly…” (John 10:10 KJV).

“…When the ground soaks up the falling rain and bears a good crop for the farmer, it has God’s blessing.  But if a field bears thorns and thistles, it is useless. The farmer will soon condemn that field and burn it…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

The same rain fell upon the ground, which produced thorn and thistles. The ground represents a human heart. When the earth gets hardened it will produce thorns and thistles. When a human heart gets hardened by the deceitfulness of sin it will produce evil. “…Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled…” (Hebrews 3:15 NLT). “...  "Today," saying through David after so long a time just as has been said before, "TODAY IF YOU HEAR HIS VOICE, DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEARTS..."(Hebrews 4:7 NASB). “…Choose youthis day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

A person, CHOOSES, through human will  NOT to listen to God, or receive his word (living water), but instead, to harden their hearts. God’s people remain FREE to follow their OWN heart’s desires and NOT God’s heart desires. “...But 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).

When the Word of God (the LIVING water)  falls, upon the hearts, of his people, who freely choose to RECEIVE it, they WILL be blessed with a fruitful, spiritual life. Those who do NOT receive the LIVING water will become USELESS. “….Apart from [God, the Holy Spirit]… [they (who choose NOT to receive the living water) will not and cannot]..do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). “…if a field bears thorns and thistles, it is useless. The farmer will soon condemn that field and burn it…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

God GRACE is CLEARLY upon HIS PEOPLE who willing CHOOSE to RECEIVE his LIVING WATER. To RECEIVE God’s LIVING WATER is the ONLY way to obtain the BLESSINGS. “…When the ground soaks up (receives) the falling rain and bears a good crop for the farmer, it has God’s blessing …” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

Receiving is just as much an act of love as giving is. Most people are excellent givers, but poor receivers. The following scripture is often taken out of context. “...the words of the Lord Jesus [who]..said, It is more blessed to give than to receive...” (Acts 20:35 KJV).

GIVING may actually open the door to RECEIVING. “...Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again...” (Luke 6:38 KJV). “...Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back—given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity...” (Luke 6:38 MSG).

“...pray one for another, that ye may be healed...” (James 5:16 KJV). “…whatsoever a man(woman) soweth (giving), that shall he (she) also reap (being given to)….” (Galatians 6:7 KJV).“…I assure you that everyone who has given up [anything or anyone]... for my sake and for the Good News,will receive now in return...” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).

GIVING and RECEIVING is a biblical principle, practice, and reality“...One person gives freely, yet gains even more... A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed...” (Proverbs 11:24-25 NIV).

“...Whoever sows generously will also reap generously... God loves a cheerful giver...” (2 Corinthians 9:6-7 NIV).

There are things that can PREVENT people from RECEIVING: their heart is hardened by the deceitfulness of sin, they don’t feel safe, they don’t think they’re worthy, or they are too prideful. However, the word says, “…My grace is sufficient for you…”(2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV).  “…God is able to make all GRACE abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things…” (2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV). “…the incomparable riches of his GRACE, expressed in his kindness in Christ Jesus...” (Ephesians 2:7 NIV). “…Since it is through God’s kindness, then it is not by their good works. For in that case, God’s GRACEwould not be what it really is—free and undeserved…” (Romans 11:5 NLT).

“... 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).

“…RECEIVE (obtain, accept, receive, etc.) ... theengrafted WORD (the living water), which is able to SAVE your souls…” (James 1:21 KJV).

God’s Word can save a soul from eternal damnation, fear, weakness, worry, disappointment, etc., but  a person CHOOSES, through human will to receive it.“…When the ground [does NOT soak]...up the falling rain and ...a field bears thorns and thistles, it is useless. The farmer will soon condemn that field and burn it…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

The good crop is symbolic of the results of the “covenant unity” relationship where the redeemed soul trusts in and depends upon the Holy Spirit to DO the work “IN” and “THROUGH,” as his Word promises, in order to bless their lives. “…When the ground soaks up the falling rain and bears a good crop for the farmer, it has God’s blessing…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT). “God … worketh in [his people]…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “…the Father that dwelleth in… [them], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “… I do not treat the grace of God as meaningless. For if keeping the law (without being in a covenant relationship with the Holy Spirit) could make [mankind] right with God, then there was no need for Christ to die (no need for him to RECONCILE God’s people into a covenant relationship with God)…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT).

“…God ...does the work IN AND THROUGH all of us who are [his people]… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). "....The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in [y]our lives …” (Galatians 5 NLT) “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE (when a person is reconcile to God through Christ)…” (John 3:6 NLT).

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

 “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]… in [redeemed souls]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…The Lord (the Word) is that Spirit (too)…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV).“…Jesus Christ is IN [God’s people]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…[God’s people] CAN DO all things (produce fruit, display God’s power, and receive his blessings) THROUGH Christ which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “….Apart from [God, the indwelling Holy Spirit]… [redeemed souls cannot]..do nothing [spiritual]…” (John 15:5 NIV).

The thorns and thistles is symbolic of the results of a “covenant unity” relationship where the redeemed soul IS NO LONGER trusting in and depending upon the Holy Spirit to DO the work “IN” and “THROUGH,” as his Word promises, in order to bless their lives.

Instead, that soul, for whatever reason, has chosen, through human will, to follow their “own” desires and have been inadvertently cut-off from God’s GRACE. "…My people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “...They went backward instead of forward...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “…We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT). “…Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any one of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God” (Hebrews 3:12 KJV). 

 “…[Because of your choices, you]… have been (inadvertently) cut off from Christ! [You]… have (inadvertently) fallen away from God’s GRACE…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT).

“... Now we KNOW that God heareth NOT sinners; but if any man be a WORSHIPPER of God and DOETH his will, him he HEARETH...” (John 9:31 KJV). “…Evildoers shall be CUT OFF …" (Psalm 37:1-11 KJV). “…YOUR SINS (sinful lifestyles) … have cut you off from God…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT).

“... In Him.., you WERE SEALED ...WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT OF PROMISE.…” (Ephesians 1 NLT).  However, “... 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).

God’s GRACE is generous toward HISHIS “covenant unity: people, not because of favoritism, but because they totally trust and depend upon the LOVE of God expressed to them in his WORD.

They RECEIVE that God has “….loved [them]...with an everlasting love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV). They trust and depend upon the truth that there is “… [no]….greater love…than this…” (John 15:13 KJV).

They choose to trust and depend upon his promises. “…This is the confidence that [God’s people]... have in him, that, if [they]... ask any thing according to his will (choices, desires, heartfelt words,etc.), he heareth[them]…” (1 John 5:14 KJV). “…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).

God is “…watching over [his[… word to perform it…” (Jeremiah 1:12 NASB). “…[God’s people KNOW his]… word ... that goeth forth out of [his]… mouth: it shall not return unto [him]… void, but it shall accomplish that which [God]… please[s], and it shall prosper in the thing whereto [God]… sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV). “…The Father (the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT)that dwelleth in [HIS PEOPLE] he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“….Apart from [God, the Holy Spirit], [the soul]… can do nothing (they can’t save themselves nor can they life a blessed, fruitful and spiritual life)…” (John 15:5 NIV).  “…It is the SPIRIT who gives [every aspect and experience of spiritual]... “LIFE”; the flesh profits nothing…” (John 6:63 NASB).

“…The …HOLY SPIRIT …is the SOURCE of [all spiritual life and its experiences]. …it is …God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of [those]... who are his. The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of [his people] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

The “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit is the CHANGE AGENT for your soul, your mind, your emotions, your heart, your spiritual life and whatever else you need. “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

God says: “… “I AM WHO I AM ’ This is My name forever, and this is My memorial-name to all generations…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I am  the Lord, the God of all flesh…” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). "… I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God…" (Revelation 1:8 NASB). “… I, the LORD … the first, and with the last. I am He...'" (Isaiah 41:4 NASB).  

“...The lord is GOOD…there is none good but one, that is, God...” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). There is NONE good without God. “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

“… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV).  God is “…majestic in holiness…” (Exodus 15:11 KJV). “… His … [Holiness] …is above earth and heaven…” (Psalms 148:13 NASB). “There is none holy as the Lord…” (1 Samuel 2:2 KJV).

“…  I, the Lord, am your healer…” (Exodus 15:26).“….The Lord is “my” shepherd ….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT).

“…God is the one who provides …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). “… God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…God will generously PROVIDE all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to “SHARE” WITH OTHERS…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT). “...  God ...will provide and increase [his people’s]… resources...”(2 Corinthians 9:3-16 NLT).

“… [God] … will keep in perfect peace all who trust in … [him] … all whose thoughts are fixed on … [him!]” (Isaiah 26:3 NLT). “…I am leaving you with a GIFT—peace of mind and heart...” (John 14:27 KJV). “...There will be glory and honor and peace from God for all who do good ....” (Romans 2:5-13 NLT).

“… THE LORD [God, the Holy Spirit] … 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).“…Thou shalt know that I the LORD am thy Saviour …” (Isaiah 60:16 KJV).

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

Within the “covenant unity” relationship, “…[God] ...the …HOLY SPIRIT …is the [immutable]...SOURCE of [IT ALL!!!] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

 

GOD'S PEOPLE HAVE RETURNED TO A FORMER GLORY!

RETURNED TO A FORMER GLORY

 “…that they might KNOW…..the only true God and Jesus Christ…” (John 17:3)

                     *

“... I am fearfully and wonderfully made;Wonderful are Your works, …” (Psalms 139: 7:14 NASB).“….God saw everything he had made……and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

“...The lord is GOOD…there is none good but one, that is, God...” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV).  THERE IS “NONE” GOOD WITHOUT HIM. “… ONE sinner destroy[ed]… MUCH GOOD…” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB).

“…God asked the woman, “What have you done?”(Genesis 3:7-13 NLT). Sin and spiritual death had entered the natural realm (the world).

“... When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought [spiritual] ... death, so [spiritual] ... death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned (is existing and breathing without the Holy Spirit) ... But there is a great difference between Adam’s sin and God’s gracious gift. For the sin (disobedience) 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 (who obeyed), Jesus Christ. 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 restored, reunited with the Holy Spirit again, returned to a former glory, etc.,), even though we 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, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT).

God’s LOVINGKINDESS lead HIM to send Jesus. “… [He sent the ] …one… who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

Jesus made it possible for the lost and spiritual dead soul to be reconciled to God, the Holy Spirit again. “… my righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “...For Christ also died for sins ONCE for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us...[BACK HOME]... to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit;” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

Sin had separated mankind from the God, who LOVED them. Not only is the lost soul separated from God, the Holy Spirit, but there is a BARRIER between them too. “... between us [there is]... a great chasm (barrier) …” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

This barrier is also known as a CHASM, which separates the natural realm from the supernatural realm. It also creates an impenetrable boundary between sinful mankind and the HOLY God, which means they cannot have a “covenant unity” relationship “...a great chasm(barrier) has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here (the Holy place) to you (the unholy place) 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 sets an impenetrable boundary. They are in two different realms or places. “...those who want to go from here to you cannot, norcan anyone cross over from there to us…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

 God, who is in the holies of holy, can’t even accept them, or hear them, or look upon them with any kind of favor. “…[God, the Holy Spirit] cannot look on wickedness with favor…” (Habakkuk 1:13 NASB). “…[God, the Holy Spirit’s]... eyes are too pure to approve (accept, endorse, sanction, etc.) 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 chasm. “…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).

Without Jesus, there “WOULD” ALWAYS remain an impenetrable BARRIER or CHASM between mankind (SIN/oil) and God (HOLY/water). “...And besides all this, between us and you ,,,[there is]...a great chasm …” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

“…[God, the Holy Spirit] cannot look on wickedness with favor…” (Habakkuk 1:13 NASB). “…[God, the Holy Spirit’s]... eyes are too pure to approve evil…” (Habakkuk 1:13 NASB). “... APART FROM [Christ]... you (soul) can do nothing (the lost soul cannot UNITE with the HOLY God)  …” (John 15:1-11 NASB).

“… I AM HOLY(completely, entirely, wholly without sin)…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). GOD IS THE HOLY SPIRIT. “...between us...[there is]... a great chasm…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB). God dwells in the “holy of holies.”

If the soul and God, the Holy Spirit are divided asunder, that soul is reduced to a sinner who will die. “...I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). “.... the soul that sinneth, it shall die...” (Ezekiel 18:4 KJV). “…For all (souls) have sinned…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “…all (souls) have ... come short of the glory of God (all souls are born and exist WITHOUT God, the Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).

Without Jesus the soul is LOST, SPIRITUALLY DEAD, and SEPARATED from God, the Holy Spirit’s presence.  “… [YOUR] … iniquities (sin) …separated [YOU]… from God… …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV).

BUT God, the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE spared no expense to RECONCILE with those HE LOVED. “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…[The HOLY]...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 [the HOLY]...God, but that he loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation (substitute, intervention) for our sins...” (1 John 4:10 KJV).

“…Christ (God’s RECONCILER)...suffered for sins ...that he might bring us ...[back]... to God …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV).

“… Indeed, [god, the holy spirit]... loves the people…” (Deuteronomy 33:3 NASB). “… I will bring them home again,” says the Lord….” (HOSEA 11 NLT). “…[So, God]...spared not his own Son...” (Romans 8:32 KJV).“...the just for the unjust, that he might bring us [back] to [HIMSELF]…” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV).

“… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). God is the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE. “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).

God, the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE made a WAY to bring mankind back into a “COVENANT UNITY” relationship with HIM, AGAIN.

 “…THE WAYis narrow that LEADS TO LIFE…” (Matthew 7:13-14 NASB). “…This is the way; WALK in it…" Isaiah 30:21 NIV “...Jesus saith…I am the way…” (John 14:6 KJV). “… Jesus opened a new and life-giving way  ... into the Most Holy Place…” (Hebrews 10:19-20 NLT).

 “…[Mankind was]...  dead in [their] sins[too] and ... [NOW]…God made [his redeemed people]... ALIVE with Christ. He forgave [them]… all [their]… sins…” (Colossians 2:13 NIV). God “….made [the redeemed]… ALIVE with Christ …when [they]… were DEAD in transgressions…” (Ephesians 2:5 NIV).

“….God SHOWED HIS GREAT LOVE FOR [mankind] by sending Christ to die for [them] while [they] were still sinners (lost and spiritually dead)…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT). “...because HE  LOVED [them]…” (1 John 4:19 ASV).

Like the prodigal son, “… [they were spiritually]…. DEAD and [have been made]… ALIVE AGAIN; [the redeemed were]… lost and [have been]… found…” (Luke 15:24 NIV).

However, .. “…a right relationship with God…comes by faith…” (Romans 4:13 NASB). “…Confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and … BELIEVE IN THINE HEART that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be SAVED…” (ROMANS 10:9 KJV).

“…[He sent the ] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). NLT).

God is the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE. “…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 RECONCILER) also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us [back] to God …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). That he might bring us back into UNITY and WHOLENESS with God, the Holy Spirit.

 God, the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE had a PLAN of SALVATION for the lost and spiritually dead soul. “... When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought [spiritual] ... death, so [spiritual] ... death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned (is born without the indwelling Holy Spirit) ... 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. 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 restored, reunited with the Holy Spirit again, returned to a former glory, etc.,), even though we 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, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT).

“… my righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT).

Every LOST and SPIRITUALLY dead SOUL can RECONCILE with God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus by faith.   “…a right ...[covenant] ... relationship with God…comes,[is established, sustained, and endures]... by faith…” (Romans 4:13 NASB). “…Confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus (his living word), and … BELIEVE (trust and depend upon him) IN THINE HEART that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be SAVED…” (ROMANS 10:9 KJV).

“…BY GRACE  (undeserved or unmerited FAVOR) have ye been saved (from being lost and spiritually dead) through… FAITH (trusting and depending upon God, the Holy Spirit); and that NOT OF YOURSELVES, it is the gift of God; NOT OF WORKS, that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “…The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, ALONG WITH FAITH and love that are in Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 1:13-14 NIV).

God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE makes lost and spiritually dead souls NEW CREATIONS. “...old things are passed away; behold, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME (MADE) NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE sends forth his SON, the spiritual seed (Jesus), and the spiritual seed is SOWN into their heart. However, in order, for the New Creation to walk in the NEWNESS of spiritual life, the SEED needs to be watered so it can GROW. “… God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (HIS WORD) into [y]our hearts...” (Galatians 4:6 NASB).  “…The sower (God) SOWETH THE WORD …The (spiritual) seed (Jesus) is [also]... the WORD OF GOD ….. THE WORD …was sown in [THE] HEARTS [of God’s redeemed people]... (symbolic of the ground; earth)…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV).

 “… His name (Jesus’ name) is [also] called The Word of God (the spiritual seed)…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “ …We have this treasure  (this spiritual seed) “in” earthen (human) vessels…” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). 

Jesus is the “spiritual SEED” planted in the earth of the human heart after it is received and accepted. After the seed is received and accepted it WILL always produce spiritual fruit when properly WATERED with LIVING WATER. “…The seed that fell on good soil ...  [will]... produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted... ” (Matthew 13: 18-23 NLT).“…The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness…” (Galatians 5:22 NLT).

When properly WATERED by LIVING WATER the seed will GROW and produce spiritual fruit that empowers New Creations to REVEAL God’s imageand likeness or HIS GLORY. “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The Holy Spirit  produces  ...(spiritual) fruit in [the lives of HIS people when the SEED is watered]….” (Galatians 5 NLT).  "…My Father is glorified by this, that “YOU” (his redeemed people, New Creations, those returned to a former glory, etc.,) 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, the Holy Spirit represents a type of water and is referred to as a “...spring of living water...” (Jeremiah 2:13 KJV).“....I (God, the Holy Spirit) will pour my Spirit upon THY SEED...” (Isaiah 44:3 KJV). “… …The seed is the WORD OF GOD …” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV).

“…God ...the … HOLY SPIRIT ... is the SOURCE of ...[LIVING WATER]…it is …God ... does the work IN and THROUGH all of ...[HIS people]... The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s [working] power (to produce spiritual fruit) THROUGH each of [his people, when they water the “seed”] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…the Father … he doeth the works...[of producing spiritual fruit that empowers New Creations to give him GLORY]…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“… His name (Jesus’ name) is [also] called The Word of God …” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB).

“… [The] Good News about Christ]... (GOD’s LIVING WORD)… It is the power of God at work, saving  everyone who believes (WHO DEPENDS UPON HIS WORD)…” (Romans 1:16 NLT).

“…[JESUS, THE POWERFUL “LIVING” WORD,  IS THE] …one … who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).“…Jesus Christ makeththee whole (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

When God, the Holy Spirit is RECONCILED with the LOST and SPIRITUALLY dead soul again, they BECOME New Creations!  “…Jesus Christ makeththee whole (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “...Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

The RECONCILIATION between SPIRIT and SOUL is a “covenant unity,” like a marriage, but they (Spirit & soul) “literally” become “ONE.” “…He [or she]… that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT….” (1 Corinthians 6:17). "...I and my Father are one..." (John 10:30 KJV). “…that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You…” (John 17:21-23 NASB).

Spirit and soul are ONE unit, again, when Jesus restores or reconciles the covenant relationship between God and his redeemed people. “…the Holy Spirit gives birth to (or restores, reconciles, etc.,) SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT).  God is a “…restorer of thy [spiritual]... life…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV). “…He restoreth my SOUL [to his image and likeness]…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “…The law of the LORD (the WORD of God) is perfect, restoring the SOUL…” (Psalm 19 NASB). “….He (the WORD OF GOD) restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “…I (God, the holy spirit) will restore…” (Jeremiah 30:17 KJV).  “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... and man (woman) became a living (spirit) soul (soul) …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

The RECONCILIATION with God, the Holy Spirit transforms the lost and spiritually dead soul into a NEW CREATION that has an affinity toward God, again.“...Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).  “... You are my God; I shall seek You earnestly; My soulthirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You...” (Psalms 63:1 NLT).

The soul becomes a NEW CREATION restored or reconciled back into God’s original image and likeness, which means they are RETURNED to a former GLORY. “….let us make man in “our” image, after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV).  “…..God created man in his own image…..male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “….God formed man of the dust of the ground (BODY), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (HOLY SPIRIT); and man became a living soul(SOUL)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). “...Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).  

The soul is no longer LOST or spiritually dead, but has been FOUND and made spiritually ALIVE. RETURNED to a FORMER GLORY. “...and man (woman) became a living soul (SOUL, again)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

The bible gives God’s redeemed people a HINT on how the soul, RECONCILED to God, experiences  the “covenant unity” relationship. They are enlightened, they experience the good thing of heaven, they share in the Holy Spirit, and they taste the goodness of God’s Word, and its working power.“…  those who were once enlightened—those who haveexperienced the good things of heaven and shared in the Holy Spirit,  who have tasted the goodness of the Word of God and the power of the age to come …” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

When the soul RECONCILES with God, the Holy Spirit it become “enlightened.” “Enlightened” means the soul has been resurrected by spiritual truth, that has REVEALED God to them, through his WORD who “IS” also called the LIGHT of the world. “… His (Jesus) name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “… I am (jesus, the word of god is) the light of the world..." (John 9:5, 8:12 KJV). “... the light makes everything visible. This is why it is said, “Awake, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will give you light... (Ephesians 5:19 NLT).”“…THE WORDS THAT I SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Word was [and is]... God … (John 1:1-4 NASB). “… I am the light of the world..." (John 9:5, 8:12 KJV). “... He (THE WORD) is a light to reveal God to the nations...” (Luke 2:32 NLT). “.. A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB). “…The Light which … enlightens every man (woman)…” (John 1:19 NASB).

The “LIGHT” is the Gospel of TRUTH or the WORD OF GOD. The WORD OF GOD “REVEALS” God. “…The only begotten (specially created) Son (Jesus, the WORD), of the Father, he hath declared (explained or REVEALED) him…” (John 1:18 KJV).“... He (THE WORD) is a light to reveal God to the nations...” (Luke 2:32 NLT). “.. A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB).

“…the Word was [and is]... God … (John 1:1-4 NASB. The WORD OF GOD “is” God, which means “the word” actually represents his presence. “... the glorious gospel of christ (the word), who “is” the image of god...” (2 Corinthians 4:4 kjv).

 When god’s glory is upon something, it means, at that moment, you are witnessing his “very” presence. “…The Son (the Word of God) is the RADIANCE (revelation) of God’s Glory (his presence) and the EXACT representation of his being (Holy nature))…” (Hebrews 1:3 KJV).

“... He (THE WORD) is a light to reveal God to the nations...” (Luke 2:32 NLT). “.. A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB). “…The Light which … enlightens every [redeemed]...man (woman)…” (John 1:19 NASB).

When the soul RECONCILES with God, the Holy Spirit they also  “experience the good things of heaven.” Heaven can refer to God’s dwelling place. “... O Thou (God, the Holy Spirit) dwellest in the heavens...” (Psalms 123:1 KJV). “...the Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom (the spiritual realm) ruleth over all...” (Psalms 103:19 KJV).  “... Who is like unto the Lord our God, who dwelleth on high. (elevated and SET APART by his HOLINESS)..” (Psalm 113:5 KJV).

Heaven in its simplicity is a PLACE or a REALM separate from natural places or the natural REALMS. “...Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth...” (Luke 11:2 KJV).

Heaven is NOT a physical reality, but a spiritual one, where the FULLNESS of God’s GLORY or presence exists perpetually and uninterrupted. “.. Glorify your Father who is in heaven...” (Matthew 5:16 KJV).

IN HEAVEN, “…God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away…” (Revelation 21:3-4 KJV).

This spiritual reality is a LOFTY PLACE, called HEAVEN, where God, MOST HIGH dwells, FREELY in his HOLINESS. . “... the Lord is HIGH about all the nations, and his GLORY (HIS PRESENCE IS) ABOVE THE HEAVENS...” Who is like unto the Lord our God, who dwelleth on HIGH. (LOFTY and SET APART by his HOLINESS)..” (Psalm 119:4-5 KJV).

ALL of God’s GLORY can NOT be confined to HEAVEN; the whole world is full of his GLORY (HIS PRESENCE). “... the HEAVEN and the heavens CANNOT contain [God]...” (1 Kings 8:27 KJV). “…. the whole earth is full of [God’s]…glory…” (Isaiah 6:3).

HEAVEN gives witness to the transcendence of God’s existence and it EXALTS him to his true position as KING of kings! “...Let them praise the name of the LORD: for his name alone is excellent; his GLORY is ABOVE the earth and the HEAVEN...” (Psalm 148:13 KJV). “... Be thou exalted, O God, ABOVE the HEAVENS: and thy GLORY above all the earth...” (Psalms 108:5 KJV).

Jesus, often referred to his Father “IN” heaven. “...the will of My Father who is in heaven...” (Matthew 7:21 KJV). “... my Father which is in heaven...” (Matthew 10:32 KJV). “...my Father which is in heaven...” (Matthew 11:25 KJV). “... Jesus said, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth...” (Matthew 12:50 KJV). “... my Father which is in heaven...” (Matthew 16:17 KJV).

“... my Father which is in heaven...” (Matthew 18:14 KJV). “... it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven...” (Matthew 23:9 KJV).

Every GOOD and PERFECT gift comes down from this spiritual REALM. “...Every good GIFT and every perfect GIFT is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights…” (James 1:17 KJV).  “…The HOLY SPIRIT …gives all these gifts and POWERS… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

“…The GIFT by grace……” (Romans 5:15 KJV). ”… ye [are]…saved through faith…it is the GIFT of God…” (Ephesians 2:8 KJV). “…The GIFT of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ ….” (Romans 6:23 KJV).  “….ye shall receive the GIFT of the Holy Ghost…” (Acts 2:38 KJV). “…the GIFT of righteousness…” (Romans 5:17 KJV). “…I am leaving you with a GIFT—peace of mind and heart...” (John 14:27 KJV). “… People should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God…” (Ecclesiastes 3:13 NLT). “…God has given us different GIFTS for doing certain things well…” (Romans 12:6 NLT). “…every man (woman) hath his (her) 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).

“…BLESSED be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who HATH blessed [his people]... with all spiritual blessings …in heavenly places in Christ…” (Ephesians 1:3 KJV).

“... Every good GIFT and every perfect GIFT is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights…” (James 1:17 KJV). “…A man (woman) can receive nothing, except it BE GIVEN him (her) from heaven…” (John 3:27 KJV). “… “…The LORD SHALL GIVE that which is good…” (Psalms 85:12 KJV). “…What do you have that God hasn’t given you?" (1 Corinthians 4:7 NLT).

“….Do not forget that [God]… led you through ... He gave you water …He fed you….He did all this so you would never say to yourself, ‘I have achieved this wealth with my own strength and energy.’ Remember the Lord your God. He is the one who gives you power (authority) to be successful ...” (Deuteronomy 8:17-17 NLT). “…[Thus] ...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). “…those[who have been given GIFTS from heaven,] ...have [also]... experienced the good things of heaven …” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

When the soul RECONCILES with God, the Holy Spirit he or she has “shared in the holy spirit.” SHARING life with God, the Holy Spirit, in a “covenant unity” relationship, is CALLED mutuality. In mutuality, demonstrations of LOVE are shared with one another.

God, the Holy Spirit of IMMUTABLE LOVE, loves first, loves continually, and loves forever.  "...he first loved us...” (1 John 4:19 KJV). He has “… [Nothing]…will be able to separate [God’s people]...from the love of God…” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).   “….[God has]...loved [his people]...with an everlasting love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV).

Mutuality or SHARING is meant to be a conglomeration of reciprocal behaviors. Mutuality or SHARING involves reciprocal actions also. For instance, God says, “…..I… [LOVE YOU]… with an everlasting love…” ….and [you say,]… [YOU LOVE GOD]… with all your heart… mind… soul… and  understanding….” (Jeremiah 31:3; Romans 12:3 KJV).

In mutuality or SHARING there are reciprocaland relational benefits, relational growth and development, relational gains, relational commonality, and relational sacrifices. God, the Holy Spirit SHARES “…the riches of his glory (presence) in Christ Jesus….” (Philippians 4:19 KJV). And you SHARE, “…your [body as] ...  a living sacrifice…” (Romans 12:1 KJV).

Letting God, the indwelling Holy Spirit, SHARE your life gives you the GIFT of purpose. “...And all things are of God, who hath reconciled [his people] to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given [them] the ministry of reconciliation...” (2 Corinthians 5:18 KJV).

In this SHARING exchange with God, the indwelling Holy Spirit, he freely and openly REVEALS himself through HIS WORD. “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…THE WORDS  ... they ARE SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…the Word [is]... God … (John 1:1-4 NASB). “… [the word is]... the light of the world..." (John 9:5, 8:12 KJV). “... [the word] ... is a light to reveal God to the nations...” (Luke 2:32 NLT). “.. A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB).

God, the holy spirit, SHARES the depth of his love. “...  perceive ... the love of God, because he laid down his life for us...” (1 John 3:16 KJV). “... Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And ...he was buried, and ...he rose again the third day ...” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4 KJV). “..Christ also died for sins ONCE for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “ ... 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). “…There is no greater love…” (John 15:13 NLT).

God, the holy spirit, SHARES the depth of his care. “...he careth for you…” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV). “... The LORD “WILL” accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “...Casting all your care upon him...” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV).  “...he careth for you…” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV). “…The name of the Lord is a strong tower (REFUGE); The righteous runs into it and is safe…” (Proverbs 18:10 NASB). “…God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble…” (Psalms 46:1 NASB). “…you will find rest for your souls…” (Matthew 11:29 NASB).

God, the holy spirit, SHARES the depth of his attention to your prayers and communication with him. “And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us...” (1 John 5:14-15 KJV). “Behold, the eye of the LORD isupon them that fear him....” (Psalm 33:18 KJV). “….call upon me …and pray unto me and I will [LISTEN] unto you…” (Jeremiah 29:12-13 KJV).

God, the holy spirit, SHARES his support gently, and respectfully  through his generous grace, mercy, and understanding over weaknesses and struggles. “… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV).  And, “…Be holy, because I am holy…” (1 Peter 1:16 KJV). “[However, God can]… be touched with the feeling of our infirmities...” (Hebrews 4:15 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). “...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). “…There is …no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus...” (Romans 8:1 NIV). “….mercy triumphs over judgement…” (James 2:13 NASB).

“…My GRACE is sufficient for thee: for my strengthis made perfect in weakness...” (2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV). “...Grow in the GRACE and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ… Amen...” (2 Timothy 3:18 NIV).

God, the holy spirit, SHARES a sincere commitment of faithfulness with you. “...God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord...” (1 Corinthians 1:9 KJV). “...The faithful love of the Lord never ends!His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning...” (Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT). “...God is faithful...” (1 Corinthians 1:9 KJV). “… he remains faithful , for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

God, the holy spirit, SHARES his strength by continually protecting you. “...He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection...” (Psalm 91:4 NLT). “… I am the Lord your God…’” (Exodus 16:12 NLT). “…Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you can] … take refuge; Your shield and the horn of Your salvation, YOURstronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

God, the holy spirit, SHARES the depth of his attention by revealing his knowledge of you. “..O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know everything I do. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord  Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to understand...” (Psalms 139:1-6 NLT). “…All mine are thine, and THINE ARE MINE (which means God and his people SHARE).…” (John 17:10 KJV).

When the soul RECONCILES with God, the Holy Spirit they are enabled to “taste the goodness of the word of god.” “… He (Jesus) had a name written, that no man knew … his name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “... O TASTE and “see” that [Word of GOD]... is GOOD...” (Psalms 34:8 KJV).

People ACQUIRE a taste for the WORD of God through experience. An acquired taste refers to an appreciation for the WORD of God that has developed over time and is now enjoyed by someone who has had substantial exposure to it. “... O TASTE and “see” that [Word of GOD]... is GOOD: BLESSED(happy, nourished) is the man (woman) that trusteth in him (depend upon him, the Word)...” (Psalms 34:8 KJV).

Every SAVED person has TASTED the goodness of the WORD through salvation. “… [The WORD of GOD]…is the power of God at work (miraculously), saving everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:16 NLT). “…BY THE WORD of the Lord [the redeemed were SAVED]…” (Psalms 33:6 NASB).

HOW? “…If any man(woman) be in Christ (by the power of god’s word), he(she) is a NEW CREATURE …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “… [New creations]… are HIS workmanship, created in Christ Jesus (the powerful Word) 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).

“… [by the power of god’s word, you are] ... a NEW creature: …” (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 [you] HIS [HOLY] ...Spirit as PROOF that … he [dwells]…in [you]…” (1 John 4:13 NLT “…God … SENT forth the Spirit of His Son (the WORD) “INTO” [Y]OUR… HEARTS (core of the SOUL)…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB).

“…The Spirit of God dwell[s] inyou (or is reconciled to your SOUL 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]... liveth in [you]…” (Galatians 2:20 KJV). “…[New Creations]... can do all things through Christ  (the word) which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

“… [God, the Holy Spirit] grant[s]… [New Creations, by the power of the Word]… to be strengthened with might by his [holy] ... Spirit in the inner man (woman)…” (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]... 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…” (2 Corinthians 4:5-7 NLT).

“…BY THE WORD of the Lord [New Creations are INDWELLED with GREAT POWER]…” (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), and apart from [the WORD of GOD] nothing [COMES] into being that [WILL or HAS] come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB). “... O TASTE and “see” that [Word of GOD]... is GOOD...” (Psalms 34:8 KJV).

“...BLESSED (happy, nourished) is the man (woman) that trusteth in him(depend upon him, the Word)...” (Psalms 34:8 KJV. GOD'S REDEEMED PEOPLE HAVE RETURNED TO A FORMER GLORY BY RECONCILING WITH GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT THROUGH JESUS CHRIST.

HOW DOES GOD RESTORE YOUR SOUL?

HE RESTORES MY SOUL

 “…that they might KNOW…..the only true God and Jesus Christ…” (John 17:3)

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The “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, has EVERYTHING his people could ever NEED or WANT, yet some of them will STILL choose, through human will, to WALK AWAY and TURN their BACKS on him.“... IN LATTER TIMES “SOME” SHALL [CHOOSE OR DECIDE TO] ...DEPART FROM the FAITH !!!! (depart from trusting in and depending upon God)...” (1 Timothy 4:1-3 KJV).

“...Take heed, BRETHREN , lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. ..” (Hebrews 3:12 KJV). “... If ye continue in the faith ... and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, [but continue to ENDURE, YOU SHALL BE SAVED] ...” (Colossians 1:22-23 KJV).

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

God says: “... I hate divorce!…” (Malachi 2:16 NLT). A divorce is the end of a covenant relationship and means it is terminated or broken. It also means the legal duties and responsibilities of each spouse have been canceled and the vows, under the rule of law, are no longer binding.

In order to obtain a divorce, the covenant parties must go through a legal process, according to the laws of their state or country. This process requires the involvement of a court and a judge that decides on issues such as distribution of properties, child support, alimony, sharing of debt, and the splitting of material possessions.

The reasons for divorce, varies, but could entail anything from incompatibility to infidelity. In the instant of divorce either both parties want the divorce, or one party wants the divorce and the other concedes to the other parties wishes.

The bottom line is that a DIVORCE is the dissolution of a covenant marriage relationship and it requires a LEGAL PROCESS to END it.

When APOSTASY happened in biblical history it meant the “covenant unity” relationship with God has been broken. The soul is lost and the body, without the Spirit is dead.

“...souls of men(women)...” (Revelation 18:13 KJV). “...the Son of man (God’s living Word) is come to seek and to save that which was lost...” (Luke 19:10 KJV). ).  “… [The] Good News about Christ (the Son of man, the Living Word). It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:16 NLT). “....receive... the ...word (Jesus), which is able to save your souls...” (James 1:21 KJV). “…the body without (apart from) the spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV).

A lost soul is UNABLE, on their own, to find his or her WAY back HOME to God, the Holy Spirit. “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 sin (through the dead, sinful nature)?…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

The body apart from the Spirit is DEVOID of spiritual LIFE. The soul is LOST and IMPRISONED within a spiritual DEAD body. “…[They became] ... DEAD in trespasses and sin (lost souls trapped within the spiritually dead sinful nature)…” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV).

God through Jesus brings the lost soul back home and restores spiritual life to them. “...He loves the people…” (Deuteronomy 33:3 NASB).“… I will bring them home again,” says the Lord….” (HOSEA 11 NLT). “…There is … one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).  

“...Christ also died for sins ONCE for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us...[BACK]... to God...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

“…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE …” (John 3:6 NLT). “…The Spirit of God [will come to]...dwell… in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…The Lord ( the GOOD SEED that is sown into the heart) is that Spirit (too)…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). “…Jesus Christ is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

In summary, the soul, without God, the Holy Spirit, is a lost soul, trapped within the prison of a spiritually dead body, made from the dust of the ground. Lost souls are called sinners, not because of what they do or don’t do, but because they are “…DEAD “IN” trespasses and sin (lost souls trapped within a spiritually dead, sinful nature)...” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV). “…the body without (apart from) the spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV).

Without God, the Holy Spirit, the body no longer houses a LIVING SOUL. WHY? “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT).  “...The Spirit GIVES life...” (John 6:63 NIV). “...He is ... God (the Holy Spirit IS THE ONE) who made the world and everything in it ...He himself gives life (spiritual life) and breath (existence) to everything...” (Acts 17:24-25 NLT). “... [God’s] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of  it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

“….Apart from [the Holy Spirit]…[mankind can]..do nothing (they cannot be spiritually alive, again)…” (John 15:5 NIV).

Lost, spiritually dead souls are“…separated from the LIFE of God (the holy spirit)…” (Ephesians 4:18 NIV). BECAUSE, “…It is the (Holy) SPIRIT who gives [spiritual] LIFE…” (John 6:63 NASB).

What made the CREATION of mankind “LIVING” was because God, the Holy Spirit was a PART of the BODY and SOUL.  “…And the LORD God  ... breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (his Holy Spirit) (this was good)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “...The Spirit GIVES life...” (John 6:63 NIV).“…[God is]... GOOD …” (Psalm 119:68 KJV). “…The fruit of the Spirit is ... GOODness…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). "....The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…Apart from [the Holy Spirit]… [mankind cannot]... do nothing [they cannot be SPIRITUALLY ALIVE or GOOD]…” (John 15:5 NIV). “….God saw everything he had made…and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

NOW, the lost, spiritually dead soul says, “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good,but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin that is … within me.  …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

By the POWER of God’s Word, the Holy Spirit and the soul can divide asunder (BREAK-UP the covenant unity). “...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).

God, the Holy Spirit, GAVE Adam and Eve one HOLY instruction:  “…of every tree of the garden THOU MAYEST FREELY EAT: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou  SHALT NOT EAT of it; for in THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV).

What does God tell HIS PEOPLE about HIS WORD? “…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). “…Not one of the good promises which the Lord had made … failed; all came to pass…” (Joshua 21:45 NASB).

God’s WORD said to Adam(Eve): “...THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV).

YET“…The woman [became] ... convinced [to eat from the tree, anyway]... She saw that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).

“….She [willfully CHOSE to take] ... some of the fruit and [eat] ... IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).

“….God saw everything he had made……and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV). Adam and Eve destroyed MUCH GOOD.

“…God asked the woman, “What have you done?”(Genesis 3:7-13 NLT). “… ONE sinner destroy[ed]… MUCH GOOD…” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB). “...The lord is GOOD…there is none good but one, that is, God...” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV).

“…through one [hu]man SIN (transgression against God’s instructions) entered into the world, and [spiritual] DEATH THROUGH SIN (spiritual death came along with sin), and so [spiritual] death passed to “all” men(women)—“(Romans 5:12 KJV).  NOW “…All have sinned (all are born spiritually dead) and fallen SHORT of the GLORY of God (all are born without the Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23).

“….She [willingly CHOSE to take] ... some of the fruit and [eat] ... IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).

“…God asked the woman, “What have you done?”(Genesis 3:7-13 NLT).

God says, I “…am WATCHING over my word (“...thou shalt surely DIE”...) to PERFORM it…” (Jeremiah 1:12 NASB). “…Not one of the good promises which the Lord had made … failed; all came to pass…” (Joshua 21:45 NASB).

Thus,“.... at that moment their eyes were opened (opened to a life SEPARATE from God, the Holy Spirit)…” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).  “…[their] ...INIQUITIES … separated … [them from] ... God (the breath of life, the Holy Spirit, GOODNESS)…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…It’s [THEIR] SINS that  ...cut [them] off from God…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT). 

A willful, voluntarily decision to ignore God’s holy instructions by CHOOSING “not” to trust and depend upon HIS WORD CUT them OFF from God, the Holy Spirit or SEPARATED them from the breathe of life. “…It’s YOUR SINS that … [will] ...cut you off from God…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT).

In the “covenant unity” relationship, Adam and Eve had human will the entire time and were never forced to abide with God, the Holy Spirit. “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

ALL choices, made through the human will, have consequences. God fully disclosed to Adam(Eve) what those consequences would be if they CHOSE to eat from the tree. Thus, “…my people (Adam (Eve) at the time) would not listen to me...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “….For he(she) that soweth to his(her) flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption…” (Galatians 6:8 KJV).

 God said to Adam(Eve): “... THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV).

What was the consequences of Adam and Eve’s decision? “…[They became] ... DEAD in trespasses and sin…” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV).

Their souls became lost souls, trapped within the prison of the spiritually dead body, made from the dust of the ground. God, the Holy Spirit was no longer present. Lost souls are called sinners, because they are “…DEAD “IN”trespasses and sin (lost souls trapped within the spiritually dead sinful nature)...” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV). “…the body without (apart from) the spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV).

“... THE DAY THAT THOU EATESTthereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). “…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).). “...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).

When the soul was DIVIDED ASUNDER from the Holy Spirit it was ALONE and apart from God. “...soulsof men(women)...” (Revelation 18:13 KJV). “...the Son of man (God’s living Word) is come to seek and to save that which was lost...” (Luke 19:10 KJV). “....receive... the ...word (Jesus), which is able to save your souls...” (James 1:21 KJV). “…the body without(apart from) the spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV).

When the soul is left ALONE, without God, the Holy Spirit, it becomes LOST in the natural world, which is UNDER the power of the Evil One. “…the whole world lies under the power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19 RSV).

Not only is the lost soul separated from God, the Holy Spirit, but there is a BARRIER between them too. This barrier is also known as a CHASM, which separates the natural realm from the supernatural realm. It also creates impenetrable boundaries between sinful mankind and the HOLY God and they cannot have a “covenant unity” relationship “... 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 sets impenetrable boundaries. They are in two different realms, God can’t even accept them, or hear them, or look upon them with any kind of favor. “…[God, the Holy Spirit] cannot look on wickedness with favor…” (Habakkuk 1:13 NASB). “…[God, the Holy Spirit’s]... eyes are too pure to approve (accept, endorse, sanction, etc.) 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 chasm. “…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] a great chasm (barrier) …” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

Remember the biblical story of the poor man and the rich man? “…The poor man died and was carried away by the angels to Abraham’s bosom; and the rich man also died and was buried. In Hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torment, and saw Abraham far away and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried out and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus so that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool off my tongue, for I am in agony in this flame.’ But Abraham said, ‘Child, remember that during your life you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus bad things; but now he is being comforted here, and you are in agony. 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).

Without Jesus, there “WILL” ALWAYS remain an impenetrable BARRIER or CHASM between mankind (SIN/oil) and God (HOLY/water). “...And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm …” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB). “…[God, the Holy Spirit] cannot look on wickedness with favor…” (Habakkuk 1:13 NASB). “…[God, the Holy Spirit’s]... eyes are too pure to approve evil…” (Habakkuk 1:13 NASB). “... APART FROM [Christ]... you (soul) can do nothing (the lost soul cannot UNITE with the HOLY God)  …” (John 15:1-11 NASB).

“… I AM HOLY(completely, entirely, wholly without sin)…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). GOD IS THE HOLY SPIRIT. “...between us...[there is]... a great chasm…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

If the soul and Holy Spirit are divided asunder, that soul is a sinner who will die. “...I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). “.... the soul that sinneth, it shall die...” (Ezekiel 18:4 KJV). “…For all (souls) have sinned…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “…all (souls) have ... come short of the glory of God (all souls are born and exist WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).

“…..God created man in his own image…..male and female created he them...”(Genesis 1:27 KJV). The bible says:“...God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul...” (Genesis 2:7 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). “... I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works,And my soul (my existence) knows it very well …” (Psalms 139: 7:14 NASB). “…by the GRACE of God I AM (you are) what I AM (you are)…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).

 “... Wonderful are Your works…” (Psalms 139: 7:14 NASB). God literally breathed into Adam(Eve’s) nostrils “the breath of life.” “...God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrilsthe breath of life...” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). “… [God, the Holy Spirit]... Himself GIVES to all [humanity]... LIFE (spiritual) and BREATH (soul, existence) and all things…” (Acts 17:25 NASB).

The first “covenant unity” relationship, witnessed, was between God, the Holy Spirit and Adam(Eve). Together - bonded by love and connected by Spirit – God, the HOLY SPIRIT and the soulentered into the earthen vessel. BEAUTIFUL! “...and [Adam(Eve)]... became a living soul...” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). “… [God, the Holy Spirit]... Himself GIVES to all people LIFE (making them spiritually ALIVE) and BREATH (making them an existing soul)…” (Acts 17:25 NASB).

“...Man[kind]... is like a mere breath...” (Psalm 144:4 NASB). “...Remember that my life is but breath...” (Job 7:7 NASB). “...Stop regarding man[kind], whose breath of life is in [their]... nostrils...(Isaiah 2:22 NASB). “...Surely every man (woman) at his (her( best is a mere breath. Selah...” (Psalm 39:5 NASB).“… [God, the Holy Spirit]... Himself GIVES to all people...BREATH …” (Acts 17:25 NASB).

God says, “...all souls(breaths) are mine...the soul of the father [and]... the soul of the son is mine...[and].... the soul that sinneth, it shall die...” (Ezekiel 18:4 KJV).

At this time in history, God, the Holy Spirit and Adam(Eve) were in a “covenant unity” relationship BONDED by the unity of LOVE and connected through Spirit. “…[God’s] ... love .... is the perfect BOND of unity...”(Colossians 3:14 NASB).“…He that is joined unto the LORD is ONE SPIRIT [with God AGAIN]…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).“...the Spirit of God dwelleth “in” you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV).

They were both spiritual and human beings. When God saw Adam(Eve) he saw his image and likeness and called them a LIVING SOUL. “...and [Adam(Eve)]... became a living soul...” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

Adam(Eve) made a CHOICE, using human will, and the SOUL and SPIRIT were divided asunder.“…Everyone who sins is breaking God’s [HOLY] …law, for all sin is contrary to the...[HOLY] ...  law of God….” (1 John 3:4 NLT).

Adam(Eve) KNEW God’s HOLY law, because he told them about it. They made a conscious choice, fully informed of the consequences. “…I had not known SIN, but by the law: for I had not known LUST, except the law had said, THOU SHALT NOT COVET…” (Romans 7:7 KJV). “…It was the law that showed me my sin. I would never have known that coveting is wrong if the law had not said, “You must not covet.” (Romans 7:7 NLT).  

Even though they KNEW God’s Word they were DRAWN AWAY by their OWN desires. “…every man (woman) is tempted, when he (she) is drawn away of his (her) own lust, and enticed. …” (James 1:13-15 NLT). “… SIN, when it is finished, BRINGETH FORTH DEATH…” (James 1:13-15 NLT).

“...through one man (mankind) sin entered into the world, and (spiritual) death through sin, and so (spiritual) death passed to all men (women), for that all sinned (all souls have NO Holy Spirit)—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). “... all(souls) have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23 KJV).  

God put his PLAN of SALVATION into action through JESUS CHRIST to reconcile with mankind through the “covenant unity” relationship. “...He loves the people…” (Deuteronomy 33:3 NASB).“… I will bring them home again,” says the Lord….” (HOSEA 11 NLT).

“...Christ also died for sins ONCE for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us...[BACK]... to God...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).“…[He sent the ] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole (AGAIN: body, SOUL and SPIRIT)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

Jesus RESTORES (repairs) the soul. “….He restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT).God is a “…restorer of thy life (spiritual life)…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV). “…He restoreth my SOUL…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “…The law of the LORD (the WORD of God) is perfect, restoring the SOUL…” (Psalm 19 NASB). “….He (the WORD OF GOD) restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “…I (God, the holy spirit) will restore…” (Jeremiah 30:17 KJV).  “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

.“…[He sent the ] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). Jesus RECONCILES God, the Holy Spirit and man’s soul “... and man (woman) became a living soul (aGain) …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

 “…It is the SPIRIT who gives “LIFE”; the flesh (the lost soul, ALONE,) profits nothing…” (John 6:63 NASB). “….apart from … [God’s HOLY Spirit], [the lost soul can]… do nothing (to reconcile with God)…” (John 15:5 NIV).

The soul divided asunder from God, the Holy Spirit is LOST and spiritually DEAD. The “breath of life”CONNECTS the soul with God and empowers the soul with an affinity towards HIM. “...The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin (through the sinful nature). I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right (TO HAVE AN AFFINITY TOWARD GOD), but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate.So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.  And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right (REUNITE WITH GOD), 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 (through my sinful nature). Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin (through the sinful nature)? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

Apart from the Holy Spirit, the soul, by itself, will have NO “AFFINITY” toward God at all. “….apart from … [God’s HOLY Spirit], [the soul can]… do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).“…the body without (apart from) the spirit is (spiritually) dead…” (James 2:26 KJV).

When God, originally, created mankind, they had a body, a soul, and God’s Spirit. God called them “LIVING SOULS.”  The LIVING (God, the Holy Spirit) SOUL (Adam (Eve) was in the body, together.  “...LET US MAKEman in our image, after our likeness…”(Genesis 1:26 KJV).  “…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body),and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Holy Spirit); and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). 

God, the Holy Spirit and Adam, the soul went into the body, together, as a “covenant unity.” Thus, the first COVENANT relationship was made. However, the Word said: “…of every tree of the garden THOU MAYEST FREELY EAT: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou  SHALT NOT EAT of it; for in THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV).

Adam(Eve) ate from the tree and died, spiritually, as God had said. “….So she took some of the fruit and ATE IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).“…THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof “THOU SHALT SURELY DIE”…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV).

The souls of Adam(Eve) were left to themselves when they SEPARATED from God’s Holy Spirit.  “…Your INIQUITIES (sin) have separated between you and your God, and YOUR SINS have hid his face from you, that he will not hear…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…It’s YOUR SINS that have cut you off from God.…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT).

The effects of the dividing asunder of soul and Spirit were immediate. Four important things happened: first, the Holy Spirit separated from them, second, they were also spiritually dead, third, sin had entered into the natural realm, and fourth, spiritual death entered into the natural realms too.     “...sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death passed to all men, for that all sinned—“(Romans 5:12 KJV).  “… SIN, when it is finished, BRINGETH FORTH DEATH…” (James 1:13-15 NLT). 

SIN is the violation of God’s Holy standards (big or small). “…Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the [HOLY] …law: for sin is the transgression of the [HOLY] …law….” (1 John 3:4 KJV). “…Everyone who sins is breaking God’s [HOLY] …law, for all sin is contrary to the...[HOLY] ...  law of God….” (1 John 3:4 NLT).

Every human being or soul born into the natural realm, is born without the Holy Spirit. Being a sinner is not what you do or don’t do, it is what you are by a nature that is divided asunder from God’s Holy Spirit.  “…ALL HAVE SINNED and fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23). “….I was born a sinner (I was born without the holy spirit)—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).

The soul, without God, the Holy Spirit is a lost and spiritually dead soul whose eternal future is hell and damnation. “…the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “.... the soul that sinneth, it shall die...” (Ezekiel 18:4 KJV). “...Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power...” (2 Thessalonians 1:9 KJV). “...these shall go away into everlasting punishment...”(Matthew 25:45 KJV).

The only way the soul can become FREE from a future of eternal separation from God is through Jesus. “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN (through the sinful nature headed for eternal destruction)? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). 

The Holy Spirit cannot UNITE with SIN on any level. His holiness NATURALLY separates from sinners like OIL and WATER naturally separate.  “…It’s YOUR SINS that have cut you off  from God (who is HOLY)…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT). “…Your INIQUITIES … separated … you and your God …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

The same bible also says, “...Christ also died for sins (past, present, and future) ONCE for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us...[BACK]... to God...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). Further, the bible says, “... 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).

“... Everyone (no exceptions) who sins is breaking God’s law [AND]... anyone who keeps on sinning (practicing it) does not know him ... [or] who he is...” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT).

“...when people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil...” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT). “…Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16 KJV).

 “...So now we can tell who are children of God and who are children of the devil. Anyone(NO EXCEPTIONS) who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God...” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT).

“.... Those who have been born into God’s family do not make a practice of sinning, because God’s [indwelling spiritual] ... life is in them. So they can’t keep on sinning, because they are children of God...” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT).

“ ...[Children of God]...are not controlled by [their]... sinful nature [anymore]. [they]... are controlled by the Spirit if [they] have the Spirit of God living in [them] …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). 

“…[God’s people can FREELY choose]... this day whom [they want to]... serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “…[However, whoever God’s people]...yield [them]selves servants to obey, his servants [they will become]...whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?...” (Romans 6:16 KJV). 

 “…The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants. And the [Holy] Spirit gives [the soul]... desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature (body) desires. These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions. … …” (Galatians 5 NLT).

“…If the Son therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed…” (John 8:36 KJV). “... It was for freedom that Christ set [his people]... free...” (Galatians 5:1 NASB).  “…[God’s people CAN]...choose (through their FREED human will) ...this day whom [they want to]... will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “... If [they] sin willfully  (by choice) AFTER... [they]... have received the knowledge of THE TRUTH, there remaineth NO more sacrifice for sins...” (Hebrews 10:26 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).“... 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, ye...[the redeemed]... shall all likewise PERISH…” (Luke 13:3 KJV).  

“... 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). “…[They]... have been cut off from Christ! [They]... have fallen away from God’s GRACE…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT). “…[Their]... INIQUITIES [have]… separated … [them from],,, God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV).  “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

The book of JUDE discusses the HISTORY of those who CHOSE willfully and voluntarily to DEPART from 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).

God LOVES the lost soul and the souls that have strayed away from his grace. So, “…HE ...sent his Son…” (1 John 4:10 NIV).  “… [He sent the] …one… who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

When God created the male and female in his image and after his likeness, it included a body, soul, and HIS SPIRIT.  “…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Holy Spirit); and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “….God saw every thing he had made……and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

“…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…And the LORD God ...breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (the Holy Spirit, his image, his likeness, etc.)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). Remember, “…God is not human “…God is Spirit  …” (Numbers 23:19 NIV & John 4:24 KJV).

Thus, God’s word said: “…THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof “THOU SHALT SURELY DIE”…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). “….So she took some of the fruit and ATE IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).  

“…MY WORD (“...thou shalt surely die...”… that goeth forth out of my mouth: it SHALL ...ACCOMPLISH that which I please, and it SHALL PROSPER in the thing whereto I sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV).

“... the word of God ...piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit,....” (Hebrews 4:12 NASB).“…[Their]... INIQUITIES (sin) ....separated (divided them asunder)... [from them] God (the Holy Spirit)…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV).

The “covenant unity” relationship with God has been troubled every since. “...Wherefore, as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death passed to all men, for that all sinned—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23 KJV).  \

Yet, God is MERCIFUL and full of SAVING GRACE. “…[He sent the ] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

Jesus RESTORES (repairs) the soul. “….He restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT).God is a “…restorer of thy life (spiritual life)…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV). “…He restoreth my SOUL…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “…The law of the LORD (the WORD of God) is perfect, restoring the SOUL…” (Psalm 19 NASB). “….He (the WORD OF GOD) restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “…I (God, the holy spirit) will restore…” (Jeremiah 30:17 KJV).  “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).   

Jesus RECONCILES God, the Holy Spirit and man’s soul “... and man (woman) became a living soul (aGain) …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).That's how he restores the LOST and SPIRITUALLY dead SOUL.