Pensacola Helene Jefferson's Blog, page 4

WHERE DO GOD'S PEOPLE GO WHEN LIFE GETS HARD? NO WHERE. THEY GO TO THE ROCK

 

                    

KEEP STANDING UPON THE ROCK

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

 

The WRITTEN Word of God was FIRST translated into Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. The King James Version and other translations and versions came later.

However, regardless of the human strengths or weaknesses of those translations and versions, the DIVINE VOICE and DIVINE WORDS of God continue to SPEAK!!!

If God’s ABILITY to SPEAK his HOLY message relied totally upon human versions, translations, and languages; its integrity and purity would have been LOST long ago.

All OUTLETS and MOUTHPIECES for God’s WORD must rely upon BEING ANOINTED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT AND POWER IN ORDER to SPEAK WITH GOD'S POWER and authority that SAVES and TRANSFORMS lives.  “…the Word (God’s WORD) was made FLESH (made into human form or created into an earthen vessel) ...” (JOHN 1:14 KJV). “…  … His (Jesus) name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). 

“…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth (THE WORD OF GOD) (HOW?)with the Holy Ghost (God IS SPIRIT) and WITH POWER: (WHAT DID THE HOLY SPIRIT & GOD’S POWER CAUSE JESUS TO DO?) [HE]... went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD [who is SPIRIT] WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

“…[GOD, who is SPIRIT]... anointed [ENDOWED him with the POWER] to preach the gospel to the poor …to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord…” (John 4:16-21 KJV).

JESUS WAS THE WORD OF GOD MADE FLESH. JESUS HAD TO BE ANOINTED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT AND POWER "BEFORE" HE WAS ABLE TO DEMONSTRATE AND CONFIRM WHAT GOD’S WORD CAN DO, CAN CREATE, CAN MAKE HAPPEN, OR BRING INTO EXISTENCE.

God’s WORD is SPIRIT and it is NOT limited by human translations and versions. It is the ANOINTING of the HOLY SPIRIT that makes ANY translation or version EMPOWERED to SPEAK the SALVATION message with the power and authority that SAVES or the TRANSFORMATION message that TRANSFORMS.

It is WONDERFUL and PRAISEWORTHY that bible scholars make every attempt to sustain the translation or version that has made the MOST impact, but they are NOT to lose SIGHT of WHAT makes “THAT” impact. “….Apart from [Christ Jesus; the Word of God with inherent power and authority], you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). “… [Only]…one  (has the power and authority to or)… can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus (the word of god)…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

God’s WORD is, first and foremost, SPIRIT!

“….THE WORDS that I speak unto you, they are SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…MY WORD …shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV). God’s WORDS, they “ARE” SPIRIT.

GOD has SPOKEN through HUMAN VESSELS, throughout biblical history. Humans are “ONLY” MOUTHPIECES who are CHOSEN to SPEAK his WORD OR RECORD his WORD. “…All scripture (The WORDS of God) is given by inspiration of God (MOVING of his    PIRIT)…” (2 Timothy 3:16 KJV). “…The prophecy (WORD OF GOD) came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God SPAKE as they were… MOVED BY THE HOLY [SPIRIT]…” (2 Peter 1:21 KJV).

The WORD of GOD is CONFIRMATION that God actively works “IN” and “THROUGH” human MOUTHPIECES to speak and display his POWER. “...There are many ways in which God works in our lives, but it is the same God who does the work in and through all of us who are his… … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “……the [HOLY] SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH each of us … … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…It is God which worketh IN YOU both to will and to do of his good pleasure…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “…That great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work “IN US” what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…the Father … doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

God PICKS and CHOOSES mouthpieces who are WILLING to SPEAK his WORD as he INSPIRES them to DO so. “…I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a [WORD], what I should say, and what I should speak…” (John 12:49 KJV). “…THE WORDS THAT I SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT…”(John 6:63 KJV).

Human mouthpieces, for the New Testament, were also CHOSEN by God to SPEAK or RECORD his WORD.

SOME of those MOUTHPIECES SAW the WORD in ACTION first-hand and they SPENT time with Jesus, the WORD of God, personally. “…Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were EYEWITNESSES and servants of the Word…” (Luke 1:1-2 NLT). “….Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us, Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were EYEWITNESSES, and ministers of the Word…” (Luke 1:1-2 KJV).  “…For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were EYEWITNESSES of his majesty….” (2 Peter 1:16 NLT). “…And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

MOUTHPIECES are human vessels who SPEAK God’s WORD as they are INSPIRED or MOVED by the POWER of the Holy Spirit. “…For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God SPAKE as they were MOVED BY THE HOLY GHOST…” (2 Peter 1:21 KJV).

These MOUTHPIECES did not speak from the origin of their own human minds or hearts, but were INSPIRED or MOVED by the Holy Spirit. “..Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, WHICH THE HOLY GHOST BY THE MOUTH OF DAVID SPAKE before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus…” (Acts 1:16 KJV).  “…But those things, WHICH GOD BEFORE HAD SHEWED BY THE MOUTH OF ALL HIS PROPHETS, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled…” (Acts 3:18 KJV).

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

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

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

“…And the Lord came down in a cloud, and SPAKE unto him, and took of the spirit that was upon him, and gave it unto the seventy elders: and it came to pass, that, when the Spirit rested upon them, they prophesied,and did not cease.…” (Numbers 11:25 KJV). “And the Spirit of the Lord will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them, and shalt be turned into another man…” (1 Samuel 10:6 KJV).  “….And when they came thither to the hill, behold, a company of prophets met him; and the Spirit of God came upon him, and he prophesiedamong them…” (1 Samuel 10:10 KJV). “…And Saul sent messengers to take David: and when they saw the company of the prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing as appointed over them, the Spirit of God was upon the messengers of Saul, and they also prophesied….” (1 Samuel 19:20 KJV). “…And he went thither to Naioth in Ramah: and the Spirit of God was upon him also, and he went on, and prophesied, until he came to Naioth in Ramah…” (1 Samuel 19:23 KJV). “…Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations. Then said I, Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak: for I am a child. But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak…” (Jeremiah 1:6-8 KJV).

These prophets and mouthpieces spoke God’s WORD, which can ONLY be SPIRIT, under the POWER of the Holy Spirit.

God CAN SPEAK through human mouthpieces while SUSTAINING the SPIRIT of his WORD and KEEPING the inherent POWER and AUTHORITY of his HOLY Words too!! “…In him (Jesus, the Word) ALL THINGS  (including the SPIRIT and POWER and AUTHORITY inherent in his WORD)…hold together…” (Colossians 1:7 NIV). “… [God is]…sustaining ALL THINGS … by his powerful word…” (Hebrews 1:3 NIV). “….Apart from Me (Jesus, God’s WORD), you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

God SUSTAINS his WORD throughout generations and generations! This is NOT impossible for God to do nor is it TOO HARD! “…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).  

Therefore, these MIRACULOUS WORDS, which are SPIRIT, can NOT be reduced to simply a book of pages, or a particular language, or a specific translation, nor are they a reflection of the HUMAN mouthpieces that delivers them.

 God ALMIGHTY, out of his LOVE for mankind, SUSTAINS the inherent SPIRIT and POWER and AUTHORITY of his HOLY Word.

The sustained WORD of God has endured, in spite of flawed and corrupt humanity, for centuries. “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).   “… “I AM WHO I AM ’ This is My name forever…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “… his name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “…[THE WORD OF GOD) is the sameyesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).

Remember, the reason you are SAVED today is because God KEPT the covenant promise he made thousands and thousands of generations ago. AND because of his GREAT MERCIFUL LOVE and GRACE toward his people he SENT his SON (the WORD OF GOD). “…. 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 covenant with them and relented because of his unfailing love…” (Psalms 106:42-48 NLT). “…He remembered his covenant with them and relented because of his unfailing love…” (Psalms 106:42-48 NLT).

“…so will I save you, and ye shall be a blessing: …” (Zechariah 8:13 KJV).

“…Great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD” (Psalms 117:2 KJV). “…[GOD] remembered his covenant with them (THROUGH ABRAHAM) …” (Psalms 106:42-48 NLT). To Abraham he said: “…I will BLESS thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a BLESSING: And I will BLESS them that BLESS thee …in thee shall all families of the earth be BLESSED…”(Genesis 12:2-3 KJV).

God KEEPS his word through thousands and thousands of generations. “…Showing love to a thousand generationsof those who love me and keep my commandments…” (Exodus 20:6 NIV).

God also watches over his word, very carefully, to make sure he keeps it and that it performs exactly what he commands. God says, I “…am WATCHING over my word to PERFORM it…” (Jeremiah 1:12 NASB “…So shall MY WORD bethat goeth forth out of my mouth: it SHALL NOT return unto me void, but it SHALL ACCOMPLISH that which I please, and it SHALL PROSPER in the thing whereto I sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV).).

 Because of the POWER and AUTHORITY of God’s WORD new converts can NOW enjoy the blessings of Abraham. “…Christ hath REDEEMED us from the curse of the law …That the “BLESSING of Abraham” might come on [“US”]… through Jesus Christ …” (Galatians 3:13-14 KJV).

God’s KEEPS his WORD out of his LOVE for his people. His LOVE endured and his WORD stood POWERFUL and STRONG through the abandonment of his people, rebellion, idolatry, dishonor, disrespect, rejection, and blatant unfaithfulness, as witnessed, in biblical history. Yet, he has “….loved [his people]...with an everlasting love….” (Jeremiah 31:3 KJV). “…notthat [they] loved God, but that he loved [them]...” (1 John 4:10 KJV).

The WORD of God is the power of God unto salvation. The gospel is “…the POWER of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth (accepts or depends upon his invitation)…” (Romans 1:16 KJV).  “… [The] Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:16 NLT).

The hard copy of the bible itself can be destroyed, buried, burned, and hidden, but the inherent SPIRIT and POWER of its spoken message cannot be stopped, reduced, or contained. . “…Heaven and earth shall pass away, but MY WORDS SHALL NOT pass away (die)…” (Matthew 24:35 KJV).

From the 1st century until this present day the POWERFUL message of God is still saving and transforming lives. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness…” (2 Timothy 3:16 KJV).

God’s WORD is “NOT” magic. God is “NOT” your genie in a bottle. God’s WORD is not based on how you feel or your opinions. God’s WORD does not suddenly become altered to cater to or support a lifestyle that is “NOT” holy.

God’s WORD “IS” SPIRIT. God’s WORD is HOLY. God’s WORD is POWER. God’s WORD has AUTHORITY. God’s WORD SAVES. God’s WORD transforms lives. God’s WORD is TRUSTWORTHY. God’s WORD will NOT disappoint you. God’s WORD produces revelatory knowledge of who God is. God’s WORD is NOT limited to versions, translations, or languages. God’s WORD is ALIVE. God’s WORD is ACTIVE. God’s WORD is JESUS.

“… his name (Jesus’ name) is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “…THE WORDS THAT I SPEAK unto you, they ARE SPIRIT…” (John 6:63 KJV). God is SPIRIT. “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). The “WORD” is spiritand God is spirit; they are one and the same. “…the Word was God … (John 1:1-4 NASB). “…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV).

  “…God … sent forth the Spirit of His Son (the WORD of God) “INTO” [Y]OUR HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…[the WORD] is that Spirit [too]…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). The “WORD” is spirit and God is spirit; they are one and the same. “…the Word was God  … (John 1:1-4 NASB).  Therefore, “…Jesus Christ (the Word of God) is in you…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…The [Holy] Spirit of God dwell[s] inyou…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  

“…God (is Spirit & his Words; they are Spirit and HE)… works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “….Apart from Me (Jesus, the WORD of God), you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

IT IS THE FATHER’S indwelling HOLY SPIRIT that “… is able TO DO exceeding abundantly ABOVE all that we ask orthink…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV). “…he (the  indwelling Holy Spirit) doeth the works [IN and THROUGH you]…” (John 14:10 KJV).

“….Then you will know that [he is] the Lordyour God…’” (Exodus 16:12 NLT). “… [God has] done so many miracles before [you] ….” (John 12:37-40 NLT). “… [He has] done [those miracles through HIS WORD] … so you will know that [He is] the Lord…” (Exodus 10:1-2 NLT). “….In [the miracles he has done through HIS WORD], [You] shalt know that [GOD IS] the Lord...” (READ Exodus 7:14-25). “…Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you can] … take refuge; Your shield and the horn of Your salvation, YOURstronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

  

WHEN YOU STAND UPON GOD'S POWER, YOU ARE STANDING UPON POWER

WHEN YOU STAND UPON GOD'S WORD YOU ARE

STANDING UPON POWER

“… [The] Good News about Christ (the gospel message, the WORD alone)… It is the power (sign and wonder) of God at work (miraculously), saving everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:16 NLT).

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God emphasizes HIS “POWER” to SAVE is “IN” his WORD. The WORD is the ACTUAL POWER OF GOD THAT CAN SAVE you! “… [THE WORD] It is the power of God at work (miraculously), saving everyone who believes (depends)…” (Romans 1:16 NLT).

God generously DISPLAYS his POWER“IN” and “THROUGH” his people by the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.

These ACTS of God’s POWER are displayed as CONFIRMATION that God’s WORD still brings “ALL THINGS” into existence.

SALVATION, for instance, is an ACT of God’s POWER and it is meant to strengthen one’s FAITH or dependency upon God’s WORD. “… Believe me (depend upon me, the WORD) that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me (depend upon me) for the very works' sake…” (John 14:11 KJV).

God’s people have experienced and witnessed God’s POWER, throughout biblical history. God has NOT changed. “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  “Jesus Christ is the sameyesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).

God’s power is clearly seen by the things he makes, creates, or brings into existence.

God’s POWER is able to CREATE, SAVE, DELIVER, COMFORT, GUIDE, EMPOWER PURPOSE, HEAL, ENDOW WITH PEACE, LOVE, KEEP COMPANY WITH YOU, PROVIDE JOY, PROVIDE, ETC. ETC.

For EXAMPLE, all of Creation was the result of his POWER (Genesis 1 & 2). The flood (the first one ever) was done by his hand (Genesis 7 & 8). During the tower of Babel, it was God who confused the languages (Genesis 11). Sodom and Gomorrah was destroyed by the rain of fire and brimstone from heaven (Genesis 19). Lot’s wife was turned into a pillar of salt Genesis 19). Sarah and Abraham conceived Isaac in their old age (Genesis 21).

God spoke to Moses through a burning bush and the bush was NEVER actually consumed by the fire (Exodus 3). God changed Aaron’s rod into a serpent (Exodus 7). God miraculously sent 10 plagues upon Egypt until they let HIS people go (Exodus 7-14). God parted the Red Sea so HIS people could cross over to the other side (Exodus 14).

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

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

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

God gave Joshua instructions on how to win the battle with Jericho and he WON (Joshua 6).

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

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

God gave Samson extraordinary human strength. He slayed a lion with his bare hands and defeated an entire army with the jawbone of an ass (Judges 13-16).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jesus delivered people from demons (Matthew 8:28; Mark 1:23, 5:1; & Luke 4:33, 8:26). Jesus STILLED the storm (Matthew 8:23 & Mark 4:37, & Luke 8:22). Jesus walked on water (Matthew 14:25; Mark 6:48, & John 6:15). Jesus ROSE from the dead (John 21:1-14).

All these ACTS of GOD’s reveal ALL the things God’s GREAT POWER is ABLE to DO or PERFORM.

God is ALL-POWERFUL and ALL POWER belongs to HIM. “…powerbelongs to God…” (Psalms 62:11 NASB).

God’s POWER allows HIM to do IMPOSSIBLE things. “…The things which are impossible with men are possible with God…” (Luke 18:27 KJV).

God’s POWER confirms NOTHING is TOO HARD for HIM. “…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). Is your DELIVERANCE impossible

God’s POWER confirms God is ABLE to do as he PLEASES and NO ONE can STOP him. “…he does whatever pleases him…” (Psalms 115:3 NIV).  AND “…All the PEOPLES of the earth are regarded as nothing…. [El Shaddai] … does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: “What have you done?” (Daniel 4 NLT).

God’s POWER confirms he is MORE than CAPABLE of DOING whatever HIS WORD says HE WILL DO! “…[I AM]…Persuaded ... what he (God)…promised (through his WORD)….he [is]…able to perform….” (Roman  4:21 KJV).

God’s POWER IS AN INHERENT PART OF THE WORD of GOD. “… [THE WORD] It is the power of God at work (miraculously), saving everyone who believes (depends)…” (Romans 1:16 NLT). “….TO [THOSE]…WHO ARE SAVED, [THE WORD] IS THE POWER OF GOD….” (1 Corinthians 1:18 KJV). “…UNTO THEM, WHICH ARE CALLED…[THE WORD IS]…THE POWER OF GOD…” (1 Corinthians 1:24 KJV).

IT is the POWER,  inherent, in God’s WORD that BOUGHT everything into EXISTENCE. “…All things came into being through Him (the POWER inherent in his WORD), and apart from Him (the POWER inherent in his WORD) nothing came into being that has come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB).

The POWER inherent in God’s Word strengthens his TRUSTWORTHINESS and dependability among his people. “…This beginning of miracles (demonstrating and confirming the POWER inherent in HIS WORD)did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifestedforth his glory; and his disciples believed on him (depended upon him)…” (JOHN 2:10-12 KJV).

Not only can God’s people TRUST and DEPEND upon him to DO what he SAYS he will DO, but they can be ASSURED of God’s trustworthiness “TO” do it! “…All your commands are TRUSTWORTHY…” (PSALM 119:86 NLT). “… “Everything you have heard … is TRUSTWORTHYand true…” (REVELATION 22:6 NLT).. “…the Scripture says, "WHOEVER [depends upon or trusts in] HIM (Jesus, the Word) WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED…" (ROMANS 10:11 NASB).

God’s people can RELY upon his POWER to HELP them through difficult situations and circumstances of life. “…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 yousays: Do not be afraid …my servant …my chosen one…” (Isaiah 44:2 NLT). “… The Sovereign Lord helpsme…” (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).

God USES his POWER to HELP his people so they will “KNOW” him. “….Then you will know that I am the Lordyour God…’” (Exodus 16:12 NLT).

Depending UPON the POWER of God to work “IN” and “THROUGH” you by the indwelling Holy Spirit is essential in building a STRONG foundation of TRUST in the covenant relationship with God. “…You can ask for anything in my name (the word of god), and I “will” do it...” (John 14:12-14 NLT). “…You can ask for anything in my name (jesus, the word of god)...” (John 14:12-14 NLT). “….You may ask for anything you want…” (JOHN 15:7 NASB). “…Ask and it will be given to you…” (Matthew 7:7 NIV). “…everyone who asks receives…” (Matthew 7:8 NIV).  “…God … is able, through his mighty power … to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think …” (Ephesians 3:20-21 NLT).

YOU CAN TRUST GOD, YOUR COVENANT PARTNER AND CAREGIVER!!

GOD CONFIRMS THE POWER INHERENT IN HIS WORD IN ORDER TO BUILD THE TRUST BETWEEN YOU AND HIM.

HE WANTS YOU TO KNOW HE IS THE LORD, YOUR GOD. YOUR TRUSTING AND DEPENDABLE GOD!

God wants his people to SEE him as their GREAT, MIGHTY, and POWERFL God and personal CAREGIVER. . “….Then you will know that I am the Lord your God…’” (Exodus 16:12 NLT). “… I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob as El-Shaddai—‘God Almighty’—but I did not reveal my name, Yahweh, to them…” (Exodus 6:3 NLT).

Every biblical STORY recorded about God’s POWER is to ENCOURAGE his people to TRUST and DEPEND upon his GREAT and MIGHTY ability to LOVE them, CARE for them and provide for their EVERY need. “…For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning…” (Romans 15:4 KJV).  “…the things which are impossible with men … 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). “…Trust in the Lord with all thine heart…” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).  “…The LORD “WILL” accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “...Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV).

Remembering, studying, and being AWARE of the GREAT things God’s has DONE can encourage TRUST and DEPENDENCY upon God’s POWER.  “…The things which are impossible with men … [are]… POSSIBLE [with God] …” (Luke 18:27 KJV). “…[god will] doeth the [CONFIRMING] works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

There are so MANY human weaknesses. There are so MANY human limitations. There are so MANY situations and circumstances that are out of human control. “…NOT that we are sufficient OF OURSELVES to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God…” (2 Corinthians 3:5 KJV). “…that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things…” (2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV). “…He willkeep you strong to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).

Human ability, ALONE, is “NOT” sufficient to sustain all the troubles one faces in LIFE. “…When I am weak, then am I strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10 KJV). “…[God’s] strength is made perfect in weakness...” (2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV). “…I can do ALL THINGS through Christ which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

 “…When [you are]…weak, then [are you]…strong …[God’s]… power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NIV).  

WE NEED HIS HELP AND HE READILYHELPS!!! “…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).

When God HELPS he HELPS through the POWER of his Holy Spirit. “…..This is the WORD of the LORD, [spoken through, the mouthpiece,] Zerubabel, saying, Not by [human] might, nor by [human] power, but by my (GOD’S) Spirit…” (Zechariah 4:6 KJV).

“…The things which are impossible with men are possible with God…” (Luke 18:27 KJV).

 “….I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV).

No matter how weak YOU are; the WORD of GOD is NOT WEAK, but can be DEPENDED upon for its inherent POWER to ACCOMPLISH far more than YOU can ASK or THINK. “…all GLORY to God, who is able, through his mighty power… to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think …” (Ephesians 3:20-21 NLT).

The WORD of GOD has the inherent POWER to WORK “ALL THINGS” together for GOOD when you LOVE him and have been CALLED according to his purpose. You have been “… called out of darkness into his marvellous light” (1 Peter 2:9 KJV). “…I chose YOU....” (John 15:16 ASV). “…All things work together for GOOD (God’s kind of good) to them that LOVE GOD, to them who are THE CALLED to his purpose” (Romans 8:28 KJV). “… [The evil one] … meant evil against … [you] … but … [God, the Holy Spirit] … meant it for good…”  (GENESIS 50:15:21).

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

God is ALL-POWERFUL and ALL POWER belongs to HIM. “…powerbelongs to God…” (Psalms 62:11 NASB).

God’s POWER allows God to do IMPOSSIBLE things. “…The things which are impossible with men are possible with God…” (Luke 18:27 KJV).

God’s POWER means NOTHING is TOO HARD for HIM. “…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). Is your DELIVERANCE impossible?

God’s POWER CONFIRMs God is ABLE to do as he PLEASES with people, situations, circumstances, and any other  ISSUE his PEOPLE may FACE. “…[ALL] powerbelongs to God…” (Psalms 62:11 NASB).  “…he does whatever pleases him…” (Psalms 115:3 NIV).  AND “… All the PEOPLES of the earth are regarded as nothing…. [The ALL POWERFUL God] … does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: “What have you done?” (Daniel 4 NLT).

God’s POWER CONFIRMS he is MORE than CAPABLE of HANDLING whatever HIS WORD SAYS he WILL HANDLE! “…[god’s power persuades his people that]... what he…promised (IN HIS WORD)….he [is]…able to perform….” (Roman  4:21 KJV).

God says, I “…am WATCHING over my word to PERFORM it…” (Jeremiah 1:12 NASB “…So shall MY WORD bethat goeth forth out of my mouth: it SHALL NOT return unto me void, but it SHALL ACCOMPLISH that which I please, and it SHALL PROSPER in the thing whereto I sent it…” (Isaiah 55:11 KJV).

BECAUSE: “…[ALL] powerbelongs to God…” (Psalms 62:11 NASB).

 

THE BLOOD SAVES YOU AND GIVES YOU A TESTIMONY

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

AND GIVES YOU A "TESTIMONY"

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

God’s people KNOW, through it all, “…he [God, the Holy Spirit]... remains faithful,for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 “...If you are not disciplined – and everyone undergoes discipline – then you are not legitimate, nottrue sons and daughters at all” (Hebrews 12:8 NIV). “….For whom the Lord loveth he CORRECTETH…” (Proverbs 3:12 KJV). 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GOD'S PEOPLE ALWAYS HAVE A TESTIMONY!!

 

JOB LEANED ON THH EVERLASTING ARMS OF GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT.

INSIDE THE STORMS: JOB LEANS ON THE EVERLASTING ARMS OF THE GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT

“One day when Job’s sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house, a messenger came to Job and said, “The oxen were plowing and the donkeys were grazing nearby, and the Sabeans attacked and made off with them. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The fire of God fell from the heavens and burned up the sheep and the servants, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” While he was still speaking, another messenger came and said, “The Chaldeans formed three raiding parties and swept down on your camels and made off with them. They put the servants to the sword, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” While he was still speaking, yet another messenger came and said, “Your sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house, when suddenly a mighty wind swept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on them and they are dead, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” (Job 1:13-20 NIV).

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Continual and ongoing spiritual growth and development opens your life up to INFINITE possibilities!! “…The things which are impossible with men are possible with God…” (Luke 18:27 KJV).  “….I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). “…NOW UNTO HIM THAT IS ABLE to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).

Therefore, INSIDE your STORMS, “… [May God] … grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV).“…May the God of peace, … that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…May the God of peace, … that great Shepherd of the sheep …work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV

INSIDE the STORM, trusting in and depending upon God, the Holy Spirit, or LEANING ON HIS EVERLASTING ARMS, will become a WAY of life. “...[We, God’s people]... are given ... exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers (participants) of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound …[you will be fruitful in] the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ…” (2 Peter 1: 4-9 KJV).

No matter how much you THINK you’ve grown in the Lord, it is important to remember God is a God of correction. “...If you are not disciplined – and everyone undergoes discipline – then you are notlegitimate, not true sons and daughters at all” (Hebrews 12:8 NIV).“….For whom the Lord loveth he CORRECTETH…” (Proverbs 3:12 KJV).  “…Those who walk in pride he is able to humble...” (Daniel 4 NIV). “…that we might be partakers of his holiness….” (Hebrews 12:10 KJV).

As WONDERFUL of a SERVANT as Job was, he still had room to grow spiritually. “…Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? and still he holdeth fast his integrity, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause” (Job 2:3 KJV). Job said: “...though he slay me, yet will I trust in him…” (Job 13:15 KJV).

Even Jesus spoke about his STORMS of LIFE and how they helped him learned obedience. “..Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things he suffered (HIS STORMS)…” (Hebrews 5:8 KJV). . “…The faithful followers of the Lord … keep their promises even when it hurts…” (Psalm 15:4 NLT).  Jesus understood he did “…not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:28 KJV).   “…The ... works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father has sent me...” (John 5:36 KJV).  He became “…a ransom for many...[by humbly surrendering]…himself [to God’s sovereign will]... and bec[oming] obedient unto death, even the death of the cross...” (Matthew 20:28 & Philippians 2:8 KJV).  “…I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will but the will of him that sent me...” (John 6:38 KJV).

 “ … [INSIDE THE STORM and]... in the days of his flesh, when he (Jesus) 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).

 “… 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).

God HELPS his people INSIDE their STORMS. “…It is God who WORKS IN YOU…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

In like manner, Job GAVE his life over to God’s sovereign will.

NOBODY likes to be INSIDE the STORMS, of any kind, but God, out of his kindness, REWARDS his people for their faithful service. “...No chastening (STORMS) for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable FRUIT of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby...” (Hebrews 12:11 KJV).  “… [God allows STORMS]…for our profit, that [his people] might be partakers (participants) of his holiness...” (Hebrews 12:10 KJV).

God is not so concerned about what is actually happening TO his people, INSIDE the STORM, as much as he is concerned about what is happening IN his people. God cares about their heart. “…The LORD LOOKS AT THE HEART…” (1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). “….[It is] from WITHIN, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts … wickedness, deceit, … pride, and foolishness. All these vile things come from WITHIN; they are what defile you…” (Mark 7:20-23 NLT).

God SEES the “…hidden man of the heart…” (1 Peter 3:4 KJV). “…No one needed… to tell him about human nature, for he knew what was in each person’s heart…” (John 2:24-25 NLT). “O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know everything I do…” (Psalms 139:1-6 NLT).

Remember when God took Israel through the wilderness (trials) for forty years? He did it to humble them, test them, to see if they would keep his commandments or not, and so “they” would “….know what was in [their OWN]…heart…” (Deuteronomy 8:2 KJV).

Some of God’s people have walked with God for many, many years, but continue to live as THEY CHOOSE in MANY areas of their life. “…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).

 “…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).  “…Be holy, because I am holy…” (1 Peter 1:16 KJV). “...He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less” (John 3:30 NLT). “...We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

Job, humbly, concluded he had NO control over the STORMS of LIFE. He also, humbly, concluded he could NOT CHOOSE the OUTCOME of his STORMS. Job entrusted himself and HIS STORM, to God, with the right attitude. He said “..though he (God) slay me, yet will I trust in him…” (Job 13:15 KJV). Job said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, And naked I shall return there. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord…” Job 1:20-22 NASB).

The book of Job is a prime example of how God’s people go through horrendous STORMS in LIFE or trials and tribulations. The child of God is encouraged to continue to whole heartedly serve God, to trust in HIM, to depend upon him, and they will come through it ALL with OVERWHELMING VICTORY. “...despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us...” (Romans 8:37 NLT). “…That is why we never give up ... our present troubles are small and won’t last very long...”(2 Corinthians 4:16-17 NLT).

Job was already a faithful, devoted servant of God who openly trusted and depended upon HIM. “…perfect and upright and one that feareth God and escheweth evil…” Yet, he went through horrendous and unimaginable losses (Job 1:1 KJV).

In fact, God allowed or permitted him to go INSIDE the STORM (experience tragedies) and “without cause.” “And the Lord said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect (spiritually mature) and an upright man, although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause” (Job 2:3 KJV).

Job’s losses and pain, INSIDE the STORM, was unbearable to read about, but he miraculously endured them without blaming God. “...In all of this, Job did not sin by blaming God” (Job 1:22 KJV).

At first glance, it seems what happened to Job was unfair and without purpose. It is not unusual to question God’s love and wisdom during the STORMS of LIFE. “...And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?” (Mark 4:38 KJV).

People ask, all the time, “how can God be loving when he allows or permits such horrible things?” “…although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause” (Job 2:3 KJV).

Eventually, even Job had questions as a reaction to his being INSIDE his horrible STORM. “Why died I not from the womb? why did I notgive up the ghost when I came out of the belly?” (Job 3:11 KJV). “I know it is so of a truth: but how should man be just with God?” (Job 9:2 KJV).“If a man die, shall he live again? all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come” (Job 14:14 KJV).

Job’s losses didn’t make sense to him and he couldn’t find adequate or justifiable answers. INSIDE the STORM, Job had questions about why, these tragedies, had happened to HIM. Elihu suggested Job ask God. “…I would seek unto God, and unto God would I commit my cause…” (Job 5:9 KJV). Wise men always sought God (Matthew 1:1-12). “...Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually...” (1 Chronicles 16:11 KJV).

“… those that seek me early shall find me” (Proverbs 8:17 KJV). “…seek, and ye shall find…(Matthew 7:7-8 KJV). “The LORD [is] good …to the soul [that] seeketh him…” (Lamentations 3:25 KJV).

When going through “...call upon [God]… in the day of trouble: [He] will deliver [you]…” (Psalms 50:15 KJV).  “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near…” (Isaiah 55:6-7 KJV). “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon” (Isaiah 44:6-7 KJV).

Mankind is finite and looking for answers in finite man is often pointless. “...For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself...”(Galatians 6:3 KJV). Job’s friends had their opinion about HIS STORM and accused him of some secret sin. Job thought HIS STORM was about something wrong he done too. “...[It is] better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man...” (Psalms 118:9 KJV).

“Are [Job and his friends]… saying, then, that God was unfair? Of course [he’s]…not! For God said to Moses, “I will show mercy to anyone I choose, and I will show compassion to anyone I choose.” So it is God who decides to show mercy. We can neither choose it nor work for it...” (Romans 9:14-16 NLT).

God has the sovereign right to do what he wants with our lives whether we like it or not.  “…If the Lord will, [I] shall live, and do this, or that...” (James 4:16 KJV).

God’s people belong to him. When the sovereignty of God is realized and his people finally surrender to the fact that God is in control, they will humbly agree, “…it is God who decides to show mercy. We can neither choose it nor work for it...” (Romans 9:14-16 NLT).

Elihu did speak a profound truth to Job INSIDE HIS STORM. He said: “Wherefore, Job, I pray thee, hear my speeches, and hearken to all my words. Behold, now I have opened my mouth, my tongue hath spoken in my mouth. My words shall be of the uprightness of my heart: and my lips shall utter knowledge clearly. The spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life. If thou canst answer me, set thy words in order before me, stand up. Behold, I am according to thy wish in God's stead: I also am formed out of the clay. Behold, my terror shall not make thee afraid, neither shall my hand be heavy upon thee. 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. Behold, he findeth occasions against me, he counteth me for his enemy, He putteth my feet in the stocks, he marketh all my paths. Behold, in this thou art not just: I will answer thee, that God is greater than man. Why dost thou strive against him? for he giveth not account of any of his matters” (Job 33:1-9 KJV). “For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself”(Galatians 6:3 KJV).

Christ went through a hard time upon earth too. This experience was HIS STORM. “…Christ … suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps…” (1 Peter 2:21 KJV). God “…spared not his own Son, [from going through A STORM,] but delivered him up for us all….?” (Romans 8:32 KJV).

Christ was LITERALLY beaten and crucified.

We are to follow in Christ’s footsteps, INSIDE the STORMS of LIFE, because we live in a FALLEN world and trials or sorrows will be a part of the human experience. “…Christ … suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps…” (1 Peter 2:21 KJV).“...In the world ye shallhave tribulation...” (John 16:33 KJV). “... Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows..." (John 16:44 NLT). “...Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 KJV). “...we must [go]...through much tribulation [to]...enter into the kingdom of God...” (Acts 14:22 KJV). “...despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

The bible says, “…all things work together for GOOD to them that LOVE [God, the Holy Spirit], to them who are THE CALLED (or chosen) to his purpose” (Romans 8:28 KJV). Satan “…intended to harm [Job, INSIDE THE STORM], but God intended it for ...[his]...good...” Genesis 50:20 NIV).

INSIDE his STORM, Job developed a deeper level of holy humility and a greater respect for God’s sovereignty. “...Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not” (Job 42:3 KJV). “You asked, ‘Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorance?’ It is I—and I was talking about things I knew nothing about, things far too wonderful for me” (Job 42:3 NLT).

INSIDE his STORM, Job also developed a more profound revelation knowledge of who God, the Holy Spirit, really was. “I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee” (Job 42:5 KJV).

God also corrected Job, by pruning him, through Elihu. “…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 took going INSIDE a STORM to further impart Job’s spiritual growth and development. The STORM further humbled Job, empowered him with a greater respect for God’s sovereignty, and gave him a greater revelation knowledge of God, the Holy Spirit, he never had before.

Job’s questioning, the finite God, about his being INSIDE the STORM through his tragedies, whether intentional or unintentional, was nonetheless a provocation to God’s sovereignty. “..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).

Humility is the best response to the omniscient, sovereign will of God and his wisdom of putting HIS PEOPLE “INSIDE” the STORMS of LIFE. “..Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind...” (Job 38: 2 KJV). “... Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorant words?...” (Job 38:2 NLT).

We learn, in the story of Job, to trust God’s sovereignty WHENwe don’t understand, BECAUSE we don’t understand, and SINCE our understanding is finite at best. “…I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not” (Job 42:3 KJV).

God challenged Job on his finiteness in comparison to his infiniteness. God said to 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). “...yet not My will, but Yours be done..." (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).

GOD IS YOUR DWELLING PLACE OF SAFETY AND HE UPHOLDS HIS PEOPLE WITH HIS EVERLASTING ARMS WHEN THEY CHOOSE TO WILLINGLY TRUST HIM.

HE SENT HIS WORD TO DESTROY "ALL" THE WORKS OF THE ENEMY AND HIS PEOPLE WIN THE VICTORY.

SURRENDER TO HIS WILL AND TRUST HIM WITH THE BATTLE!

 

 

GOD'S GRACE IS A DEMONSTRATION OF HIS KINDNESS AND CARE FOR IS PEOPLE

GOD’S GRACE IS EXPRESSION OF HIS KINDNESS AND CARE

“… since it is through God’s kindness (the indwelling Spirit)… it is not by [your]… good works. God’s grace …[makes all his actions toward mankind (saved or unsaved)]…—free and undeserved…” (Romans 11:6 NLT).

“...to show us his GRACE through Christ Jesus...who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV & 2 Timothy 1:9).

“...God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT).

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God’s GRACE is extended, through expressions and demonstrations of heartfelt kindness, genuine care, or simply because of God’s unconditional LOVE toward mankind.

Some of those heartfelt expressions of kindness and concern is God’s willingness to save mankind’s soul from perishing, forgive their sins, reconcile them to his Holy Spirit, adopt them as his own children, and generously endow them with boundless spiritual blessings and gifts.

Mankind can NEVER earn God’s GRACE. ONLY his unconditional love compels, drives, or motivates him to TREAT them kindly and with genuine concern in spite of their many faults, wrongdoings, and flaws.

In order to APPRECIATE God’s GRACE toward his people and ALL of mankind it is important to consider the BENEFIT and amazing GIFT of GRACE.

“….I was born a sinner (I was born without the indwelling Holy Spirit)—yes, from the moment my mother conceivedme….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).

The FLESH is the sinful nature. The SINFUL NATURE “only” knows how to SIN. Sins are the immutable symptoms of “that” nature. “...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (the symptoms of the flesh/sinful nature)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…the wages of sin (the end result of having a flesh/sinful nature ONLY) is death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “…For all have sinned (all have been born with a flesh or sinful nature)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).

HOWEVER, let’s look at how God expressed and demonstrated his HOLY LOVE and GRACE. “…God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16 KJV).

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

“…Christ (an expression of God’s LOVE and GRACE) ... suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring [mankind back] to God …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV).

Without Jesus Christ, the FLESH or SINFUL NATURE cannot be changed. It “IS” what it “IS,” a FLESH/SINFUL NATURE. “…Apart from [Jesus Christ]… [mankind cannot]... do nothing [they cannot change their flesh/sinful nature]…” (John 15:5 NIV).

King David said: “….I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). "…That which is born of the flesh is flesh…” (John 3:6 KJV).

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

“...I [am] …a slave to the ..[innate, enduring, etc.]... sin that is … withinme (within my flesh/sinful nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

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

“...The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin (through the flesh/sinful nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

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

God did NOT send Jesus to CHANGE mankind’s SINFUL NATURE, but to completely DELIVER them from it!

Through God’s unconditional LOVE and GRACE mankind can BE DELIVERED from the FLESH/SINFUL nature, which means they are SET FREE and HEALED through Jesus Christ.“…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by [my]...[flesh/sinful nature]?” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “…If the Son therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed…” (John 8:36 KJV).

Is anything too hard for God to DELIVER you from? “…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there anything too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV).

 “…The things which are impossible with men are possible with God…” (Luke 18:27 KJV).

 “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Your fortress, your deliverer…” (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

 “…Thereforeif any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “...For in him [God’s people]... live, and move, and have [their] being (their NEW IMAGE, identity, ETC.); as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).

It is mankind’s CONDITION without God’s unconditional LOVE that makes God’s GRACE, toward them, so very, very important and AMAZING.

They were BORN SINNERS, which automatically makes them GUILTY before God, they are considered ENEMIES of God, deserving of DEATH, unable to be RIGHTEOUS or GOOD, and without any WAY to be justified or MADE RIGHT with God, the Holy Spirit.

“….I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).

“...all the world (every male and female) may become guilty before God....” (Romans 3:19 KJV).

“...we were enemies...” (Romans 5:10 KJV).

“…the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV).

“...There is none righteous, no, not one...” (Romans 3:10 KJV). “...I want to do what is good, but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

“...Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight...” (Romans 3:20 KJV).

Spiritually they are LOST, DEAD, UNCLEAN, and SEPARATED from God, the Holy Spirit.

LOST and spiritually DEAD souls are headed toward everlasting punishment and eternal SEPARATION from God, the Holy Spirit. Oh but, “…The GIFTby grace……” (Romans 5:15 KJV).

“…BY GRACE have ye been saved through… FAITH; and that NOT OF YOURSELVES, IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD; not of works, that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

“..The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with faith… that are [“through” jesus Christ]…” (1 Timothy 1:13-14 NIV).

Thus, “…the GRACE of God, and the gift by GRACE, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath ABOUNDED unto many…” (Romans 5:15 KJV). 

“…God is able to make all GRACE abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things…” (2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV).

“…My GRACE is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness...” (2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV).

“..Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE, that we may obtain mercy, and find GRACE to help in time of need…” (Hebrews 4:16 KJV).

“…where sin abounded, GRACE did much more abound…” (Romans 5:20 KJV).

“…They which receive abundance of GRACE … shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ…” (Romans 5:17 KJV).

 HOW? According to, “...The grace GIVEN unto [mankind]…” (Romans 12:3 KJV). “…the grace of God which is GIVEN [to mankind]... by Jesus Christ...” (1 Corinthians 1:4 KJV). “…Every one of us is GIVEN GRACE according to the measure of the gift of Christ…” (Ephesians 4:7 KJV).

 “…FREELY [mankind has]... RECEIVED...” (Matthew 10:8 KJV).

God’s GRACE is a FREE GIFT to the RECIPIENT, which means they OWE NOTHING for it. “…The GIFTby grace……” (Romans 5:15 KJV).

God’s GIFT of GRACE, comes along with the GIFT of SALVATION, both are FREE toward mankind, however it was COSTLY to Jesus Christ.  “…, my righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT).

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

“... 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 GRACE is a GIFT and once God gives it to mankind they OWN it and it is theirs to KEEP for as long as they choose. “…the grace that is GIVEN …” (Romans 12:6 KJV). “…Because of the grace that is GIVEN ... of God…” (Romans 15:15 KJV). “…the grace of God which is GIVEN ... by Jesus Christ...” (1 Corinthians 1:4 KJV). “…Every one ... is GIVEN GRACE according to the measure of the gift of Christ…” (Ephesians 4:7 KJV).

When God GIVES the GIFT of GRACE it belongs to the RECEIVER permanently and God will NEVER take it BACK or change his mind. “…the grace of God which is GIVEN ... by Jesus Christ...” (1 Corinthians 1:4 KJV). “…The GIFT by grace……” (Romans 5:15 KJV). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  “...Jesus Christ (God’s WORD) is the sameyesterday and today and forever...” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV). “…I am (and my GRACE is]... with you always, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV).

God’s GRACE compelled HIM to willingly GIVE his SON, unsparingly and sacrificially, so that mankind would PROFIT from it. God “…spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all….” (Romans 8:32 KJV). “...[Jesus]... said, It is finished…” (John 19:28-30 KJV). “… I lay down my life... [FOR mankind] …” (John 10:17-18 KJV).  Jesus “…[gave] ...his life a ransom for many...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV).

“… the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ .. though HE WAS [spiritually] RICH, yet for [mankind’s]... sakes he became [spiritually] poor, that [they]... through his poverty might be [spiritually] RICH…” (2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV).

“... his life [was made]... an offering for sin...” (Isaiah 53:10-11 NLT). “...Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners...” (1 Timothy 1:15 NLT).  “...Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save those who come to Godthrough him...” (Hebrews 7:25 NLT).

Jesus came “…to give His life a ransom for many…” (Matthew 20:28 NIV).

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

The AMAZING gift of God’s GRACE is TOTALLY unmerited, undeserving, and FREE. “… since it is through God’s kindness … it is not by [mankind’s]… good works. God’s grace …[makes all his actions toward us]...free and undeserved…” (Romans 11:6 NLT).

God’s GRACE is continual and ongoing through the “covenant unity” relationship with HIM. “…My grace issufficient for you…” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV).  “…NOT that we are sufficient OF OURSELVESto think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God…” (2 Corinthians 3:5 KJV).“…I AM [and my grace is]... WITH YOU ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV).  “…he remains faithful [with his gift of grace] …” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

God’s people can actively benefit from God’s GIFT of GRACE and it is ENCOURAGED. “...come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and ... will find grace to help us when we need it most...” (Hebrews 4:16 NLT).

God’s people are empowered and strengthened in their personal, professional, and ministerial life because the GIFT of God’s GRACE is always with them. “...By the grace of God I am what I am...” (1 Corinthians 15:10 KJV).

“...his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain...” (1 Corinthians 15:10 KJV).

“...I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me...” (1 Corinthians 15:10 KJV).

“...the grace of God which was with me...” (1 Corinthians 15:10 KJV).

God’s GRACE is UNIQUE to God and his HOLY nature. God’s kind of GRACE is really NOT a natural response for most human beings.

Extending GRACE means that you WILL NOT treat a person according to their wrongs towards you.  “…“My grace is all you need. …”“… MY GRACE is sufficient for thee…” (2 Corinthians 12:9; 2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV & NLT).

“…In this world [God’s people]... are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). They are to “...Be[come] … imitators of[Jesus]…” (Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:1 ASV). “… growing in every way more and more like Christ…” (Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT).

Nonetheless, when someone does you wrong it is a GREAT temptation to do them wrong too through revenge, defense, violence, mistreatment, or a nasty, harsh physical or verbal response. “…The Kingdom of Heaven can be compared to a king who decided to bring his accounts up to date with servants who had borrowed money from him. In the process, one of his debtors was brought in who owed him millions of dollars. He couldn’t pay, so his master ordered that he be sold—along with his wife, his children, and everything he owned—to pay the debt.

“But the man fell down before his master and begged him, ‘Please, be patient with me, and I will pay it all.’ Then his master was filled with pity for him, and he released him and forgave his debt. “But when the man left the king, he went to a fellow servant who owed him a few thousand dollars. He grabbed him by the throat and demanded instant payment.

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

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

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

God’s GRACE says: “…love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another…” (John 13:34-35 KJV).

Therefore, “…As ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise…” (Luke 6:31 KJV).

“…Here is a simple rule of thumb for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you; then grab the initiative and do it for them! If you only love the lovable, do you expect a pat on the back? Run-of-the-mill sinners do that. If you only help those who help you, do you expect a medal? Garden-variety sinners do that. If you only give for what you hope to get out of it, do you think that’s charity? The stingiest of pawnbrokers does that…” (Luke 6:31-34 MSG).

God’s GRACE heals. “…I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him…” (Hosea 14:4 KJV).

God’s GRACE is compassionate, listens, and responds kindly. “…My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry…” (James 1:19 NIV).  “…A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger…” (Proverbs 15:1 NIV).

 “…The older counselors replied, "If you are good to these people and do your best to please them and give them a favorable answer, they will always be your loyal subjects…" (2 Chronicles 10:7 NLT).

God’s GRACE is all his people NEED. “…“My grace is all you need. …” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NLT). God’s GRACE, within the “covenant unity” relationship with his people, is FAITHFULLY demonstrated. “…The GIFTby grace……” (Romans 5:15 KJV). “…He … remains faithful (in his demonstration of GRACE) …” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). 

“...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).

GRACE is God, the Holy Spirit’s unconditional LOVE expressed and demonstrated. “…God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16 KJV).“...Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation (substitute, intervention) for our sins...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God …” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV).

Grace, God, the Holy Spirit’s love expressed and demonstrated, is the unmerited and undeserving treatment toward those who don’t deserve it, who didn’t earn it, and weren’t worthy of it. “…Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners…” (Romans 5:6-8 NLT).  “…“My grace is all you need. …” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NLT). “… My grace is sufficient for thee: …” (2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV).

Human beings, no matter how decent, will NEVER be an immutable source of grace. GRACE is an immutable attribute of God, only, and it is GOVERNED by HOLY LOVE.

It is always a FIRST response from God, but not always from humans. When Israel had wronged God he responded by saying: “…I WILL heal their apostasy (I will heal their unfaithfulness toward me through GRACE), I will love them freely, For My anger has turned away from them.…” (Hosea 14:4 KJV). “…Where sin increased, [My]...grace abounded all the more…” (Romans 5:20 NASB).

God’s “…grace is sufficient for you…” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NASB).  His “…love covereth a multitude of sins…” (Proverbs 10:12, 1 Peter 4:8 ASV). His “…Mercy triumphsover judgement.” (James 2:13 NASB). “…I WILL HEAL their apostasy, I will love them freely…” (Hosea 14:4 KJV).

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

The bible says: “…A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By thisshall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another…” (John 13:34-35 KJV). “…Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven!” (Matthew 18:21-22 NLT).

“…I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you’ve received it, it will be yours. But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too…” (Mark 11:24-25 NLT).

We can’t always redeem ourselves from the wrongs or offenses committed against others. “...His fellow servant fell down before him and begged for a little more time. ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it,’ he pleaded. But his creditor wouldn’t wait. He had the man arrested and put in prison until the debt could be paid in full…” (Matthew 18:23-35 NLT).

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

All of God’s people make mistakes with those they love and care for, whether intentionally or unintentionally, whether real or imagined, whether true or false, and no matter what, they simply can’t FIX it.

God’s people learn through these experiences, hard as they are to process through, human beings ARE NOT their SOURCE of continual or ongoing GRACE.

“...If [God’s people]... confess [their] sins, [God, the Holy Spirit] is [the] faithful [ONE who is]... just [and ready to]... forgive ... [their] sins, and to cleanse [them]... from all unrighteousness…” (1 John 1:9 KJV).

HIS GRACIOUS and unconditional LOVE covers over MANY wrongs and offenses made by his people. “…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).

When you truly and authentically experience his LOVING GRACE you will choose to love like that too. “...We love, because he first loved us...” (1 John 4:19 ASV). "…For this reason I say to you, her sins, which are many, have been forgiven, for she loved much; but he who is forgiven little, loves little…" (Luke 7:47 NASB).

God’s GRACE-filled and UNCONDITIONAL “…LOVE is patient, [God’s grace-filled]…love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. …[God’s grace-filled]…love never fails...” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV).

Truly God’s “…grace is sufficient for you…” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NASB). “…I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely…” (Hosea 14:4 KJV). “…I will restore… and I will heal thee of the wounds, saith the Lord…” (Jeremiah 30:17 KJV).  God is a “…restorer of thy life…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV). ….The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.  He restorethmy soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). God’s “…grace is sufficient for you…” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NASB).

“...In this world we are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). God makes it clear about walking in GRACE. “…DO NOT repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing…” (1 Peter 3:9 NIV). “…May the GRACE of the Lord Jesus be with God’s holy people…” (Revelations 22:21 NLT).

“...God’s wonderful grace...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT). “…The GIFT by grace……” (Romans 5:15 KJV). “… “God with us…” (Matthew 1:23 NASB). “…God has said “Neverwill I leave you (without my GRACE); never will I forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV).

“…I AM [and my GRACE is]... WITH YOU ALWAYS, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV).  “…Behold, I AM [and my GRACE is]... WITH… [my people] … and  … I WILL NOT LEAVE [them] …." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

“… The LORD thy God …will not fail thee, nor forsake thee…” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV).  “… Behold, I am [and my GRACE is]... with … [my people] and will keep … [them] whithersoever [they]… goest…I [nor my GRACE]... will not leave [them] ..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).

GOD'S AMAZING GRACE IS AN ONGOING DEMONSTRATION AND EXPRESSION OF HIS FAVOR, KINDNESS, CONCERN AND LOVE FOR HIS PEOPLE AND MANKIND AS A WHOLE!

 

 

GOD PURGES AND KEEPS THE BRANCHES CLEAN SO THEY CAN BECOME MORE FRUITFUL

PURGING AND KEEPING THE BRANCHES CLEAN SO THEY CAN BE “MORE” FRUITFUL!!

“... I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, 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.  I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. 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. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love...” (John 15:1-10 KJV).

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God, the husbandman focuses of purging branches that are fruitless and keeping the fruitful vines cleansed. “... every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you...” (John 15:1-10 KJV).

This purging and cleansing is an illustration of how God, the Holy Spirit cultivates the growth and development of believers. “….For whom the Lord loveth (his people) he CORRECTETH (purges)…” (Proverbs 3:12 KJV).  “...he (God, the husbandman) purgeth [them], that [they] may bring forth more fruit...” (John 15:1-10 KJV).

God carefully watches over his people to ensure they are conforming into the image of his SON  verified through righteous works and spiritual fruit. “…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 circumstances, situations, experiences, and conditions in life are GREAT classrooms for purging and “keeping” believers clean from residuals left over from the old sinful nature. “...he ... by himself purged our sins...” (Hebrews 1:3 NLT). “... every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you...” (John 15:1-10 KJV).

Residuals from dead branches can hinder the growth of other branches. The residuals from the old, dead, sinful nature can hinder the growth of believers.“…The sinful nature (dead branches) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit (the true vine) wants. These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE  to carry out your good intentions (righteous works and spiritual fruit). ……” (Galatians 5 NLT).

The flesh will continue to attempt to operate or control you through the old mindset by affecting your thoughts and influencing your behavior. “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind...”(Romans 12:2 KJV).  “…The sinful nature (dead branches) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants. And the [Holy] Spirit (the fruitful Vine) gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature (dead branch) desires. These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE  to carry out your good intentions. … …” (Galatians 5 NLT).

The old, dead mindset must be PURGED. “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (the renewing of the mind will empower you to take authority over the flesh and allow the Word to continually clean residuals away)….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “...ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you...” (John 15:1-10 KJV). “...[The believer can stay] .... holy and clean, washed by the cleansing [power]...of God’s Word ...” (Ephesians 5:26 KJV).

 “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind...” (Romans 12:2 KJV). Otherwise, “….you [will become] ... slaves of the one [whom words]... you obey (follow)…” (Romans 6:16 NIV). Therefore, “... discipline [your] ... body and make it [your]... slave...” (1 Corinthians 9:27 NASB). “…The sinful natureis always hostile to God (therefore, the old mindset, affected by the sinful nature, is also hostile to God). It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature (through the old mindset) can never please God. But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

“… (Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the [indwelling Holy] ... Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God (reunited with God, the Holy Spirit). The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

“…Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do (through the dictates of your old mindset) what your sinful nature urges you to do.For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit (the indwelling Holy Spirit) you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God (the indwelling Holy Spirit) are children of God…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

 “…Who will free me from this lifethat is dominated by (the old mindset which is affected and polluted by) SIN? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

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

 Jesus had another name. “… His name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “…THE WORDS ... they ARE SPIRIT,…”(John 6:63 KJV). “...ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you...” (John 15:1-10 KJV). “...[The believer can stay] .... holy and clean, washed by the cleansing [power]...of God’s Word ...” (Ephesians 5:26 KJV).

“… Jesus (the WORD of GOD) …came and SPAKE, unto them saying, “All POWER is given unto me (the word) IN heaven and earth…” (Matthew 28:18 KJV). “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (through the WORD)….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “…If the Son (the word) therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed (without a doubt!!)…” (John 8:36 KJV).

The believer is FREE from sin (clean), and the residuals are usually left over thoughts from the old, dead, mindset. “If the Son therefore shall make you free, you SHALL be free indeed” (John 8:36 KJV). “…where the Spirit (Holy Spirit) of the Lord is, there is liberty (freedom)...” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). However, “…Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV).

God, the husbandman continually purges (disciplines) and helps you, through different experiences, keep those thoughts clean by training you in righteousness. “If you are not disciplined (purged) – and everyone undergoes discipline (purging) – then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters [of God] at all” (Hebrews 12:8 NIV). “….For whom the Lord loveth he CORRECTETH (purges)…” (Proverbs 3:12 KJV). 

He guides believers toward the path of righteousness that includes spiritual training, which encourages the renewing the mind and transforming the thoughts through the WORD OF GOD.“The Lord is my shepherd ...he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake...”(Psalms 23 KJV). “…Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV).

The circumstances, situations, experiences, and conditions in life are GREAT classrooms for purging, but are OFTEN painful for the believer. “...No discipline (purging) seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it...” (Hebrews 12:11 NIV).

Pain is not always about the negative details, because God causes EVERYTHING, to work together, for the believer’s good, when they love HIM and have been called to his purpose. “…all things work together for GOOD  to them that LOVE GOD, to them who are THE CALLED to his purpose…” (Romans 8:28 KJV).

Pain can cause a weak believer to call upon God, who will strengthen them, during those difficult times by empowering them through HIS indwelling Holy Spirit. . “…When I am weak, then am I strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10 KJV). “…[God’s] strength is made perfect in weakness...” (2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV).

“…I can do ALL THINGS through Christ which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).

“… [God] … is Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you] … take refuge; Your shield and the horn of Your salvation, YOURstronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).“…He willkeep you strong to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT).

A purged believer, who is kept clean through the Word is a fruitful believer.

There are, however, fruitless branches who are cut-off from the vine and cut away from the fruitful branches.

The husbandman has no problem cutting off and cutting away these fruitless branches. They are worthless for producing fruit and therefore will not serve the purposes for which they were created.

The husbandman removes the useless branches in order to make more room for the fruitful branches.

The job of the husbandman is to produce fruitful branches. His work must go on even if he must cut-off or cut away fruitless branches.

 

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

The rain represents God, the husbandman’s gracious care for the crops His husbandry, seen through the rain, falls upon the ground, which represents the human heart, where good seed (Jesus) has been planted through the WORD of God. “…The sower (husbandman) 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 had another name.“… His name is called The Word of God (the “good” seed)…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “ …We have this treasure  (this seed) “in” earthen vessels…” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV). 

Jesus is good seed and always produces good crop “…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. The ground represents a human heart and it is the hardened heart, heartened by sin, that produces thorns and thistles. “…Today when you hear his voice, don’t harden your hearts as Israel did when they rebelled…” (Hebrews 3:15 NLT). “...  "Today," saying through David after so long a time just as has been said before, "TODAY IF YOU HEAR HIS VOICE, DO NOT HARDEN YOUR HEARTS..." (Hebrews 4:7 NASB).

A person willfully and voluntarily CHOOSES to harden their hearts when they don’t cooperate with God, the husbandman’s gracious care for them. “... the people replied, “…We will continue to live as WE WANT TO, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).“…My people would not listen to me. They KEPT DOING WHATEVER THEY WANTED, following the stubborn desires of their [OWN] evil hearts…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

When the RAIN falls, the harden heart will not receive God, the husbandman’s gracious love and care for them, through the rain. Thus, they cannot and will not produce fruit, but will, instead, become USELESS. “….Apart from [God, the husbandman’s love and care]… [they will not and cannot]..do nothing (or produce anything)…” (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 his love and care, but those who have hardened their hearts, have fallen away from that Grace, through their own choice, and will no longer be fruitful.   “…it is useless. The farmer will soon condemn that field and burn it…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT).

A good crop or fruitfulness is a result of the ground or human heart that chooses to depend upon God, the indwelling Holy Spirit and husbandman to DO the work “IN” them (planting Jesus, the seed) and “THROUGH” them (cultivating fruitfulness). “…When the ground soaks up the falling rain (is being cultivated) and bears a good crop (become fruitful) for the farmer (husbandman), it has God’s blessing (serves his purpose)…” (Hebrews 6:4-8 NLT). “God [the husbandman] … worketh in [his people]…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “…the Father [the husbandman] ...that dwelleth in… [the hearts of his people], he doeth the works (of cultivating righteous works and spiritual fruit)…” (John 14:10 KJV). “… I do not treat the grace of God as meaningless. For if keeping the law (without the seed and cultivation by the husbandman) could make us right with God, then there was no need for Christ (the seed that produces life or a spiritual harvest) to die…” (Galatians 5:4 NLT).

“…God [the husbandman] ...does the work IN AND THROUGH all of us who are his… (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 [indwelling seed or ]...Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in [y]our lives …” (Galatians 5 NLT) “…The Holy Spirit gives birth to SPIRITUAL LIFE (by planting Jesus, the seed into our hearts)…” (John 3:6 NLT).  “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]… in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV).

“… His name (Jesus) is [also]...called The Word of God (the “good” seed)…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB).  “…The Lord (the Word, the seed) is that Spirit (too)…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). “…Jesus Christ is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…[You] CAN DO all things (produce fruit, display God’s fruit, and do righteous works) THROUGH Christ which strengtheneth [you]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “….Apart from [the indwelling seed or Holy Spirit]… [you cannot]..do nothing [fruitful]…” (John 15:5 NIV).

The thorns and thistles represent what a human heart, hardened by the ongoing PRACTICE of SIN will produce. Becoming cut-off or cut away from Christ, the indwelling seed or Holy Spirit is a CHOICE. “…[You]… have been cut off from Christ! …” (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 (the husbandman) taketh away ...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).

Removing the branches is not God, the husbandman’s choice, but the branches. The husbandman KNOWS, without a doubt, the seed he planted, WILL produce FRUIT, but the ground must CHOOSE to cooperate by allowing him to cultivate it.

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).

Without the FRUIT, the branch is NO “…longer good 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).

For instance, salt serves, at least, two things, it preserves and it flavors. "… You are the salt of 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 saltof 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 loses 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 preserve anyone from corruption nor can it influence holy morality. . “…The Lightwhich … 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 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 profiteth nothing…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…Human effort (the flesh) 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), 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 indwelling Holy Spirit, how will they serve God’s purpose of SAVING the lost and HELPING the NEEDY? “….Apart from Me (the indwelling Holy Spirit), you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). “…It is impossible to please God without (the indwelling Holy Spirit of) FAITH…” (Hebrews 11:6 NLT). "…That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit…” (John 3:6 KJV).

What righteous works can God’s people do or what spiritual fruit could they PRODUCE without the indwelling Holy Spirit? “….Apart from Me, you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

Without the indwelling WORK of the Holy Spiritwhat distinctive qualities does God’s people have from any other group of religious people? Thus, God’s people become good for nothing in 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 sent for the 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).

God’s people show their LIGHT, through their righteous works and display of spiritual fruit PRODUCED by God’s indwelling Holy Spirit and witnessed by the LOST and NEEDY. “…How shall they believe in him of whom they have not HEARD? And how shall they HEAR without a preacher (one who speaks not only in words, but in deeds)?” (Romans 10:14 KJV)."…Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works…” (Matthew 5:16 NASB). “…the Father that dwelleth in [YOU], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

 “…God … worketh in [his people], both to will and to do of His good pleasure…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “…NOW UNTO HIM THAT IS “ABLE” to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the POWER (the indwelling Holy Spirit) that worketh in [his people]…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).

“… 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 [them]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

The indwelling Holy Spirit DOES the WORK of FAITH “IN” and “THROUGH” his people. “ … 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).

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

The Father, who is Spirit, and dwells within this people, “HE” DOES the WORK. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…Christ in you, …” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “…The Lord (Jesus Christ) is that Spirit…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). . “I and the father are one” (John 10:30 KJV).  “…the Father that dwelleth in [THEM], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

God’s people chooses to willfully TRUST and DEPEND UPON his indwelling Holy Spirit to DO the WORK. “…Trust in the Lord with all thine heart …” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “… lean not unto thine own understanding…” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).  “ … In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths…” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “…the Father that dwelleth in [YOU], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

HOW? First of ALL the Holy Spirit dwells within his people. “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “…the Spirit of God dwell in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…Christ in you …” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “…The Lord (Jesus Christ) is that Spirit…” (2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV). . “I and the father are one” (John 10:30 KJV). 

Second the Holy Spirit WORKS in them (plants the seed) and through them (produces the fruitfulness). “ … 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).

Third, his people, choose to willfully trust in and depend upon the indwelling Holy Spirit to do the WORK of producing spiritual fruit. “…The WORK of God.. [is] that ye believe (trust in and depend upon) on him whom he hath sent.” (John 6:29 KJV). “…It is God who WORKS IN YOU…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…That great Shepherd of the sheep, EQUIP (empower) you with everything good for doing his will…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…That great Shepherd of the sheep …may he work in us what is pleasing to him through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

God’s Holy Spirit DOES the WORK of producing spiritual fruit “IN” and “THROUGH” his people. “ … It is the same God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of us … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

He’s planted within EVERY one of his children the SEED (Jesus), which is the indwelling Spirit of POWER.  “….ye shall receive the GIFT of the Holy Ghost (Spirit)…” (Acts 2:38 KJV). . “…God has …given us a spirit…of power…” (1 Timothy 1:7 NLT).

TRUSTING IN and DEPENDING UPON his indwelling Spirit of POWER, is a CHOICE. “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “…I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth (empowers) me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).  “ … It is the same God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of us who are his… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). God “…grant[s]… [those who depend upon him]… to be strengthened with might by hisSpirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV).

Because of the SEED (Jesus) that have planted, in the earthen hearts, of God’s people, they are empowered, through the WORD, to be LIGHTS, SALT, and FRUITFUL branches upon the EARTH. “…BY THE GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV). “….Apart from Me, you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). “…the Father that dwelleth in [YOU], he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

 

 

MY SOUL IS SAFELY AND FIRMLY ANCHORED IN THE LORD, GOD'S WORD

THE SOULS OF THE RIGHTEOUS ARE SAFELY, AND FIRMLY ANCHORED IN THE LORD, GOD'S WORD

BECAUSE “OVERWHELMING VICTORY” IS YOURS.

“... So the king gave the order, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the lions’ den ... A stone was brought and placed over the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet ring and with the rings of his nobles, so that Daniel’s situation might not be changed...” (Daniel 6:16-18 NIV).

 “… [King] …Nebuchadnezzar full of fury ...commanded the most mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace…” (DANIEL 3).

 “... a messenger came to Job and said, “The oxen were plowing and the donkeys were grazing nearby, and the Sabeans attacked and made off with them...“The fire of God fell from the heavens and burned up the sheep and the servants ...“The Chaldeans formed three raiding parties and swept down on your camels and made off with them. ...“Your sons and daughters were feasting and drinking wine at the oldest brother’s house, when suddenly a mighty wind swept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on them and they are dead, and I am the only one who has escaped to tell you!” (Job 1:13-20 NIV).

“...It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword...he proceeded to seize Peter also ...Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover. So Peter was kept in prison...” (Acts 12:1-5 NIV).

“... THE MORE THE EGYPTIANS “OPPRESSED” THEM (GOD’S PEOPLE) THE MORE THE ISRAELITES “MULTIPLIED AND SPREAD ...” (Exodus 1 NLT).

*

The EVIL ONE and his wicked slaves hate God’s people and treat them unjustly because of his AND their OWN, personal envy and fear. “…ye (the evil one and his wicked slaves) thought evil against me (god’s people); but God meant it unto good…” (Genesis 50:20 KJV). “… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “...ALL THINGS (even the evil things Satan uses to hurt you) work (PROCESS) together for good to them (God’s people) that love God, to them who are the called (CHOSEN) ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE…” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV).

Being INSIDE the STORMS of LIFE God’s people experience grief, heartache, disappointment, anger, confusion, weakness, sickness, pain, oppression, terror, and a flow of other emotional and mental afflictions, but a GLORIOUS and OVERWHELMING deliverance and victory BELONGS TO THEM!  “... Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world..." (John 16:44 NLT). “...Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 KJV). “...We must [go]...through much tribulation [to]...enter into the kingdom of God...” (Acts 14:22 KJV). “...despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours  (GOD’S PEOPLE’S) through Christ, who loved us (THEM)...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

In the Old Testament, God delivered over a million and a half people out of the land of Egypt and he miraculously took care of them for 40 years in the wilderness.  “... These things happened as a warning to us, so that we would not crave evil things as they did, or worship idols as some of them did ...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).

“...THE MORE THE EGYPTIANS “OPPRESSED” THEM (GOD’S PEOPLE) THE MORE THE ISRAELITES “MULTIPLIED AND SPREAD ...” (Exodus 1 NLT).

“...Then Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, gave this order to the Hebrew midwives, Shiphrah and Puah: “When you help the Hebrew women as they give birth, watch as they deliver.  If the baby is a boy, kill him; if it is a girl, let her live.” But because the midwives feared God, they refused to obey the king’s orders. They allowed the boys to live, too. So the king of Egypt called for the midwives. “Why have you done this?” he demanded. “Why have you allowed the boys to live?” “The Hebrew women are not like the Egyptian women,” the midwives replied. “They are more vigorous and have their babies so quickly that we cannot get there in time.” So God was good to the midwives, and the Israelites continued to multiply, growing more and more powerful. And because the midwives feared God, he gave them families of their own. Then Pharaoh gave this order to all his people: “Throw every newborn Hebrew boy into the Nile River. But you may let the girls live.” About this time, a man and woman from the tribe of Levi got married. The woman became pregnant and gave birth to a son. She saw that he was a special baby and kept him hidden for three months. But when she could no longer hide him, she got a basket made of papyrus reeds and waterproofed it with tar and pitch. She put the baby in the basket and laid it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile River. The baby’s sister then stood at a distance, watching to see what would happen to him.  Soon Pharaoh’s daughter came down to bathe in the river, and her attendants walked along the riverbank. When the princess saw the basket among the reeds, she sent her maid to get it for her. When the princess opened it, she saw the baby. The little boy was crying, and she felt sorry for him. “This must be one of the Hebrew children,” she said. Then the baby’s sister approached the princess. “Should I go and find one of the Hebrew women to nurse the baby for you?” she asked. “Yes, do!” the princess replied. So the girl went and called the baby’s mother. “Take this baby and nurse him for me,” the princess told the baby’s mother. “I will pay you for your help.” So the woman took her baby home and nursed him. Later, when the boy was older, his mother brought him back to Pharaoh’s daughter, who adopted him as her own son. The princess named him Moses, for she explained, “I lifted him out of the water.”

Many years later, when Moses had grown up, he went out to visit his own people, the Hebrews, and he saw how hard they were forced to work. During his visit, he saw an Egyptian beating one of his fellow Hebrews...Years passed, and the king of Egypt died. But the Israelites continued to groan under their burden of slavery. They cried out for help, and their cry rose up to God. God heard their groaning, and he remembered his covenant promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He looked down on the people of Israel and knew it was time to act. When the Lord saw Moses coming to take a closer look, God called to him from the middle of the bush, “Moses! Moses!” “Here I am!” Moses replied. Then the Lord told him, “I have certainly seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their cries of distress because of their harsh slave drivers. Yes, I am aware of their suffering. So I have come down to rescue them from the power of the Egyptians and lead them out of Egypt into their own fertile and spacious land. It is a land flowing with milk and honey—the land where the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites now live.Look! The cry of the people of Israel has reached me, and I have seen how harshly the Egyptians abuse them. Now go, for I am sending you to Pharaoh. You must lead my people Israel out of Egypt...” (EXODUS  1, 2, & 3:1-11 NLT).

MOSES CAME OUT OF THE OPPRESSION: “…Moses said unto the people, Remember this day, in which ye came out from Egypt, out of the house of bondage; for by strength of hand the Lordbrought you out from this place…” (EZEKIEL 13:3 KJV).

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

“…BY THE WORD of the Lord the [Israelis (God’s people) were delivered out of the house of bondage] …” (Psalms 33:6 NASB).

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

“…All things  (including the DELIVERANCE of ISRAEL OR YOU FROM THE STORMS OF LIFE) came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being … (John 1:1-4 NASB).

 “…Since the CREATION of the world God’s INVISIBLEQUALITIES—HIS ETERNAL POWER AND DIVINE NATURE—have been “CLEARLY SEEN”, being UNDERSTOOD FROM WHAT HAS BEEN MADE (the GREAT DELIVERANCE)…” (Romans 1:20 NIV).

“…I will take you to me for a people, and I will be to you a God: and ye shall know that I am the Lord your God, which bringeth you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians…” (Exodus 6:7 KJV). “…the Lordbrought us forth out of Egypt with a mighty hand, and with an outstretched arm, and with great terribleness, and with signs, and with wonders…” (Deuteronomy 26:8 KJV).

“…BY THE WORD of the Lord the [Israelites were delivered out of the house of bondage] …” (Psalms 33:6 NASB).

“...THE MORE THE EGYPTIANS “OPPRESSED” THEM (GOD’S PEOPLE) THE MORE THE ISRAELITES “MULTIPLIED AND SPREAD ...” (Exodus 1 NLT).

“...Therefore [INSIDE the STORMS]... 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 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 us, “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 said, … 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; then stand still..” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

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

I don’t care who you are pastor, minister, clergy leader, Christian warrior, apostle, hero, or whatever; we ALL go through STORMS. What happens to a man or woman of faith INSIDE the STORMS of LIFE is an EXPERIENCE that will heavily affect the mind and emotions of ANY finite HUMAN being. “…Jehoshaphat was TERRIFIED by this news...” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

Peter, the Hebrew Boys, Jesus, Joseph, Job, King Jehoshaphat, and Daniel were ALL great people of FAITH and they ALL had REAL LIFE, human EXPERIENCES. They also ALL had MAGNIFICENT DELIVERANCES. Yet and still, they went “INSIDE” the STORMS of LIFE, but I guarantee  it was coupled with or inundated with “feelings” of nervousness, anxiousness, terror, or the uneasiness of facing the unknown. . “…Jehoshaphat was TERRIFIED by this news...” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

YET, KING JEHOSHAPHAT'S SOUL WAS ANCHORED IN THE LORD (GOD'S HOLY WORD)

INSIDE THE STORMS of LIFE, it is not unusual for people, even the strongest warriors, to “feel” helpless, scared, terrified, nervous, overly concerned with the outcome, naked, exposed, or weak. “…Jehoshaphat was TERRIFIED by this news...” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

These “FEELINGS” are not about faith, but about the affect REAL-LIFE experiences have on the finite human psyche. God’s people KNOW he is with them, but it doesn’t stop them from “feeling” the TERROR or emotions of their experience. “…God assured us, “I’ll never let you down, never walk off and leave you,” we can boldly quote, God is there, ready to help; I’m fearless no matter what. Who or what can get to me?” (Hebrews 13:5 MSG).

“…After this, the armies of the Moabites, Ammonites, and some of the Meunites declared war on Jehoshaphat. Messengers came and told Jehoshaphat, “A vast army from Edom is marching against you from beyond the Dead Sea. They are already at Hazazon-tamar.” (This was another name for En-gedi.). Jehoshaphat was TERRIFIED by this news...” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).  

It is NOT a lack of faith to experience “feelings” of FEAR when going through the STORMS of LIFE. “…Jehoshaphat was TERRIFIED by this news...” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

HERE’s WHY: King Jehoshaphat didn’t ACT upon his FEAR, but he ACTED upon his faith. HIS SOUL WAS ANCHORED IN GOD'S WORD. King Jehoshaphat trusted and depended upon God, “terrified.” Thus, in spite of his “feelings” he called upon God, the Holy Spirit, for advice and help.“... He prayed, “O Lord, God of our ancestors, you alone are the God who is in heaven. …We can cry out to you to save us, and you will hear us and rescue us.’ …O our God, won’t you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help.” …” (2 Chronicles 20: 1-30 NLT).

King Jehoshaphat went to God, INSIDE HIS STORM, “terrified.”  God didn’t condemn him, but God helped him. “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT).  “…As all the men of Judah stood before the Lord with their little ones, wives, and children, the Spirit of the Lord came upon one of the men standing there. His name was Jahaziel son of Zechariah, son of Benaiah, son of Jeiel, son of Mattaniah, a Levite who was a descendant of Asaph…” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

“… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). God responded to King Jehoshaphat, lovingly, by sending him a divine message through a man named Jahaziel.“…He said, “Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the Lord says: Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s.…you will not even need to fight. Take your positions; then stand still and watch the Lord’s victory. He is with you … Do not be afraid or discouraged. Go out against them tomorrow, for the Lord is with you!” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

Jahaziel’s inspired Word from God guided, strengthened, and empowered Jehoshaphat to follow God’s instructions, stay anchored in God's comforting words, and it bought the King overwhelming victory. “…Early the next morning the army of Judah went out into the wilderness of Tekoa. On the way Jehoshaphat stopped and said, “Listen to me, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Believe in (trust in, depend upon) the Lord your God, and you will be able to stand firm. Believe in his prophets, and you will succeed.” After consulting the people, the king appointed singers to walk ahead of the army, singing to the Lord and praising him for his holy splendor. This is what they sang: “Give thanks to the Lord; his faithful love endures forever!” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

“…Jehoshaphat “was” TERRIFIED by this news...” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT). However, King Jehoshaphat STILL turned to God. In spite of his feelings, the king trusted in God.  Because he did NOT trust in his “FEELINGS” of terror he was able to hear God’s word, stayed anchored, and go out to war, with his army, singing and praising HIM. “…At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the Lord caused the armies of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves. The armies of Moab and Ammon turned against their allies from Mount Seir and killed every one of them. After they had destroyed the army of Seir, they began attacking each other.So when the army of Judah arrived at the lookout point in the wilderness, all they saw were dead bodies lying on the ground as far as they could see. Not a single one of the enemy had escaped...On the fourth day they gathered in the Valley of Blessing which got its name that day because the people praised and thanked the Lord there.It is still called the Valley of Blessing today. …the Lord had given them victory over their enemies...”(2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

God didn’t hold King Jehoshaphat’s feelings of TERROR against him, because he helps his people in their weakness. “… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT).

God LOVINGLY comforted King Jehoshaphat through his feelings. “…He said … Do not be afraid or discouraged. Go out against them tomorrow, for the Lord is with you!” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

God even gave the King the reason NOT to be terrified. “…He said, “Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the Lord says: Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s. …you will not even need to fight. Take your positions; then stand still and watch the Lord’s victory...” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT). God's WORD anchored King Jehoshaphat's soul so he could DO what he had to do.

INSIDE King Jehoshaphat’s STORM God comforted him, strengthened him, promised to fight the battle for him, and guaranteed his victory! It is NOT a LACK of FAITH to FEEL your human experience. God expects it and is more than able to SUPPLY your needs INSIDE the STORM. “…God is the one who provides [for you]…” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV). “… God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “… [God] … will keep in perfect peace all who trust in … [him and] … all whose thoughts are fixed on … [him!]” (Isaiah 26:3 NLT). “….The Lord is [“your”] shepherd ….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you] … take refuge; Your shield …" (Psalms 18:3 NASB). “…I the LORD amthy Saviour …[even in “your” storm]...” (Isaiah 60:16 KJV).

“…there is none like unto thee (God, the Holy Spirit)…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). “...he (God, the Holy Spirit)...hath done marvellous things…” ( Psalms 98:1 KJV). “… Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done …” (Psalms 40:5 KJV).

“...THE MORE THE EGYPTIANS “OPPRESSED” THEM (GOD’S PEOPLE) THE MORE THE ISRAELITES “MULTIPLIED AND SPREAD ...” (Exodus 1 NLT).

YOU MAY “FEEL” AND EXPERIENCE OPPRESSION, INSIDE THE STORMS of LIFE, BUT IT WON’T STOP YOU FROM INCREASING, MULTIPLYING, or BECOMING YOUR GOD-GIVEN PURPOSE UPON EARTH! 

“...God has blessed, and I cannot reverse it!” (Numbers 23:20 NLT). “...overwhelming victory is [Y]ours ...” (Romans 8:37 NLT). SAY WITH CONFIDENT, CHILD OF GOD, WHO IS GOING THROUGH A VERY, VERY CHALLENGING EARTHLY EXPERIENCE, ".....MY SOUL IS ANCHORED IN THE LORD..."

 

JESUS CHRIST: MY REDEEMER LIVES!

 

MY REDEEMER LIVES

“…Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”…” (Acts 4:12 NIV).

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 The GREAT SALVATION is not simply about healing a sick body occasional, or providing material needs, or financial break-throughs, or for entertainment, or to answer a few prayers, but its greater purpose is the DELIVERANCE of the SIN-SICK and lost soul destined for eternal damnation. “…The Son of man came to seek and to save THAT WHICH WAS LOST…” (Luke 19:10 KJV). “….the Son of Man came …to give his life as a ransom for many" (Matthew 20:28).

The KEY player in this great deliverance is none other than JESUS CHRIST our REDEEMER. “…And being made perfect, he became author of ETERNAL SALVATION unto all them who obey him…” (Hebrew 5:7-8-9 KJV).

For the scientific minds, most scholars believe Jesus Christ existed and actually walked the earth, but many differ on their perspective of the facts or the interpretation of the facts. In all fairness, I will say that there are a few scholars that even say Jesus Christ was a myth. “…And without faith it is impossible to please God, because ANYONE WHO COMES TO HIM MUST BELIEVE THAT HE EXISTS…” (Hebrews 11:6 NIV).

Rarely do you or anyone else question other historical figures to the degree that Jesus Christ has been questioned. Yet if you don’t reject their historical facts why would you reject those of Jesus. “…Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written…” (John 21:25 NIV).

Well known Jewish historian and scholar, Flavius Josephus, in the Antiquities of the Jews, a reliable historical work done in the 1st century references and gives witness to Jesus. “…It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true. I am one that bear witness of myself, and the Father that sent me beareth witness of me…” (John 8:16-17 KJV).

The actual Jewish Antiquities historical paragraph called the “Testimonium Flavianum” or “The Testimony of Flavius” Vol. 18, chapter 3, and paragraph 3 is as follows: “At this time there was wise man who was called Jesus. And his conduct was good, and he was known to be virtuous. And many people from among the Jews and the other nations became his disciples. Pilate condemned him tobe crucified and to die. And those who had become his disciples did not abandon his discipleship. They reported that he had appeared to them threedays after his crucifixion and that he was alive; accordingly, he was perhaps the Messiah concerning whom the prophets have recounted won.” (Michael the Syrian, translation from Whealey, 2008).

I believe this is 100% a historical, reliable, and authentic account for those who need objective evidence. “…walk by faith, not by sight…” (2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV).

The best source for proving Jesus existed is the bible. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness…” (2 Timothy 3:16 KJV).

The Synoptic Gospels are also heavily supported by many scholars as having been written by his disciples. The Synoptic Gospels differ on facts and perspectives, yet agree on the many eyewitnesses, ministers, and first-hand accounts of Jesus’ life and death. “…Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were EYEWITNESSES and servants of the word…” (Luke 1:1-2 NLT).“….Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us, Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were EYEWITNESSES, and ministers of the word…” (Luke 1:1-2 KJV).  “…For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were EYEWITNESSES of his majesty….” (2 Peter 1:16 NLT).

Reputable bible scholars, after critical analysis of the holy text, offer a rational, but somewhat persuasive view of the historical Jesus, the flesh man. “…the Word (Jesus) was made FLESH, and dwelt among us...” (JOHN 1:14).

Most critical analyses are based on an objective, rational worldview and totally eliminate the mystical worldview of Jesus’ life. Some things are limited to what you can see; others things can only be seen by faith. “…walk by faith...” (2 Corinthians 5:7 KJV).

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

Jesus Christ existed. “…ANYONE WHO COMES TO HIM MUST BELIEVE THAT HE EXISTS…” (Hebrews 11:6 NIV).

Why did Jesus Christ exist? “….the Son of Man came (existed) not to be served but to serve others and TO GIVE his life as a ransom for many" (Matthew 20:28 NIV). “…All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23). “…the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23).

In the Old Testament animal sacrifices provided a temporary covering for sins. “…almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission” (Hebrews 9:22 KJV). The shedding of blood was commanded by God as an atoning sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins.

This atoning sacrifice, though temporary and limited, satisfied God for the offenses of sins committed by his people. The animal, representing the atoning sacrifice of the day, was temporary. The animal’s shed blood, covered the sins of the people and freed them from the consequences of their sin.

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

Animal sacrifices, of course, have LONG stopped. “For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul…” (Leviticus 17:11 KJV).

Thus, during ancient times certain animals died to serve as temporary substitutes for the people’s sin. It was a temporary substitute only and since it was temporary the animal sacrifices had to be repeated over and over every year. The animal sacrifices, therefore, were a small tedious sample of the ultimate and permanent sacrifice predicted in Jesus Christ, who was to come!!!

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

Sin separates God from his people. “… [their] … iniquities (sin)…separated[them]… from [their]… God… …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). Jesus Christ became the atoning sacrifice in order to restored God’s people BACK to Him.

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

A blood covenant is usually between two parties however, one or both of those parties can be a representative for an entire family or a group of people. If one of the parties of the blood covenant is a representative of a group of people, he totally represents every single person, equally, in the group. The representative also is the guarantee that every responsibility or binding agreement of the covenant will be kept by those he represents.

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

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

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

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

Jesus’ sacrificial death was the atoning sacrifice for your sins. “He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins…” (1 John 2:2 NIV). You can NOW enter freely into the new blood covenant relationship with God THROUGH Christ. “…This cup is the new covenant in my blood …which is poured out for you…” (Luke 22:20 ASV).

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

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

Jesus is both your atoning sacrifice and your representative in the covenant relationship with God. “For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit;” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

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

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

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

We can now enjoy the same “oneness” covenant relationship with God THROUGH Christ. Jesus said, "I and my Father are ONE." (John 10:30 KJV). You can too. The bible says, “…that they may ALL BE ONE;even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may BE IN US,so that the world may believe that You sent Me…” (John 17:21-23 NASB).

Jesus Christ existed to become a ransom for many by his sacrificial death. He is also the atoning sacrifice for YOUR sin.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What motivated Jesus Christ to die on the cross for YOU? “…There is no greater LOVE than to lay down one’s life…” (John 15:13 NLT). “Herein is LOVE, not that we loved God, but that HE LOVED US and sent His Son...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great LOVE FOR US by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners”(Romans 5:6-8 NLT). “…God SO LOVED the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16 KJV).

Not only Did Jesus Christ love you, but he was JOYFUL about giving you the GIFT of SALVATION.  “…keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the JOY awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame…” (Hebrews 12:2 NLT).

The experience of the cross was a shameful, but temporary part of Jesus’ journey, but the JOY awaiting him was the glorious, but eternal part of his journey.

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

The JOY of accomplishing God’s purpose, as a GIFT of SALVATION to sinners, far outweighed anything else or any other agenda as far as Jesus was concerned.

He knew what was waiting for him. “…he [would be]…“crowned with glory and honor.” …” (Hebrews 2:9 NLT). “… [He would be]…elevated …to the place of highest honor …” (Philippians 2:9-10 NLT).

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

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

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

It demonstrates how believers can also experience inexpressible joy while also dealing with the sorrows and griefs of life. The KEY is to remember Jesus’ JOY was drawn from within and his SORROWS from without.

Jesus is the RANSOM for many, he is the ATONING SACRIFICE for SIN, he is your COVENANT KEEPER, he is your GIFT of SALVATION, he is your ETERNAL LIFE, he is the INDWELLING SPIRIT, and he is your EVERLASTING LOVE. “…There is no greater LOVE than to lay down one’s life…” (John 15:13 NLT). HE IS YOUR REDEEMER!

“…Christ died for [your] SINS according to the scriptures;  And …he was buried, and … rose again the third day according to the scriptures:” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4 KJV). “…SIN IS the transgression of the law….” (1 John 3:4 KJV). “…ALL HAVE SINNED …” (Romans 3:23). “…the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV).  

Therefore, “… REPENT and TURN TO God …” (Acts 26: 20 NASB).  “….IF YE BELIEVE NOT THAT I AM HE, YE SHALL DIE IN YOUR SINS…” (John 8:24 KJV). “…HE THAT BELIEVETH NOT IS CONDEMNED ALREADY, because HE HATH NOT BELIEVED in the name of the only begotten Son of God. …” (John 3:18-20 KJV). “…REPENT yetherefore, and BE CONVERTED, that your sins may be blotted out…” (Acts 3:19 KJV). “…Whosoever believeth in him SHOULD NOT PERISH, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).  

“…SALVATION is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved…” (Acts 4:12 NIV). 

JESUS CHRIST IS YOUR REDEEMER!

 

 

GOD THROUGH JESUS CHOSE TO BE WITH HIS PEOPLE FOREVER. THEY CAN FACE ANYTHING!!!

GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, THROUGH JESUS CHOSE TO BE WITH HIS PEOPLE

THEY CAN FACE ANYTHINGqqq

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“...The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate. So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.  And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin that is … within me. Who will free mefrom this life that is dominated by [the sinful NATURE]? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

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

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

“,,, [Therefore,] ...through one man sin entered (physical life without the indwelling Holy Spirit entered) into the world, and [spiritual] ...death through sin, and so [spiritual] death passed to all men [and women], for that all sinned (all have been born with a sinful nature]—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). “…All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23). “….I was born a sinner (I was born without the indwelling holy LIGHT)—yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN?…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“…[God said:]... my righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he...[bore]... all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “…[He sent the ] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s take a LOOK at gifted faith:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BY FAITH ABEL OFFERED UP…..

BY FAITH ENOCH WAS TRANSLATED….

BY FAITH NOAH WAS MOVED WITH FEAR(REVERANCE)…

BY FAITH ABRAHAM OBEYED AND WENT OUT…

BY FAITH ABRAHAM OFFERED UP ISAAC ….

BY FAITH SARA RECEIVED STRENGTH TO CONCEIVE…

BY FAITH MOSES WAS HID FOR THREE MONTHS…

BY FAITH THEY PASSED THROUGH THE RED SEA...

BY FAITH THE WALLS OF JERICHO FELL DOWN...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BECAUSE OF GOD'S PRESENCE AND ALL HIS FAVORS, BLESSINGS AND GIFTS, GOD'S CHOSEN PEOPLE CAN FACE ANYTHING!

 

THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT IS PROOF OF A RESTORED SOUL& THAT GOD IS REAL

THE INDWELLING SPIRIT:PROOF OF A RESTORED SOUL AND THAT GOD IS REAL

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

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“…The Spirit of God dwellin you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV). “…God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people…” (2 Corinthians 6:16 KJV).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One day God commanded, “….LET US MAKE man … after our likeness…”(Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…in his OWN image…..male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body),and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (spirit); and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What can MAKE mankind WHOLE again and RESTORE them to God, the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT? Who can return mankind BACK to God’s original, created “image” and “likeness” that was ONCE so VERY good? “….LET US MAKE man … after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). “…in his OWN image…..male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (body),and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (spirit); and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “….God saw every thing he had made……and, behold, it was very good…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).

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

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

God WANTED “YOU” back in UNION with him (the HOLY SPIRIT). “... God so loved the world, that HE GAVE his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life…” (John 3:16 KJV).

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

 “…God SO LOVED the world, that he GAVE…” (John 3:16 KJV). “…God ….GAVE his only begotten (specially created) Son…” (John 3:16 KJV).   “…NOT that we loved God, but that HE LOVED US...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “….HE FIRST LOVED US…” (1 John 4:19 ASV).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Being made FREE also means you recognized you were a sinner, asked God for forgiveness, and decided to REPENT by changing your mind about sin, sinful practices, and the sinful lifestyle. "…Therefore REPENT AND RETURN, “SO” that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing (restoral to wholeness) may come from the presence of the Lord (the presence of HIS indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Acts 3:19 NASB).  “…Confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and … BELIEVE IN THINE HEART that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be SAVED…” (ROMANS 10:9 KJV).

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

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

“… [YOUR] … iniquities (sin) …separated [YOU]… from God… …” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “…Confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and … BELIEVE IN THINE HEART that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be SAVED…” (ROMANS 10:9 KJV). “…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole (SAVES, RESTORES , AND MAKES YOU WHOLE YOU AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “…The GIFT of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ ….” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “….Apart from [Jesus or DEPARTED from HIM, YOU can]… do nothing (you cannot be SAVED or inherit ETERNAL LIFE)…” (John 15:5 NIV).

Becoming SAVED or MADE WHOLE is the WAY mankind GETS the INDWELLING SPIRIT back, which will also RESTORE the original, created “image” and “likeness” of God. “…Confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and … BELIEVE IN THINE HEART that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be SAVED…” (ROMANS 10:9 KJV). “…For WITH THE HEART MAN BELIEVETH unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made UNTO SALVATION…” (Romans 10:10 KJV).  “…For WHOSOEVER SHALL CALL UPON THE NAME OF THE LORD SHALL BE SAVED…” (Romans 10:13 KJV). “…REPENT ye therefore, and BE CONVERTED, that your sins may be blotted out …” (Acts 3:19 KJV).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

Thus,“… [His] … GRACEis sufficient for [you]...” (2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV).  “…For God SO LOVED the world, that he GAVE…” (John 3:16 KJV). “…NOT THAT WE LOVED, God, but that HE LOVED US...” (1 John 4:10 KJV). “…HE FIRST LOVED US…” (1 John 4:19 ASV). “…God ….GAVE his only begotten Son…” (John 3:16 KJV).   

“…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  “…Jesus Christ is the sameyesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13 :8 NIV). GOD’S “…Love is patient, loveis kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres, Lovenever fails…” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV).  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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