Pensacola Helene Jefferson's Blog, page 34

ITS A RELATIONSHIP BONDED BY LOVE & CONNECTED THROUGH THE HOLY SPIRIT

             IT’S A RELATIONSHIP

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

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Relationships are our most important endeavors and are the only vehicle we have to connect with another person (or thing) on any level whether deeply intimate or highly shallow.

The bible says “...love each other deeply...,” “...build each other up...,” “...be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry...human anger does not accomplish the righteousness God desires...,” “...let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds...,” “...be patient, bearing with one another in love...,” “...Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right...,” . Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit, through the bond of peace...,” “...God...through Christ ...gave [his people]...the ministry of reconciliation...,” “...do not be yoked together with unbelievers...,” “...it is not good for man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him...,”

The above scriptures are: 1 Peter 4:8, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, James 1:19-20, Hebrews 10: 24-25, Ephesians 4:2-3; 6:1, 2 Corinthians 5:17-18; 6:14, and Genesis 2:18. These verses are about relationships.

For mankind, the first relationships began back in the Garden of Eden when God breathed into the nostrils of Adam the breathe of life.  “…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Holy Spirit)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

God is SPIRITand God is the breath of LIFE. Adam connected to God, the Holy Spirit and Love through an intimate “covenant unity” relationship. “…God is love…” (1 John 4:8 KJV).   “…love ….is the perfect BOND of unity...”(Colossians 3:14 NASB). “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…And the LORD God ...breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Holy Spirit)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). Adam became “…one spirit [with God.]” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “….and man (Adam) became a living soul (SOUL)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

Notice that ADAM “became” a LIVING SOUL through the relationship with God, the Holy Spirit or the breathe of Life. “….and man (Adam) 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).

In this “covenant unity” between God, the Holy Spirit, and Adam that was VERY GOOD; God is called the husbandman or Caregiver and Adam is the dependent or the one being cared for.

The term “husbandman” means a lot of things in both the old and new testaments. We will be looking at husbandman through its definition as farmer, worker of the land, or a producer of crops.

In light of these terms, a husbandman does husbandry or manages the production, development, and fruition of crops.

          Adam was the first human to be called this kind of husbandman. He was to work the land in the garden of Eden. “...The Lord God took the man (Adam) and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it...” (Genesis 2:15 NIV).

          To work the land meant that one of the duties of Adam was to take care of the crops. Adam was blessed and given special dominion skills, from God, to do this kind of work. “...God blessed them and said to them, “...Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it ...RULE OVER (have dominion over).... Then God said, “I give youevery seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food ...And it was so...” (Genesis 1:28-31 KJV).

          In the 21st century, a husbandman or farmer who takes care of crops prepares the fields for planting seeds and checks to ensure it is the right season to plant.

They make sure the crops are cared for properly, so they keep abreast of weather conditions in case the crops need special care or protection. They check to make sure they are planting in the proper soil. They keep the fields watered, fertilized, purged, free of animals or pests, and free of competing weeds.

They also make sure the crops are harvested at the right time and try to prevent weather or climate from ruining the crop.

The husbandman shoulders the whole responsibility of managing the planting, cultivating, tending, purging, and harvesting of the crops from start to finish.

The husbandman may hire helpers, but he is ultimately responsible for the success of every individual crop. Under, the husbandman’s instructions, the helpers may be instructed to water the fields, help with planting, fertilizing, cultivating, and/or the harvesting of the crop.

But, the good husbandman will work WITH his helpers to care for his “own” crops. He will work alongside his workers to plant the crops, cultivate them, purge them, and harvest them.

A good husbandman also EXPECTS his crop to produce its FRUIT, especially when the husbandman KNOWS what he has invested within the crop.

Jesus said: “... I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman...” (JOHN 15:1 KJV). God is called the husbandman and Jesus calls, himself, the vine.

A vine is a plant with a stem,that requires support, because it climbs or crawls along the ground by tendrils or branches. Vines were popular in historical times, and grape vines were a main source for various products and wines.

The promise land was said to be plenteous with vines and vineyards. “...That place (one of the cities in the promise land) was called the Valley of Eshkol because of the cluster of grapes the Israelites cut off there. They came back to Moses and Aaron and the whole Israelite community at Kadesh in the Desert of Paran ...[and] ... reported to them and to the whole assembly and showed them the fruit of the land (grapes from a grapevine).They gave Moses this account: “We went into the land to which you sent us, and it does flow with milk and honey! Here is its fruit (the grapes from a grapevines)...” (Genesis 1:23-27 KJV).

Vines and vineyards require constant care or the fruit would become corrupted.

The husbandman had to keep the branches protected from certain animals, cultivated, the soil plowed, the weeds cleared, and the branches pruned.

In the bible, dead and fruitless branches were cut off, gathered, and burned by the husbandman. “... I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman...” (JOHN 15:1 KJV). “…abidein me, and I in you…” (John 15:4 KJV). “…If a man abide NOT in me, ‘he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned…” (John 15:6 KJV). “…The branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. …” (John 15:4-6 NASB).“… I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit,…” (John 15:4-6 NASB).“…apart from Me you can do nothing…” (John 15:4-6 NASB).

“... I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman...” (JOHN 15:1 KJV). God, the Father and Holy Spirit, is the Holy husbandman who takes responsibility for producing spiritual fruit “in” and “through” his people, WHEN they abide in Christ.

“…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “...[God is a]...spring of living water...” (Jeremiah 2:13 KJV). “… …The seed is the WORD OF GOD …” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “....I (God, the Holy Spirit) will pour my Spirit upon THY SEED...” (Isaiah 44:3 KJV).

“…God ...the … HOLY SPIRIT ... is the SOURCE ...[for producing spiritual fruit]…it is …God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of ...[HIS people]... The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (to produce spiritual fruit) THROUGH each of us … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…the Father that dwelleth in [HIS people] … he doeth the works..[of producing spiritual fruit]…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…The Holy Spirit (the “living” water) produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness…” (Galatians 5:22 NLT). A good husbandman, does everything he can, to ensure the vine and branches are fruitful.

Jesus (the Word) makes it clear that he is “THE TRUE VINE.” “... I am the true vine...” (JOHN 15:1 KJV). Without the VINE there would be NO branches. The branches grow FROM the VINE.

The VINE provides the nourishment to the branches in order to sustain them so they can grow and develop their fruit.

Jesus, the Word of God or the TRUE VINE nourishes the believer (branches). When watered by the LIVING WATER (the Holy Spirit), the vine (Jesus) empowers the branches (God’s people) to grow, develop, and produce spiritual fruit.

“…The branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. …” (John 15:4-6 NASB). The branches can NOT bear fruit, without abiding in the vine.

In fact, if the branches are cut-off or disconnected from the vine, it dies and can no longer produce fruit. “… I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit…” (John 15:4-6 NASB).

The believer (the branch) is totally dependent upon the VINE (Jesus, the Word) to empower them through the indwelling “living water” of the Holy Spiritto produce spiritual fruit. “…The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness…” (Galatians 5:22 NLT).

It is the “COVENANT UNITY” between the believer (the branch) and God, the indwelling Holy Spirit (the LIVING water), through Jesus (the VINE) that is the source that produces spiritual fruit. “… apart from Me A(the VINE) you (God’s people)... can do nothing…” (John 15:4-6 NASB). “…The Holy Spirit produces ...[spiritual]... fruitin [the[ lives [of his people]…” (Galatians 5:22 NLT).

However, it is the choice of the believer to stay connected with Jesus (the Word), by watering the “good seed” with the LIVING WATER that produces spiritual fruit. “…Choose LIFE (Jesus, the Word) …” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). Jesus (the Word) saith…I am THE LIFE…” (John 14:6 KJV).

“… His name (Jesus’name) is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “… THE WORD …was sown in [the] HEARTS [of God’s people]…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “....I (God, the Holy Spirit) will pour my Spirit upon THY SEED...” (Isaiah 44:3 KJV).

“…I (Jesus) am the vine, you are the branches (God’s people)…” (John 15:1-11 NASB). “…abide in me (stay connected to jesus, the word, the vine), and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me…” (John 15:4 KJV).

“…I do nothing of myself…” (John 8:28 KJV).  “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…He(she) who ABIDES in [Jesus] and [Jesus in them,]… bears much fruit… ” (John 15:1-11 NASB). "… [The]… Father is glorified (his presence, his goodness, and his working power is made known or witnessed) by this, that “YOU” bear much fruit, and so PROVE to be [his]… disciples” (John 15:8 NIV).

“…Ye shall [be known]… by [your]… 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). “…All men will knowthat you are My disciples, if you have love for one another…" (John 13:35 NASB). “[God’s] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “… he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

No believer (branch) can produce spiritual fruit apart from Jesus, the TRUE VINE. “…If a man (woman or branch) abide NOT in me (Jesus), he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned…” (John 15:6 KJV).

All abiding branches will produce spiritual fruit, which proves their connection or commitment to watering the SEED (the VINE) with LIVING WATER. “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “...[God is a]...spring of living water...” (Jeremiah 2:13 KJV). “… …The seed is the WORD OF GOD …” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “....I (God, the Holy Spirit) will pour my Spirit upon THY SEED...” (Isaiah 44:3 KJV).

 “…He who ABIDES in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit… ” (John 15:1-11 NASB). "…My Father is glorified by this, that “YOU” bear much fruit, and so PROVE to be My disciples” (John 15:8 NIV).

“…Ye shall know [God’s 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). “…Apart from [the indwelling Holy Spirit,] YOU can do nothing….” (John 15:5 KJV).

“…Every good tree bringeth forth good fruit... [and] a good tree CANNOT bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit…...” (Matthew 7:16-22 KJV). “...You can identify [God’s people]… by their … fruit, that is, by the way they … act…” (Matthew 7:16 NLT). “…The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control….” (Galatians 5:22-23).

Fruitless believers are, most likely, NOT connected to the vine (Jesus, the Word), are NOT watering the seed (with LIVING water), have chosen NOT to abide in him (chosen not to stay close to Jesus), and may NOT belong to him.

“…abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, exceptit abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me…” (John 15:4 KJV). “…The branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. …” (John 15:4-6 NASB).

“...[God is 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).

 “…those who do nothave the [indwelling Holy]... Spirit of Christ (the SEED) living in them do not belong to himat all.….” (Romans 8:8-11 NLT). “…Jesus Christ is in [God’s people]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). The fruitless branches are purged and removed for the sake of other, fruit producing, branches.

“... I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman...” (JOHN 15:1 KJV).

The TRUE VINE depends upon the LIVING WATER to grow and the believer depends upon Jesus, the indwelling Spirit to grow!  “... In him (Jesus, the TRUE VINE) we live (have spiritual life), and move (produce spiritual fruit), and have our being (have a spiritual identity as a new creation) ...For we are ... his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).

It is the RELATIONSHIP between the believer and God through Jesus that enables them to become restored to spiritual life, produce spiritual fruit, and obtain a new spiritual identity? “... In him (Jesus, the TRUE VINE) we live (have spiritual life), and move (produce spiritual fruit), and have our being (have a spiritual identity as a new creation) ...For we are ... his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).

Through reconciliation with God, through Jesus Christ, are God’s people REUNITED into a “covenant unity”  with HIM AGAIN.“… [God sent the ] …one… who can [REUNITE] God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus (WHO comes to DWELL WITHIN)…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).“...[Through Jesus, God’s people are]  reconciled to God...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).

“…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (Jesus, his living Word) “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 (the Word, the LIGHT, the GOOD seed, the working POWER, the indwelling Holy Spirit, etc.,) is in [HIS people]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

“... I (jesus) am the true vine, and my Father (god, the holy spirit) is the husbandman...” (JOHN 15:1 KJV). “… [The husbandman sent the ] …one… who [could REUNITE] God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus (the true vine WHO comes to DWELL WITHIN)…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

Every believer willingly chooses to trust in and depend upon God, the indwelling Holy Spirit to empower them to live a fruitful spiritual life. “... In him (jesus) we live (have spiritual life), and move (produce spiritual fruit), and have our being (have a spiritual identity as a new creation) ...For we are ...his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV). “…Apart from [Jesus, the indwelling Holy Spirit, God’s people] ...can do nothing….” (John 15:5 KJV).

In the Old Testament husbandmen planted vineyards, wine gardens, were vinedresser’s, farmers, raised crops, and worked the land. A VINE, needs a husbandman to TAKE CARE of it, to MANAGE it, and to bring it to FRUITION. “... I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman...” (JOHN 15:1 KJV). 

BECAUSE GOD'S STANDARD OF LOVE IS HOLY, YOU ARE REDEEMED

IT’S A RELATIONSHIP

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

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In the beginning, God, the Holy Spirit, or the husbandman made a loving appeal to Adam as a way to maintain their oneness. “….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).

“...thou shalt surely die...” (Genesis 2:16-17).

“...thou shalt surely die [spiritually]...” (Genesis 2:16-17). 

 “...thou shalt surely die [when the body separates from god’s spirit]...” (Genesis 2:16-17).

“...thou shalt surely die [if you choose not to follow god’s instructions]...” (Genesis 2:16-17).

“...thou shalt surely die [and destroy much good]...” (Genesis 2:16-17).

“...thou shalt surely die [and sin will enter into the world]...” (Genesis 2:16-17).

“...thou shalt surely die [and your children will be born sinners without my holy spirit]...” (Genesis 2:16-17).

“...thou shalt surely die [if you choose to trust the enemy’s words over god’s instructions]...” (Genesis 2:16-17).

“...thou shalt surely die [if you willingly choose to violate god’s holy instructions]...” (Genesis 2:16-17).

“...thou shalt surely die [when your transgression against god’s holy instructions separate you from his holy spirit]...” (Genesis 2:16-17).

“...thou shalt surely die...” (Genesis 2:16-17).

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).

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

“….She [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).

“.... At that moment their eyes were opened (opened to a life SEPARATE from God, the Holy Spirit)…” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).  The moment, they transgressed the holy law “…[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).

They decided, on their OWN volition, to ACT independently against God’s WORD. “… His name (JESUS) is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “… [YOU CHOOSE]... this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “… I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore…choose…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV).

“…Choose LIFE…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “…Jesus (the Word) said… I am the LIFE (spiritual life)…..” (John 11:25 KJV).

As you CHOOSE, remember, “….you [will become] ... slaves of the one you obey (choose to trust and depend upon)…” (Romans 6:16 NIV).

God, the Holy Spiritis the Caregiver in the “covenant unity” relationship and has the responsibility to care for the dependent. “…The LORD will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [his people]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “... Christ cares for the church (his people)...” (Ephesians 5:29 NLT).

“..I who took care of [my people]. I led Israel along with my ropes of kindness and love. I lifted the yoke from [their] neck, and I myself stooped to feed [them]. ….” (HOSEA 11 NLT). “...He careth for [his people]....” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV).

God’s people are the dependents in the “covenant unity” relationship and have the responsibility to trust and depend upon God’s care. “…Trust in (and DEPEND UPON) the Lord (god’s word) with all thine heart; and lean not unto (don’t start trusting in and depending upon) thine own [human] understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths...”(Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “…The steps of a good man(woman) are ordered (DIRECTED) by the Lord: …” (Psalms 37:23 KJV). “… THE LORD … is Your rock (your unchanging Caregiver) and Yourfortress, your deliverer …” (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

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

HIS people, however, freely CHOSE to do the opposite of what God’s Word instructed them to do. “… [YOU CHOOSE]... this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

“... 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)

Choices have consequences and God fully disclosed to them what those consequences will be if they CHOSE “NOT” to listen to his Word. Thus, “…whatsoever a man (woman) soweth, that shall he(she) also reap….” (Galatians 6:7 KJV). “….For he(she) that soweth to his(her) flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption…” (Galatians 6:8 KJV). “…my people would not listen to me ...They went backward instead of forward”” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

 God said to Adam: “... 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 dead souls, trapped within the prison of the body, made from the dust of the ground, because God’s Holy Spirit is no longer present. Sinners are “…DEAD “IN”trespasses and sin (within the sin 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 LIVINGSOUL. 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).

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

God became ONE with Adam when he breathed into his nostrils the breathe of life. The LIVING soul “IS” the visual witness of the FIRST “covenant unity” between God and mankind.

. “…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).

The “dead” soul is NOT spiritually ALIVE, but is a witness of the divorce and separate between God and mankind. “…the body without (apart from) the [holy] spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV). “…[The body without the Holy Spirit is]....DEAD “IN”trespasses and sin (within the sinful nature)...” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV).

“…[They choose to live independent of God and decided to violate his commandments. Their] ...INIQUITIES … separated … [them from] ... God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV).  “… [Their] … iniquities (transgressions) …separated [them]… from God (the breath of LIFE)…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…[They became] ... DEAD in trespasses and sin (souls trapped within the sinful nature)…” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV). They no longer belonged to God, the Holy Spirit. “… (And remember that those who do nothave the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.)….” (Romans 8:8-11 NLT).

The bible says, “…Be ye not unequally yoked together...” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV). God, the Holy Spirit follows his own Word.

“... Everyone who practices sin (including Adam and Eve) also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness ...  the one who practices sin is of (with) the devil ...  anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of (with) GOD...” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB).  “... the word of God (said to adam and eve, if you eat from the tree “....thou shalt surely dead...” and when they did, the word begin)...piercing ....to the dividing asunder of [their] soul and [god’s]  spirit....” (Hebrews 4:12 NASB). They DIED spiritually.

God is HOLY. “… 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 and LOVE.

HOLINESS is God’s standard for his DIVINE character and he WILL NEVER compromise his standards, EVER“…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).   “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).

What this tells God’s people about his character is that he GIVES “no” opportunity to the devil whatsoever. “...Neither give place (opportunity) to the devil...” (Ephesians 4:27 KJV).

God’s people rationalize and overlook certain sinful behaviors, which makes them THINK God does the same thing. HE DOES NOT! “…God is not human (he is not a body, the flesh, or a soul)…” (Numbers 23:19 NIV). “…“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine … my ways are higher … my thoughts higher…” (Isaiah 55:5-9 NLT). “...[God’s people have mistakenly]...thought that...[God, the Holy Spirit, was human like them]....” (Psalm 50:21 KJV). God says, “… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).

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

God lives a SPIRITUAL LIFE “without” and “free” from any and all sin. “… I AM HOLY…” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV). Holiness is God’s standard and ONLY God knows what it is LIKE to live and BE free from SIN. “...There is none holy as the Lord…” (1 Samuel 2:2 KJV).

In addition, HOLINESS can NOT and will NOT “EVER” MIX with SIN. SIN and HOLINESS SEPARATES; just like oil and water. “…It’s YOUR SINS that have cut you off from God (who is HOLY)…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT).

“…[ONLY the ONE who remains] ... joined unto the Lord (Jesus) is ONE Spirit… [united with the HOLY God]” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).  “... in Him (not outside of him or apart from him) there is no sin. No one who abides in Him sins; no one who sins ... knows Him... [IN HIM he] ...is able to keep youfrom falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy ... [Therefore,] ... little children, make sure no one deceives you; the one who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous;  the one who practices sin is of the devil;...” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB & Jude 1:24 KJV).

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

ONLY Jesus “CAN” miraculously enable the HOLY God and SINFUL mankind to JOIN or UNITE together, again, in an intimate, “covenant unity” relationship through the “breathe of life” or the “indwelling Holy Spirit, “through Jesus, the LIVING Word.” “…He that is JOINEDunto the Lord (Jesus) is ONE Spirit [with God, the Holy Spirit, again[…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). God’s “…Love … is [also]... the perfect BOND of unity...” (Colossians 3:14 NASB).

 “…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).

There was a BARRIER or SEPARATION, made by sin, and mankind, whom HE LOVED. This separation is CHASM between the natural realm from the supernatural realm. It creates an impenetrable chasm for sinful mankind and the HOLY God, which means they cannot have a “covenant union” “... And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm(barrier) has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us…” (Luke 16:22-25 NASB).

This chasm separates mankind from God, cuts them off from him, permanently, and because they are in two different realms, he can’t even approve of them, or hear them, or look upon them with any kind of favor. “…[God, the Holy Spirit] can not look on wickedness with favor…” (Habakkuk 1:13 NASB). “…[God, the Holy Spirit’s]... eyes are too pure to approve 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). “... You have been cut off from Christ! You have fallen away from God’s GRACE…” (Galatians 2:21 NLT). “…[God, the Holy Spirit] can not look on wickedness with favor…” (Habakkuk 1:13 NASB). “…[God, the Holy Spirit’s]... eyes are too pure to approve evil…” (Habakkuk 1:13 NASB). “... APART FROM [Christ]... you can do nothing (you cannot UNITE with the HOLY God)  …” (John 15:1-11 NASB).

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

However, The HOLY SPIRIT is LOVE and therefore he made a PLAN to REUNITE himself with mankind. “… [He sent the ] …one… who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “… apart from [Jesus[, you can do nothing (you cannot REUNITE with God, the Holy Spirit)…” (John 15:5 NIV).“… [You] … can...through Christ which strengtheneth (empowers) … [you to REUNITE with God, the Holy Spirit]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

“…It is Godwho works in [you to REUNITE mankind to himself in order]… to willand to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). Jesus saith…I am the way, the truth, and the life…” (John 14:6 KJV).

“…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole (REUNITES YOU with God, the Holy Spirit. AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).

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

 “...  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), even though we are guilty of many sins..[through the sin nature]. For the sin (transgression of God’s holy law) 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).

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

The HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE spared no expense to REUNITE 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). “…[God]...spared not his own Son, [from suffering upon the cross]... but delivered him up for us all?...” (Romans 8:32 KJV).

“… Indeed, He loves the people…” (Deuteronomy 33:3 NASB). “… I will bring them home again,” says the Lord….” (HOSEA 11 NLT).“…[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). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).

God is the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE and made a WAY to bring mankind back into a “COVENANT UNITY” through spiritual WHOLENESS with HIM, the Holy Spirit, AGAIN.

 “…[Mankind was]...  dead in [their] sins[too] and ... [NOW]…God made [the redeemed]... 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…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT). “...because HE  LOVED [them]…” (1 John 4:19 ASV). Like the prodigal son, “… [they were]…. DEAD and [have been made]… ALIVE AGAIN; [the redeemed were]… lost and [have been]… found…” (Luke 15:24 NIV).

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

God, the HOLY SPIRIT is LOVE, which means his standard of LOVE is PURE, SINCERE, UNCHANGING, and HOLY for mankind and without SIN. “… [Nothing]…will be able to separate [mankind] from the [holy, unchanging] love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord (his LIVING Word)…” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). God, the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE has “….loved [mankind]...with an everlasting  … [holy, unchanging] love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV). “…God is … [holy, unchanging] love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…There is no greater  … LOVE …” (John 15:13 NLT).

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

God the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE went through ALL this trouble, not even SPARING his own SON, to RECONCILE with HIS PEOPLE. This is WHO God is. This is his HOLY standard of LOVE.“... Herein is [god’s holy] love...[HE] ...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 (the holy spirit of love) …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). “..[The redeemed]... were reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).

Jesus knew God, the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE, would be pleased. He couldn’t WAIT to see the JOY upon GOD’S FACE. “…keeping our eyes on Jesus (God’s PLAN of SALVATION) ...Because of the JOY awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame…” (Hebrews 12:2 NLT).

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

 Jesus SERVED his FATHER without complaint, so he could be REUNITED with HIS PEOPLE. “…Father …not Mywill, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV). “…I do nothing of myself…” (John 8:28 KJV). “….Christ pleased not himself…” (Romans 15:3 KJV). “...Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends..” (John 15:13 KJV).  “...He (gave Himself over to Him (God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE) ...” (1 Peter 2:23 KJV).

“… [Jesus]... it possible for many to be counted righteous…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “...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, again, so he could enjoy a close intimate, “covenant unity” relationship that included fellowship, sharing meals, and heart to heart conversations. “...I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends...” (Revelations 3:20 NLT).

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

Mankind’s concept of HOLINESS is flawed and tainted at best and their view of God, the Holy Spirit of LOVE is seriously weakened.

When God’s people really begin to realize the opportunity of a lifetime they’ve been given to know God, the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE, they will never, again, compare anything else with the infinite value of getting to KNOW HIM. “… 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).

Thus, “... acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths...”(Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).  Let his WORD and SPIRIT “...  direct your hearts into the love of God...” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 KJV). 

God, the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE 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).

“... he (Jesus, the LIVING Word) shall direct thy paths...” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).  “...   into the love of God [through the “covenant unity”]...” (2 Thessalonians 3:5 KJV). It’s a RELATIONSHIP with God, the HOLY SPIRIT of LOVE

KNOWING GOD'S LOVE, PERSONALLY, IS WHAT TRANSFORMS YOUR LIFE

              TRANSFORMING LOVE

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

*

God comes into the most intimate place: the heart. “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (the living Word) “INTO” [y]OUR HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…Jesus Christ (the Word of God) is in you (in your heart)…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

God comes into the most intimate place to fellowship with each individual person, forever: also the heart. “...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 (forever)...” (Revelations 3:20 NLT).

God wants his people to KNOW him, personally. Of all the things available, he PLANTS “his Word” within the hearts of HIS PEOPLE.

God KNOWS his people. “...O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know everything I do…” (Psalms 139:1-6 NLT). “..You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways…” (Psalm 139:1-3 KJV).

“...Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me .Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee...” (Psalms 139:7-12 KJV).

“…Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account…” (Hebrews 4:13 NIV). “…For his eyes are upon the ways of man, and he seeth all his goings…” (Job 34:21 KJV).

God’s people usually DON’T “KNOW” him. They know ABOUT him, but they don’t know him, intimately or through experience. “…God has sent forth ...His Son (the living Word) “INTO” [y]OUR HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…He (Jesus, the Word) has revealed God to us…” (John 1:18 NLT). “… For the Lord (Jesus, the Word) ...reveals [God’s]... thoughts to mankind…” (Amos 4:13 NLT).

God says: “…… I am God, and there is none like me…"(Isaiah 46:9-10 KJV). “… “I AM” WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). indw  “… [God also says to his people, I AM] … Your rockand Your fortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you] … take refuge; Yourshield and the horn of Your salvation, YOURstronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

“ …[God, the Holy Spirit]... will PUT [his] SPIRIT in [his people] and [they] will LIVE …Then [they] will know that I the Lord (god’s word, has) ...spoken, and [God, the Holy Spirit has restored spiritual life to them], declares the Lord...’” (Ezekiel 37 NIV).  “…so [his people] will know that [GOD “IS”] the Lord…” (Exodus 10:1-2 NLT). “…Then [his people] will know that [GOD is] the Lord your God…’” (Exodus 16:12 NLT). “…Behold… [God is WITH his people] and … WILL NOT LEAVE … [them] …." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

This kind of knowing is different from a collection of information you possess about somebody or that comes from second-hand knowledge.

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

The Apostle said: “… 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 (the living, revelation knowledge of God, the Holy Spirit...” (Philippians 3:8 NLT). “...Whom have I in heaven but You(God, the Holy Spirit)? And besides You, I desire nothing on earth...” (Psalm 73:25 NASB).

It’s the kind of “knowing” gained from experiencing God first-hand or by spending a colossal amount of time with HIM. “…the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus [our]… Lord...” (Philippians 3:8 NLT). “...those who wish to boast should boast in this alone: that they truly know me and understand that I am the Lord who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth,and that I delight in these things. I, the Lord, have spoken!...” (Jeremiah 9:23-24 NLT).

God makes it KNOWN or REVEALS, to his people, the “…the riches of his glory (his presence, his goodness, and his working power) in Christ Jesus (his Word)….” (Philippians 4:19 KJV). , “… [God, through Christ]… freely give [his people] all things…” (Romans 8:32 KJV). “…God will supply all [his people’s need]… according to His riches in glory (in his presence, goodness, and working power) in Christ Jesus (his word that he sent into their hearts)…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).  “ … [God’s people] have this treasure (Jesus, the LIGHT, his working POWER, the Word, the indwelling Holy Spirit, etc.,) “[with]in” earthen vessels…” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV).

Jesus expressed he had that kind of knowing/oneness, covenant relationship with his Father. He said, “…the Father knows me and I know the Father…” (John 10:15 ASV).  

Jesus demonstrates that a covenant relationship with God, the Holy Spiritis one of intimate knowledge of one another. Getting to KNOW God, through Jesus, his LIVING Word, is an experience with eternal life. “...This is eternal life that they might know thee, the only True God and Jesus Christ, whom God has sent…” (John 17:3 KJV).

Also, "...This (opportunity to know God, intimately) is the work of God (the Holy Spirit), that ye believe on Him (so you will trust in and depend upon Jesus, the Word) whom he (God, the Holy Spirit) hath sent...” (John 6:29 KJV).

It’s easier to trust in and depend upon someone YOU KNOW, on some level, than someone you don’t know at all.

The covenant relationship with God, the Holy Spirit is meant to be founded and built upon FAITH. "... Without faith (without trust and dependence upon God) it is IMPOSSIBLE to please [him]; for he (she) that cometh to God must believe that he is [that he is who he REVEALS himself to be through Jesus, HIS living Word]..." (Hebrews 11:6 KJV).

Jesus and God, the Holy Spirit were SO CLOSE and shared such intimate knowledge of one another HE said, with confidence, "...I and the Father are one..." (John 10:30).

Let’s talk, briefly, about the blood covenants in the Old Testament in order to provide a picture of why the YADA relationship is meant to be close, intimate, and personal.

Since one of the meanings of YADA is to “enter into (blood) covenant with,” it will offer an understanding of why it is a binding agreement between the REDEEMED and God, the Holy Spirit.  

The blood covenants were unbreakable agreements that entailed promises made between two parties.

During historical times an animal was sawn into two pieces, laid into rows so the parties could walk between them in order to “seal” the covenant.

When the parties walked between the bloodied animals they were making an oath that meant they would die like these animals if they didn’t keep the covenant.“...Those who have violated my covenant and have not fulfilled the terms of the covenant they made before me, I will treat like the calf they cut in two and then walked between its pieces. The leaders of Judah and Jerusalem, the court officials, the priests and all the people of the land who walked between the pieces of the calf, I will deliver into the hands of their enemies who want to kill them. Their dead bodies will become food for the birds and the wild animals...” (Jeremiah 34:18-20 ASV).

The cutting in half of animals may seem unpleasant, but it was their type of legal system per se for those times and in that context. The process was important for legitimizing the covenant.

The parties making the covenant were committing to an “oneness” relationship with each other which meant all they had or possessed in life was available to the other upon demand.

In other words, what belonged to one party in the blood covenant equally belonged to the other party in the covenant. 

The blood covenant obligated both parties to this type of commitment to each other for life and could only be broken if one of the parties die.

If either party refused to keep their covenant commitment between them; they would die a terrible death and possibly along with his or her entire, extended family.

Blood covenants were serious. God, historically, allowed his chosen people to be wiped out when they willingly and voluntarily broke the covenant relationship with him. “….they chose to rebel against him, and they were finally destroyed by their [own] ...sin. …” (Psalms 106:42-48 NLT).

In the Old Testament, the YADA relationship was a blood covenant between God and his chosen people, Israel. . “….He remembered his covenant with them …” (Psalms 106:42-48 NLT).“…[MY PEOPLE] ... broke [THEIR] ... covenant ..[WITH ME], though I (GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT) loved them as a husband loves his wife,” says the Lord…” (Jeremiah 31:32 NASB).

“…who ...hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing…” (Hebrews 10:26-31 NASB).

The responsibilities and promises, of the covenant, between God, the Holy Spiritand HIS people were clear. God, the Holy Spirit was the husbandman and Caregiver while his people were his covenant companions.

However, his people broke the blood covenant many times. “…. Again and again he rescued them, but they chose to rebel against him, and they were finally destroyed by their sin. Even so, he pitied them in their distress and listened to their cries. He remembered his covenantwith them and relented because of his unfailing love. He even caused their captors to treat them with kindness. Save us, O Lord our God! Gather us back from among the nations, so we can thank your holy nameand rejoice and praise you. Praise the Lord, the God of Israel, who lives from everlasting to everlasting! Let all the people say, “Amen!” Praise the Lord!” (Psalms 106:42-48 NLT).

“…He remembered his covenant with them and relented because of his unfailing love…” (Psalms 106:42-48 NLT).

“…The Lordloves His people …” (2 Chronicles 2:11 NASB). “…For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more…" (Hebrews 8:12 NIV). His “…love covereth a multitude of sins…” (Proverbs 10:12, 1 Peter 4:8 ASV).

“….If they sin against you—you might become angry with them and “let” their enemies conquer them and take them captive to their land far away or near…” (1 Kings 8:46 NLT).

“…They defiled themselvesby their evil deeds, and their love of idols was adultery in the Lord’s sight. That is why the Lord’s anger burned against his people, and he abhorred his own special possession. He handed them over to pagan nations,and they were ruled by those who hated them. Their enemies crushed them and brought them under their cruel power. Again and again he rescued them, but they chose to rebel against him, and they were finally destroyed by their sin…” (Psalm 106:39-43 NLT).

“…[In HIS] ... love and in His mercy He redeemed them (again)…” (Isaiah 63:9 NASB). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

In the New Testament, the YADA relationship is still a blood covenant between God and the HIS people. However, this NEW covenant is made between Jesus and God, the Holy Spirit.

God’s people enter into the covenant relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus. Jesus becomes THEIR representative in the YADA relationship with God, the Holy Spirit.

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

If one of the parties of the blood covenant is a representative of a group of people he becomes the GUARANTEE that the promises and responsibilities will be KEPT for the entire group.

Having a representative was also a common blood covenant practice. This representative acted on behalf of everyone in the entire group.

The representative was considered “THE” voice and “THE” guarantee for each and every individual member of the group.

Each and every individual member, connected with or joined to him, was also represented in the covenant “through” him.”

Therefore, when the representative walked through the bloodied bodies, he sealed the blood covenant for each and every member of the entire group he represented.

The representative walks through the slain animals and seals the oath between their group and the other party or parties. This is a very basic explanation of a blood covenant.

Jesus is both the representative and slain substitute in the covenant relationship with God.

Jesus is the slain, Lamb of God, that was killed in your place and therefore the substitute for your sins.

In addition, Jesus’ sacrificial death paid the penalty for your sins, so you can go freely into the covenant relationship with God.

God, the Holy Spirit, was reconciled to humanity and, through Jesus HIS people were given a way BACK to God. “…There is … one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).  “...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).

Jesus’ death was like the death of the slain animals in the Old Testament blood covenants. “…Christ …died for sins ONCE for all…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “…the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29 KJV).  “…he (Jesus) by the grace of God should taste death for every man (woman)…” (Hebrews 3:9 KJV). “…He [became]… the atoning sacrifice for [y]our sins…” (1 John 2:2 NIV).   “…The life of the flesh is in the blood …it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul…” (Leviticus 17:11 KJV). Jesus said, “This is my blood of the covenant…” (Matthew 26:28 KJV).

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

 “... I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them...” (Ezekiel 37:26).

 Jesus as our substitute for sin allows us to enter into an everlasting covenant relationship with God. Jesus, who knew no sin, became our sin and we become his righteousness in God’s sight “… he [bore] ... all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT).  “...Christ also died for sins once for all...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “...the just for the unjust...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “…HE... became [spiritually] poor, that ye through his poverty might be [spiritually] RICH…” (2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV

Jesus is the sacrificial lamb of God, who is slain for the sins of God’s people and his covenant companions. “…the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world (all those who choose to become his covenant people)...” (John 1:29 KJV).  

Jesus is also the representative for the redeemed and becomes their guarantee for a better covenant relationship with God, the Holy Spirit. “…Jesus has become the guarantor of a better covenant…” (Hebrews 7:22 NIV).

Jesus enters the relationship with God and we, those who are “in” Christ, enter the relationship too. “… My righteous servant (Jesus, God’s PLAN of SALVATION) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous,…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT).  

“...And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach...” (Colossians 1:21-23 NLT).

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

“…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (his Word, his indwelling Spirit, his LIGHT, his working POWER, the GOOD seed, etc.,) “INTO” [THE] HEARTS [OF THE REDEEMED]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…God, ...reconciled [the redeemed soul]... to himself through Christ …” (2 Corinthians 5:18 NIV). “...[The redeemed soul is]... reconciled to God by the death of his Son...” (Romans 5:10 KJV). “…the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world (all those who choose to become his covenant people)...” (John 1:29 KJV).  

Now, through Christ, God’s people are enabled and empowered to keep the promises, responsibilities, and oaths within the covenant because “…Jesus has become the guarantor of a better covenant…” (Hebrews 7:22 NIV).

Jesus said, "...I and my Father are [not simply close, but]…one..." (John 10:30 KJV).  

God’s people can say the same thing too. God’s people can now enjoy the same “oneness” covenant relationship that Jesus had with God, the Holy Spirit. “…that they may all be one (Spirit); even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us…” (John 17:21-23 NASB). “…He (she) that is joined unto the Lord (Jesus, his LIVING Word) is ONE SPIRIT…[with God, again]...”  (1 Corinthian 6:17 KJV).

Jesus didn’t say he and his Father were close, but he said they were “one.” Close implies a nearness to, but “one” implies a single unity or an undivided whole. "...I and my Father are [not simply close, but]…one..." (John 10:30 KJV). 

In Hebrew, oneness (echadh) defines a “unity” perhaps a “covenant unity” unique, first and foremost, to the one true God. “…THERE ARE THREE that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy [Spirit]: and THESE THREE ARE ONE.…” (1 John 5:6-8 KJV). “...The Lord our God is one Lord...” (Deuteronomy 6:4)

Yet God allows humans, through faith in Christ, to experience the covenant unity, with HIM, too. His people can also say, “… I and my Father are one…” just like Jesus (John 10:30). “…that they may all be one (Spirit)...in Us…” (John 17:21-23 NASB). “…In this world [God’s people] are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

 If “oneness” is an unique “covenant unity” to God, then “oneness” is holy. This holy “oneness” is the joining of man’s spirit/soul and God’s Holy Spirit. “...[God’s Holy] Spirit joins with our spirit(or our soul) to affirm that we are God’s children...” (Romans 8:16). “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son “INTO” OUR HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…God has given [you] his Spirit as PROOF that [you]… live (are alive) in him and he [dwells]…in [you]…” (1 John 4:13 NLT). Therefore, “…Jesus Christ is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…He that is joined unto the LORD is ONE SPIRIT…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

What God joins together, “…let no one separate…” (Matthew 10:9 ASV). The oneness of the “covenant unity,” established by God, the Holy Spirit informs his people why these UNIONS were NOT meant to be BROKEN; except by death.

“Covenant Unity” is a holy, spiritual bond, created by God, but made with mankind.

Therefore, God’s people are meant to experience and enjoy an oneness, “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit through Christ that’s unbreakable, except by spiritual death. “... I (God, the Holy Spirit) will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them...” (Ezekiel 37:26). HOWEVER, “ for years on end my people have FORGOTten ME…” (Jeremiah 2:32 NLT). “…They ABANDONED the Lord… they turned their backs on him….” (2 Chronicles 29:6 NLT). “…They kept doing whatever they wanted…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

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

“…If [God’s people] are unfaithful [to the covenant relationship], he [God, the Holy Spirit]... remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). 

“…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “... It was for freedom that Christ set us free...” (Galatians 5:1 NASB).

 “… I have set before you (god’s people) life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore [“YOU”]...choose life (the life “you” want)…” (Deuteronomy 30:19). “…Choose youthis day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

“…Behold, I AM WITH… [YOU] and … I WILL NOT LEAVE … [YOU] …." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).  If God NEVER leaves you, who LEFT or DEPARTED in Revelation 2:4? “…. THOU HAST “LEFT” THY FIRST LOVE….” (REVELATION 2:4 KJV).

. “... If [god’s people]... sin willfully AFTER... [they] have received the knowledge of THE TRUTH, there remaineth NO more sacrifice for sins...” (Hebrews 10:26 KJV).  “... IN LATTER TIMES “SOME” SHALL [choose to] ... DEPART FROM the FAITH!!!!...” (1 Timothy 4:1-3 KJV).

“...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). “…[THEIR SINS will]... cut you off from God…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT). “…[Their]... INIQUITIES … separated … [them and their] God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…[God’s people] have been cut off from Christ! [They] have fallen away from God’s GRACE…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT). “...HE THAT “SHALL” (WILL) ENDURE UNTO THE END SHALL (WILL) BE SAVED...”(Matthew 24:13 KJV).

. “...For if, after they have escaped  ... they are again entangled in them (their former sinful lifestyles) ... 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 ... It has happened to them according to the true proverb, “A dog returns to its own vomit,” and, “A sow, after washing, returns to wallowing in the mire...” (2 Peter 2:20-23 NASB).

Jesus was the LIVING example of having a YADA relationship with God, the Holy Spirit."...I and my Father are [not simply close, but]…one..." (John 10:30 KJV).   

God’s people are to come to “know” God so intimately - through the oneness, “covenant unity” relationship - that others can witness God’s glory “in” and “through” them (witness his presence, goodness, and working power). “…Anyone who has seen me (Jesus, God’s people, his witnesses) has seen the Father (his presence, his goodness, and his working power)…” (John 14:9b NIV).

God is love and he establishes the “covenant unity” relationship with HIS people through LOVE and a SPIRITUAL connection.  “…Love [God, the Holy Spirit]—[is], the perfect bond of unity” (Colossians 3:14 NASB). “…He that is joined unto the LORD is ONE SPIRIT…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

“…God has given [you] his Spirit as PROOF that [you]… live (are alive) in him and he [dwells]…in [you]…” (1 John 4:13 NLT). Therefore, “…Jesus Christ is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

I started a YADA counseling ministry that helps strengthened the oneness, “covenant unity” relationship between God through Christ and the Believer.

YADA therapy is a spiritual form of therapy in which the counselor and client work on strengthening the YADA relationship.

The purpose of YADA counseling is to build trust in and dependency upon on the enabling power of the indwelling Holy Spirit by exercising a faith-filled response to the finished work of Christ on the Cross as a way to address and process through personal issues and concerns. 

The YADA Counselor works together with the client/believer through his/her covenant relationship with God through Christ.

The purpose of this method is to discover what the key issues are and to begin addressing those issues in light of the finished work of Christ on the cross in practical and transforming ways.

Prayer is also offered by the counselor to invite the Holy Spirit into the session and to help the client/believer to learn and practice discussing primary issues and concerns with God who “IS” the answer.

Problems and concerns are acknowledged, revealed, and discussed in order to discover God’s provisions to meet those needs.

YADA counselling uses an approach in which the counselor helps the client/believer trust in and depend upon the covenant relationship with God to provide for each and every NEED.

This is done by enhancing one’s understanding of how beliefs, feelings, interests, self-identity, and thoughts, outside of God’s holy standards, can negatively impact an individual’s Christ-likeness. Especially, as it relates to their responses to life’s issues and concerns.

Hopefully the client/believer will learn about his or her perceptions that don’t line up with biblical truths or the finished work of Christ. In addition, they will be able to see how distorted/sinful thinking impacts how he or she reacts to life’s issues and concerns.

These issues and concerns are usually rooted in the past thought processes. Further, they are revealed through an individual’s continual behavior patterns and speech patterns pre-salvation.

YADA therapy is based on the finished work of Christ on the cross and intends to aid the believer in authentically becoming the “new creature” in Christ Jesus through real-life and practical experience.

Hopefully this book will help establish, renew, strengthen, revive, develop, grow, deepen, expand, or build a more intimate “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit that TRANSFORMS the lives of God’s people for HIS GLORY.

It is my prayer this book will also help God’s people see how much God loves them. God’s love for his redeemed people is not like any other love they will ever experience. It is a love that never changes, never fails and is everlasting.  

When God’s people respond by God-given faith to HIS love it will transform their lives completely and forever. No one can truly be in a YADA with God, the Holy Spirit and stay the same.

It is my prayer that ALL of God’s people begin to truly experience a deeper YADA by focusing on and committing to the “covenant unity” relationship with God as a priority in the Christian journey.

God has already proven he desires to become “one” with his people.  His plan of SALVATION is the open door or the open invitation to draw or direct HIS people closer to his divine love.

Becoming intimately acquainted with God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus, his LIVING Word, planted into the hearts of his people, IS “HOW GOD’s LOVE begins to TRANSFORM the lives of the REDEEMED.

This book is just a small aid and does not intend to take the place of direct engagement with the Living God, but hopefully it will strengthen your personal experience with HIM.

I called this chapter the “INTRODUCTION” because God is LOVE and it is HIS “divine” LOVE that will “miraculously” TRANSFORM your life FOREVER.

GOD'S LOVE IS THE "AGENT" OF TRANSFORMATION!

                 TRANSFORMING LOVE

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

*

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

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

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

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

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

Therefore, God’s people often express, through their actions, a Christian faith that mainly FOCUSES on the laws of the land that impact other people’s behavior whether than the laws of God that were given to FOCUS on THEIR own behaviors.  “...Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men...” (Acts 5:29 KJV). 

“…What shall it profit a man (woman), if he(she) shall gain the whole world (fool other humans with outward hypocrisy), and lose his (her) own soul?...” (Mark 8:36 KJV). “…[God knows] ...what ...[is]... in each person’s heart…” (John 2:24-25 NLT). “…[The] ...Lord (God), which knowest the heartsof all men…” (Acts 1:24 KJV). “… He watches everyone closely, examining every person on earth. The Lord examines both the righteous and the wicked…” (Psalm 11:4-5 NLT). “… [their] heartis far from me...” (Mark 7:6 KJV).   

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 The ANOINTED (Holy Spirit empowered) works and display of spiritual fruit came through Jesus, but were PRODUCED by God, the Holy Spirit. He DOES the WORK. “…Stephen, a man full of God’s grace and POWER (the indwelling Holy

Spirit), performed great wonders and signs among the people…” (Acts 6:8 NIV).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It is God and God alone that can CREATE, within HIS people, through Jesus, his LIVING Word, a CLEAN heart. “Create in me a clean heart, O God… Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. …” (Psalms 51:10-19 KJV). “....Now ye (God’s people) are clean through the Word which I have spoken unto you (through Jesus, his LIVING Word)...” (John 15:1-10 KJV). 

“...[God’s people can stay] .... holy and clean, washed by the cleansing [power]...of God’s Word ...” (Ephesians 5:26 KJV). “…[God’s people]... can do ALL THINGS through Christ (the Word of God)which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “…He (Jesus, god’s word) will keep you strong to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).

Therefore, even though, some, who claim to be God’s people can actually cast out devils and DO all kinds of wonderful, miraculous DEEDS, there is something missing in the frenzy of all these activities....KNOWING and INCLUDING GOD. “... Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Matthew 7:21-23 KJV). 

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

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

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

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

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

People, knowingly or unknowingly, THINK, their deeds (DOINGS) will make them worthy, deserving, or help them earn a SPOT in God’s kingdom. SALVATION is a free gift and DOINGS are acts of grateful obedience for the FREE gift. “... God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God ... through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT). 

 “…, my righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “…[He sent the ] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT). “…[salvation]… IS THE GIFT OF GOD (the Holy Spirit)…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). 

“…[God’s people ARE] ... Saved by grace (unmerited favor) through faith (trust in & dependency upon god)… NOT OF [them]SELVES ... not of works (doings OF THE flesh), that no man (woman) should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

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

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

God’s people were SAVED by God’s GRACE through FAITH (trusting in and depending upon God’s plan of Salvation). “…IT IS (Salvation) THE GIFT OF GOD (the Holy Spirit)…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “... Every good GIFT and every perfect GIFT is from above, and comethdown from the Father of lights…” (James 1:17 KJV).

 “…A man (woman) can receive nothing, except it BE GIVEN him from heaven…” (John 3:27 KJV). “…The LORD SHALL GIVE that which is good…” (Psalms 85:12 KJV). “…What do you have that God hasn’t given you?...” (1 Corinthians 4:7 NLT).

 “... [The WORD, the GOOD seed, the LIGHT, the working POWER, etc.,]... came down from heaven (to dwell within the hearts of God’s people)...” (John 6:42 KJV).39 KJV). “...By the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).God’s people WALK and LIVE by faith (by trusting in and depending upon God’s empowering Holy Spirit). 

“…[God’s people]... can do ALL THINGS through Christ (the Word of God)which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “…He (Jesus, god’s word) will keep you strong to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).“… [God’s people are]...equip with everything good for doing his will…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “...[God works “in” and “through” his people].... … what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ (his Word, his LIGHT, his working POWER, etc.,)…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

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

Here is how the belief of DOING could become a deception. “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Matthew 7:21-23 KJV).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What else did “Jesus” do?  The Holy Spirit empowered and anointed Jesusto go about DOING good and HEALING the oppressed. “…God anointed (empowered) Jesus of Nazareth (HOW?) with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER:  (WHAT DID JESUS, THE WORD OF GOD, DO?) [HE] ... went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; [HOW WAS HE ABLE TO DO THOSE THINGS?]... GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV). 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Even the DOING of God’s people is EMPOWERED or ENABLED by the indwelling Holy Spirit, the LIGHT, the Word, the working POWER, etc,. THE BIBLE says: “...‘What shall we do, that we might work the works of God?’ Jesus answered and said unto them, ‘This is the work of God, that ye believe (that you are empowered to trust in and depend) on Him...(the indwelling Holy Spirit, the LIGHT, the Word, the working POWER, etc.,) whom he (God) hath sent.” (John 6:28-29 KJV).  

“…God has sent forththe Spirit of His Son “INTO” OUR HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…God has given [you] his Spirit as PROOF that ...he [dwells]…in [you]…” (1 John 4:13 NLT). “…Jesus Christ...(the indwelling Holy Spirit, the LIGHT, the Word, the working POWER, etc.,)  is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

WHY AREN'T YOU TRANSFORMING "INTO" HIS IMAGE

 DO YOU WANT TO BE TRANSFORMED?

"…Do you want to get well...?" (John 5:6 MSG).

*

Before you start reading this book, I wanted to say I believe EVERY child of God can be transformed into the image of Jesus Christ, by the renewing of their mind/heart with revelation knowledge (the LIVING Word).  “…be transformed by the renewing of your mind...[through the revelation knowledge of God’s truth, which is Jesus, the LIGHT of the world]...” (Romans 12:1 KJV).   

Jesus said: “… I am (jesus, the word of god, who is) the light... (the revelation knowledge of God) ...of the world..." (John 9:5, 8:12 KJV).“... [the word, Jesus]... is a light to reveal God  to the nations...” (Luke 2:32 NLT).

“... [Jesus is]....A Light of revelation...” (LUKE 2:32 NASB). “…In this world we are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). In this world, God’s people are also, “… the light of the world (WITNESSES of HIS revelation knowledge)..." (Matthew 5:14 KJV).  

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

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

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

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

“…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…It is God(the Holy Spirit) who worketh IN YOU (your heart), both to will and to do of His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “…Christ (the Word, the indwelling Spirit, the LIGHT) liveth in [you] …” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).  

The indwelling Holy Spirit, the Word, the LIGHT, the GOOD seed EMPOWERS God’s people to “…beconformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “…Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV).“…[God’s people]... can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth [them to do it]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

There is NO DOUBT God’s people are NEW CREATIONS equipped with EVERYTHING they need to become transformed into the IMAGE of Jesus Christ. Well, what is the problem? The problem is that transformation is a CHOICE of the human will. “…choose LIFE…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “…Choose you(MAKE A WILLFUL CHOICE) this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

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

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

God’s people often, willfully, followed their OWN stubborn choices. “…But my people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts. They went backward instead of forward” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “But the people replied, “Don’t waste your breath. We will continueto live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

So the question for God’s people is NOT can you transform into the IMAGE of Christ, but “Do you want to be transformed?” “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

 If you are a NEW CREATION aren’t you already TRANSFORMED? Yes. “...old things are passed away; behold, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME (MADE) NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

Thus, God sent forth the spiritual seed (Jesus), and it is SOWN into your heart. However, in order to transform, 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 the WORD OF GOD ….. THE WORD …was sown in [THE] HEARTS [of God’s people]... (symbolic of the ground; earth)…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV).

One of the GREATEST seeds ever sown into the EARTH was Jesus, the WORD OF God. Even GREATER is that seed was sown into the earth of the human heart. Jesus had another name. “… His name is 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” and when the earth (also the human heart) receives and accepts the SEED, the SEED WILL always produce a fruitful crop 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).

The SEED is WATERED by the HOLY SPIRIT, so it can GROW and produce fruit that empowers transformation. “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). God, the Holy Spirit represents a type of water and is referred to as a “...spring of living water...” (Jeremiah 2:13 KJV).

The bible says, “....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). “… The Holy Spirit  produces  ...(spiritual) fruit in [the lives of HIS people when the SEED is watered]… .” (Galatians 5 NLT).

“…God ...the … HOLY SPIRIT ... is the SOURCE of ...[LIVING WATER]…it is …God who 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 cultivating and producing spiritual fruit]…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“...Do you want to be transformed?...” may seem like a ridiculous question, until you or someone else starts LOOKING for spiritual fruit and can’t find any.“...Therefore if any man(woman) be in Christ, he(she) is a NEW CREATURE: old things are passed away; behold, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME (MADE) NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

 “… God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (HIS WORD) into our hearts...” (Galatians 4:6 NASB).  “…The sower (God) SOWETH THE WORD …The seed (Jesus) is the WORD OF GOD ….. THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS (the ground; earth)…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV).

Being a NEW CREATION means God has SOWN the “spiritual SEED” into the human heart, but HIS people FREELY “choose” to water it, so it will GROW and PRODUCE spiritual fruit.

God KNOWS he has SOWN a GOOD SEED and he is CONFIDENT, if watered, it will NO DOUBT produce.

CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING BIBLE STORY: “…When the ground (which is symbolic for the human heart) soaks up the falling rain (which is symbolic for the LIVING WATER or the Holy Spirit) and bears a good crop (fruit of the Spirit) for the farmer (symbol for God), it has God’s blessing.   …” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT). HOWEVER, “.... if a field (also symbolic for the human heart) bear (produces) thorns and thistles [or a bad crop, instead], it is useless. The farmer (symbolic for God) will soon condemn that field and burn it…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

The rain represents God, the Holy Spiritwho is also called a “...spring of living water...” (Jeremiah 2:13 KJV). The bible says, “....I (God, the Holy Spirit) will pour my Spirit upon THY SEED...” (Isaiah 44:3 KJV).

God, the spring of LIVING of WATER, seen through the rain, falls upon the ground (or the human heart), where GOOD SEED (Jesus, the WORD) has been planted. “…The sower (God) SOWETH THE WORD … …” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “……The seed (Jesus) is the WORD OF GOD …” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “…God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (the GOOD seed) “INTO” ...[their].. HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB).“…THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS (the ground; earth)…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV).

In addition, Jesus had another name. “… His name is called The Word of God (the “good” seed)…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “ …God’s people have this treasure  (this GOOD seed) “in” earthen vessels…” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). 

When properly WATERED by the LIVING WATER, Jesus, the good seed, will always produce a good crop “...the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in [HIS people’s]... lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control…” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…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).

“…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. God is HOLY and righteous, but he is STILL an equal opportunity God. “... I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike...” (Matthew 5:44-45 NLT). “...[God, the Holy Spirit]... sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust... (Matthew 5:45 KJV).

It is God’s prerogative to demonstrate HIS MERCY to ANYONE  he chooses, even the UNJUST or the EVIL. God has the sovereign right to do what he wants.  “…If the Lord will...” (James 4:16 KJV). “... God said to Moses, “I will show mercy to anyone I choose,and I will show compassion to anyone I choose.” So it is God who decides to show mercy. We can neither choose it nor work for it...” (Romans 9:14-16 NLT).

Fortunate for the undeserving, “...HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV). “..come boldly unto the throne of GRACE ...[and]...obtain mercy…”(Hebrews 4:16 KJV). God is“... RICH IN MERCY…” (Ephesians 2:1-5 KJV). (Isaiah 63:9 NASB). “…Mercy triumphs over judgement.” (James 2:13 NASB). “...[Thankfully]... it is God who decides to show mercy. We can neither choose it nor work for it...” (Romans 9:14-16 NLT).

The ground represents the human heart. The human heart can RECEIVE the rain, or reject it, or hardened to the point of becoming impenetrable. It is THAT kind of heart that will produce thorns and thistles. “…Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your heartsas Israel did when they rebelled…” (Hebrews 3:15 NLT).

A hardened heart is SO compacted by sin and darkness it leaves NO ROOM for anything else to come in. “...  "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).

A person willfully and voluntarily CHOOSES to stubbornly keep the water OUT, which eventually dries up the heart until it hardens just like the ground. “... 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). “...But if a field bears thorns and thistles, it is useless…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

When the RAIN falls, the hardened heart will not receive God, the LIVING water’s gracious love, refreshing, and care for them, through the rain. Thus, they cannot and will not produce GOOD crops, but will, instead, become USELESS. “….Apart from [God, the LIVING water’s love, refreshment, and care]… [the just or the unjust will not and cannot]...do nothing (or produce anything worthwhile)…” (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 those who choose to receive and soak up his love, refreshment, and care. Yet, those who have hardened their hearts, have cut themselves off from God’s Grace, through their own choices, and will no longer be USEFUL for God’s purposes.   “…it is useless. The farmer will soon condemn that field and burn it…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT). "… You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men…” (Matthew 5:13 NASB).

“...If a man (woman) abide not in me, he (she) is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned....” (John 15:1-10 KJV).

A good crop is the result of the ground or human heart that chooses to trust in and depend upon God, the LIVING waterto DO the cultivating and the producing-of-fruit work “IN” them (their hearts) and “THROUGH” them (their actions). “...There are many ways in which God works in [the lives of his people], but it is ....God (the LIVING water) who does the work in and through all of ...his...[people]… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “……the [HOLY] SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (to cultivate and produce spiritual fruit) THROUGH each of [his people] … … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…It is God which worketh IN [his people] both to will and to do of hisgood pleasure…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “…That great Shepherd of the sheep, equip [his people] with everything good for doing his will, and may he work “IN [them]” what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…the Father … doeth the works (of cultivating and producing spiritual fruit in and through HIS people)…” (John 14:10 KJV).

  “…When the ground soaks up the falling rain (it is trusting and depending upon the rain to cultivate it and enable it to produce) and [enable it to bear]...a good crop (become USEFUL) for the farmer (God), it (the ground that soaks up the rain that) has God’s blessing (serves his purpose)…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT). “ God [the LIVING water] … worketh in [his people] …” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “… the

Father [the LIVING water] ...that dwelleth in… [the hearts of his people through the GOOD seed], he doeth the works (of cultivating (transforming) the NEW CREATION and producing spiritual fruit)…” (John 14:10 KJV). The apostle said: “… I do not treat the grace of God as meaningless. For if keeping the law (without soaking up the LIVING water) could make us right with God, then there was no need for Christ (the good seed that gives or restores spiritual life and produces spiritual fruit) to die…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT).

“…God [the LIVING water] ...does the work IN AND THROUGH all of [THOSE] who are [truly] 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 [good seed watered by the LIVING water ]...produces this kind of fruit in [y]our lives …” (Galatians 5 NLT) “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE (first, by planting Jesus, the good seed into his people’s hearts and second by his people choosing to water the seed with the LIVING water)…” (John 3:6 NLT).  

 “… His name (Jesus) is...called The Word of God (the “good” seed)…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “…THE WORDS (the SEEDS) .... they ARE SPIRIT[ual]…”(John 6:63 KJV). Thus, “…The Lord (the Word, the spiritual seed) is that Spirit (too)…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV).“…Jesus Christ is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

“… God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son (HIS WORD) into [the] hearts [of his people]...” (Galatians 4:6 NASB).  “…The sower (God) SOWETH THE WORD …The seed (Jesus) is the WORD OF GOD ….. THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS (the ground; earth)…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “…Jesus Christ (the WORD, the good seed) is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV).

“…[God’s people] CAN DO all things (display God’s fruit, and do righteous works) THROUGH Christ which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “….Apart from [the good seed and being watered by the LIVING water]… [God’s people cannot]...do nothing [spiritually fruitful]…” (John 15:5 NIV).

“…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  “… …The seed is the WORD OF GOD (and is also a spiritual seed) …” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “....I (God, the Holy Spirit) will pour my Spirit upon THY SEED...” (Isaiah 44:3 KJV).

The thorns and thistles represent what a human heart, hardened by the ongoing PRACTICE of SIN will BECOME. Cutting yourself OFF or shutting OUT the LIVING water is a CHOICE. “…[You have, by choice,]… been cut off from Christ! (the good seed and the LIVING water) …” (Galatians 5:4 NLT). “…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). “... Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he (God) taketh away ...If a man (woman) abide not in me, he (she) is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned....” (John 15:1-10 KJV).

Removing unfruitful branches, useless patches of ground, or the salt-less is not God, the LIVING water’s choice, he doesn’t want them to perish. “….[Jesus (the Word) CAME (to earth, into your hearts, etc.) because God is], NOT WILLING that any should perish, but that ALL should come to (enduring, everlasting, etc.) repentance…” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV).

God KNOWS, without a doubt, the GOOD seed he planted within the human heart, WILL produce, but the ground must CHOOSE to soak in, accept, absorb, trust and depend upon the LIVING WATER to cultivate and enable it to produce.

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

WHY? Without the FRUIT, the branch is NO “…longergood for anything, except to be thrown out...” (Matthew 5:13 NASB). It is no longer relevant. It serves NO purpose in the service of God. “...If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned....” (John 15:1-10 KJV).

WHY? God has made his people, the SALT. Salt serves, at least, two flavors, it preserves and it flavors. "… You are the saltof the earth…” (Matthew 5:13 NASB).

 It preserves by keeping things from rot and decay. It flavors by changing the taste of things. Salt is relevant when it is serving its purpose. "… You are the salt of the earth…” (Matthew 5:13 NASB).

Salt in Matthew 5:13 is an analogy referring to God’s people, the church body, or believers. They have ALL been given a purpose of reconciling the world BACK to God, the Holy Spirit. “…God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation (salt and light). …” (2 Corinthians 5:18 NIV). "… You are the saltof the earth…” (Matthew 5:13 NASB).

They have also been given the purpose of producing spiritual fruit that will reveal HOLY conduct which has the POWER to change the flavor of human morality to holy morality upon the earth. “…ye shall be holy  (not just moral) unto me: for I the Lordam holy…” (Leviticus 20:26 KJV).

When God’s people do NOT serve their purpose they lose their ability to reconcile men to God or influence holy morality. "… if the salt has become tasteless…” (Matthew 5:13 NASB).

In addition, God’s people are also considered to be a LIGHT of TRUTH to the world, but if that LIGHT can’t be SEEN it can’t lead anyone out of darkness nor can it influence the enlightenment of others. “…The Light which … enlightens every man…” (John 1:19 NASB). “…. We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves…” (2 Corinthians 4:5-7 NLT).

If God’s people have NO distinctive qualities they LOSE their uniqueness, relevancy, and purpose. "… You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless …It is no longer good for anything…” (Matthew 5:13 NASB).

God’s people also become USELESS for the purposes of God upon the earth. “…The God of peace… that great Shepherd of the sheep …work in us (empowering) what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…Apart from Me (Jesus, the indwelling Holy Spirit), [YOU can] do nothing [spiritually relevant]…” (John 15:5 NIV).

 “ … 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 … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “….Apart from Me, you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

 “…The flesh (the ground without the help of the LIVING water) profiteth nothing…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…Human effort (the ground with the help of the LIVING water) accomplishes nothing….” (John 6:63 NLT). “…If I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and if I give my body to be burned, but have not love (God is LOVE the LIVING water), IT PROFITETH ME NOTHING…” (1 Corinthians 13:2-3 ASV)."… if the salt has become tasteless … It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out…” (Matthew 5:13 NASB).

If God’s people LOSE their distinctive quality, which IS the Good seed, the indwelling Holy Spirit, the LIVING water, God’s working power, etc., how will they serve God’s purpose, of reconciliation, upon earth? “….Apart from Me (the Good seed, the indwelling Holy Spirit, the LIGHT, the LIVING Word, etc.,), you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). “…It is impossible to please God without (trusting in and depending upon God, which is) FAITH…” (Hebrews 11:6 NLT). "…That which is born of the flesh is flesh (born from JUST the ground is ground); and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit (born of the good seed is good crop)…” (John 3:6 KJV). “…The seed that fell on good soil ...  [will]... produce a harvest... ” (Matthew 13: 18-23 NLT).

What spiritual fruit can God’s people PRODUCE without the GOOD seed or being watered by the LIVING Water? “….Apart from Me, you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

Without the Good seed, the indwelling Holy Spirit, the LIVING Word, the LIGHT, etc., what distinctive qualities does God’s people have from any other group of religious people? “….Apart from Me, you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). 

Thus, God’s people become good for nothingin regard to the purposes he SENT them to earth TO DO (Matthew

5:13). “…If someone claims, “I know God,” but doesn’t obey God’s commandments, that person IS A LIAR and is not living in the truth…” (1 John 2:4 NLT).  “…If we “SAY” that we have fellowship with him, and WALK IN DARKNESS (without the show of spiritual fruit), WE LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV).  “ … the deeds of the flesh are evident…” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB). "… [God’s people were meant to become]... the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless …It is no longer good for anything…” (Matthew 5:13 NASB).

God’s people were sent for the DIVINVE PURPOSE of being a LIGHT to the world. "…Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven…” (Matthew 5:16 NASB).

As we close, this chapter, think about this: if Jesus thought to ask the man at Bethesda did he wish to get well, when it seemed obvious he needed healing, the question had a purpose.

“Soon another Feast came around and Jesus was back in Jerusalem. Near the Sheep Gate in Jerusalem there was a pool, in Hebrew called Bethesda, with five alcoves. Hundreds of sick people—blind, crippled, paralyzed—were in these alcoves. One man had been an invalid there for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him stretched out by the pool and knew how long he had been there, he said, “Do you want to get well?” (John 5:1-6 MSG).

The purpose of the question was not for Jesus, but for the man at the pool of Bethesda, a 38 year resident. The question is also for each of God’s people: “Do you want to get well [or do you want to transform]?”

God’s people can get so accustomed and complacent about sinful practices; overt or covert; they may become doubtful or even comfortable with the possibility or the choice of “NOT” transforming, “…My people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

God’s people can also become so full of excuses about their current sinful practicing condition, they don’t even WANT to transform. “...But when people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil, who has been sinning since the beginning. But the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil...” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT).

There are many who run towards the call of salvation, but flee from the responsibility to transform. “… 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).

Transformation is a healthy transition to a wholesome and holy lifestyle where God’s people are conformed to the image of Jesus. “…In this world we are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

However like Jesus asked the man at Bethesda, “Do you want to get well?” “...DO YOU WANT TO TRANSFORM OR CONFORM?

The bible says: “…Be conformed to the image of his Son...” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV).  Keep conforming “…until we …become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ…” (Ephesians 4:14 NIV). “… [With the help of the GOOD seed and the LIVING water, God’s people]… are changed (transformed, conformed, etc.)into the same image [of Christ] from glory to glory …” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV).

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

If the answer is yes and you want to conform to the IMAGE of Jesus, then like the man at Bethesda, “…rise, take up thy bed, and walk...” into the TRANSFORMING LOVE” OF GOD (experienced through the GOOD seed and the LIVING water). …” (John 5:8)

Godspeed,

Dr. Pensacola

IF YOU;RE ALLOWED TO SUFFER, GOD AIN'T TRYING TO HARM YOU, BUT HE WILL TURN IT AROUND FOR YOUR GOOD

 

IF YOU ARE ALLOWED TO SUFFER AND IT HURTS; GOD AIN'T TRYING TO HARM YOU, BUT HE WILL TURN IT AROUND FOR YOUR GOOD

“…although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause…” (Job 2:3 KJV).

                                                                                 *

When you choose to TRUST and DEPEND upon God, in spite of a “season of suffering” he will “… instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: [He]… will thee with [his[… eye…” (Psalms 32:8 KJV). “The steps of a good man (woman) are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way” (Psalms 37:23 KJV).

In a “season of suffering” it is easy to get off track in our TRUST and DEPENDING upon God. We can stop TRUSTING and DEPENDING upon God and starting trusting and depending upon SELF. “…Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy waysacknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths”(Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).

During my LONG “season of suffering” I prayed, went to church, was faithful, loyal, acted like a martyr, showed grace, mercy, and was forgiving.

Nonetheless, when my “season of suffering” didn’t end when I thought it would or should, I gave up. I was tired. I was tired because all my righteous behaviors didn’t end my “season of suffering” when “I” expected it to or in “MY” timing.

However, I have since learned I had more trust in my righteous acts to give me, earn me, make me worthy, or give me the victory or reward I deserved. I trusted, more, in my OWN righteous efforts whether than God’s effort that comes from my choosing to have faith in HIS miraculous power. “….Apart from [Jesus]…YOU CAN DO NOTHING…” (John 15:5 NIV).

“…It is God who works IN YOU to will and TO ACT…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…[You]… can do all things THROUGH CHRIST which strengtheneth [you]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “…May … God…EQUIP YOU with everything good for doing his will, and may he WORK IN US what is pleasing to him, THROUGH Jesus Christ,,,” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

To serve God, by CHOOSING to trust and depend upon God is the way to DO “his” will. It is a personal CHOICE to “…believe in Him [Jesus, the Word and not your OWN righteous acts]…” whom God has sent...” (John 6:29 KJV). “… I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore [YOU]…choose life…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV).

“…my peoplewould not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve (follow)….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

The victory comes not simply from what YOU DO on your OWN, but from what you BELIEVE or trust and depend that God CAN DO “in” and “through” you. “…Abraham believedGod …his faith and his actions were working together …” (James 2:18-24 NIV). “…the Father [the Holy Spirit] ...that dwelleth … [with Abraham], he doeth the works (displaying HIS working POWER “in” and “through” Abraham)…” (John 14:10 KJV).

 “…God [the Holy Spirit DID] ...the work ... THROUGH [Abraham]… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).“…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  "....The [Holy]... Spirit produces fruit ....[in the]...lives...[of his people] …” (Galatians 5 NLT) “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE (in and/or through ALL PEOPLE)…” (John 3:6 NLT). 

The PROOF OF TRUST and DEPENDENCY upon God is not SIMPLY about what YOU DO, but about what you TRUST and DEPEND that God “CAN” do. "Jesus … said…This is the (spiritual) work of God: that ...[his people]... believe (trust and depend) on him (Jesus, his Word) [and not self]... whom he (God, the Holy Spirit) hath sent...” (John 6:29KJV).

“…Show me your faith (trust and dependency upon God) without deeds (acts of proof), and I will show you my faith (trust and dependency upon God) by my deeds (acts of proof). You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar (this action was proof that Abraham trusted and depended upon God)? You see that his faith (his trust and dependency upon God) and his actions (offering up Isaac) were working together,and his faith (trust and dependency upon God) was made complete (Witnessed and gave Glory to God) by what he did. And the scripture was fulfilled that says, ‘Abraham believed (trusted and depended upon) God, and it was credited to him as righteousness (as the right thing to do before God),’ and he was called God’s friend. You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do (in obedience to God’s instructions) and not by faith alone (mere lip service)....” (James 2:18-24 NIV).

“…you hypocrites ...This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me...” (Mark 7:6 KJV).   

Obedience is the transformation process “in action” or a witness of the indwelling “…work of God…” (John 6:29).  Faith or trust and dependency upon God ENABLES the action “…God [the Holy Spirit DOES] ...the work ... THROUGH [his people]… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).  

Obedience, an action, is about an individual’s PERSONAL trust and dependency upon God. “…[Abraham’s]… faith (trust and dependency upon God) and his actions (offering up Isaac) were working together…” (James 2:18-24 NIV).

“…[Abraham’s]… faith was made complete (witnessed and gave GLORY to God) by what he did.  And the scripture was fulfilled that says, ‘Abraham believed (trusted and depended upon) God …” (James 2:18-24 NIV).

God instructed Abraham to do something (offer up, his son, Isaac) and he obeyed. Abraham, completely, trusted and depended upon God, and did what he was instructed to do. Abraham’s actions were empowered by the “work of God,” which enabled him to “...[believe, have faith, trust, depend, etc) on him (Jesus, God’s LIVING Word...” which motivated him to do it (John 6:29). “….Apart from [Jesus, the LIVING Word of God]…YOU CAN DO NOTHING…” (John 15:5 NIV).

 “…You see that his (Abraham’s) faith and his actions were working together, [and thus]…‘Abraham believed God, …” (James 2:18-24 NIV).

TRUST and DEPENDENCY upon God is the key to SUCCESSFULLY going and getting through ANY “season of suffering.” “..though he (God) slay me (or it feels like he’s killing me), yet will I trust in him (and depend upon him)…” (Job 13:15 KJV). “….All the days of my appointed TIME will I WAIT, till my CHANGE come…” (Job 14:14 KJV). “…The faithful followers of the Lord … keep their promises even when it hurts…” (Psalm 15:4 NLT).

SUFFERING that TRANSFORMS you OR TRANSFORMING SUFFERING is ALL about TRUST and DEPENDENCY upon God. “…Dear brothers and sisters …when your faith (trust in and dependency upon God) is tested, your ENDURANCE has a chance to grow. So let it grow...” (James 1:2-4 NLT).

“…abidein me, and I in you…” (John 15:4 KJV). “... continue in the faith... grounded and settled...” (Colossians 1:22-23 KJV). “...be not moved away ...” (Colossians 1:22-23 KJV).“... “...HE (SHE) THAT “SHALL” (WILL) ENDURE UNTO THE END SHALL(WILL) BE SAVED...” (Matthew 24:13 KJV). “... by faith (by trusting and depending upon God, the Holy Spirit) ye stand (endure)...” (2 Corinthians 1:24 KJV).

 “…Dear brothers and sisters …when your faith (trust in and dependency upon God) is tested, your ENDURANCE has a chance to grow. So let it grow...” (James 1:2-4 NLT).

Jesus suffers with us. “…Christ... hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). “…Christ [first]…suffered for us in the flesh…” (1 Peter 4:1-3 KJV). “…He [was] wounded for our transgressions, [he was] bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace [was] upon him; and with his stripes we are healed (freed from SIN)…” (Isaiah 53:5 KJV). “…his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any human being and his form marred beyond human likeness—“ (Isaiah 52:14 NIV). “….God SHOWED HIS GREAT LOVE FOR US by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT). “… because HE FIRST LOVED US…” (1 John 4:19 ASV). Jesus took on “the likeness of sinful flesh…,” (Romans 8:3 KJV).Therefore, Jesus literally experienced the human journey and can “…be touched with the feeling of ...[his peopele’s]... infirmities (especially when it comes to suffering through something)...” (Hebrews 4:15 KJV).

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

“Therefore, since Christ suffered in his flesh, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin…” (1 Peter 4:1 NIV).

The “season of suffering” was challenging to Jesus too. “… He withdrew about a stone's throw beyond them and knelt down and prayed, "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).

Jesus went through his “season of suffering” in human flesh, but, like of God’s people, he was empowered by the indwelling the Holy Spirit. The flesh is simply human flesh, but the Spirit is the indwelling POWER of God. Jesus said, "...That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit...” (John 3:6 KJV).

Jesus demonstrated to his people, while suffering upon earth, the indwelling power of God will KEEP you.  “…HE (the indwelling Holy Spirit) “WILL” KEEP YOU STRONG to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).

“…God assured...[his people], “I’ll never let you down, never walk off and leave you,” [God’s people]... 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). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

The indwelling power didn’t keep Jesus from experiencing suffering, but it empowered him to endure until God’s will was DONE. God “…spared not his own Son [from suffering], but delivered him up for us all….?” (Romans 8:32 KJV).

 Jesus, himself, SAID: “…For I have come down from heaven  ... TO DO ...THE WILL of him who sent me…” (John 6:38 NIV). When Jesus was done doing his Father’s will, “...he (Jesus) said, It is finished...” (John 19:28-30 KJV).

Jesus, therefore, CAN enable his people to go through suffering.  “…God ...does the work IN and THROUGH [his people]. …… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s  [enabling] power THROUGH [his people] …… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).  “…the Father that dwelleth in...[his people], he doeth the works [of keeping his people strong]…” (John 14:10 KJV).

 “... The [father or god, the]...Holy Spirit produces ....fruit in [the] lives...[of his people]...: …” (Galatians 5  NLT).

 “… [God, the Holy Spirit] grant[s]… [his people]… to be strengthened with might by his [holy] ... Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV). “…[God’s people]... can do all things through Christ  which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

Jesus absorbs the suffering of his people. The EVIL ONE and his wicked slaves may affect God’s people during “seasons of suffering”, but God takes it personal. “….Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren, YE HAVE DONE IT TO ME.” (Matthew 25:40 KJV).

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

God miraculously protects ALL of his children, during “seasons of suffering.” He warns, their enemies: “….touch not mine anointed (his righteous children who are set apart for his service) and do…[them, his people] no harm...” (Psalm 105:14-15 KJV).

Here is an example of God taking your hurtful experiences and absorbing them for you: Paul was killing and persecuting God’s disciples/people. Jesus took it personally, as if Paul was actually doing it to him. “...And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul,Saul, why persecutest thou ME? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him,Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man...” (Acts 9:1-7 KJV).

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

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

Jesus already suffered for his people when he took their suffering upon himself on the cross! “…Christ [first]…suffered for [his people] in the flesh …” (1 Peter 4:1-3 KJV). “…He [was] wounded for [their] transgressions, [he was] bruised for [their] iniquities: the chastisement of [their] peace [was] upon him; and with his stripes [they ere healed (freed from SIN and all its affects)…” (Isaiah 53:5 KJV). “…his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any human being and his form marred beyond human likeness—“ (Isaiah 52:14 NIV). “...(Jesus) said, It is finished...” (John 19:28-30 KJV).

 “…These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world…” (John 16:33 KJV). “...Peace I leave with you...” (John 14:27 NIV)..“...my peaceI give unto you...” (John 14:27 NIV). “...my peace...not as the world giveth, give I unto you. ...[Therefore,]... let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 NIV).

However, in order to enjoy the benefits of God’s promises during “seasons of suffering” his people make a CHOICE to willfully and voluntarily let their faith and deeds WORK TOGETHER.

God’s people trust and depend upon God and obey his instructions. They are EMPOWERED by the indwelling Holy Spirit when they CHOOSE LIFE and CHOOSE to serve HIM. “… I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore [YOU]…choose life…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “…Choose LIFE…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “…Jesus said… I am the LIFE…..” (John 11:25 KJV). “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve (obey)….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “…If you love me, you will keep (follow, obey) my commandments (Jesus, my Word)…” (John 14:15). “… Jesus saith unto him, I am the way…” (John 15:5- 6 KJV).

One of God’s most simply, but PROFOUND commandments is: “…come and follow me (Jesus, the living word)…” (Matthew 19:21 KJV). Ask NO questions, just FOLLOW his WORD!

Can God’s people TRUST and DEPEND upon HIM? Yes, “…[God’s people] can do “all things” through Christ which strengtheneth [them]....” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

In addition, God has “… [made] known… [to his people, through his indwelling Holy Spirit]...the riches of the glory (the riches are the presence, goodness, and working power of God) … which is Christ (the LIVING Word) in you (in his people)…” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “ …[God’s people]... have this treasure  “in” earthen vessels…” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). 

“…His DIVINE  (indwelling) POWER hath given unto us ALL THINGS that pertain unto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV). “...He careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV). “…The LORD “WILL” accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “…God is the one who provides ....”(2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV).  “…God will generously PROVIDE all you need…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

Therefore, when going through “seasons of suffering” TRUST and DEPEND upon God that “...Christ … suffered for [you already]…” (1 Peter 2:21 KJV).You simply need to CHOOSE to “...Trust in the Lord with all thine heart ...he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).

 “…Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57 KJV). “…Thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ...” (2 Corinthians 2:14 KJV). “....For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, ....our faith (our trust and dependency upon God overcomes the world)...” (1 John 5:4 KJV).

“…although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause” (Job 2:3 KJV). When it “SEEMS”, during your “season of suffering,” that God has allowed Satan to SIMPLY destroy your life “without cause;” TRUST and DEPEND upon GOD ANYWAY.

“…The plans [God has]…for you… [are]… plans to prosper you and not to harm you...” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV). Satan “…intend[s] to harm [God’s people], but God intend[s] it for ...[his people’s]...good...” Genesis 50:20 NIV).

“…In this [fallen] world [God’s people] shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer, [God has]… OVERCOME the world…” (John 16:33 KJV “….all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose…” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV).

 “...Therefore [during seasons of suffering]... put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm...” (Ephesians 6:13-14 NIV).

“... Put on all of God’s armor [people of God] so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil...” (Ephesians 6:11 NLT).

“…HE (the indwelling Holy Spirit) “WILL” KEEP YOU STRONG to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).

“…God assured [HIS people], “I’ll never let you down, never walk off and leave you,” we can boldly quote, God is there, ready to help...” (Hebrews 13:5 MSG).

“…He [says, to HIS people], … Do not be afraid or discouraged ...the Lord is with you!” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

“…No weapon that is formed against [YOU]… shall prosper…” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV).

“…the battle is not yours, but God’s. …...” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

“…you will not even need to fight...” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

“…Take your positions (of trust and dependency upon god); then stand still...” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

“…watch the Lord’s victory...” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

So, when God’s people go through a “season of suffering”, choosing to trust and depend upon God will empower them to  totally and completely, “…[entrust themselves]…to him (God, the Holy Spirit) who judges justly” (1 Peter 2:19-23 NIV).

Godspeed

Dr. Pensacola H. Jefferson

 

 

ALLOWED TO "SUFFER" WITHOUT AN EXPLANATION OR REASON

ALLOWED TO SUFFER WITHOUT AN EXPLANATION OR REASON

“…although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause…” (Job 2:3 KJV).

                                                                  *

A “season of suffering” can catch you by surprise or catch you totally off guard. Yet “…[God]… does whatever pleases him” (Psalms 115:3 NIV).

God allows or permits trials and tribulations as he pleases and he can do it “without cause.” “…although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause…” (Job 2:3 KJV). In other words, there may be no earthly reason for your “season of suffering.”

However, God “…[is]…GOOD and doest GOOD (even when he allows, his people, to go through “seasons of suffering”)…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV). “…all things (even “seasons of suffering”) work together for GOOD to them that LOVE GOD, to them who are THE CALLED to his purpose...” (Romans 8:28 KJV). It is Satan who “…[intends] …to harm [his people]…, but God [intends]… it (SEASONS OF SUFFERING) for [their] good…” Genesis 50:20 NIV).

God’s people can learn about “seasons of suffering” and be admonished from reading and studying the book of Job. “…For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning…” (Romans 15:4 KJV).

“Now all these things happened unto them (Job and others) for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition…” (1 Corinthians 10:11 KJV).

Job was an upright man and full of integrity, even God complimented him. Others may have revered Job as an upright man also. He may have had renown, as a righteous man, all over the land. In addition, Job, most likely, had his OWN image of himself too.

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

Job was so upright and full of integrity, it would never even cross the mind that he STILL needed to grow and develop spiritually. It would never cross the mind that being upright and full of integrity could become a prideful thing; whether intentional or unintentional. “…those who walk in pride … [God] is able to humble” (Daniel 4:37 NIV). “…everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted…” (Luke 18:14 ASV). “…do not think of yourself more highly than you ought…” (Romans 12:3 NIV).“...if anyone thinks he(SHE) is something when he (she) is nothing, he(she) deceives himself (herself)...” (Galatians 6:3 NASB).

During his “season of suffering” Job was well aware of his righteous image, but, it seems, he forgot where his righteousness came from. His friends, however, saw he had forgotten too. “…So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes…” (Job 32:1 KJV).

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

Elihu didn’t accuse Job of any secret sin like his other friends, but he saw Job striving (fighting) against God, through his attitude about his allowance of his “season of suffering” and “without cause”.

Elihu also thought Job was justifying HIS righteousness over the righteousness of God, who chose to allow him to go through a “season of suffering.” “...Then was kindled the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the kindred of Ram: against Job was his wrath kindled, because he justified himself rather than God…” (Job 33:1-10 KJV).

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

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

“…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).

Elihu talked to Job about the GLORY of God. The ALMIGHTY and GLORIOUS GOD, who chooses to bestow his LOVE upon mere, finite, mankind. “...God has chosen you (finite mankind) from the beginning for SALVATION …” (2 Thessalonians 2:13 NASB). “... You did not choose me but I chose you, and appointed you  ...” (John 15:16 ASV).  “…God chose [his people]  in Christ before the foundation of the world…” (Ephesians 1:4).

 SO, the question is this: “...what are mere mortals (LIKE JOB or God’s people) that [God, the Holy Spirit]... should think about ...[them], human beings that [HE]... should care for [THEM?” (Psalm 8:4 NLT). "...What is mankind that you make so much of them, that you give them so much attention...”  (Job 7:17 NASB). "...What are people, that you should make so much of us, that you should think of us so often?” (Job 7:17 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, has CREATED the vast universe and galaxies and yet he takes the time to CARE for unworthy human beings with sinful natures that separate them from HIM. Nonetheless, “…Herein is love,not that we loved God, but that HE [first] LOVED US...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “...We love [him], because HE “FIRST” LOVED US…” (1 John 4:19 ASV). “….God SHOWED HIS GREAT LOVE FOR US by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT). He has “….loved [mankind]...with an everlasting… love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV). “…God is … love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…There is no greater LOVE …” (John 15:13 NLT).

“....The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein…” (Psalm 24:1 KJV). “...All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB). “… “…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).

“...what are mere mortals (LIKE Job or God’s people) that [God, the Holy Spirit]... should think about ...[them], human beings that [YOU, God]... should care for [THEM?]” (Psalm 8:4 NLT).  

 “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “...He careth for [mere mortals, human beings, his people, etc.]....” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

Whatever comes into your life or whatever God ALLOWS to happen, “…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). “…the [righteous God, full of integrity]... blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning: ….After this lived Job an hundred and forty years, and saw his sons and his sons’ sons, even four generations. So Job died, being old, and FULL of days...” (Job 42:12-17 KJV).

God took Israel through a “season of suffering” for forty years to humble them, to test them, and to see “…whether [they]… wouldest keep his commandments, or not…” (Deuteronomy 8:2 KJV).

Forty years seems like a long time, but they refused, over and over again, to TRUST God. When you are going through a LONG or SHORT, “season of suffering,” trust in and depend upon God continually. Satan “…intended to harm [Job and God’s people], but God [intends suffering] for ...[their]...good...” Genesis 50:20 NIV). “…the plans [God has]…for you….[are]… plans to prosper you and not to harm you...” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV).

Do not LET the circumstances or the details make you lose sight of who God is or what his Word says. “…The Lord said to Moses, “How long will these people treat me with contempt (disrespect)? How long will they refuse to believe in me (trust and depend upon me), in spite of all the signs I have performedamong them?” (Daniel 14:11 NIV).

God forgave them numerous times, but eventually he decided, “… not one of those who saw my glory (presence, goodness, and working power) and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors. No one who has treated me with contempt (with disrespect) will ever see it…” (Daniel 14:22-23 NIV).

 “…As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:..” (Romans 3:10 KJV).

“...For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV). “....there is none good but one, that is, God” (Mark 10:18 KJV).

 “…They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is NONE THAT DOETH GOOD, NO, NOT ONE...” (Romans 3:10-12 KJV). “…There is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not…” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV).

“…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE (uprightness, goodness) …” (John 3:6 NLT). “….Apart from [God, the HOLY SPIRIT], you can do nothing (God’s people or Job cannot do righteous or good)…” (John 15:5 NIV).

“...God’s ....gift of righteousness, for all who receive [it, is] .....through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT). “…jesus Christ, [is] the GIFT of righteousness…” (Romans 5:17 KJV).

“....there is none good but one, that is, God...” (Mark 10:18 KJV). “…he remains faithful, …” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

Whether God’s people go through “seasons of suffering” he allowed or they bought them on themselves, God remains faithfully LOVING to them. “…he remainsfaithful, …” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

 “...The LORD is righteous in all His ways And kind in all His deeds...” (Psalms 145:17 NASB). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

 YET, “…. Again and again he rescued [his people], but they chose to rebel against him, and they were finally destroyed by their [own] ...sin. Even so, he pitied them in their distress and listened to their cries. He remembered his covenant with them and relented because of his unfailing love…” (Psalms 106:42-48 NLT). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  “...Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).

“....there is none good but one, that is, God...” (Mark 10:18 KJV). “…he remains faithful…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

During “seasons of suffering” that God has allowed, even “without cause,” will you, ultimately, choose to continue to serve him? “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve (GOD’s righteous allowance or SELF’s righteous attitude)….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV). “…choose LIFE (choose GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT & his righteous ways)…” (Deuteronomy 30:19 KJV). “…He willkeep you strong to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).

During some LONG “seasons of suffering” (not all), the WRONG mindset or attitude, can keep you there or stuck for years or permanently. “...For forty years—one year for each of the forty days you explored the land—you will suffer for your sins and know what it is like to have me against you.’I, the Lord, have spoken, and I will surely do these things to this whole wicked community, which has banded together against me. They will meet their end in this wilderness; here they will die…” (Number 14:34-25 NIV).

“…whatsoever a man (woman) soweth, that shall he (she) also reap….” (Galatians 6:7 KJV). “….For he (she) that soweth to his (her) flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption…” (Galatians 6:8 KJV). “…But my people would not listen to me...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

“…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).

God gave them what they choose and asked for instead of what he wanted or had chosen to ultimately bless them with. “...my people would not listen to me...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT). “...They kept doing whatever they wanted...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

“...They kept ...following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

“...They went backward instead of forward...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

“...The people replied [to God], “Don’t waste your breath. We will continue to live as we want to...” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

“...The people replied [to God], “Don’t waste your breath. We will continue...to, stubbornly [follow] our own evil desires” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

“…So tell them, ‘As surely as I live, declares the Lord, I will do to you the very thing I heard you say:  In this wilderness your bodies will fall—every one of you twenty years old or more who was counted in the census and who has grumbled against me…”(Numbers 14:26-29 NIV)

“...The Lord said, My spirit shall not always strive (fight) with man(kind)…” (Genesis 6:3 KJV).“…They DID NOT like to retain God in their knowledge, GOD GAVE THEM OVER to a reprobate mind…” (Romans 1:28 KJV). “...We will continue to live as we want to...” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

“...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).

“... We will continue...to, stubbornly [follow] our own evil desires” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

Many of God’s people will go through “seasons of suffering” and will NEVER make it through because of a lack of FAITH. "... Without faith (without trusting and depending upon the POWER of God) it is IMPOSSIBLE to please [him]..." (Hebrews 11:6 KJV).

 “…The children of Israel journeyed from Rameses to Succoth, about six hundred thousand on foot that were men, beside children…” (Exodus 12:37 NIV).

Out of 600,000+ people, only Joshua and Caleb remained TRUSTING and DEPENDING upon the POWER of God. “…Not one of you will enter the land I swore with uplifted hand to make your home, except Caleb son of Jephunneh and Joshua son of Nun…” (Number 14:30 NIV).

God guarantees his people victory through “seasons of suffering” and promises them “…all things [will, not MIGHT, but
“WILL”]…work together for GOOD to them that LOVE GOD, to them who are THE CALLED to his purpose...” (Romans 8:28 KJV).

According to the bible, the victory is already won!!! “…In this [fallen] world ye (God’s people) shall have tribulation: but [they can]... be of good cheer, [because, God has already]… OVERCOME the world…” (John 16:33 KJV).

It is unfortunate that so many of God’s people, during a “season of suffering,” will begin to walk by sightand not by faith. “….without faith it is impossible to please God…” (Hebrews 11:6 KJV).

Therefore, it is essential that God’s people continue, through it all, to “…walk by faith...” (2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV).

It is a CHOICE to TRUST and DEPEND upon God during a “season of suffering.” Without continuing in faith will be detrimental and will not turn out for the good or as victoriously as God intended. Therefore, God’s people CHOOSE willfully to “…walk by faith...” (2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV). They KNOW “….without faith (continual trust & dependency upon God,) it is impossible to please God…” (Hebrews 11:6 KJV).

God was displeased with Israel’s mistrust or lack of faith. God hasn’t changed about that. “….Without faith it is impossible to please God…” (Hebrews 11:6 KJV). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13 :8 NIV).

Trusting and depending upon God brings a restful peace to his people. “…The plans [God has]…for you….[are]… not to harm you (but to give you REST)...” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV).

 “... Let us (God’s people) labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man (woman) fall after the same example of unbelief (as Israel)…” (Hebrews 4:10-11 KJV).

The “seasons of suffering” God’s people go through can last for hours, days, weeks, months, or years. These trials and tribulations are events God uses to encourage, built, develop, or grow TRUST and DEPENDENCY upon HIM.

The greatest enemy of TRUST and DEPENDENCY upon God is a LACK OF FAITH.

“Seasons of suffering” will expose whether you will trust and depend upon God or not. Job lost everything after years of being an upright man. The Hebrew boys went through the fire after standing for truth. Yet they continued to trust and depend upon God.

A LACK of FAITH led “…the Lord [to say]…to Moses, “How long will these people treat me with contempt (disrespect)? How long will they refuse to believe (TRUST and DEPEND upon) ...me, in spite of all the signs I have performedamong them?” (Daniel 14:11 NIV).

“…Abraham believed (trusted and depended upon) God, and it was credited to him as righteousness, and he was called God’s friend…” (James 2:18-24 NIV). Righteous people (God’s people?) trust and depend upon God.

Therefore, righteous people “…walk by faith...” (2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV).  Because, “….without faith it is impossible to please God…” (Hebrews 11:6 KJV). “...for he(she( that cometh to God must believe (trust and depend) that he is, and thathe is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him...” (Hebrews 11:6 KJV). “…This is the (indwelling) work of God, that ye (HIS people) believe on (trust and depend upon) Him (Jesus, his LIVING Word) whom he (God) hath sent....” (John 6:28-29 KJV).

“…God … sent forth the Spirit of His Son “INTO” [THE] HEARTS [OF HIS PEOPLE]…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…It is God who works in [HIS people] to will (to want to have faith) and to act (to actually have faith) in order to fulfill his good purpose...” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…FAITH COMETH (is empowered, grows) BY HEARING ....the word of God…” (Roman 10:17 KJV). “...the [indwelling]... Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in [HIS people’s] lives...[the fruit of faith]…” (Galatians 5 NLT).

“... The God of peace, … equip(s HIS people) with everything good for doing his will, and ...he work(s in them) what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory (to whom BE God’s presence, goodness, and working power) for ever and ever. Amen...” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV)

 

God’s people’s TRUST and DEPENDENCY upon HIM pleases HIM. God will MOVE MOUNTAINS, out of their way, when his people put their faith (their trust and dependency) in the POWER of his WORD. “...Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” He replied, “Because you have so little faith (so little trust and dependency upon the power of God’s Word). Truly I tell you, if you have faith (trust and dependency upon God’s power that is) as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you…” (Matthew 17:19-20 NIV).

THE LACK OF FAITH (trust and dependency upon the POWER of God’s Word) will NOT please him.  The one who LACKS FAITH shouldn’t even EXPECT to receive anything from God. “...But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do” (James 1:6-8 NIV).

This is NOT cruel. The bible SAYS: “…FAITH COMETH (is empowered, grows) BY HEARING....the word of God…” (Roman 10:17 KJV). “...the [indwelling]... Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in [HIS people’s] lives...[the fruit of faith]…” (Galatians 5 NLT).

“... The God of peace, … equip(s HIS people) with everything good for doing his will, and ...he work(s in them) what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ...Amen...” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV)

“God … worketh in [his people], both to will and to do of His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “…the Father that dwelleth in… [them], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“… The God of peace … that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip[s] [his people]... with everything good for doing his will…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).  “…God will supply all [the FAITH you need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…my cup runneth over (with God’s EMPOWERING fruit of faith)…” (Psalms 23:5 KJV). “…God will generously PROVIDE (the fruit of faith;) ...all [his people] need. Then [they] will always have everything [they] need and plenty left over to “SHARE” WITH OTHERS…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

“…his divine power hath given unto [his people] ALL THINGS that pertain unto life and godliness…” (2 Peter 1:3 KJV).

As one of God’s people, the most major work they have is to exercise FAITH or their TRUST and DEPENDENCY upon the POWER of God’s WORD, which is Jesus, the living Word of God. “…This is the (indwelling, empowering) work of God, that ye (HIS people) believe (trust and depend) on Him (Jesus, the WORD) whom he (God) hath sent.” (John 6:28-29 KJV). “…the Father that dwelleth in… [them], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…God (that dwells within his people) ...does the work “IN” and “THROUGH” ...[them]. …… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The (indwelling) HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH (the production of spiritual fruit “through” each of HIS people) …… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).  “…The [indwelling] Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in ...[HIS people’s]... lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness…” (Galatians 5:22 NLT). “… [God’s people will]… bear much fruit, and …PROVE to be [God’s]… disciples (people)…” (John 15:8 NIV).

Therefore, “...In the day of prosperity [HAVE FAITH and]… be happy, But in the day of adversity [HAVE FAITH too and] consider-- God has made the one as well as the other…” (Ecclesiastes 7:14  NASB). “…Without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and thathe is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Hebrews 11:6 KJV).

A “season of suffering” is not an excuse to stop having FAITH in God, but too many of God’s people do, just like the Israelites in the wilderness. A LACK of FAITH is about YOU and your OWN choice “NOT” to trust and depend upon God.

A LACK of FAITH is sometimes about 1). Reliance upon self-sufficiency: “..Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God....” (2 Corinthians 3:5 NIV).

2). Trusting and depending upon the finite self: “Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe...” (Proverbs 28:26 NIV).

3). Refusal to surrender: “…You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me (Jesus, the LIVING Word); and you are unwilling to come to Me so that you may have life...” (Mark 5:39-40 NASB).

4).Lack of hearing, seeing, or studying the Word of God:“...Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful...” (Joshua 1:8 NIV). “…My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge…” (Hosea 4:6 NIV).

5).Ongoing practices (not mistakes or struggles to overcome sin, but) the ongoing practices of sin: “...Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear. But your iniquities have separated you from your God;your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear...” (Isaiah 59:1-2 NIV).

6). Willful disobedience: “... Everyone who sins is breaking God’s law, for all sin is contrary to the law of God....” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT).

“...anyone who keeps on sinning does not know him ... who he is...” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT).

“...Dear children, don’t let anyone deceive you about this: When people do what is right, it shows that they are righteous, even as Christ is righteous...” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT).

“...when people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil ...Those who have been born into God’s family do not make a practice of sinning, because God’s [SPIRITUAL] ... life is in them....” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT).

“..So now we can tell who are children of God and who are children of the devil....” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT).

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

7). Lack of prayer life: “…Pray without ceasing…” (1 Thessalonians 5:17 NIV). “…Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit…” (Ephesians 6:18 KJV). “….call upon me …and prayunto me and I will [LISTEN] unto you…” (Jeremiah 29:12-13 KJV). “…If My people which are called by My name shall ... pray ...I WILL HEAL…” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV). “...I am the one who answers your prayers and cares for you....” (Hosea 14:5-9 NASB). “..instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs, and don’t forget to thank him for his answers...”(Philippians 4:6 NLT). “…The LORD (“WILL” accomplish (or take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “...He careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV).

8). Worrying nonstop: “…therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life …” (Matthew 6:25-27 NIV). “.. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs, and don’t forget to thank him for his answers...”(Philippians 4:6 NLT). “…The LORD (“WILL” accomplish (or take care of)…that which concerns [his people]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “...He careth for [his people].” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV).

 “…He [was] wounded for [his people’s] transgressions, [he was] bruised for [their] iniquities: the chastisement of [their] peace[was] upon him; and with his stripes [his people] are healed (freed from WORRY, FEAR, SHAME, etc.)…” (Isaiah 53:5 KJV). “...Peace I leave with [my people]...” (John 14:27 NIV). .“...my peace I give unto [god’s people]..” (John 14:27 NIV). “...my peace ...not as the world giveth, give I unto [God’s people. ...[Therefore, God’s people should]... not... [let their]... heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 NIV).

9). Constant fear: “...Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?...” (Mark 4:38-40 NIV).

“...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...” (Psalms 46 NLT).

“... BE STRONG and 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 FAIL thee; “NOR” FORSAKE thee...” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV).“...Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?...” (Mark 4:38-40 NIV).

 

10). Doubt: “…But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt,because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do” (James 1:6-8 NIV).

“... whosoever ...SHALL NOT doubt in his(her) HEART, but SHALL BELIEVE...” (Mark 11:23 KJV).

11). Complaining against God:“And the people spake against God…” (Number 21:1 NIV).“...Yea, they spake against God...” (Psalms 78:19 KJV). “...Adam said, “The woman whom You (God) gave to be with me, she gave me from the tree, and I ate...” (Genesis 3:12 NASB). “...the people became like those who complain of adversity in the hearing of the Lord; and when the Lord heard it, His anger was kindled, and the fire of the Lord burned among them and consumed some of the outskirts of the camp...” (Number 11:1 NASB). “...The Lord is the one you and your followers are really revolting against!?...” (Number 16:11 NASB). “...How long shall I bear with this evil congregation who are grumbling against Me? I have heard the complaints of the sons of Israel, which they are making against Me...” (Numbers 14:27 NASB).  “...The people spoke against God and Moses, “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and we loathe this miserable food...” (Numbers 21:5 NASB). “...The sons of Israel said to them, “Would that we had died by the Lord’s hand in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the pots of meat, when we ate bread to the full; for you have brought us out into this wilderness to kill this whole assembly with hunger...” (Exodus 16:3 NASB). “... Moses said, “This will happen when the Lordgives you meat to eat in the evening, and bread to the full in the morning; for the Lord hears your grumblings which you grumble against Him. And what are we? Your grumblings are not against us but against the Lord....” (Number 16:8 NASB). “...My complaint is with God, not with people...” (Job 21:4 NLT). “...Do all things without grumbling or disputing;...” (Philippians 2:14-15 NASB).

 

ENTRUSTING YOUR LIFE AND EXPERIENCES TO GOD

                                    WHEN JESUS SUFFERING; ENTRUSTING YOU LIFE AND EXPERIENCES TO GOD

“…he entrusted himself to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:19-23 NIV).

              *

What God’s people think of ourselves, in their hearts, impacts who they are and the image they project to others. “…as he [or she] thinketh in his [or her] heart, so is he [or she]…” (PROVERBS 23:7 KJV).

It’s okay to desire to project a certain image, however, as a believer, there is NOW only ONE image we need to project and that’s Jesus’ image. Be “…conformed to the image of His Son (the LIVING Word)…” (Romans 8:28).

Usually, the problem with projecting Jesus’ image is the issue of pride lingering somewhere in the heart. “…If My people ...shall humble themselves, …” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV). “But the people replied, “…We will continueto live as WE WANT TO, stubbornly following our ownevil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

Some people try, very hard, to project a certain image, but OFTEN there is a discrepancy between the image you “think” you project and the one that is “actually” being projected. “...outwardly [you] appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites...” (Matthew 23:13-33 KJV).

“…hypocrites ...This people honoureth me with [their] lips, but [their] heart is far from me...” (Mark 7:6 KJV).   

“…If [God’s people] “SAY” that [they] have fellowship with him, and WALK IN DARKNESS (hypocrisy, phoniness, etc.), [THEY] LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV).

“…He (Jesus) knew what was in each person’s heart…” (John 2:24-25 NLT).

“...hypocrites! for [God’s people] make clean the outside of the cup (religious appearance) and of the platter, but within (in their hearts) they are full of extortion and excess...” (Matthew 23:13-33 KJV).

“... except [the] righteousness [of God’s people] shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, [Those claiming to be God’s people] shall [not] enter into the kingdom of heaven...” (Matthew 5:10 KJV).

If you have a desired image you want to project, you usually work on it constantly, but, ask yourself, it is your desired image or God’s? Be “…conformed to the image of His Son (the LIVING Word)…” (Romans 8:28).

Building your own image means you are concerned with building a particular reputation among certain people, family, and community. “… [Jesus] made himself of no reputation and took upon him[self] the form of a servant…” Philippian 2:3, 7 KJV).

Building YOUR own image is driven by pride and personal agenda. People try to build their own image in ministry, in their various roles in life, among their family, friends, and community, because they take pride in having a certain reputation. “…everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted…” (Luke 18:14 ASV).

God’s people willingly and voluntarily CHOOSE to project ONE IMAGE and that is the IMAGE of Jesus Christ. “... [Jesus] made himself of no reputation and took upon him[self] the form of a servant…” Philippian 2:3, 7 KJV).

“…In this world we are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “...Be … imitators of [Jesus]…”(Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:1 ASV). “… growing in every way more and more like Christ…” (Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT). “…be conformed to the imageof his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV).

Even if the IMAGE you want to project is full of noble characteristics (you want to have the image of being nice, holy, a giver, forgiving, kindhearted, etc.), it is still YOUR agenda; not God’s. “... [Jesus] made himself of no reputation and took upon him[self] the form of a servant…” Philippian 2:3, 7 KJV). “…everyone who exalts [themselves, by building their own image and reputation) will be humbled, but he who humbles himself(herself) will be exalted…” (Luke 18:14 ASV).

God DOES the work of conforming, his people. to the IMAGE of Jesus; not them. “…God [the Holy Spirit] … DOES the work IN and THROUGH all of us [his people] …[God, the] HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of his people …” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “… [God’s popele]… can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “…It is God who works in [his people]… to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “… the God of peace, … that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip[s his people] with everything good for doing his will, and …work[s] in [his people]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…NOW UNTO HIM THAT IS “ABLE” TO DO (conform, his people, into the image of Jesus)… according to the [indwelling] power that worketh in [them]…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).  

Some of Hebrew definitions, for pride, mean to be arrogant, conceited, have misguided audacity, use stubborn speech, display evil actions, are high-minded, or are puffed-up. “…do not think of yourself more highly than you ought…” (Romans 12:3 NIV).“...if anyone thinks he(SHE) is something when he (she) is nothing, he(she) deceives himself (herself)...” (Galatians 6:3 NASB).

In addition, the Hebrew definition implies that this kind of person projects an image that is a smoke-screen for another image. “...man (woman) looks at the outward appearance, …”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). “Woe unto you (people), ...which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are withinfull of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness… ” (Matthew 23:27 KJV).

Usually people work hard on their image and can get haughty about it. “…King Nebuchadnezzar. … was walking on the roof of the royal palace of Babylon, he (PRIDEFULLY) said, “Is not this the great Babylon “I” have built as the royal residence, by “my” mighty power and for the glory of “my” majesty?” (Daniel 4 NLT). “….The way of a fool isright in his own eyes…” (Proverbs 12:15 KJV). “…There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death...” (Proverbs  14:20 KJV).

. “Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe…” (Proverbs 28:26 NIV). King Nebuchadnezzar t “… said, “Is not this the great Babylon “I” have built as the royal residence, by “my” mighty power and for the glory of “my” majesty?” (Daniel 4 NLT).

 “ .... the people replied, “…We will continueto live as WE WANT TO, stubbornly following our ownevil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT). “... 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). “…those who walk in pride … [God] is able to humble” (Daniel 4:37 NIV).

However, whether God’s people are aware of it or not; like it or not, PRIDE is driving the desire for projecting “ANY” image other than that of Jesus. “...For from within, out of the heart of man, proceed evil thoughts… wickedness… pride...  All these evil things come from within...” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV).

People can even “project” an image of humility while inwardly doing whatever “they” want to do and not what God wants them to do. “…‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me…” (Mark 7:6-8 NLT). “...For from within, out of the heart of man, proceed evil thoughts… wickedness… pride...  All these evil things come from within...” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV).

Desiring to project a certain image, overtly or covertly, seems harmless, especially if the desired image is consider good and acceptable, right? How can wanting to project an image of humility or holiness be prideful? Why would God have a problem with that?

Because when YOU project that image you take pride in YOUR ability to project it. To project the image of true humility or holiness, which are God’s qualities, “…it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure...” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).

“…I HAVE DONE IT, declares the Lord…’” (Ezekiel 37 NIV). “…the Father (the indwelling Holy Spirit) that dwelleth in me (Jesus and his people), he doeth the works (the Holy Spirit doeth the work of conforming “his” people into the IMAGE of Jesus) …” (John 14:10 KJV).

Without knowing it God’s people can become religiously prideful of their independent and autonomous efforts to create their OWN Christ-like image. “….Apart from [the indwelling POWER], [God’s people]… can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

“...So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes. Then was kindled the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the kindred of Ram: against Job was his wrath kindled, because he justified himself rather than God. Also against his three friends was his wrath kindled, because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job…” (Job 33:1-10 KJV).

It never even crosses their mind that it is a prideful thing. “…those who walk in pride … [God] is ableto humble” (Daniel 4:37 NIV). “…everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted…” (Luke 18:14 ASV). “…do not think of yourself more highly than you ought…” (Romans 12:3 NIV).“...if anyone thinks he(SHE) is something when he (she) is nothing, he(she) deceives himself (herself)...” (Galatians 6:3 NASB).

Job was an upright man and full of integrity, even God complimented him. Job had his OWN image of himself too. During his “season of suffering” Job thought he was projecting his righteous image, but his friends saw something else.“…So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous in his own eyes…” (Job 32:1 KJV).

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

Elihu didn’t accuse Job of any secret sin like his other friends, but he saw Job striving against God. Elihu thought Job was justifying HIS righteousness over the righteousness of God in allowing him to go through a “season of suffering.” Elihu saw Job holding the image of his righteous self in a higher place than the righteous of the DIVINE God, who was allowing him to go through a “season of suffering”. “...Elihu spake moreover, and said, Thinkest thou this to be right, that thou saidst, My righteousness is more than God's?” (Job 35:1-2 KJV).

Throughout chapters 36 and 37 Elihu witnesses and ministers to Job about the goodness of God, the sovereignty of God, the wonderful works of God, and the glory of God who is righteous ALL the time and in ALL he chooses to do. “...The LORD is righteous in all His ways And kind in all His deeds...” (Psalms 145:17 NASB). “....As for God, His way is blameless; The word of the LORD is tried; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him...” (Psalms 18:30 NASB). “...The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion...” (Psalms 116:5 NIV). “...You are righteous, LORD, and your laws are right...”(Psalm 119:137 NIV).

Elihu didn’t talk about any secret sin of Job’s, but only of the love, grace, mercy, and salvation of God bestowed on mere, finite, unrepentant man. “...what are mere mortals (LIKE JOB or God’s people) that [God, the Holy Spirit]... should think about ...[them], human beings that [HE]... should care for [THEM?” (Psalm 8:4 NLT). “...What is man(kind) that [God would] take thought of [them], And the son of man (humanity as a whole) that You care for [them]?” (Psalm 8:4 NASB). “.. LORD, what are human beings that you care for them, mere mortals that you think ofthem?” (Psalms 144:3 NASB). “... O LORD, what are human beings that you should notice them, mere mortals that you should think about them?” (Psalm 144:3 NLT). "...What is mankind that you make so much of them, that you give them so much attention...” (Job 7:17 NASB). "...What are people, that you should make so much of us, that you should think of us so often?” (Job 7:17 NLT).

God, the Holy Spirit, has CREATED the vast universe and galaxies and yet he takes the time to CARE for unworthy human beings.The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein…” (Psalm 24:1 KJV). “...All things came into being through Him,and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being… (John 1:1-4 NASB). “…“…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).

“...what are mere mortals (LIKE Job or God’s people) that [God, the Holy Spirit]... should think about ...[them], human beings that [HE]... should care for [THEM?]” (Psalm 8:4 NLT).

 “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “...He careth for [his people]....” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

“...What is man that You take thought of him (her) ..[OR]... that You care for him(her)?...[OR]...that thou (God, Holy Spirit, would)...visitest him(her)?” (Psalm 8:4 NASB & Hebrews 2:6 KJV).

WHY? Because, “…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 [mankind] loved God, but that he loved [them] and sent His Son to be the propitiation(substitute, intervention) for [their] sins.” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…Christ (PROOF of God’s LOVE and CARE) ... suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring [mankind back] to God (back to love) …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV).

God was“…not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV). “…God showed his great love for [mankind] by sending Christ to die for [them] while [they] were STILL sinners...” (Romans 5:8 NLT).

“…HE GAVE his only begotten Son…” (John 3:16 KJV). “…[God, the Holy Spirit]... delivered him  (his son) up for us all….?” (Romans 8:32 KJV). Jesus said  “…[he came] ... to give His life a ransom for many...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV). “...[Jesus]... said, It is finished…” (John 19:28-30 KJV). “… I [laid]... down my life... [FOR YOU] …” (John 10:17-18 KJV).  “ ... [Jesus, God’s only begotten son, made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he [bore]...all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT).

“...What is man that You take thought of him” (Psalm 8:4 NASB). “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

Back to Job, eventually, God breaks into the conversation and talks to Job himself. Job is, no doubt, an upright man full of integrity, but God is sovereignly righteous over the universe, including the people. He asked JOB: “...Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? or who hath stretched the line upon it? Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof; When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy? Or who shut up the sea with doors, when it brake forth, as if it had issued out of the womb? When I made the cloud the garment thereof, and thick darkness a swaddling band for it, And brake up for it my decreed place, and set bars and doors,  And said, Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further: and here shall thy proud waves be stayed?,,,” (Job 38:4-11 KJV).

Because Job SAW his OWN righteous image in light of his “season of suffering,” it made him JUDGE God’s righteousness inappropriately. “...O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay...?” (Romans 9:20-21 KJV).

Without God, every single person upon earth “… [have become]…..unclean and [their] righteousnesses are as filthy rags….” (Isaiah 64:6 KJV).  

They have NO righteous of their OWN.  “...[God’s people can]...no longer count on [their] own righteousness... [they]...become righteous through faith in Christ. For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith...” (Philippians 3:9 NLT). “...God’s ....gift of righteousness, for all who receive .....through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT). “…jesus Christ, theGIFT of righteousness…” (Romans 5:17 KJV).

“…As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:” (Romans 3:10 KJV).

“For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV

 “And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God” (Mark 10:18 KJV).

Job’s problem was not what he had done; he was upright and full of integrity. However, Job had one image of himself and another image of God. “...Hath not the potter power over the clay...?” (Romans 9:20-21 KJV).

During Job’s “season of suffering” his righteous IMAGE of himself changed and so did his IMAGE of the “always” righteous ways of God . “...I know that You can do everything, and that no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You (Job changed his perspective about God’s sovereignty). You asked, 'Who is this who hides counsel without knowledge?' Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know (Job became more humble about God’s wisdom and righteous ways). Listen, please, and let me speak; You said, 'I will question you, and you shall answer Me.' I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees You (Job grew in his personal revelation knowledge of God and his DIVINE nature). Therefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes (Job repented)...” (Job 42:1-6 KJV).

Not only did Job have an improper image of his own righteousness, but he also had an improper image of the righteousness of the sovereign God. Job, however, repented and grew spiritually as a result. “… now my eye sees You...” (Job 42:1-6 KJV). “...O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay...?” (Romans 9:20-21 KJV).

Job demonstrates to, God’s people, why they cannot afford to get complacent in an righteous IMAGE of themselves. “…Growin the grace and knowledge of our LORD and SAVIOUR Jesus Christ…” (2 Peter 3:18). 

There will ALWAYS be room to grow and develop spiritually. As long as God’s people are upon earthy, they can NEVER think they have arrived at some righteous pinnacle. “… [Therefore]… we all … are changed into the same image [of Christ] from glory to glory …” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV).  “…until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ...” (Ephesians 4:14 NIV).

God said Job was a “…perfect and upright and one that feareth God and escheweth evil…” (Job 1:1 KJV). However, all of God’s people must say, “...I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,I ...[choose to]...press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus...” (Philippians 13:13-14 KJV). “...I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead,I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us...” (Philippians 13:13-14 NLT). “...Hath not the potter power over the clay...?” (Romans 9:20-21 KJV).

Job’s friends, during his “season of suffering,” challenged his righteousness. Job tried to defend his righteousness instead of God’s righteousness, the owner of righteousness. “O Lord, righteousness belongeth unto thee…”(Daniel 9:7 KJV). Many believers have this problem today.

One of the wonderful benefits of Job’s “season of suffering” is that he grew in the grace and knowledge of God” and he received a new revelation of the God’s DIVINE and HOLY character. “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). “…I’ve ... done... [marvelous things for you] ...so you will know that I am the Lord…” (Exodus 10:1-2 NLT). “…your deliverer…” (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

“… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh…” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). “…You are veryGREAT…” (Psalm 104:1-2 NASB).

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

 “...Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.  My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever...” (Psalm 73:25-26 KJV). “… entrust yourself] to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV). “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

Job humbled himself and turned from his ways. He also prayed for his friends. “…[And]…the Lordgave Job twice as much as he had before. The LORD blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning…”(Job 42:10, 12 KJV).

Obviously, Satan “…intended to harm…[Job, but]…God intended it for good to accomplish what [was]…done, the saving of many lives…” Genesis 50:20 NIV). By studying the book of Job, our lives are saved from making the same mistake Job did. “…For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning…” (Romans 15:4 KJV).

“Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition…” (1 Corinthians 10:11 KJV).

God said, “…There is no one on earth like [Job]…; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil…” (Job 1:7-12 NIV).

Yet God intervenes in Job’s life through a “season of suffering,” which offers Job an opportunity to GROW spiritually. “…I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees You. Therefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes: (Job 42:1-6 KJV).

Job said, “…I abhor myself… (Job 42:1-6 KJV). He disliked the high-minded attitude he had about his righteousness in comparison to God’s. He hated himself for judging the righteous, heavenly Father’s allowances, ways, and decisions. Job admits, “…Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know…” (Job 42:1-6 KJV).

Job’s “season of suffering” humbled him profoundly and a POWERFUL transformation took place. “…Those who walk in pride … [God] is able to humble” (Daniel 4:37 NIV). “…Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted…” (Luke 18:14 ASV). “…Therefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes…” (Job 42:1-6 KJV).

“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up” (James 4:10 KJV).

“Humble yourselvestherefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time…”(1 Peter 5:6 KJV).

God says to HIS people, “…“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV).

The Word informs God’s people that, “….apart from Me (Jesus, the LIVING Word, they), can do nothing…”(John 15:5 NIV). However, “…[They] can do all things through Christwhich strengtheneth [them]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “…for [HIS]… power is made perfect in [their] weakness…” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV).

Job also came to realize and experience God’s sufficiency in his Grace toward him. “…My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness...” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV).

Those “in” Christ can, “…delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when [they are]…weak, then [they you]…strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10 NIV).

Humility is a necessary posture when approaching the throne of God and asking for his sovereign HELP. “…If My people which are called by My name shall humble themselves, ....” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV).  

“...Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE… and find GRACE to help in time of need…” (Hebrews 4:16 KJV). However, “…God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble…”(James 4:6 NIV).

Humility proceeds prayer, seeking God, and repentance, but self can become a major hindrance to God’s sovereignty. “…If My people which are called by My name shall humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, I will HEAL…” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV).

Not only did Job have an improper image of his own righteousness, but he also had an improper image of the righteousness of the sovereign God. Job, however, repented and grew spiritually as a result. “… now my eye sees You...” (Job 42:1-6 KJV). “...O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay...?” (Romans 9:20-21 KJV).

Job’s “season of suffering” gave him a chance to evaluate his heart. Once he was enlightened with God’s revelatory truth, Job transformed into a greater man of God. “...I know that You can do everything, and that no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You (Job changed his perspective about God’s sovereignty). You asked, 'Who is this who hides counsel without knowledge?' Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know (Job became more humble about God’s wisdom and righteous ways). Listen, please, and let me speak; You said, 'I will question you, and you shall answer Me.' I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees You (Job grew in his personal revelation knowledge of God and his DIVINE nature). Therefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes (Job repented)...” (Job 42:1-6 KJV).

Not only did Job have an improper image of his own righteousness, but he also had an improper image of the righteousness of God. Job, however, repented and grew spiritually as a result. “… now my eye sees You...” (Job 42:1-6 KJV). “...O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay...?” (Romans 9:20-21 KJV).

Many of God’s people have a tendency to evaluate or compare their righteousness to another human being’s, giving them a reason, they THINK, to boast about their righteous behavior, but NO ONE can boast (not even Job), but God. “...My soul will make its boast in the LORD; The humble will hear it and rejoice” (Psalms 34:2 NASB). “…so that, just as it is written, "LET HIM WHO BOASTS, BOAST IN THE LORD..." (1 Corinthians 1:31 NASB).

“…Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought …”(Romans 12:3 KJV). “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up” (James 4:10 KJV). “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time…” (1 Peter 5:6 KJV).

“…Examine yourself, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). 

Eventually, Job’s “season of suffering” made him examine himself, humble himself, submit to God’s sovereignty, and repent.

Defending your righteousness to others may lead to improper justification of yourself instead of God’s righteousness. Therefore, “Humble yourselves … under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time…”(1 Peter 5:6 KJV).

In your “season of suffering” entrust yourself to God and personally give the responsibility of your care over to him, BECAUSE you CAN trust him. “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).

WHEN SUFFERING CHOOSE TO "ENTRUST" YOURSELF TO GOD

                                       WHEN JESUS SUFFERED – HE ENTRUSTED HIMSELF part 1

“…he entrusted himself to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:19-23 NIV).

                                    *

The ability to trust is established in childhood during the caregiver and infant bond. A loving caregiver shapes the young infant for future trusting relationships by behaving in a trusting manner themselves. There is a different between trust and entrust.

When you trust someone you believe they are reliable, upright, authentic, honorable, and safe. However, when you entrust yourself to someone you personally give over to them, willingly and voluntarily, the responsibility of your total care, BECAUSE you deem them trustworthy.

Your ability to trust people starts to take shape before you talk, walk, or do anything else. It’s amazing how God sends the infant into the world with two unique abilities: to elicit love and to receive it.

Unbeknown to the infant, their first attachment will determine their ability to form trusting relationships for the rest of their lives.

The infant will learn to trust in the mutual relationship they ideally share with their caregiver. Mutuality is a trusting attachment in action, where infant and caregiver equally participate in intimate behaviors that contribute to the relationship.

Miraculously, a baby is born with God-given attachment abilities to both elicit a respond from their caregivers and to respond back to their caregiver’s stimuli.  

These “elicit and response” attachment abilities will build trust between the infant and caregiver. In an ideal situation, the caregiver lovingly provides for the infant’s needs in a way that forms a trusting bond.

Both the infant and the caregiver, ideally, contribute to the interactions, which will strengthen and reinforce this trusting bond.

Although, the infant and caregiver have different roles, both are equally important.

The caregiver, however, initially has the greater responsibility for forming the trusting bond by paying attention to the infant’s needs, especially when he or she “elicits a response” from them.

Trust is established whenever the infant elicits a response and the caregiver lovingly responds. Normally, the infant will elicit a response by making vocal sounds, showing emotions, or through body language. The caregiver responds through feeding, calming, soothing, comforting, or touching behaviors.

The caregiver lovingly communicates to the infant that they can be trusted to meet their needs. Most caregivers joyfully and lovingly meet the needs of their infant. It usually feels good to be needed.

When people around you have a need and you can meet that need, in the moment, it makes you feel like you have a purpose and are needed.

Thus, the infant’s needs give the caregiver purpose and makes them feel needed and useful. Genuine need is a building block for intimacy in a trusting attachment between two humans.

The infant learns, at this very tender age, to trust another person to meet their needs. Infants have nothing much else to pay attention to, but the relationship with their caregiver. They are focused on one specific task, bonding with their caregiver. What they focus on becomes their experience.

When the caregiver meets the needs of the infant it teaches them their needs are important and SOMEBODY CARES. This is how the infant learns “LOVE” will meet my needs and I can trust “LOVE”

Meeting another person’s needs is the deepest expression of love. Need builds intimacy and ultimately TRUST. Remember, when you trust someone you have come to believe they are reliable, upright, authentic, honorable, and safe.

You have also come to depend upon their reliability, uprightness, authenticity, honorable nature, and safe character.

In addition, when you come to place where you have decided to entrust yourself to someone you have chosen to personally give them the responsibility of your total care, BECAUSEyou deem them trustworthy.

“…if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. “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 threats. Instead, he ENTRUSTED himself (gave over his total care) to him (God, the Holy Spirit) who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV). While going through a “season of suffering,” Jesus made a decision to, willfully and voluntarily, entrust himself to God.

Therefore, Christ displayed the “fruit of the Spirit...longsuffering” through mistreatments, insults, injustices, unfairness, etc. with restful contentment. “…[Jesus]... learned to be content whatever the circumstances. [Jesus, in the days of his flesh, knew]… what it ,,,[was]... to be in need, and …what it ...[was]...to have plenty... [Jesus]… 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). Jesus KNEW “...God (his Father had) ...said “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “... BE STRONG and of good courage, FEAR NOT, “NOR” BE AFRAID of them (problems, issues, trials, tribulations, concerns, or any of life’s sudden stresses, etc.): for the Lord thy God, he it is that DOETH GO with thee; he SHALL NOT FAIL thee; “NOR” FORSAKE thee...” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV).

Thus, instead of defending himself or threatening revenge, or fighting a fleshly battle, he did something greater; he entrusted himself to the “…righteous judge…”

“…When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he ENTRUSTED himself (gave over his total care) to him (God, the Holy Spirit) who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV).

“…the battle is not yours, but God’s. …you will not even need to fight. Take your positions (of trust and dependency upon God); then stand still and watch the Lord’s victory!” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

“…The LORD will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [HIS people]…” (John 14:31 NASB).

“... The Son of God (Jesus, the Word) came to destroy the works of the devil...” (1 John 3:8 NLT). Therefore, “...No weapon that is formed against thee (God’s people) shall prosper…” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV). “...overwhelming victory is...[theirs]... in christ (in God’s word) ...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

Even upon the cross he said, “…Father, into thy hands I commend (I ENTRUST) my spirit…” (Luke 23:46 KJV).

Jesus demonstrated when experience “seasons of suffering”, entrust yourself, FULLY, to God’s loving, righteous, care for you. “…I would seek unto God, and unto God would I commit (ENTRUST) my cause…” (Job 5:9 KJV). “...He careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV).

“…[God is]...with … [his people] and will keep … [them] whithersoever [they]… goest…I will not leave [them] ..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV). “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

.“…the Lordloves His people …” (2 Chronicles 2:11 NASB). “… [God has]... loved ...[them]... with an everlasting love…” (Jeremiah 31:3 NASB). “… Indeed, He loves the people…” (Deuteronomy 33:3 NASB).

 “…Love does NO HARM to his neighbor…” (Romans 13:10 NASB). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).

Christ didn’t let his “season of suffering” ultimately LED him to ENTRUST himself to God.  “...Instead, he ENTRUSTED himself (gave over his total care) to him (God, the Holy Spirit) who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV).

No matter what horrible, horrible things he faced upon earth or the negative things he heard or experienced, Jesus left the consequences, of his TOTAL care, to God. “…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 threats. Instead, he ENTRUSTED himself to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV).

Jesus had total faith that God’s righteous justice and trustworthy character was all that was needed to suffice for any and all wrong done to him. “…he [absolutely]… ENTRUSTED himself to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV).

God’s DIVINE nature and GLORY (his presence, goodness, and working power) would ultimately determine Jesus’ fate. Jesus KNEW and was absolutely assured and convinced that since God, who deeply loved him, was FOR HIM it didn’t matter who or what was against him. “...God is [the] refuge and strength [for  his people], always ready to help [them] in times of trouble. So [they] will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam ...“[his people will] Be still, and know that [he his their] God ... The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among [them]; the God of Israel is [their] fortress...” (Psalms 46 NLT).

“...No weapon that is formed against ...[God’s people]... shall prosper...” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV). “…The LORD will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [his people]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “…He helps ...[his people]…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). . “…If God isfor [each of his people], who [or what can be] against [them]? ... …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

Therefore, “…when [Jesus] suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he ENTRUSTED himself to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV). Upon the cross Jesus said, “…Father, into thy handsI commend (ENTRUST) my spirit…” (Luke 23:46 KJV).

“…When he suffered…” Jesus personally “chose” to entrust himself to God by giving him the responsibility of his total care and the outcome of all his suffering. Jesus absolutely and unequivocally trusted the DIVINE, righteous judge.  

Who was this “…righteous judge?” Obviously, Jesus thought the righteous judge was God, the Holy Spirit. Jesus went through a horrendous “season of suffering.” Some people call it the “passion” of Christ.

When you think of passion you think of something that drives or controls you. Something that makes you feel extreme, intense emotions. Passion is a powerful motivator and can energize you to do something that may appear radical to others.

Jesus’ passion drove him to die a hideous death upon the cross. Jesus’ passion and death was the price he was “willing” to pay for lost souls. Jesus’ passion was a witness of the love he had for his Father and the respect for carrying out his will upon earth. He humbly said, “…not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).

During his “season of suffering,” no matter what it entailed, he absolutely loved and trusted in God, his heavenly Father.

Jesus went through his “season of suffering” fully aware God was absolutely trustworthy. Jesus came to “… give his life as a ransom for many…” just like his Father in heaven wanted (Matthew 20:28 ASV).

No matter what he suffered, he endured it by placing his life in the hands of his LOVING, trustworthy Father. “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “...I trust in you, Lord; I say, “You are my(LOVING) God” (Psalm 31:14 NIV).

Let’s LOOK at some of the things Jesus suffered through while trusting his total care to God, the Father? “Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him (abuse). And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and they put on him a purple robe (unjust mistreatment). And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands(more physical abuse)….Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe (humiliation). And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man! When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him (strangers wanted to criminalize him). Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in him (he was innocent and had done nothing wrong). But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him (they wanted to STILL punish him). Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar (his OWN people disclaimed him). Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away (they willingly took him to be hanged upon the cross)…” (John 19:1-16 KJV),

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

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

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

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

Therefore, “…when [Jesus was suffering through ALL of this], he made no threats. Instead, he ENTRUSTED himself to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV). “…Father, into thy handsI commend (ENTRUST) my spirit…” (Luke 23:46 KJV).

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

Again, Jesus had total TRUST that God’s righteous justice was all that he needed to suffice for ANY and ALL wrong done to him.

To this day, Jesus is “highly exalted” with a “name which is above every name” (Philippians 2:9). In addition,“…at ...the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW, of things in heaven and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord (God’s WORD), to the glory (as a witness of the presence, goodness, and working power) of God the Father” (Philippians 2:10-11 KJV).

Job said: “…all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come” (Job 14:14 KJV). “…Also the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before. The LORD blessed the latter days of Job more than his beginning…” (Job 42:10, 12 KJV).

Your “season of suffering” is unique to you, like Jesus’ suffering was unique to him. Your experiences may be horrible too and just as challenging, to you, as Jesus’ experiences were to him. However, “…if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. “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 threats. Instead, he ENTRUSTED himself to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV).

“…In the [FALLEN] world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world…” (John 16:33 KJV). “...Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have OVERCOME the world…” (John 16:33 NLT).

Other biblical examples are: Job, who lost family, renown, wealth, and his health. Joseph, who was thrown into a pit and forced to grow up, as a slave, with foreign strangers. The Hebrew boys, who were thrown into the fiery furnace. Jesus, who, of course, was beaten, insulted, and hung upon a cross like a criminal.

Many of God’s people, during “seasons of suffering,” have lost significant love ones through suicide, sickness, murder, divorce, and abandonment.

Others have faced abuse, failure, rejection, broken dreams, lost jobs, long-term disabilities, loneliness, and have had a host of almost unspeakable and unbearable experiences.

It’s the details of those experiences that often rock you to the core. Job had to see each one of his dead children and bury them one by one. Joseph was alienated for the family and life, he knew, for over 13 years. The Hebrew boys were actually thrown INTO a VERY, VERY hot and fiery furnace for standing up for their faith.

Jesus was beaten and whipped by the Roman soldiers SO BAD he was unrecognizable. “…Just as there were many who were appalled at him - his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any human being and his form marred beyond human likeness—“ (Isaiah 52:14 NIV).

“…he [was] wounded for [his people’s] transgressions, [he was] bruised for [their] iniquities: the chastisement of [their] peace [was] upon him; and with his stripes [his people] are healed…” (Isaiah 53:5 KJV).

“…Christ ...hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring [God’s people BACK]... to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit…”(1 Peter 3:18 KJV).

Therefore, God “…in his kindness [God has]…called [his people back to reunite with his Spirit in order for them] to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation” (1 Peter 5:10 NLT).

There is just no way around it; “seasons of suffering” will be a part of this earthly journey whether we like it or not. God’s people were sent to a FALLEN world. “…In this [fallen] world [God’s people] shall have tribulation: but [they can] be of good cheer, [God has]… OVERCOME the world…” (John 16:33 KJV).

The victories in the stories of Job, Joseph, the Hebrew boys, Lazarus, Jesus, and the little girl are encouraging; but THEY “STILL” had to go through “seasons of suffering”. “…after YOU (God’s people) have suffered a little while…” (1 Peter 5:10 NLT).

Unfortunately, “…In this [fallen] world ye shall have tribulation…” (John 16:33 KJV). God doesn’t discriminate. God “…spared not his own Son, [from suffering,] but delivered him up for us all…” (Romans 8:32 KJV). “…God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16 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).

 God’s people will have “seasons of suffering.” “..For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare; so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them...” (Ecclesiastes 9:12 KJV).

“…The same destiny overtakes all … time and chance happen to them all so people are trapped by evil times that fall unexpectedly upon them…” (Ecclesiastes 9 NIV).

However, for God’s people, during “seasons of suffering,” there is GOD, the Holy Spirit, his indwelling HOPE, his indwelling HELP and his indwelling POWER. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in [God’s people]…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).

“…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “…God ...does the work IN and THROUGH all of us who are his. …… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of us …… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).  “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“…you will abound in HOPE by the power of the...[indwelling]...Holy Spirit…” (Romans 15:13 NASB). “…God, [the Holy Spirit is]... the source of HOPE, [and] will fill you completely.... Then you will overflow with confident HOPEthrough the power of the [indwelling] ...Holy Spirit…” (Romans 15:13 NLT).

 “What, then, shall we say in response to these things [or these “seasons of suffering”]…? If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31 NIV). God is a God of love. He doesn’t stop being loving because you are going through a “season of suffering.

God’s love for his people is just as deep in their “seasons of suffering” as in their “days of ease.” “…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).

The bible says God is ALWAYS with his people. “…God’s Spiritdwells inyou (his people)?...” (1 Corinthians 3:16 NASB). God will “…never leave nor forsake you (his people)… …” (Hebrews 13:5).

No matter what they are going through or how long, God’s “…..lovingkindness endureth for ever…” (Psalm 106:1, Psalm 100:5, 1 Chronicles 16:34 KJV).“…Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency isof God…” (2 Corinthians 3:5 KJV).  “…He will keep you strong to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).

God’s love is and has been persistent throughout the days, weeks, months, or years of your “season of suffering.”  God guarantees that “….neither death, nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate [you]… from the love of God which is “in” Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39 KJV). It may not seem like it, but “….the…faithful love of the Lord, [for you], never ends...!”(Lamentations 3:22-23 NLT).

Even if you’ve blamed God, gotten angry with him and haven’t been faithful to him during your “season of suffering” his love for YOU is patient, longsuffering, and remains faithful. “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).   “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB). “…he remains faithful [during “seasons of suffering”], for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

Thankfully, God’s love “…endureth all things… [and] endureth forever” (1 Corinthians 13:7 & Psalm 106:1). “…His faithful love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods….His faithful love endures forever……His faithful love endures forever…” (Psalm 136:1-3 NLT).  “… he remains faithful …” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

God’s love is also kind and “….God careth for you… (1 Peter 5:7 KJV). “…How great is [God’s benevolent kindness], which [He lays] up for them that fear [Him]… [or] for them that take refuge in [Him]…” (Psalm 31:19-20 KJV). During your “season of suffering” “….he is good [qne deeply caring]... “ALL” the time...’ (1 Chronicles 16:34, Ezra 3:11, and Psalm 107).

God’s people can be assured that HIS kindness is immutably “...tenderhearted… [and]… forgiving…” (Ephesian 4:32 KJV).

Like it or not, God’s “...goodness and lovingkindness [will]… follow [you]… all the days of [your]… life…” (Psalm 23:6 KJV).  In other words, God’s very presence is kind. His care “runneth over” for you (Psalm 23:5). “...For [the Lord] blesses the righteous, [and surrounds] him with favor as with a shield...” (Psalm 5:12 ASV).

"...Behold, I am with… [you] and will keep… [you] whithersoever [you]… goest, and will bring …[you] again into this land. For I will not leave [you]… until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of…." (Genesis 28:15 ASV). “… he remains faithful …” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).  

God’s love is never rude,but polite and courteous. God treats those he loves with the utmost respect and dignity, during their “seasons of suffering.” God will always demonstrate good manners towards his people, even if they make mistakes or are rude towards Him.

Because of grace, God’s love will not treat you according to your wrongs towards Him. Instead of rudeness, God reacts with amazing grace. Even if you do something that deserves a rude response, God’s grace will always direct him to treat you with politeness.

Grace is a core characteristic of God.

God’s love is not self-seeking, but self-sacrificing. You already know that God gave his only begotten Son to save your life from the destruction of sin (John 3:16).

When you give up your life through the “…death…” of self, like Christ’s“…death of the cross…” it’s the truest example of self-sacrificing love (Philippians 2:7 KJV). Jesus “….Christ pleased not himself…” (Romans 15:3 KJV). “...Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends..” (John 15:13 KJV).

God’s love is not easily provoked or easily angered, but peaceful. God remains calm and peaceful at all times. God handles our mistakes and short-comings without exhibiting an instant angry or condemning response; which is usually common in humanity. “…Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…” (Romans 8:1 KJV). “….mercy triumphs over judgement…” (James 2:13 NASB)

God chooses to peacefully “... [cover]…a multitude of sins [with love]…”  (1 Peter 4:8 ASV). God is extremely “…slow to anger [because He is] abundant in lovingkindness and truth….” (Psalm 86:15 ASV). “...And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and thoughts in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7 ASV).

God’s love does not keep a record of wrongs. Jesus asked God to erase your record of wrongs. He said, “…Father, forgive them…” (Luke 23:34 KJV). God’s love “…blotteth out …[your] transgression and remember not… [your] sins…(Isaiah 43:25, Hebrews 8:12, 10:17 ASV).

God’s love does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices in truth. God finds happiness in what is right and holy and not the opposite. God only delights in truth and rejoices when the truth is “…in …[your] inward parts…” (Psalm 51:6 KJV).God “…..hath no pleasure in wickedness [or unrighteousness]…. (Psalm 5:4 KJV).

God’s love bears, believes, hopes, and endures all things. God’s only agenda is love and nothing else. God’s love holds up under a mountain of offenses, betrayals, unfaithfulness, dishonor, disrespect, untrustworthiness, and evils of all kinds, and his love compels him to “…cover the multitude [of his people’s]…sins…” (1 Peter 4:8 KJV).

God’s love will NEVER fail or end, but goes on eternally. Because“…iniquity shall abound..., [people will find their]… love [for others] shall wax cold…” (Matthew 24:12 KJV). God’s love will never wax cold. He has “….loved [you]...with an everlasting love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV). There is “…[No]….greater love…than this…”(John 15:13 KJV).

God is a GOOD God. “…for the lord is GOOD…” (Psalm 100:5 KJV). “Thou are GOOD and doest GOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 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). “…GOOD and upright is the Lord…” (Psalm 25:8 KJV). “…For thou, Lord, is GOOD…” (Psalm 86:5 KJV).

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

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

God empowers HOPE. “…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).

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV).

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

 “…[You]…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).

God HELPS his people. “…be content with what you have, because 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… For I will not leave [you]… until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of…." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

“Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail (leave) thee, nor forsake thee” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV).

“…for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you…” (Deuteronomy 20:4 NASB).

“…obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV).

“One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent.For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.” So Paul stayed in Corinth for a year and a half, teaching them the word of God” (Acts 18:9-11 NIV).

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

God encourages his people to be HUMBLE people. “…If My people which are called by My name shall humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways…” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV).

“…God opposes the proudbut shows favor to the humble…”(James 4:6 NIV).

“...For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith…”(Romans 12:3 NIV).

 “...Anyone who wants to be my follower must love me far morethan he doeshis own father, mother, wife, children, brothers, or sisters—yes, more than his own life—otherwise he cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:26 NLT).“.. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” (1 John 2:16-17 NLT).

“…but in lowliness of mind (humility) let each esteem other better than themselves… [Jesus] made himself of no reputation and took upon him[self] the form of a servant…” Philippian 2:3, 7 KJV).

“…everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted…” (Luke 18:14 ASV).

 “…but in lowliness of mind (humility) let each esteem other better than themselves…” Philippian 2:3, 7 KJV).

“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up” (James 4:10 KJV).

“Humble yourselvestherefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time…”(1 Peter 5:6 KJV).

 “…it is God which worketh in [them]… both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).

“…That [God]… would grant [them]… according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man…”(Ephesians 3:16 KJV).

YOU “…can do all things [only] through Christ which strengtheneth [YOU]….” (Philippians 4:13 KJV.

Therefore, “…be conformed to the image of His Son…” (Romans 8:29 KJV). Jesus said, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me (learn from the Living Word), for I am gentle and humble in heart,and you will find rest for your souls...” (Matthew 11:29 KJV).

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

Humility is a very important characteristic to God. And like Jesus came to “…to give His life a ransom for many…” and single-mindedly kept that focus (Matthew 20:28 NIV).

All of God’s people came to earth and were called to single-mindedly be “…conformed to the image of His Son…” (Romans 8:28). Jesus said, “…I amgentle and humble in heart…” (Matthew 11:29 KJV).

Jesus “…humbled himself, and (HOW?) “became” obedient unto death...” (Philippians 2:8 KJV). Again, Jesus said, “...Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for Iam gentle and humble in heart,and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:29 KJV).

“…If My people which are called by My name shall humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways…” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV). The verse says, to God’s people, before prayer, before seeking him and before repentance, “humble” yourself.

 

 

 

YOU WERE CHOSEN AND APPOINTED TO "BEAR" FRUIT. ONE OF THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS....LONGSUFFERING...."

                                                                     LONGSUFFERING

“The fruit of the Spirit is … longsuffering….” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

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

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

“…Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing…” (John 15:4-6 NASB).

You would think that longsuffering simple means to suffer long, but it has a slightly different meaning. You could change the word to say: LONGdiscipline, LONGself-control, LONGself-restraint, or LONGtemperance.

Longsuffering gives the redeemed soul the TIME, necessary, to die to self or the old sinful nature. “…[Jesus] ... made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and ...became obedient unto death (death to self), even the death of the cross (death to purpose)…” Philippians 2:6-8 KJV).“…be conformedto the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

Their ability to endure and stay on the path of righteous becomes second to none. “…come and follow me…” (Matthew 19:21 KJV). “… Jesus saith unto him, I am the way …” (John 15:5- 6 KJV).

“I want to know Christ--yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death…”(Philippians 3:10 NIV). “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death…”(Philippians 3:10 KJV).

 “…The faithful followers of the Lord … keep their promises even when it hurts…” (Psalm 15:4 NLT).

Not only is their ability to endure second to none, but their patience, while waiting upon God, is strengthen and empower, by the indwelling Holy Spirit, to withstand the test of time too. God will “…strengthened [redeemed souls]… with might by his Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV). “…God ... never grows weak or weary ...He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagle They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint…” (Isaiah 40:28-31 NLT).

“...My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever...” (Psalm 73:23-26 NLT).

 “...BY FAITH (trusting in and depending upon God) ...Their weakness ...[will turn[... to strength….” (Hebrews 11:1-35 NLT). “…[God’s “indwelling”]...strength is made perfect (matured, empowered) in weakness...” (2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV).

In addition, their ability to show mercy or grace and maintain expectant hope, while suffering, gives glory to God that is witnessed by many. “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). Jesus said: “… I am the light of the world..." (John 9:5, 8:12 KJV).

"…I (Jesus came) as Lightinto the world...” (John 12:46 NASB).  "…Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven…” (Matthew 5:16 NASB).

Longsuffering is an inner work of God, within the heart of the redeemed, which is empowered by his Holy Spirit that produced it.  “...God ...does the work IN and THROUGH all of us who are his. The HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of us …”(1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “... The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience (longsuffering), kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. …” (Galatians 5 NLT).

Obviously, longsuffering is a fruit of the Spirit, which means God, is its source. “…But the fruit of the Spirit is…longsuffering…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

THE BIBLE SAYS: “…The Lord, The Lord God, [IS] merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth” (Exodus 34:6 KJV).

“The Lord is longsuffering, and of great mercy…” (Number 14:18 KJV).

“Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?” (Romans 2:4 KJV).

“Which sometime were disobedient…the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah…”(1 Peter 1:20 KJV).

“The Lord is not slack …but is longsuffering to us-ward…”(2 Peter 3:9 KJV).

“… the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation…”(2 Peter 3:15 KJV).

Thankfully, God has a divine character trait called longsuffering, which means he’s patient with the ongoing struggle, of redeemed souls, to overcome the sinful nature, and is met with love, grace, and mercy.

In the Old Testament we read what happens when humanity, ignores the longsuffering heart and kindness of God. God destroyed the old world in a flood because they choose participate in ongoing wickedness and ignore his patient kindness. “…the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah…”(1 Peter 1:20 KJV). “The Lord is longsuffering, and of great mercy…” (Number 14:18 KJV). “...His ... longsuffering...[is an expression of]... the goodness of God...[which CAN]... leadeth thee to repentance?” (Romans 2:4 KJV).

The longsuffering of God is about being, lovingly, patient with lost souls and giving them ample opportunity to get it right with him. “...His ... longsuffering...[is an expression of]... the goodness of God...[which CAN]... leadeth thee to repentance?” (Romans 2:4 KJV).

God sends events, experiences, and “seasons of suffering” in your life to teach or direct or draw you into his righteous ways. “..Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedienceby the things he suffered (HIS trials and tribulations upon earth)…” (Hebrews 5:8 KJV). “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).

God’s longsuffering in the Old Testament demonstrates that eventually he left people to their sinful ways and choices. “…My people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts. They went backward instead of forward” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).  “But the people replied, “Don’t waste your breath. We will continueto live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

 “...Dear friends ... 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...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... 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).

“...[Some of God’s people,]...after they have escaped the defilements of the world by the knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ ... are again entangled in them...” (2 Peter 2:20-23 NASB).

“... it would...[have been]... 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).

“...The Lord said, My [Holy] ...Spirit shall not always strive (struggle) with man (woman)…” (Genesis 6:3 KJV).“…They (HIS people) DID NOT like to retain God in their knowledge, GOD (the Holy Spirit) GAVE THEM OVER to a reprobate mind ...[which they chose]…” (Romans 1:28 KJV). “...[They willingly chose to “NOT” to]... continue ... in my love...” (John 15:1-10 KJV).

However, for those who choose to REMAIN “in” Christ, there is NO limit to God’s longsuffering in regard to their ongoing struggled to overcome the sinful nature. God is so rich in Grace and Mercy. God is“... RICH IN MERCY…” (Ephesians 2:1-5 KJV). “…The Lord is ...of great mercy…” (Number 14:18 KJV). “…Who isa God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV). “…Mercy triumphs over judgement.” (James 2:13 NASB).  

 “…God is able to make all GRACE abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things…” (2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV). “…My GRACE is sufficient for thee...” (2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV). “.. therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE...to help in time of need…”(Hebrews 4:16 KJV).

However, God hasn’t changed and like in the old days he sees the continual depravity of mankind’s sinful behavioral practices that SEPARATES him from his people. “…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). “…Your INIQUITIES … [will]... Separated … you and your God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…You have been cut off from Christ (THE WAY; THE PATH)!…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT).

If you claim to be God’s people, but are still involved in ongoing PRACTICES of sin, but are still breathing, you are, right now, benefitting from God’s longsuffering, holy character. You have a CHANCE to REPENT. “...His ... longsuffering ...[is an expression of]... the goodness of God...[which CAN]... leadeth thee to repentance?” (Romans 2:4 KJV). “... EVERYONE (NO EXCEPTIONS) who practices sin (NOT those who are struggled to overcome sin, but those who are WILLFULLY choosing to PRACTICE sin) also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness ... the one who practices sin is of the devil ... No one who is born of God practicessin, because His seed abides (Jesus, the WORD/WORDS ABIDE) in him; and he (she) cannot sin, because he (she) is born of God. By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of GOD...” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB).

. “... Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God…”  (1 Corinthians 6:9-10 NASB).

“...His ... longsuffering ...[is an expression of]... the goodness of God...[which CAN]... leadeth thee to repentance?” (Romans 2:4 KJV).

God also sees the thoughts of HIS people’s hearts and knows those hearts that are NOT right towards him.  “...God SEES NOT as man(woman) sees, for man(woman) looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD LOOKS AT THE HEART…”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). “…No one need(s)… to tell him (God) about human nature, for he ...[knows what is]... in each person’s heart…” (John 2:24-25 NLT). “…[The] ...Lord (God), which knowest the hearts of all men…” (Acts 1:24 KJV). “… He watches everyone closely, examining every person on earth. The Lord examines both the righteous and the wicked…” (Psalm 11:4-5 NLT).

“...the people replied … We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT). HE KNOWS “…thy heart is not right in the sight of God…” (Acts 8:21 KJV).

If you belong to him and gave your life to him, but continue to be unfaithful; God KNOWS it. “…thy heart is not right in the sight of God…” (Acts 8:21 KJV). God is being longsuffering towards you, right now. “The Lord is… longsuffering to us-ward…”(2 Peter 3:9 KJV). However, “...His ... longsuffering ...[is an expression of]... the goodness of God...[which CAN]... leadeth thee to repentance?” (Romans 2:4 KJV).

“...God SEES NOT as man(woman) sees, for man(woman) looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD LOOKS AT THE HEART…”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). “…he ...[knows what is]... in each person’s heart…” (John 2:24-25 NLT). “…[The] ...Lord (God), which knowest the hearts of all men…” (Acts 1:24 KJV). “… He watches everyone closely, examining every person on earth…” (Psalm 11:4-5 NLT).

Thus, God sees the“…hidden man(woman) of the heart…” (1 Peter 3:4 KJV).  God knows the heart is deceitful “… above all things and desperately wicked…who can know it [except God?]” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV). “…Out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, slanders…” (Matthew 15:19 NASB).

God refuses to lose you to a sinful lifestyle, especially after giving his ONLY begotten Son for your salvation. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent His Son...” (1 John 4:10 KJV).  “For 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).

God will patiently discipline you for the purpose of holiness. “…that [you] might be partakers (participants) of his holiness….” (Hebrews 12:10 KJV). He will be longsuffering towards you, especially if it gives you an opportunity, through a “season of suffering,” to develop a clean heart (Jeremiah 17:9, Psalm 51:10).

If God regretted he made mankind in the Old Testament because of their sin and wiped them off the face of the earth - has God changed his mind about SIN? (Genesis 6:5-7).

The longsuffering God, destroyed mankind in the Old Testament, but it was theirrefusal to repent.“…But 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).

The flood was the conclusion of their ongoing sin in the Old Testament. “…The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time. The Lord regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled. So the Lord said, “I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created—and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground—for I regret that I have made them… I will send rain on the earth for forty days and forty nights, and I will wipe from the face of the earth every living creature I have made…”(Genesis 6:5-6, 7:6 NIV).

But because of his richness in Grace and Mercy, God, in the New Testament, under a new covenant, disciplines (corrects) those he loves. “If you are not disciplined – and everyone undergoes discipline – then you are notlegitimate, not true sons and daughters at all” (Hebrews 12:8 NIV). 

A “season of suffering” may be one of God’s loving opportunities “…that we might be partakers of his holiness….” (Hebrews 12:10 KJV). Yet some will still NOT come to Jesus or repent.

The Word says, “.and ye will not come to me that you might have life...” (John 5:40 KJV). This verse says, “YOU will not come to Me…” which means you will not respond to the God’s command to “COME TO ME.”

In other words, it’s not God’s longsuffering towards you that’s a problem. The scripture said “YOU WILL not come.” Who is the “YOU” in this verse?

God obviously waits patiently for you to come to him and give your heart completely to him. “… you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind…” (Luke 10:27 RSV).

He’s been longsuffering in regard to your ongoing sin and infidelities for years. God doesn’t want you to perish. God “….is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV).

But days, weeks, months, and years have passed and yet you continue in both your sin and your infidelities. “…They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

During your long-term walk with continual sin God has been longsuffering towards YOU. “…not willing that [YOU]… should perish, but that [YOU]…should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV).

God loves you TOO much to let you perish in your sin and infidelities so he may send a “season of suffering.”  “Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT).

Remember God can send a “season of suffering” “without cause.” “…although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause…” (Job 2:3 KJV). So it’s possible, some “seasons of suffering” are permitted or allowed “with a cause.” God is “…not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV).

In “seasons of suffering” God’s longsuffering benefits you in three important ways. It assists God in getting your attention, helping you focus, and shaping out of control experiences. "..For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it...” (Matthew 7:14 NASB).

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

God didn’t call you to remain a common sinner. “…Do you not know thatyou yourselves are God’s temple,“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time…” (1 Peter 5:6 KJV).

For the God’s people, this new behavior is humble obedience. Remember, obedience is transformation in action. Transformation in action is when individuals replace old behaviors, such as pride, with new behaviors, such as humility. In addition, “…it is God which worketh in [them]… both to will and to do of hisgood pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).

“…That he (God) would grant [HIS people]… according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV).

The prideful person turned humble, “…can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth [them]….” (Philippians 4:13 KJV.

Transformation takes time and God wants ALL his children to “…be conformed to the image of His Son…” (Romans 8:29 KJV).

Thankfully, “…The Lord, The Lord God [is], merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth” (Exodus 34:6 KJV). AND God “….is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance…” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV).

The longsuffering God waits patiently as we grow in grace and knowledge, which can be slow, gradual, and usually walked out in small incremental, baby steps.

Letting go of pride or any other sinful attitude or behavior can be a really painful and stressful endeavor. “…[But]…he that hath suffered (struggle to conform to Jesus) in the flesh hath ceased from sin; For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries…” (1 Peter 4:1-3 KJV)

God, who is so very patience, understands transformation is a progressive work of the Holy Spirit. God’s longsuffering character, along with his endless grace and mercy, make spiritual development a lot less intimidating and goals, like humility, become easier to achieve when one can trust and depend upon HIM to HELP them. Therefore, “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT).

“…The Lord helps them, rescuing them from the wicked. He saves them, and they find shelter in him…” (Psalms 37:40 NLT). “…Blessed are those who wait for his help…” (Isaiah 30:18 NLT). “…The Lord who made you and helps you says: Do not be afraid …my servant …my chosen one…” (Isaiah 44:2 NLT). “… The Sovereign Lord helps me…” (Isaiah 50:7 NLT).  “… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “…You are my helper and my savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT). “..Therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE, that [you]… may obtain mercy, and find GRACE to help in time of need…”(Hebrews 4:16 KJV). “….Then you will know that I am the Lord your God…’” (Exodus 16:12 NLT).

During “seasons of suffering, all things that happen are NOT necessarily GOOD, but they “…. all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose…”(ROMANS 8:28 KJV.AND “…it is God which worketh in [his people]… both to will and to do of hisgood pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).

Getting rid of sin issues and practices is what God does. He says, “…be holy, because I am holy…” (1 Peter 1:16 KJV). “…He that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin (ceased from sinful practices)…” (1 Peter 4:1 KJV).

In other words, the one who journeys and struggles during “seasons of suffering”; gains holiness. Holiness separates or sets God’s people apart, particularly as witnesses that shine, in the dark, and give glory to their heavenly Father.

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

"…Let your light shine before men (women, children) in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven…” (Matthew 5:16 NASB).

In LONG “seasons of suffering” God’s people are usually JUST waiting for God to change the situation or circumstance around, but NOT waiting for him to, necessarily, change THEM. “..though he (God) slay me, yet will I trust in him (and depend upon him to direct my steps)…” (Job 13:15 KJV). “….All the days of my appointed TIME will I WAIT, till my CHANGE come…” (Job 14:14 KJV).

Many have waited for days, weeks, months, or years for that “outward” change while God waits for the “inward” change. “…be conformed to the imageof his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “… growing in every way more and more like Christ…” (Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT). “...Be … imitators of ...[Jesus]…”(Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:1 ASV). “…In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “...God’s ....gift of righteousness, for all who receive .....through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT). “…the GIFT of righteousness…” (Romans 5:17 KJV). “…[So]... seek ye first ....his righteousness; all these…[other]… things shall be added unto you…” (Matthew 6:25-34 NIV).

Even after suffering and dying on the cross so graciously and mercifully for sinners, God is still waiting patiently for his people to turn from their wicked practices. . “…If My people which are called by My name shall humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways…” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV).

“But the people replied, “…We will continueto live as WE WANT TO, stubbornly following our ownevil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

God is LONGSUFFERING and he has been waiting patiently for his OWN people, for years, to give their whole hearts to him. “…But my people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts. They went backward instead of forward” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

“ ...We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

BUT God“…is LONGSUFFERING to ...[HIS people], not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance...” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV).

However, “… [God, the Holy Spirit, has]... set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore [“YOU”]...choose life (the life “you” want)…” (Deuteronomy 30:19). “…Choose you (make a decision, you,) this day whom ye will serve….”(Joshua 24:15 KJV).

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