Pensacola Helene Jefferson's Blog, page 41

THE DANGER OF OPPRESSING GOD'S PEOPLE!!

GOD’S PEOPLE MIRACULOUS INCREASE UNDER OPPRESSION

“...These are the names of the SONS OF ISRAEL (GOD’S PEOPLE) (that is, Jacob) who moved to Egypt with their father, each with his family: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah,  Issachar, Zebulun, Benjamin, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher.  In all, Jacob had seventy descendants in Egypt, including Joseph, who was already there. In time, Joseph and all of his brothers died, ending that entire generation. BUT THEIR DESCENDENTS, the Israelites, had many children and grandchildren. In fact, THEY (GOD’S PEOPLE) MULTIPLIED SO GREATLY THAT THEY BECAME EXTREMELY POWERFUL AND FILLED THE LAND. Eventually, a new king came to power in Egypt who knew nothing about Joseph or what he had done. He said to his people, “LOOK, THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL (GOD’S PEOPLE) OUTNUMBER US and are stronger than we are. WE MUST MAKE A PLAN TO KEEP THEM FROM GROWING EVEN MORE. If we don’t, and if war breaks out, they will join our enemies and fight against us. Then they will escape from the country.” SO THE EGYPTIANS MADE THE ISAELITES (GOD’S PEOPLE) THEIR SLAVES. THEY APPOINTED BRUTAL SLAVE DRIVERS OVER THEM, HOPING to wear them down with crushing labor. They FORCED THEM to build the cities of Pithom and Rameses as supply centers for the king. BUT THE MORE THE EGYPTIANS “OPPRESSED” THEM (GOD’S PEOPLE) THE MORE THE ISRAELITES “MULTIPLIED AND SPREAD , and the more alarmed the Egyptians became. So the Egyptians WORKED THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL (GOD’S PEOPLE) WITHOUT MERCY. They made their lives bitter, forcing them to mix mortar and make bricks and do all the work in the fields. They were ruthless in all their demands...” (Exodus 1 NLT).
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 INSIDE the STORMS OF LIFE, it is the intent of the enemy, the EVIL ONE, through his evil people or evil circumstances, to OPPRESS the righteous, God’s people. When you try to OPPRESS people, it is your intention to FORCE or use your AUTHORITY to keep them DOWN or to CONTROL them.“...LOOK, THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL (GOD’S PEOPLE) OUTNUMBER US and are stronger than we are. WE MUST MAKE A PLAN TO KEEP THEM FROM GROWING EVEN MORE...” (Exodus 1 NLT).OPPRESSION is ALWAYS about one GROUP of PEOPLE trying to CONTROL another GROUP of PEOPLE. This CONTROL includes treating them unjustly. “...If we don’t...[KEEP THEM OPPRESSED].., and if war breaks out, they will join our enemies and fight against us. Then they will escape from the country...” (EXODUS 1 NLT).The EVIL ONE is ALWAYS trying to CONTROL God’s RIGHTEOUS people. This CONTROL includes treating them unjustly through their trials and tribulations or INSIDE their STORMS. The injustices, God’s people, experience, during their STORMS of LIFE, makes them feel depressed, discouraged, heartbroken, question their faith, sad, marginalized, etc. .” SO THE EGYPTIANS MADE THE ISAELITES (GOD’S PEOPLE) THEIR SLAVES. THEY APPOINTED BRUTAL SLAVE DRIVERS OVER THEM, HOPING to wear them down with crushing labor. They FORCED THEM to build the cities of Pithom and Rameses as supply centers for the king...” (Exodus 1 NLT).In the land of EGYPT, the Egyptians represented the EVIL ONE and became to God’s people, the righteous, their OPPRESSORS. God’s people, his righteous ones, may be happy in their lives, until a STORM comes and cause the heart and emotions great affliction. “...These are the names of the SONS OF ISRAEL (GOD’S PEOPLE) (that is, Jacob) who moved to Egypt with their father, each with his family: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah,  Issachar, Zebulun, Benjamin, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher.  In all, Jacob had seventy descendants in Egypt, including Joseph, who was already there. In time, Joseph and all of his brothers died, ending that entire generation. BUT THEIR DESCENDENTS, the Israelites, had many children and grandchildren....” (Exodus 1 NLT).The STORMS of LIFE - such as the death of a loved one, unexpected sickness, loss of a job, marital conflict, relational conflict, deferred dreams, unjust punishment, etc - disturb lives and disrupt normal. “...In fact, THEY (GOD’S PEOPLE) MULTIPLIED SO GREATLY THAT THEY BECAME EXTREMELY POWERFUL AND FILLED THE LAND. Eventually, a new king came to power in Egypt who knew nothing about Joseph or what he had done. He said to his people, “LOOK, THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL (GOD’S PEOPLE) OUTNUMBER US and are stronger than we are. WE MUST MAKE A PLAN TO KEEP THEM FROM GROWING EVEN MORE...” (EXODUS 1 NLT)Peter, Job, Joseph, Jesus, the Hebrew boys, and Daniel were all upright and righteous children of God, but ALL ended up INSIDE a STORM where WICKED, EVIL, and HATEFUL people tried to OPPRESS them or TREAT them unjustly. “...SO THE EGYPTIANS MADE THE ISAELITES (GOD’S PEOPLE) THEIR SLAVES. THEY APPOINTED BRUTAL SLAVE DRIVERS OVER THEM, HOPING to wear them down with crushing labor. They FORCED THEM to build the cities of Pithom and Rameses as supply centers for the king...They were ruthless in all their demands...” (EXODUS 1 NLT).Every experience INSIDE the STORM is OPPRESSIVE.  It SEEMS as if the WICKED are prospering while the righteous are suffering. “...They were ruthless in all their demands...” (EXODUS 1 NLT).The WICKED oppress others out of fear and cowardice. The bible says they run when no one is chasing them. “...If we don’t...[KEEP THEM OPPRESSED]... and if war breaks out, they will join our enemies and fight against us (FEAR). Then they will escape from the country...” (EXODUS 1 NLT).The hardest taskmaster over the righteous has been the EVIL ONE and his pinions. INSIDE the STORMS of LIFE the righteous have experienced the burden of the EVIL ONE’s afflictions and the temptation to become bitter over the many injustices. “...SO THE EGYPTIANS MADE THE ISAELITES (GOD’S PEOPLE) THEIR SLAVES. THEY APPOINTED BRUTAL SLAVE DRIVERS OVER THEM, HOPING to wear them down with crushing labor. They FORCED THEM to build the cities of Pithom and Rameses as supply centers for the king...They were ruthless in all their demands...” (EXODUS 1 NLT).However, God’s makes the miraculous happen, under the cruelest circumstances and situations. Jesus was treated most cruel, but is NOW the SAVIOR of the WORLD. Job experience horrific tragedies, but was doubly blessed spiritual and materially. The Hebrew Boys were unjustly punished, but were promoted above their accusers and changed an entire nation. Peter was set to go to trial and be killed, but was delivered out of the enemy’s clutches to become one of the great apostles, and Daniel was throw into a den of lions because of an envious plot against him, but turned a nation’s worship toward God. “...THE MORE THE EGYPTIANS “OPPRESSED” THEM (GOD’S PEOPLE) THE MORE THE ISRAELITES “MULTIPLIED AND SPREAD ...” (Exodus 1 NLT). “… ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good …” (Genesis 50:20 KJV).The EVIL ONE and his pinions may affect God’s people INSIDE their STORMS, but when they OPPRESS and PLOT against them, they are plotting against God too. “….Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren, YE HAVE DONE IT TO ME.” (Matthew 25:40 KJV).The bible says, “...Avenge not yourselves, beloved, but give place unto the wrath of God, for it is written: "Vengeance (making things JUST) belongeth unto to me; I will recompense (repay)," saith the Lord” (Romans 12:19 ASV). God miraculously protects ALL of his children, even you, letting no one “…do them wrong...” and says “….touch not mine [my]… anointed (his righteous children who are set apart for his service) and do…[them] no harm.” (Psalm 105:14-15 KJV).Here is an example of God taking your hurtful experiences and absorbing them for you: Paul was killing and persecuting God’s disciples and Jesus took it personally, as if Paul was doing it to him. “And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou ME? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest : it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him , Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man ...” (Acts 9:1-7 KJV). “…. inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren, YE HAVE DONE IT TO ME.” (Matthew 25:40 KJV).“…If God is for us, who is against us? ... …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “... No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper... ” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV). “… He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT).   “…The LORD will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Your fortress, your deliverer …” (Psalms 18:3 NASB).When the EVIL ONE and his pinions come up against God’s people INSIDE their STORMS, they also are coming up against God, ALMIGHTY! “…. inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren, YE HAVE DONE IT TO ME.” (Matthew 25:40 KJV). “... "Vengeance (making things JUST) belongeth unto to me; I will recompense (repay)," saith the Lord...” (Romans 12:19 ASV).INSIDE the STORMS of LIFE it often SEEMS like EVIL is prevailing over the righteous, but it is NOT! “...THE MORE THE EGYPTIANS “OPPRESSED” THEM (GOD’S PEOPLE) THE MORE THE ISRAELITES “MULTIPLIED AND SPREAD ...” (Exodus 1 NLT). “… ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good …” (Genesis 50:20 KJV).EVIL didn’t prevail, RIGHTEOUSNESS increased and SPREAD: Jesus became the SAVIOR of the “WORLD.” Joseph RULED over the WHOLE NATION. The HEBREWS BOYS changed a NATION’s attitude toward God, the Holy Spirit. Daniel influenced the WORSHIP of an entire NATION toward God, the Holy Spirit. Peter became a GREAT APOSTLE read about in every bible published. Job’s story is also shared in every bible and he demonstrated the blessing of staying faithfully trusting during the STORMS of LIFE. He said “… though he (God) slay me, yet will I trust in him…” (Job 13:15 KJV). Job also 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). . “...SO THE EGYPTIANS MADE THE ISAELITES (GOD’S PEOPLE) THEIR SLAVES. THEY APPOINTED BRUTAL SLAVE DRIVERS OVER THEM, HOPING to wear them down with crushing labor. They FORCED THEM to build the cities of Pithom and Rameses as supply centers for the king...They were ruthless in all their demands...” (EXODUS 1 NLT).Brutal slave masters were given power and authority over God’s people, by the Egyptian King and the Israelites (God’s people) were oppressed by them and forced INSIDE the STORM of slavery.It SEEMED as if the Egyptians had the PRIVILEGE and NOT God’s people, since they were the ones SUFFERING INSIDE the STORM of slavery. “...THE MORE THE EGYPTIANS “OPPRESSED” THEM (GOD’S PEOPLE) THE MORE THE ISRAELITES “MULTIPLIED AND SPREAD ...” (Exodus 1 NLT). “… ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good …” (Genesis 50:20 KJV).God’s people will ALWAYS multiply under OPPRESSION. Remember ONE GROUP tries to OPPRESS another. God’s people are NOT in a CATEGORY based on nationality, culture, race, country, color of the skin, or ethnicity, but upon belonging to the indwelling Holy Spirit, Jesus Christ.  “…Then Peter replied, “I see very clearly that God SHOWS NO FAVORITISM.   In every nation HE ACCEPTS those who fear him and do what is right. This is the message of Good News for the people of Israel—that there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all…” (Acts 10:34-36 NLT). “…Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no RESPECTER OF PERSONS: But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)…” (Acts 10:34-36 KJV).If you try to oppress them (God’s people) in one ethnicity they (God’s people) will continue to INCREASE in another ethnicity! God's people are HIDDEN in every nation!! Together THEY are the CHRISTIAN NATION! “... In every nation HE ACCEPTS those who fear him ...God through Jesus Christ ... is Lord of all…” (Acts 10:34-36 NLT). “… [Everyone] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. [They]…are [ALL]… part of the same body, and enjoy the promise of blessings because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  “…We (from EVERY nation) are his ; we are “HIS” PEOPLE...” (Psalms 100:3 KJV). “… [In EVERY nation, people]... belong to Christ …” (1 Corinthians 3:23 NASB). “… [In every nation, people]... belong to God , my dear children…” (1 John 4:2-7 NIV). “... w e can tell who are children of God and who are children of the devil . Anyone (NO EXCEPTIONS) who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God ...” (1 John 3:7-10 NLT).“… Jesus Christ is in . ..[them]…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “… (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all .) ….” (Romans 8:8-11 NLT). “...THE MORE THE EGYPTIANS “OPPRESSED” THEM (GOD’S PEOPLE) THE MORE THE ISRAELITES “MULTIPLIED AND SPREAD ...” (Exodus 1 NLT). “… ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good …” (Genesis 50:20 KJV).INSIDE the STORMS of LIFE, God’s people are multiplying, one way or another, under God’s WATCHFUL providence. God, the Holy Spirit, KNOWS the PLANS he has for HIS PEOPLE .  God is NOT trying to HARM his people at all, but he is PLANNING a bright and hopeful future for them. “…The plans [God has]…for you…. [are]…plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you HOPE and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV).  “… all things (even those things that make no sense and you don’t agree with) work together for GOOD to them that LOVE GOD, to them who are THE CALLED to his purpose” (Romans 8:28 KJV).“…The plans [God has]…for you (his people)….[and they are]… plans to prosper ...[them]...and not to harm ...[them], plans to give ..[them]... hope and a future ” (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV). “…Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for...[his people]...that love him ...” (1 Corinthians 2:9 KJV).“...I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope...” (Jeremiah 29:11 NLT). “... I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end...” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV). “… [You]… will receive NOW in return (in this life) a hundred times as many houses, brother, sisters, mothers, children, and property …” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).  “… I am the Lord, I change NOT… ” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). The EVIL ONE and his pinions hate God’s people and treat them unjustly because of their OWN, personal envy and fear. “… ye (the evil one and his pinions) thought evil against me; 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 ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE…” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV).Being INSIDE the STORMS of LIFE God’s people experience grief, heartache, disappointment, angry, confusion, weakness, 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). “... d espite all these things , overwhelming victory is ours  (and Peter’s) through Christ, who loved us (and him)...” (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 Lord brought 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 [Israel (God’s people) was 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 ISRAELA OR YOUR 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 INVISIBLE QUALITIES—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 Lord brought 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).However, 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 HUMAN. . “… 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). 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 human psyche. God’s people KNOW he is with them, but it doesn’t stop them from experiencing 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 necessarily 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).King Jehoshaphat didn’t ACT upon his FEAR, but he ACTED upon his faith. 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 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 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 o ne 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).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 Your fortress, your deliverer , Your GOD , Your rock , in whom [you] … take refuge; Your shield …" (Psalms 18:3 NASB). “… I the LORD am thy Saviour …[ even in “your” storm ]...” (Isaiah 60:16 KJV). “… t here 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 STORM, BUT IT WON’T STOP YOU. INSTEAD IT WILL MAKE, THE CHILD OF GOD GREATER AND MORE ABLE TO INCREASE, MULTIPLY, AND SPREAD  PURPOSE UPON EARTH!“... overwhelming victory is [Y]ours ...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

FALSE PROPHETS ARE LIKE CHEATERS

                                                    FALSE PROPHETS AND CHEATERS
 “… 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).
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A FALSE PROPHET AND A CHEATER IS ONE AND THE SAME. THEY BOTH REPRESENT PEOPLE (CLERGY OR NON CLERGY) WHO ACT DISHONEST IN ORDER TO "GAIN" AN ADVANTAGE OVER OTHERS. Two oxen can be joined together with a wooden bar called a yoke and together they pull whatever load they are given as a team.
However if one oxen is stronger, taller, weaker, shorter, smaller, or bigger than the other oxen they will be unequally yoked.
If the oxen are unequally yoked they will not be able to fairly share the load or finish the task they’ve been given. The two oxen can end up being completely off balance or going around in redundant circles. “… Thou shalt not plow with an ox and an ass together…” (Dueteronomy 22:10 KJV).
The bible says, “… Be ye not unequally yoked together . with unbelievers. ..” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV). An unbeliever (infidel) is the opposite of someone who believes, which means they have NOTHING in common. “… What part hath he that believeth with an infidel ? ...” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV). I WILL USE CHEATER AND FALSE PROPHET INTERCHANGEABLY. THEY ARE ONE AND THE SAME KIND OF PERSON.
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) can be an unbeliever. A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) can be a believer who is NOT walking in God’s truth. . A victim can be a believer who is NOT walking in God’s truth.
An unbeliever is a condemned person who has NOT accepted Christ as savior. “…He that believeth on him is not condemned: but 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).
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) can also be someone who DOES NOT KEEP God’s commands AFTER they claim to have accepted Christ as savior. “….if ye LOVE me… keep my commandments…” (John 14:15 KJV). “… 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 (like a cheater), WE LIE , and DO NOT THE TRUTH …” (1 John 1:6 KJV).
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) is NOT righteous and has NOTHING in common with a righteous person. “…what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness ...” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).
The CHEATER (FALSE PROPHET) is governed by carnal principles similar to those of Satan. One of those principles being a LIAR. “… You are of yourfather the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father . He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature, for he is a liarand the father of lies …” (John 8:44 NASB).
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) has NOTHING in common with Christians who are walking in the light of God’s truth. “…what communion hath light with darkness ?...” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV). Cheaters love the darkness. “….MEN LOVED DARKNESS RATHER THAN LIGHT, because THEIR DEEDS WERE EVIL. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved…” (John 3:18-20 KJV).
The CHEATER (FALSE PROPHET) is usually masquerading as a believer. One of those masquerades is pretending to be servants of righteousness. “… S atan himself masquerades as an angel of light .It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness …” (2 Corinthians  11:14-15 NASB).
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) CAN NOT and WILL NOT produce “good” (spiritual) fruit. “…A good tree CANNOT bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. WHEREFORE BY THEIR  FRUIT YE SHALL KNOW THEM…...” (Matthew 7:16-22 KJV).
The CHEATER (FALSE PROPHET) usually “performs” fruitlike behaviors, but it is something he or she PERFORMS only to gain an advantage. “… Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name ? and in thy name have cast out devils ? and in thy name done many wonderful works ?And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you : depart from me , ye that work iniquity … ” (Matthew 7:22-23 KJV).
One of the fruitlike behaviors, of cheaters (FALSE PROPHETS), is lip-service. They are FAR from God and their heart is NOT right with him either. “…This people honoureth me with their lips , but their heart is far from me… ” (Mark 7:6 KJV).  “… for thy heart is not right in the sight of God …” (Acts 8:21 KJV).
God sees the Cheater’s heart (THE FALSE PROPHET'S HEART), which teaches people how we are to truly SEE people. “... God sees not as man sees , for man looks at the outward appearance , but the LORD looks at the heart …”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). The “… hidden man of the heart …” (1 Peter 3:4 KJV). It is “…from within, out of the heart of man, proceed evil thoughts… wickedness…All these evil things come from within, and defile a person.” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV). The heart “… is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked …who can know it [except God?]…” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV).  
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) and a believer are “unequally yoked.” It doesn’t matter whether it is a engaged relationship, friendship, kinship, partnership, discipleship,  associationship, or courtship; the two have NOTHING in common. “….What concord (commonality) hath Christ with Belial?...” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).
When a believer enters into an unequally yoked relationship the outcome will be disastrous (2 Corinthians 6:14 KJV). “… Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: ...” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV). This is NOT an optional command.
“…. When you follow the desires of your sinful nature , the results are very clear : sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry… selfish ambition …and other sins like these . Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life WILL NOT inherit the Kingdom of God. …” (Galatians 5:22-23 NLT).
Again, “…. When you follow the desires of your sinful nature , the results are very clear …” (Galatians 5:22-23 NLT). Unequally yoked relationships, for believers, are also called adultery, fornication, co-habitation, any form of sexual immorality, bad company, or wrong fellowship Let's look at this through the eyes of sexual immorality. “…When you follow the desires of your sinful nature , the results are very clear : sexual immorality … anyone living that sort of life WILL NOT inherit the Kingdom of God. …” (Galatians 5:22-23 NLT).
Other believers may NOT say anything to you about being “unequally yoked” and nonbelievers may totally condone or support your sexually immoral lifestyle, whatever it is, but your allegiance is to God, not man. “… what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul ?” (Mark 8:36 KJV). “… ye shall be holy unto me: for I the Lord am holy, and have severed you from other people, that ye should be mine. …” (Leviticus 20:26 KJV).
Compromising your faith to be in a relationship with a cheater (FALSE PROPHET) does NOT mean God will compromise his holy standards for you. God is ALWAYS HOLY and he doesn’t EVER change. “… I AM HOLY.. .” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV).  “ There is none holy as the Lord …” (1 Samuel 2:2 KJV). “…be holy, because I am holy…” (1 Peter 1:16 KJV). “… I am the Lord, I change NOT… ” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “ Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).
Just because you still do religious things while in the relationship with the cheater (FALSE PROPHET), won’t make it right with God. Repent.  “…For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet OFFEND in ONE point, he is guilty of ALL…”(James 2:10 KJV). “…. God …now commandethall men every where to REPENT …” (Acts 17:30 KJV). “…REPENT and TURN TO God, performing deeds appropriate to REPENTANCE …” (Acts 26: 20 NASB). "…Therefore REPENT AND RETURN, “SO” that your sins may be wiped away…” (Acts 3:19 NASB).
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) is unrepentant and will lie about their religious commitments. You will know whether they are telling the truth by their spiritual fruit. “… WHEREFORE BY THEIR  FRUIT YE SHALL KNOW THEM … ...” (Matthew 7:16-22 KJV).
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) will tell a believer he or she knows God, but they are not keeping his commandments.“…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 (like an unChristlike cheater), WE LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV).
There is a tragic imbalance in the difference of worldviews, ethical codes, moral values, and biblical principles between cheaters (FALSE PROPHET) and believers. “…What concord (commonality) hath Christ with Belial? ...”(2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).
A cheater’s (FALSE PROPHET'S) daily decisions often reflect the true fruit of their actions. . “… They …serve ….their OWN belly … ” (Romans 16:18 KJV). “… The one who does what is sinful is of the devil… …” (1 John 3:8 NIV).
Cheaters (FALSE PROPHETS) are usually NOT willing to change or abandon behaviors that impact the other person in the relationship. “But the people (including cheaters and/or false prophets) replied, “Don’t waste your breath. We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).
When a Christian is in a relationship with a cheater (FALSE PROPHET); they will often feel pressured to compromise their own worldviews, righteous conduct, moral values, and biblical principles. “… Don’t do as the wicked do, and don’t follow the path of evildoers. Don’t even think about it don’t go that way . Turn away and keep moving …”(Proverbs 4:14-17 NLT). “… The highway to hell is broad , and its gate is wide for the many who CHOOSE that way. …” (Matthew 7:13-14 NLT).
Somewhere along the way, the believer can or will be manipulated or brainwashed by the cheater (FALSE PROPHET). “… Let no one deceive you with empty words …” (Ephesians 5:6 NASB).
The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) manipulates them into moving away from their own personal convictions for the sake of maintaining or sustaining a relationship with them.  “…associate with fools and get in trouble….” (Proverbs 13:20 NLT). “…Thus saith the Lord, ‘ LEARN NOT the ways of the heathen ….’” (Jeremiah 10:2 KJV). “… Make nofriendship with an angry man…. lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul …” (Proverbs 22:24-25 KJV).
 A cheater  (FALSE PROPHET) may know the ordinances or commands of God, but knows he or she doesn’t practice them. They also know the victim doesn’t practice them either. “…and although they know the ordinance of God, [and]… that those who [don’t]…practice [them]…are worthy of death, they not only do the same, but also give hearty approval to those who [don’t]…practice them [either]…” (Romans 1:32 NASB).
The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) draws and entices the victim away through their own lusts. “… But every man (or woman) is tempted , when he  (or she) is drawn away of his  (or her) 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).
A victim’s OWN personal areas of unbelief can make them vulnerable to a cheater’s (A FALSE PROPHET'S) deceitful schemes and lies. “… See to it, brothers and sisters , that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart t hat turns away from the living God …”(Hebrews 3:12 NIV). “… My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge …” (Hosea 4:6 NIV). “…The thief cometh  …to destroy…” (John 10:10 KJV).
Once a cheater (FALSE PROPHET) gains an emotional advantage over a believer through a close, intimate alliance, or the one-flesh connection they can influence them almost like a puppet master. “…[Cheaters, false prophets, etc.]… are such [that]… serve not our Lord Jesus Christ , but their own belly; and by good wordsand fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple… ” (Romans 16:18 KJV). “… Let no one deceive you with empty words …” (Ephesians 5:6 NASB).
Having an emotional bond with a cheater (FALSE PROPHET) makes it nearly impossible to cut off the attachment even when a believer’s emotional health is in serious jeopardy. “… Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin (the cheater, false prophet, etc.)? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) gains advantage through areas of weakness and need in the believer. “… They are the kind who work their way into people’s homes and win the confidence of vulnerable women who are burdened with the guilt of sin and controlled by various desires …” (2 Timothy 3:6 NLT).
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) will gain his or her influence by mentally exploiting another person in order to win control, power, and privilege, over them, at their expense. “…by good words and fair speeches …[they]… deceive the hearts of the simple… ” (Romans 16:18 KJV). “… Let no one deceive you with empty words …” (Ephesians 5:6 NASB).
Healthy influence is different from unhealthy manipulation. Healthy influence benefits both parties in a relationship. Manipulation benefits the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) in the relationship at the expense of the other party. “… In the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves …they ….creep into houses, and lead captive (enslave) silly women (men too)…” (2 Timothy 3:1-6 KJV).
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) is usually a manipulator. A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) deliberately creates a relationship with another person to steal or rob them of their personal power and then exploits them emotionally to serve his or her agenda.“…The thief cometh  …to steal, and to kill, and to destroy…” (John 10:10 KJV).
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) is only able to exploit another person emotionally when they have detected their weaknesses and then uses those weaknesses for dishonest gain. “…Above all else, guard yourheart, for everything you do flows from it…” (Proverbs 4:23 KJV).  “… do not give the devilan opportunity …” (Ephesians 4:27 NASB).
In addition, they will slowly, but surely begin to steal and rob you of your self-respect, self-esteem, self- honor, confidence, self-love, independence, dignity, etc.  “…by good words and fair speeches …[they]… deceive the hearts of the simple… ” (Romans 16:18 KJV). “…The thief cometh  …to steal…” (John 10:10 KJV). Therefore, “… Let no one deceive you with empty words …” (Ephesians 5:6 NASB).
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) will manipulate you into giving up more and more of yourself in order to keep you serving them, like a slave, and carrying out their own self-agendas.  “… See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception , according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ…”(Colossians 2:8 NASB).
 Once a cheater (FALSE PROPHET) has you in their clutches, they will take advantage of you over and over again; making you think and feel as if you have absolutely no power to stop them. “ …[You]…can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth  (empowers)[you]… .” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).
It makes the victim of the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) feel foolish, when they become aware of the wiles of the cheater (FALSE PROPHET). They feel helpless, for a variety of reasons, to do anything about it. “The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin (the cheater). I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it . Instead, I do what I hate. So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.  And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t . I want to do what is good , but I don’t.
I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway . I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong.  I [am] …a slave to the sin ( the cheater ) that is … withinme ( a part of me ) . Oh, what a miserable person I am! … ” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).
Cheating manipulators (FALSE PROPHETS) are hard to deal with and it is best not to be “unequally yoked” with them at all. “… Be ye not unequally yoked together . with unbelievers. ..” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).
Unfortunately, there are chronic cheaters (FALSE PROPHETS) who are chronic manipulators that have deep seated and complex issues. LET THEM GO and STAY AWAY FROM THOSE TYPES! “…I am writing to you that you must not associate withanyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler . Do not even eat with such people …” (1 Corinthians 5:11 NASB).
Once “unequally yoked” in an emotional bond with a cheater (FALSE PROPHET) it is NOT easy to untangle yourself from the emotional stronghold they have on you. BUT it can be done!  “…I want to do what is right, but I can’t . I want to do what is good , but I don’t…. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway . …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) uses manipulation (satanic) tactics that they KNOW will work and secure their position of control over you. One of those tactics is FEAR. For instance, if the victim has problems with “worthiness” the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) will lavish them with emotional worthiness and then threaten to take it away if they don’t do what “they” want. “...And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him …”(John 13:2 KJV).
Another one of a cheater’s (FALSE PROPHET'S) tactics is NEED. For instance, if the victim has a DEEP-ROOTED need for “love,” “self-esteem,” “acceptance” or “whatever” the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) will lavish them in those places of emotional need and then threaten to take it away it they don’t do what “they” want. “But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost ?...” (Acts 5:3 KJV).
The beautiful LIES of the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) FEEL good, emotionally, for the moment, but they don’t last. The victim has to sacrifice too much of themselves for so little. They die a little each day in the relationship with a cheater (FALSE PROPHET). “… There is a way which seemeth right unto a man , but the end thereof are the ways of DEATH...” (Proverbs  14:20 KJV). “… There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof arethe ways DEATH ….” (Proverbs 16:25 KJV). “… and sin, when it is finished, BRINGETH FORTH DEATH …” (James 1:13-15 NLT).
In addition, the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) will make them think and feel they can’t and won’t get their needs met from anyone else, but “them.” “….Don't put your confidence in … people (or a cheater); there is no help for you there ….” (Psalms 146: 3 NLT). “… Trust [only]…in the Lord with all thine heart …” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).
The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) DOES NOT have life-giving words, but Jesus DOES. “… Simon Peter answered him (Jesus), “Lord, to whom shall we go? “ You” ( not a cheater or false prophet ) have the words of eternal life …” (John 6:25-69 NIV). 
The cheater  (FALSE PROPHET) does NOT want the “unequally yoked” believer to ever discover their freedom in Christ Jesus or that God is the one who supplies ALL their need. “…. if the Son sets you free, you will be FREE INDEED …” (John 8:36 NIV).  “…God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). AND “… God will generously PROVIDE all you need . Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to “SHARE” WITH OTHERS…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).
Trying to figure out or change the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) is not the goal. He or she is NOT behaving as a child of God. “…. You who are full of all deceit and fraud, you son of thedevil , you enemy of all righteousness, will you not cease to make crooked the straight ways of the Lord?” (Acts 13:10 NASB).
The goal is to recognize that you are “unequally yoked” and in an emotional bond with a cheater (FALSE PROPHET). You need to CHOOSE to GET OUT! LEAVE THEM IN GOD’S HANDS! “… God has shown us a way to be MADE RIGHT with him ….We are MADE RIGHT with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. …in his grace,  [God]…freely MAKES US RIGHT in his sight. …For God presented Jesus as the SACRIFICE for sin. People are MADE RIGHT with God when they believe that Jesus SACRIFICED his life, shedding his blood. ….HE MAKES SINNERS RIGHT (not people) in his sight when they believe in Jesus…” (Romans 3:21-26 NLT). “…the GOODNESS of God leadeth [the cheater]… to repentance?” (Romans 2:4 ASV). “…The Lord isn't really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for [their]… SAKE. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent…” (2 Peter 3: 9 NLT).
The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) has manipulated you into becoming someone you DO NOT want to be and you GAVE them that power. “… Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour (consume, dispose of, lie to, etc.) …” (1 Peter 5:8 NASB), “…Submit therefore to God (not the cheater). Resist the deviland he will flee from you…” (James 4:7 NIV).
If you are a believer, you are allowing the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) to undermine you OWN self-worth. “…For in him ( Jesus Christ ) we live and move and have our being (self-worth).’  … ‘ We are his offspring …” (Acts 17:28 NIV).
The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) needs God’s help NOT yours. “...HE (God) MAKES SINNERS RIGHT in his sight when they believe in Jesus…” (Romans 3:21-26 NLT).
If you don’t escape from the cheater’s clutches (FALSE PROPHETS); how can you help them anyway? “… Let your light so shine before men , that they may see your good works , …” (Matthew 5:16 KJV). “… Opponents (like cheaters) must be gently instructed, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their “senses” and “escape” from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will …” (2 Timothy 2:23-25 NIV).
Even if you believe the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) is a God-given assignment, you can’t help them if you participate with their sinful dynamics. “Therefore, come out from their midst and be separate ,” says the Lord. “ And do not touch what is unclean …”(2 Corinthians 6:13-17 NASB).
For example, to wives, God says, “…if any (disobedient husbands) obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives. While they behold your chaste conversation ….[So]…let it be the hidden man of the heart …that ...of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price…” (1 Peter 3:1-3 KJV).
The victim/believer is allowing the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) to quench the indwelling power within them. “… Quench NOT the Spirit …” (1 Thessalonians 5:19 KJV). “…And do not bring sorrow to God's Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own …” (Ephesians 4:30 NLT).  
Your OWN maladaptation is a result of being “unequally yoked” and emotionally bonded to the cheater (FALSE PROPHET). “…The Lord replies, “ This has happened because my people have ABANDONED MY INSTRUCTIONS; they have refused to obey what I said….” (JEREMIAH 9:13 NLT). “… Be ye not unequally yoked together . with unbelievers. ..” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV).
It is also a result of ignoring the indwelling Holy Spirit within you that has set you free from ALL forms of bondage. “.. The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death…” (Romans 8:2 NASB).
The cheater’s (FALSE PROPHET'S) whole purpose, in the relationship with you, is to gain an advantage. Therefore, your authentic self and personal power is totally and completely under attack as long as the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) is in control. “…. have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. …” (Ephesians 5:11 -12 KJV)
A cheater  (FALSE PROPHET) is NOT trying to be fair to you. They are NOT trying to consider your standards of life and rise to the occasion. Their agenda is about their self-interests NOT yours and therefore, or most likely, they are NOT trying to “be better” for your sake. Therefore, “… let no man deceive you with vain words…be not ye therefore partakers with them …” (Ephesians 5:6-7 KJV).
A chronic cheater manipulator (FALSE PROPHET) needs to be completely CUT OFF by the victim. The victim should NOT engage in a lifelong effort to change them and thus should choose to STOP all communications. “Therefore, come out from their midst and be separate ,” says the Lord. …”(2 Corinthians 6:13-17 NASB).
Victims who attempt to CHANGE the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) end up going against their authentic self. “…. have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness …” (Ephesians 5:11 -12 KJV). “…So , if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall!” (1 Corinthians 10:12 NIV).
Victims will find themselves spending days, weeks, months, and years trying to actually manipulate, whether consciously or unconsciously, the chronic cheater (FALSE PROPHET) into changing while further deepening their own pain and hurts.“… [GOD]…MAKES SINNERS RIGHT in his sight when they believe in Jesus…” (Romans 3:21-26 NLT).
Trying to change the cheater  (FALSE PROPHET) through passive manipulation - at the risk of your OWN, ONGOING pain - and out of desperation for a different result, will STILL not get you what you want from the relationship. ONLY“…God will supply all [your need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).
Work on changing and freeing yourself and NOT the cheating manipulator (FALSE PROPHET). “… [GOD]…MAKES SINNERS RIGHT in his sight when they believe in Jesus…” (Romans 3:21-26 NLT).
What does the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) USE to GAIN such control over you? They use YOUR FEELINGS and EMOTIONS. The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) LEADS or CONTROLS you by gaining advantage over your emotions. “… do not give the devil an opportunity …” (Ephesians 4:27 NASB).
God tells us two important principles to follow in order to avoid letting cheaters (FALSE PROPHETS) gain such control. 1. “…Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind…” (Romans 12:2 KJV). 2. “… let the Holy Spirit guide your lives . …” (Galatians 5 NLT).
The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) is NOT the Holy Spirit and he or she is NOT renewing your mind in a healthy way. The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) is NOT your SAVIOR. The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) is FLESH. “… THE FLESH SETS ITS DESIRE AGAINST the Spirit…” (Galatians 5:17 NASB). “…those who are ACCORDING TO THE FLESH set their MINDS ON THE THINGS OF THE FLESH…” (Romans 8:5 NASB). “… WHOEVER SOWS TO PLEASE THEIR FLESH , FROM THE FLESH WILL REAP DESTRUCTION; …” (Galatians 6:8 NIV).  “…The sinful nature (FLESH) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature (FLESH) desires. These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other…” (Galatians 5 NLT).
The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) WILL NOT free you from his or her control. If you wait too long, you CAN NOT free yourself. Who CAN free you? “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN ? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord… ” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).
The bible says, “… let the Holy Spirit guide your lives . …” (Galatians 5 NLT). Unfortunately, people let their “thoughts” guide their “feelings.” In addition, their “feelings” further guide or influence healthy or unhealthy behaviors.
The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) can gain control when they attempt and succeed in influencing the behavior of others through their “thoughts” and “feelings.” “… do not give the devil an opportunity …” (Ephesians 4:27 NASB).
The cheater  (FALSE PROPHET) USES your “feelings” and “thoughts” to manipulate you into doing something you may not really want to do, but they want you to. “… do not give the devil an opportunity …” (Ephesians 4:27 NASB).
The “feelings” and “thoughts” the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) USES are those that may be vulnerable, weak, hungry, needy, insecure, low esteem, desperate, and deprived. “…. Don't put your trust in mere human beings ….” (Isaiah 2:22 NLT). “….Don't put your confidence in … people (especially cheaters); there is no help for you there ….” (Psalms 146: 3 NLT).
These may be “feelings” and “thoughts” that were ignored or unattended in childhood and are still ignored or unattended in adulthood. “… Take no thought, saying What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Where withal shall we be clothed? … your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things …” (Matthew 6 KJV).
 Further, there is no “knowledge” or “awareness” of a significant or healthy relationship to get those needs met. “…God will supply all [your need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “… your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things …” (Matthew 6 KJV).
The cheater  (FALSE PROPHET) becomes appealing because he or she lavishes you with flattery. “…. there is no help for you there ….” (Psalms 146: 3 NLT).
They appear to fulfill the needs of those ignored or unattended “feelings” and “thoughts.” And like the dry ground soaks up the attention of the rain so do you soak up the LIES of the cheater (FALSE PROPHET). “…The bread of God is the bread that comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.”  “Sir,” they said, “always give us this bread.” Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry ...” (John 6:25-69 NIV). 
The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) becomes a beautiful, poisonous, and dangerous emotional MAZE and STRONGHOLD.  However, “…. Human [emotional]…desire is NEVER SATISFIED… ” (Proverbs 27:20 NLT). “…. THEIR APPETITE (emotional desire) IS NEVER SATISFIED ….” (ECCLESIASTES 6:7 KJV).
Only God can satisfy the human emotions. “….THE BREAD OF GOD is he which cometh down from heaven , and giveth life unto the world. Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. And Jesus said unto them, I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE: HE THAT COMETH TO ME SHALL NEVER HUNGER …” (JOHN 6:33-35 KJV). “…The Lord is my shepherd; I SHALL NOT WANT …”(Psalms 23 KJV). “…Man shall not live by [HUMAN] bread alone, but by every word (SPIRITUAL BREAD) that proceedeth out of the mouth of God….” (MATTHEW 4:4 KJV). “… Whoever comes to me will never go hungry ...” (John 6:25-69 NIV). 
Thisgrandiose gesture of emotional fulfillment, from a cheater (FALSE PROPHET), becomes his or her open door to gaining dishonest control over you. “… do not give the devil an opportunity …” (Ephesians 4:27 NASB).
You DRINK in his or her charlatan offerings like a thirsty desert and allow the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) to set-up his or her stage for power, control, and privilege over your life. “ When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before you: And put a knife to thy throat if thou be a man (or woman) given to appetite. Be NOT desirous of his (or her) dainties:  for they are DECEITFUL meat.” (Proverbs 23:1-3 KJV).
The cheater  (FALSE PROPHET) repeats these grandiose gestures of emotional fulfillment, off and on, throughout the relationship to keep you in control, but they NEVER lasts. In physically abusive relationships they are called “honeymoon” phases. “…Do not crave his (or her) delicacies, for that food is deceptive ...” (Proverbs 23:1-3 NIV).
During a “honeymoon” phase, the cheater is on his or her best behavior and is doing everything their victim wants in an attempt to regain control and power over them again. “…Do not eat the food of a begrudging host, do not crave his (or her) delicacies; for he (or she) is the kind of person who is always thinking about the cost. “Eat and drink,” he (or she) says to you, but his (or her) heart is not with you ….” (Proverbs 23:6-9 NIV).
This wishy-washy, back and forth emotional roller coaster can create an atmosphere of confusion. “… God is NOT the author of confusion , but of PEACE…” (1 Corinthians 14:33 KJV). “…For where ….strife is, there is confusion and EVERY evil work ….” (James 3:16 KJV).
The victim struggles with SEEING the cheater’s true INNER nature of deceit and manipulation verses his or her good deeds of meeting their emotional needs.“… if I bestow all my goods to feed the poor , and if I give my body to be burned, but have not love, IT PROFITETH ME NOTHING…” (1 Corinthians 13:2-3 ASV). “… Do not be overcome by evil… ” (Romans 12:21 NASB).
A victim will often say, about a cheater, but “…He or She is a “GOOD” person…” The cheater is ONLY actinglike a “good” person to get what he or she wants. “… Their actions are never good …” (Psalms 36:4 NLT).
After the cheater has been so emotionally generous with you, by giving you something you’ve never really had; you feel you owe him or her something in return. “… OWE “NO” man anything , but to love one another…” (Romans 13:8 KJV).
The cheater wants you to feel emotionally obligated to them so he or she can use ANXIETY, GUILT, THREATS, EMOTIONAL ABUSE,  RISK OF ISOLATION, or FEAR if you DON’T give them want they want. “…the hireling (the cheater) fleeth, because he is an hireling, and CARETH NOT for the sheep ….” (John 10:13 KJV).
Constant experiences of ANXIETY, GUILT, THREATS, EMOTIONAL ABUSE, RISK OF ISOLATION, and FEAR can eventually WEAKEN the mind of victims and deepen the claws of brainwashing or manipulating CHEATERS.  “… My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge …” (Hosea 4:6 NIV). “…The thief cometh  …to destroy…” (John 10:10 KJV).
The good-cheater-bad-cheater-good-cheater cycle becomes a confusing routine; keeping the cheater in control and the victim complacent. “…For where ….strife is, there is confusion and EVERY evil work ….” (James 3:16 KJV).
The cheater and his or her victim manages to stay in this wish-washy cycle for years, become complacent about it, and accept it as normal for them. However, God’s people need to “…. PREPARE for war , WAKE UP mighty men …” (Joel 3:9 KJV). “… Put on thefull armor of God , so that you will be able to stand firm against theschemes of the devil …” (Ephesians 6:11 NASB).
The cheater  (FALSE PROPHET) unfairly benefits. The victim does NOT fairly benefit. The victim authentically GIVES whereas the cheater (FALSE PROPHET) only PRETENDS to GIVE.“… They …serve ….their OWN belly … ” (Romans 16:18 KJV).  “…For such people are not serving our LordChrist, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people…” (Romans 16:18 NIV).
The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) REALLY hasn’t GIVEN anything AT ALL. “… 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). “… As ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise …” (Luke 6:31 KJV).
They have, in fact, TAKEN or STOLEN or ROBBED from the victim the opportunity to be truly wanted, respected, honored, loved, or valued instead of being USED for someone’s exploitation. “… They speak falsehood to one another ; With flattering lips and with a double heart they speak …” (Psalms 12:2 NASB).  “… In their greed they will exploit you with false words …” (2 Peter 2:3 NASB). “… In their greed these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories …” (2 Peter 2:3 NIV).
The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) has STOLEN and ROBBED their victim of the opportunity to be truly wanted, loved, and needed verses being USED. “… love one another; as I have loved you …” (John 13:34-35 KJV). “… Love worketh NO ILL (harm) to his (or her) neighbor …” (Romans 13:10 KJV).
This cheater/believer’s “unequally yoked” relationship can go on for days, weeks, months, and years before the victim is finally worn out, tired, and resentful of being utterly exploited. “… Do not be deceived : " Bad company corrupts good morals …" (1 Corinthians 15:33 NASB). “…He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will suffer harm …” (Proverbs 13:20 NIV).
The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) manipulates him or herself into a relationship with another person through lies, deceit, brainwashing, by creating a dependency, fake religiosity, and dishonest gain.“… These people always cause trouble. Their minds are corrupt, and they have turned their backs on the truth . To them, a show of godliness is just a way to become wealthy.…” (1 Timothy 6: 3-5 NLT).
The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) DOES NOT love his or her victim no matter how often they say it. “… A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it …” (Proverbs 26:28 KJV). “…Every one that loveth …. KNOWETH God . He that loveth NOT KNOWETH NOT God; for God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).  
It is ONLY called a relationship because two people are interacting together to create an illusion that they are “relating” to one another. “… Can two walk together, except they be agreed ?” (Amos 3:3 KJV).
The cheater  (FALSE PROPHET) is NOT “relating” to the victim and shows no signs of authentic, Godly love during the routine cycles of their interactions together. “…Love is patient, [Godly]…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….” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 NIV). “… A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it …” (Proverbs 26:28 KJV).
The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) and the victim, however, can create an illusion of a relationship that eventually turns into a long-term abusive, one-sided, disagreeable liaison. “… Be ye not unequally yoked together . with unbelievers. ..” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15 KJV). “… Can two walk together, except they be agreed ?” (Amos 3:3 KJV).
A cheater  (FALE PROPHET) is either an unbeliever or a believer who is NOT walking in God’s truth. A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) is a liar and a deceiver. A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) is extremely selfish and is interested in ways he or she can gain a dishonest advantage over you, your life, and your possessions.
A cheater (FALSE PROPHET) can perform good deeds, but is NOT a good person. A cheater will steal away your esteem, respect, honor, and other opportunities for dignified treatment. A cheater, most likely, does NOT love you. A cheater can ONLY be transformed by God and needs to be put into God’s hands.
If you are with a cheater (FALSE PROPHET) you are voluntarily participating with his or her sinful dynamics. The cheater (FALSE PROPHET) may have chosen you to deceive, but you also choose him or her to meet your need or needs; instead of God.
“… 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).

COUNT YOUR TESTS AS JOY BY "LOOKING" AHEAD!!

COUNT YOUR TEST AS JOY BY LOOKING AHEAD

EVEN IN YOUR TRIALS; GOD IS "STILL" BEING GOOD TO YOU!!
                            “…Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” (Job 2:10 NIV). *If you are going through something, I would like to offer some “food for thought on the subject of "suffering.” We ALL question our seasons of suffering. We all stumble with the "why me" during “suffering,” We stumble over the purpose of suffering, the process of suffering, the details of suffering, the various circumstances of suffering, and God’s allowance of suffering; especially if "we" are his children.Suffering comes from long and challenging periods of tests, trials or tribulations and should be considered a joyful opportunity. “…My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations (trials, tests, tribulations, etc.)…” (James 1:2 KJV). I can’t say I’ve consider any test or trial joy. Do you count these seasons of suffering JOY; me either.I have found joy AFTER the test and I have gained joy FROM the test, but I have "NOT" found joy "IN" the test. Even though, my tests have brought me great joy and incredible blessings; I have yet to “…count it all  (of the experience) joy…,” especially THROUGH the process of the test. 

In the PROCESS we cry, we question God's plan, we struggle, we get antsy, we pondered over "why," we find ourselves humanly alone, even with great support, and we FEEL afraid, anxious, uncertain, and overwhelmed.I am, most of the time, a positive person. I am the person who will say the glass is half full, not half empty. However, calling a test “joy” has eluded me. There is no doubt, “joy” after the test, but the PROCESS, the details of the PROCESS, or the actual experience of being "IN" the PROCESS have rattled me to my emotional core.

Don't get me wrong, every single test has been an incredible blessing and I am a better "child of God" as a result of each one of them. Honestly, during the actual PROCESS, my tests have strengthened my faith, revealed my lack of faith, and exposed my lingering sinful ways. For certain, during the actual PROCESS of my tests, my character becomes more disciplined,  I was corrected by my heavenly Father, I  become more humbled, respectful of HIS sovereignty, and developed a stronger spiritual foundation.  I always discover the “real” me "IN" the test (Deuteronomy 8:2 KJV).Wow, who am I when I suffer? Whoa!!! You don’t want to know. LOL! However, I am going to be honest and transparent. During a test, trial, or tribulation I have complained to God. I' ve cried. I've asked God "WHY ME?" I have disagreed with the way he chooses to work things together for my so-called good. I have questioned the doors he's closed and the ones he's opened. I've been disappointed with the things or people I've lost along the way. I've been frightened about major changes in my life, aging, starting over in certain places, and whether the future could really get brighter after ALL of "this" suffering I've experienced.In addition, during the PROCESS of my various tests, this is the clincher, I have had the nerve to deem my suffering as unfair and downright unjust; especially the tests that seem to go on and on for days, weeks, months, or years.Truly, I've had my nerve, especially since, “…Christ suffered for [me]…, leaving [me]… an example, that [I] should follow in his steps. “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV). I read in my bible, how Christ was beaten until he was unrecognizable, he was made to carry a heavy wooden cross through the city, his sweat was like drops of blood, nails were hammered into his hands and feet, he was hung like a criminal, and he hung outside, in public view, for days. The bible says he didn't mutter a single word. “… When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly…” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV).Initially, I found no comfort in that scripture. I thought I simply didn’t deserve my suffering, but neither did “SINLESS” Jesus.  I was thinking WAY to high of myself, but I’m finally off my high horse!!What challenged me in the PROCESS of suffering was this scripture, “ If you love me, you will keep my commandments ” (John 14:15).God drew me to himself with his love and I pledged to love him back. When I accepted Christ as my Savior, I GAVE my life to him and I meant it. God can do what he wants with my life. I surrender all!However, I said that before I knew about the suffering part. LOL! The PROCESS of suffering hurts, will, no doubt, be painful, especially when you are in the MIDST of it, but another scripture I read encouraged me to stay the course. Even though it hurts, if you love God, you will keep your “….oath [to God] and [will not]….change [your]….mind…” (Psalm 15:4 NIV). Even though it HURTS, its PAINFUL, you don't like it, and it's extremely CHALLENGING... remember you GAVE your life to God.Thus, it was during my “seasons of suffering” that I discovered I truly loved God. Right smack in the middle of the PROCESS, I am HIGHLY tempted to do wrong, but chose to do right, by faith, which empowered me through the POWER of the enabling power of the Holy Spirit. Thus, I ENDURED the TEST. “… the faithful followers of the Lord … keep their promises even when it hurts …” (Psalm 15:4 NLT).You can talk about how you love God all you want, but is it only when YOU deem life is good? Does God stop being good just because you are facing troubles? “… [Will you]… accept good from God, and not trouble?” (Job 2:10 NIV). God is ALWAYS good, even during your trials, tests, and tribulations. “… Thou are GOOD and doest GOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV). “…GOOD and upright is the Lord…” (Psalm 25:8 KJV). Satan brings the suffering and God allows it. If God, who is ALWAYS good allows your suffering, then the test, trial, or tribulation is for your GOOD. Satan “…intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” Genesis 50:20 NIV). 
Satan is trying to prove you only serve God for his blessings and the “good times,” not out of love. God already knows whether you love him or NOT and suffering will help you “know” it too (Deuteronomy 8:2). “… God …[tried] ... him that he might know all that was in his heart…” (2 Chronicles 32:31 KJV).
God wants to develop the “…hidden man of the heart…” (1 Peter 3:4 KJV). 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 to “….know what was in [their]…heart…” (Deuteronomy 8:2 KJV). “…The Lord said to Satan, “ Where have you come from ?” Satan answered the Lord, “From roaming throughout the earth, going back and forth on it.” Then the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.” “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.” 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 1:7-12 NIV).“…Through all this Job did not sin nor did he blame God “ Job 1:20-22 NASB).“ If you love me, you will keep my commandments ” (John 14:15).How do you know you love God? Suffering, of any kind, will reveal what is truly in your heart TO YOU, because God already knows.Suffering will prove what or who you “really” love. Satan is ready and willing to bring on the troubles he thinks will turn you AWAY from God.  Satan said to God about Job, “… strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face . ” (Job 1:7-12 NIV).“…Christ suffered for [you and I]…, leaving [us]… an example, that [we] should follow in his steps. …” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV). In the relationship with God through Christ, suffering is a blessing, NOT a curse. “...But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable (praiseworthy, admirable, etc) before God…” (1 Peter 2:19-23 NIV).I am not simply talking about the suffering that is happening TO you, but the suffering that is happening IN you.God loves you and proved it by sending His son. He wants you to love him too and wants you to prove your love to Him by “trusting the Son,” he sent, during your “seasons of suffering." Proving your love to God is not so much FOR God, as it is for YOU. God already KNOWS what's in your HEART, but sometimes his people don't KNOW what truly lingers in their OWN heart. We TALK about loving God, being faithful to Him, trusting in him UNTIL... we go through a season of suffering. “...God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart…”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). Thus, God looks at the “…HIDDEN man of the heart…” (1 Peter 3:4 KJV).  “… FROM within, out of the heart of man, proceed evil thoughts…these … come from within, and defile a person.” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV). Your heart “…is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked:…who can know it [except God?]…” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV). So when you go through seasons of suffering what do you do? Jesus put ALL his trust in God; so like Jesus, “…[do you... entrust yourself] to him who judges justly …” (1 Peter 2:20-23 NIV).No matter what, “… If you love [God]… keep [following His] commandments ” (John 14:15).  Your suffering is GOOD for you, because God has allowed it. It is also transforming and rewarding. God says “..that all things work together for GOOD  to them that LOVE GOD, to them who are THE CALLED to his purpose” (Romans 8:28 KJV). AND “…[You]… will receive NOW in return (in this life) a hundred times as many houses, brother, sisters, mothers, children, and property …” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).WHY? “…‘We’ve given up everything to follow you…” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT). And Jesus said to him, “…I assure you that everyone who has given up [whatever it is], for my sake and for the Good News, will receive NOW (in this life) in return a hundred times as many [of whatever you've given up]..” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT).So “...In the day of prosperity be happy, But in the day of…[suffering]… consider-- God has made the one as well as the other …”(Ecclesiastes 7:14  NASB). “… [Will you]…accept good from God, and not trouble ?” (Job 2:10 NIV).“… Thou are GOOD and doest GOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV). “…GOOD and upright is the Lord…” (Psalm 25:8 KJV). Satan “…intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” Genesis 50:20 NIV). God has already revealed and proven his love for you through Jesus Christ. So the question to you is “Do you know you love God?”If the answer is yes, then it is time to stop complaining, whining, being bitter, angry at God, judgmental of God, and prove your love to Him.God's allowance of suffering is and is "NOT" to harm you, but to enhance YOUR  SPIRITUAL CHARACTER and MULTIPLY your BLESSINGS! “ So the LORD blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning…” (Job 42:12 KJV).If there is a reason to count your suffering all JOY it is because of the promised blessings waiting when it’s over, “…My brethren, count it all joy …” (James 1:2 KJV).“… We can REJOICE, too , when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance…” (Romans 5:3 NLT).  “… When troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great JOY…” (James 1:2 NLT). “…We give great honor to those who endure under suffering. For instance, you know about Job, a man of great endurance. You can see how the Lord was kind to him at the end, for the Lord is full of tenderness and mercy…” (James 5:11 NLT).  “… Be very GLAD —for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world…” (1 Peter 4:13 NLT).“…I assure you that everyone who has given up [whatever it is], for my sake and for the Good News, will receive NOW (in this life) in return a hundred times as many [of whatever you've given up]..” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT). Seasons of Suffering are NOT times of JOY, but they should be consider an opportunity for JOY, because the END result will be so MUCH GREATER than temporary TEST you had to endure. 

The TESTS are often sorrowful and heartbreaking. People who wronged you or hurt you seem to be getting away with their bad behavior, while you are LEFT to suffer. 

The bible said Jesus was “… a man of sorrows …” (Isaiah 53:3 KJV). Yet, it also says, “… Because of the JOY awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame …” (Hebrews 12:2 NLT). Satan “…intended to harm [Jesus], but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” Genesis 50:20 NIV). “… [God’s] … 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 JOY (Jesus) of your salvation…” (Psalms 51:12 NIV).God knew “…When he (Jesus saw) all that … [was] … accomplished by his anguish (suffering), he will be satisfied. And because of his experience … [God’s] … 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 JOY (Jesus) of your salvation…” (Psalms 51:12 NIV).In addition, “… 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, Jesus was faced with deep grieves and sorrows, but his Father’s plan incited his JOY in spite of his trials and tribulations, upon earth. “… 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. He didn't let PEOPLE or CIRCUMSTANCES make him LOSE sight of  his MAIN purpose.Jesus became the RANSOM for many, the ATONING SACRIFICE for SIN, the COVENANT KEEPER, the GIFT of SALVATION, ETERNAL LIFE, the INDWELLING SPIRIT, and the GREAT, EVERLASTING LOVE. “… There is no greater LOVE than to lay down one’s life …” (John 15:13 NLT).“…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). EVERYTHING I have ever suffered through has TRULY turned out for my GOOD. My trials, tests, and tribulations are "ALL" temporary, but the END results bring eternal BLESSINGS and REWARDS in "THIS" life and the life to come.  “… the suffering of this present time ARE NOT worthy to be compared with the glory (the presence & goodness of God gained) which shall be revealed [WITH]IN us…” (Romans 8:18 KJV). “ For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory (more of God's presence within us, more or his goodness and power too)...” (2 Corinthians 4:17 KJV).It is comforting to know Jesus suffered for us, he suffers with us, enables us to endure suffering, absorbs the pain of our suffering, and took our suffering upon the cross; yet we STILL have to go through it . “…After YOU have suffered a little while…” (1 Peter 5:10 NLT).“…I assure you that everyone who has given up [whatever it is], for my sake and for the Good News, will receive NOW (in this life) in return a hundred times as many [of whatever you've given up]..” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT). WHEN GOD ALLOWS SUFFERING, OF ANY KIND, IT IS AND WILL ALWAYS BE FOR YOUR ULTIMATE GOOD!! SUFFERING IS "NOT" A NEGATIVE CONDITION FOR GOD'S PEOPLE, BUT A POSITIVE OPPORTUNITY TO GAIN MORE AND MORE OF GOD'S SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS and HIS GLORY (presence, goodness, power) "AFTER" THE PROCESS. THE PROCESS OF GOING THROUGH SUFFERING FIRST, IS TO PREPARE YOU TO "HANDLE" ALL THAT GOD HAS PREPARED FOR YOU.THE JOY IS IN FRONT YOU. SO CONSIDER WHATEVER YOU ARE GOING THROUGH A "JOYFUL" OPPORTUNITY, BECAUSE OF THE PROMISE AHEAD!! “…I (God, the Holy Spirit) ASSURES you that everyone who has given up [whatever it is], for my sake and for the Good News, will receive NOW (in this life) IN RETURN a hundred times as many [of whatever you've given up]..” (Mark 10:28-31 NLT). 

GOD "GIVES" HUMAN SHEPHERDS (PASTORS)!

            THE GOD-GIVEN HUMAN SHEPHERD (Pastors, elders, etc.)

"… I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding …” (Jeremiah 3:15 NIV).  “… He gave some …..pastors (shepherds) and teachers…” (Ephesians 4:11 NIV). “… I will set up shepherdsover them which shall feed them… saith the LORD…” (Jeremiah 23:4 KJV).“… I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, evenmy servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd …” (Ezekiel 34:23 KJV).
*
The ushers opens the DOORS of the church for the human shepherd. Some of us see ushers escort them to the pulpit every Sunday morning.
The Shepherd, in John chapter 10, was the FIRST to ENTER the GATE in the parable. “…But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep …” (John 10:1-10 NASB).
… The shepherd  ,,,[therefore]…of the sheep …” is “… the one who enters through the gate…” AND “… The …[usher]…  …opens the gate for him …”(John 10:1-10 NASB).
Jesus is the Chief Shepherd, and he calls men to be shepherds. They are called pastors or elders. “… T herefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder …  shepherd the flock of God among you , exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. …Peace be to you all who are in Christ…” (1 Peter 5:1-4 NASB).
Human shepherds/pastors come in through the GATE too “…as your fellow elder …”  
God ASSIGNS human shepherds to tend his SHEEP so his sheep can continually HEAR “HIS” voice through them. “… I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding …” (Jeremiah 3:15 NIV).  “… He gave some …..pastors (shepherds) and teachers…” (Ephesians 4:11 NIV). “… I will set up shepherdsover them which shall feed them… saith the LORD…” (Jeremiah 23:4 KJV).“… I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, evenmy servant David; he shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd …” (Ezekiel 34:23 KJV).
The human shepherd/pastor/elder goes into the doors of the church or GATEWAY to minister or feed the SHEEP by being a mouthpiece (voice) for God. The human shepherd is to speak God’s message. “… [so]...the sheep…[will]…recognize [god’s]… voice … [through the human shepherd]… and come to him …” (John 10:1-10 NASB).
A shepherd, of a flock of sheep, would guide them into green pastures, to streaming waters or troughs, and later lead them into a sheepfold. “…I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them...” (Ezekiel 34:23 KJV).
The shepherd would count each one as they go under the rod of the entrance door to make sure NONE was missing.
A shepherd NEVER left the sheep, but watches over them at all times; sometimes with the help of certain dogs or human assistants.
If one happened to wander away, the shepherd would leave the rest of the flock to find the lost sheep and bring it back to safety. The bible says, “…The Lord their God will rescue his people, just as a shepherdrescues his sheep…” (Zechariah 9:16 KJV). “… As a shepherd seeketh out his flock in the day that he is among his sheep that are scattered; so will I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered …” (Ezekiel 34:12 KJV).
After the sheep were safety tucked away in the sheepfold, the shepherd would guard the entrance, during the night, by lying in front of the gate to prevent any attacks from wild animals or thieves.
Adam’s son Abel was the first recorded shepherd (Genesis 4:2 KJV). Being a shepherd was once a very renowned occupation in the early biblical days of the Israelites.
References to shepherd or shepherding appears over 200 times and have been translated to mean “feed” or “feeding.”
The title “shepherd” came to represent the offices of king, prophet, leader, and Jesus, who said he was the chief shepherd. “…When the chief Shepherd shall appear…” (1 Peter 5:4 KJV).
The most convincing references and scripture that play a role in inspiring this topic is the book of John, chapter 10, where Jesus calls himself “… the good shepherd ..” (John 10:11 KJV).
“… The GOOD shepherd giveth his life for the sheep …” points to God’s relationship, through Christ, with the believer (John 10:11 KJV).
When Jesus was getting ready to ascend into heaven, he commissioned shepherds to “…. feed his sheep . ..” (John 21 KJV). “…This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead. …Jesus saith to Simon Peter …lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs. He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him , Feed my sheep. He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep …” (John 21:14-17 KJV).
A human shepherd is God-given. “… I will give you shepherds after my own heart,who will guide you with knowledge and understanding…” (Jeremiah 3:15 KJV). “… He is my shepherd , and shall perform all my pleasure …” (Isaiah 44:28 KJV).
A human shepherd of God’s people will guide, lead, protect, and care for them.“…Lead them like a shepherd, and carry them in your arms forever…” (Psalms 28:9 NLT).  “… Like a shepherd He will tend His flock, In His arm He will gather the lambsAnd carry themin His bosom; He will gently lead the nursing ewes…” (Isaiah 40:11 NASB).
A human, God appointed shepherd will demonstrate tender, loving care toward the sheep as he or she guides or drives them to feed and nourish themselves in the pastures and waters of God’s Word. “… You will be the shepherd of my people Israel …” (2 Samuel 5:2 KJV). “… The shepherds of my people Israel …” (2 Samuel 7:7 KJV).
“NOT” all shepherds are “good” or “obedient” shepherds. “… The shepherds of my people have lost their senses. They no longer seek wisdom from the Lord. Therefore, they fail completely, and their flocks are scattered…” (Jeremiah 10:21 NLT).  “… The leaders of my people— …his shepherds — are blind and ignorant. They are like silent watchdogs that give no warning when danger comes. They love to lie around, sleeping and dreaming…” (Isaiah 56:10 KJV). “… They are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand : they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter…” (Isaiah 56:11 KJV).  “… Your shepherds are asleep …” (Nahum 3:18 NLT). “… They are like shameless shepherds who care only for themselves …” (Jude 1:12 KJV).
However, Paul compared the church and its pastor to a FLOCK and its SHEPHERD. “…Guard yourselves and God’s people. Feed and shepherd God’s flock —his church, purchased with his own blood— over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you as leaders …” (Acts 20:28 KJV).
In Latin “shepherd” transliterated means “pastor.” “… The gatekeeper opens the gate for [the shepherd or pastor] … Those who come in through [the doors]… will be saved ....” (John 10:1-10 NASB).
“... He that entereth in BY THE DOOR is the SHEPHERD of the SHEEP …” (John 10:2 KJV). The SHEPHERD is the MAIN “ONE” who enters by the door. However, the FLOCK must follow and enter the SAME way. The shepherd goes into the FLOCK who are in the SHEEPFOLD (church body).
Being within a particular sheepfold keeps God’s sheep SET APART and safe from “…thieves and robbers…” (John 10:1 KJV). “… The thief cometh not, but to STEAL , and to KILL , and to DESTROY …” (John 10:10 KJV).
The entranceis symbolic of the proper and established way to enter into the SHEEPFOLD. “… I am the DOOR …” (John 10:9 KJV). “… He that entereth not by the DOOR into the SHEEPFOLD but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and robber ...” (John 10:1 KJV).
The SHEPHERD will ALWAYS choose to enter through the established WAY and the USHER readily OPENS the door to him. “… TO HIM …[THE USHER] … OPENETH …” (John 10:3 KJV).
God in his wisdom and through the indwelling power of the HOLY SPIRIT appoints shepherds to “FEED” his sheep and successfully “CARE” for them. “…it is God who works in [pastors]… to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “… the God of peace… that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip [pastors]… with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in [them]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).
Christ has established the WAY in which to enter the SHEEPFOLD or community of believers. “… I am the DOOR …” (John 10:9 KJV). “… I am the gate ....” (John 10:1-10 NASB). “…Jesus saith unto him, I AM THE WAY … no man cometh unto the Father, but by me …” (John 14 6 KJV).
Jesus has also established the WAY in which USHERS, like he did, are to GUARD the entrance into the SHEEPFOLD.  “… I lay down my life …” (John 10:17 KJV).“…I am the DOOR; “BY ME” if any man enter in, he SHALL be SAVED…” (John 10:9 KJV). “…… no man cometh unto the Father, but by me …” (John 14 6 KJV).
Jesus, the Chief Shepherd, often officiated as an USHER by OPENING DOORS for people. “…God had … opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles…” (Acts 14:27 KJV). “…A certain woman named Lydia …heard us: whose heart the Lord opened …” (Acts 16:14 KJV). “…Praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance …” (Colossians 4:3 KJV). “…behold , I have set before thee an open door , and no man can shut it…: (Revelation 3:8 KJV). “… I have opened a door for you that no one can close…” (Revelation 3:8 NLT).
OPENING the DOORS of the church to allow the FLOCK into the SHEEPFOLD is not only to BRING God’s sheep “IN”, but to ALSO to KEEP “ the thief ” OUT. “…For we are the temple (body, flock of sheep) of the living God; just as God said, “I will dwell in them andwalk among them;And I will be their God, and they shall be My people. “…Therefore, come out from their midst and be separate ,” says the Lord. “ And do not touch what is unclean …”(2 Corinthians 6:13-17 NASB).
Sheep are welcomed through the DOORS of the church to HEAR, pay ATTENTION to, UNDERSTAND, PRACTICE through obedience, and walk in FAITH after listening to the VOICE of God’s chosen shepherd, whom he has SENT. “… I will give you shepherds after my own heart,who will guide you with knowledge and understanding…” (Jeremiah 3:15 KJV). “… He is my shepherd , and shall perform all my pleasure …” (Isaiah 44:28 KJV).
The shepherd is God’s mouthpiece and uses the WORD to speak to God’s people. “ 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).
A shepherd leads and guides sheep to the pastures and waters of God’s HOLY ordinances that they may learn and nourish themselves on the precepts of God’s Word. “… The law of the Lord is perfect, convertingthe soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple . The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever : the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward. Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.  Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord , my strength, and my redeemer …” (Psalms 19:7-14 KJV).
“… The …[ushers]… opens the gate for… [the shepherd or pastor] ....” (John 10:1-10 NASB). They are OPENING the DOORS of the church to let the SHEPHERD come in and FEED the sheep. The shepherds are the VOICE of God’s message.
The USHERS escort the shepherds to the pulpit as a show of honor for the pastor, in which God has sent.
The USHERS OPENED the DOOR to the shepherd knowing he is the ONE who will TEACH the sheep to FOLLOW Jesus.
JESUS is the WAY and it is in his FOOTSTEPS the sheep are to FOLLOW. The sheep will listen to HEAR God’s voice, God’s truth, and God’s instructions through the shepherd. “… The sheep recognize his voice and come to him. Hecalls his own sheep by name and leads them out. After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. They won’t follow a stranger;....” (John 10:1-10 NASB).
“… I will give you shepherds after my own heart,who will guide you with knowledge and understanding …” (Jeremiah 3:15 KJV). “… The …[ushers]… opens the gate for… [the shepherd] ....” (John 10:1-10 NASB). 

THE HEBREWS BOYS: TOOK A STAND FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS!

                                                       
            INSIDE THE STORMS:

THE HEBREW BOYS' uncompromising OBEDIENCE led TO OVERWHELMING VICTORY                                      *
 “... Then Nebuchadnezzar came [again]… near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire. And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king's counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them. Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego , who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort… Then the king PROMOTED Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, in the province of Babylon…” (DANIEL 3). *The Hebrew Boys TEACH true OBEDIENCE and leaves absolutely NO ROOM for compromise. “... [They]... yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. …” (DANIEL 3).
Many of God’s people willingly and voluntarily, COMPROMISE God’s instructions in a heartbeat or a blink of an eye. “…Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites ! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men ...Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrite s! for ye devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayer ...Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves. Woe unto you, ye blind guides ... Ye fools and blind ...Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites ! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith ...Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess ...Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward , but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men , but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity . Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous... Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?” (Matthew 23:13-33 KJV).“…He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me...” (Mark 7:6 KJV).   When it comes to STANDING for GOD’s TRUTH many of God’s people will make ADJUSTMENTS to FIT INTO the STATUS QUO even if it CONFLICTS with or totally OPPOSES their Christian principles. “… my people ... kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts ...” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).  “…This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me ” (Mark 7:6 KJV).  “…for thy heart is not right in the sight of God …” (Acts 8:21 KJV).ALL people have weaknesses, faults, fears, and the NEED to fit it. Some of God’s people BELIEVE God on the inside, but FAIL to demonstrate they BELIEVE him on the outside.“… 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).  For some, who claim to be God’s people, the DESIRE to be LIKED and ACCEPTED, by the status quo,  is GREATER than their desire to OBEY God. “… If we “SAY” that we have fellowship with him, and WALK IN DARKNESS (compromising the truth), WE LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV).Many, who claim to be God’s people, will SACRIFICE or SELL-OUT their STAND for God’s TRUTH and RIGHTEOUSNESS whether than RISK any part of their lives or being REJECTED by the status quo. “…They …serve ….their OWN belly (self)…” (Romans 16:18 KJV).  “...We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires...” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).When those, who claim to be God’s people, SACRIFICE or SELL-OUT their STAND for God’s TRUTH and righteousness, they end up misrepresenting themselves and God, the Holy Spirit. The bible talks about particular deeds that insult and offend God, the Holy Spirit. “... The person who does anything defiantly , whether he (she) is native or an alien, that one is blaspheming the Lord ; and that person shall be cut off from among his people . Because he (she) has despised the word of the Lord and has broken His commandment, that person shall be completely cut off; his guilt will be on him ...’” (Numbers 15:30-31 NASB).“... Those who brazenly violate the Lord ’s will, whether native-born Israelites or foreigners, have blasphemed the Lord , and they must be cut off from the community. Since they have treated the Lord’s word with contempt (disrespect) and deliberately disobeyed his command , they must be completely cut off and suffer the punishment for their guilt...” (Number 15:30-31 NLT).If you DON’T believe in sex outside of marriage, but you pretend you CONDONE it in the present of others, are you compromising God’s truth in exchange for fitting in or being accepted by the world? “…They …serve ….their OWN belly (self)…” (Romans 16:18 KJV).  “...We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires...” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).There is a term in psychology called “cognitive dissonance,” which describes this kind of compromise. Cognitive dissonance is when what you BELIEVE, in your heart, CONFLICTS or OPPOSES what you actually do behavioral-wise. .“… If someone claims , “I know God ,” but doesn’t obey (follow) God’s commandments, that person IS A LIAR and is not living in the truth…” (1 John 2:4 NLT).  “...We will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires...” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).In order to be REAL or AUTHENTIC and not a PHONY or HYPOCRITE it is important for a person’s belief to MATCH their behavior. “… If we “SAY” that we have fellowship with him, and WALK IN DARKNESS (hypocrisy, phoniness, etc.), WE LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV).REAL and AUTHENTIC Christians want to BEHAVE consistent with their internal BELIEFS. However, when PUBLICLY or PRIVATELY challenged, what they DO does not LINE-UP with what they SAY they believe. “… their heart is far from me ” (Mark 7:6 KJV).  “…for thy heart is not right in the sight of God …” (Acts 8:21 KJV).A psychologist named Leon Festinger came up with “cognitive dissonance.” This theory basically focuses on how people NEED to have their internal beliefs consistent with their external behaviors.Cognitive dissonance is HARDER to achieve than most people think and therefore most people STRUGGLE with it in one area or another. It is a POWERFUL struggle.Many believers CLAIM to VALUE their Christian principles, but FAIL to behave, accordingly, in many situations or circumstances in their lives.The believer has the indwelling Holy Spirit to HELP them STAND for God’s TRUTH. Their desire to STAND for TRUTH, is personal, and they willfully chose “truth” over self (the sinful nature, their reputation, their false identity, etc.). “… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “... [The SINFUL NATURE]... never did obey God’s (HOLY) laws , and it never will …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).“… The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants ...so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. … …” (Galatians 5 NLT). “… . “…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 Sovereign Lord helps me …” (Isaiah 50:7 NLT).  “… He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “…Blessed are those who wait for his help…” (Isaiah 30:18 NLT). “… You are my helper and my savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT).“…. if any man (woman) be in Christ, he  (she) is a NEW creature: old things are passed away; behold, ALL things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “…Christ liveth in [you]…” (Galatians 2:20 KJV). “ ... It is God (the indwelling Holy Spirit) which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). “… the God of peace… that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in [you, through the indwelling Holy Spirit]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “… He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT).Cognitive dissonance is POWERFUL and heavily INFLUENCES the CONFLICT between one’s internal beliefs and one’s behaviors or actions. Whichever one is STRONGER (belief or action) you will COMPROMISE the weaker one (belief or action) for it.“…The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants. And the [Holy] Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions… …” (Galatians 5 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).“… be conformed to the image of His Son …” (Romans 8:29 KJV).  “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind ….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “… In this world we are LIKE JESUS …” (1 John 4:17 NIV). In the situation with the Hebrew boys, their BELIEF lined-up with their BEHAVIOR. They STOOD for God’s TRUTH and did NOT compromise. “... our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up ...” (Daniel 3:13-19 KJV).They loved God. They VALUED God’s truth and proved it by willingly OBEYING and SACRIFICING themSELVES (reputations, identity, etc.)  for it. “... we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up ...” (Daniel 3:13-19 KJV).There was NO CONFLICT between what the Hebrew boys SAID they believed and how they actually BEHAVED. The Hebrew boys voluntarily and willfully engaged in behaviors and actions that lined-up and supported what they BELIEVED. “... we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up ...” (Daniel 3:13-19 KJV).They HELD onto their BELIEF by making a public CHOICE against the STATUS QUO the KING, the entire NATION, and the threat of being thrown into a fiery furnace.“... the king. Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up? Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not , ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands ?..” (Daniel 3:13-19 KJV).Whether than sell-out or sacrifice their beliefs, or devotion to God, the Holy Spirit, the Hebrew Boys allowed themselves to be thrown into the fire.  “...the king. Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up? Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not , ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace ...” (Daniel 3:13-19 KJV).Even though they were not sure if God would rescue them the way they IMAGINED or even HOPED, they KNEW he could. They were willing to STAND for God’s TRUTH nonetheless. “... our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up...” Daniel 3:13-19 KJV).THE HEBREW BOYS CHOSE GOD AND FOLLOWED HIS COMMANDS. “…Therefore because the king's commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flames of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace…“…Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, DID NOT WE CAST THREE MEN BOUND INTO THE MIDST OF THE FIRE? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king. He answered and said, LO, I SEE FOUR MEN LOOSE, WALKING IN THE MIDST OF THE FIRE, AND THEY HAVE NO HURT; AND THE FORM OF THE FOURTH IS LIKE THE SON OF GOD...” (DANIEL 3). “…God has said “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you …” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…Behold, I am with… [you] and will keep… [you] whithersoever [you]… goest…I will not leave [you]…." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).The BIBLE says: “... God spake all these words, saying,  I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth...” (Exodus 20:1-4 KJV).What two TRUTHS did the Hebrew boys STAND upon? “...Thou shalt have no other gods before me...” (Exodus 20:1-4 KJV). “...Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth...” (Exodus 20:1-4 KJV).The Hebrew Boys were willing to be thrown into a fiery furnace WHETHER than SELL-OUT God’s Holy Commandments in order to worship a graven image or any other god, like everyone else was DOING. “… be conformed to the image of His Son …” (Romans 8:29 KJV).  “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind ….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “… In this world we are LIKE JESUS …” (1 John 4:17 NIV).  “… [King] …Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated. And he 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. Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. Therefore because the king's commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flames of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace…” (DANIEL 3).The Hebrew Boys cooperated with and followed God’s instructions. “...Thou shalt have no other gods before me...” (Exodus 20:1-4 KJV). “… If you love me, you will keep (cooperate with or follow) my commandments… ” (John 14:15).They trusted in God, the Holy Spirit, and depended upon his POWER. “...Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Then they brought these men before the king. Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up? Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not , ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands ? Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up ...” (Daniel 3:13-19 KJV).“...Thou shalt have no other gods before me...” (Exodus 20:1-4 KJV). “...Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth...” (Exodus 20:1-4 KJV).“... Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered King Nebuchadnezzar, “Your threat means nothing to us. If you throw us in the fire, the God we serve can rescue us from your roaring furnace and anything else you might cook up, O king. But even if he doesn’t, it wouldn’t make a bit of difference, O king. We still wouldn’t serve your gods or worship the gold statue you set up ...” (Daniel 3:13-18 MSG). Because they STOOD for God’s TRUTH, what happened INSIDE the FIERY FURNACE? Let’s LOOK and SEE:  “...Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, DID NOT WE CAST THREE MEN BOUND INTO THE MIDST OF THE FIRE? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king. He answered and said, LO, I SEE FOUR MEN LOOSE, WALKING IN THE MIDST OF THE FIRE, AND THEY HAVE NO HURT; AND THE FORM OF THE FOURTH IS LIKE THE SON OF GOD...” (DANIEL 3). “…God has said “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you …” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…Behold, I am with… [you] and will keep… [you] whithersoever [you]… goest…I will not leave [you]…." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).The Hebrew boys were IN A STORM, which included the fiery furnace, but it DID not prosper over them. “… No weapon that is formed against [YOU]… shall prosper …” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV). “…WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED…" (ROMANS 10:11 NASB). “…TRUST in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “…The LORD will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). 

“... Then Nebuchadnezzar came [again]… near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire. And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king's counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power , nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them. …” (DANIEL 3). The Hebrew Boys trusted in God, the Holy Spirit. They depended upon his POWER. They cooperated or followed his instructions. “...Thou shalt have no other gods before me...” (Exodus 20:1-4 KJV). “...Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness...” (Exodus 20:1-4 KJV). “.. Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, DID NOT WE CAST THREE MEN BOUND INTO THE MIDST OF THE FIRE? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king. He answered and said, LO, I SEE FOUR MEN LOOSE, WALKING IN THE MIDST OF THE FIRE, AND THEY HAVE NO HURT; AND THE FORM OF THE FOURTH IS LIKE THE SON OF GOD...” (DANIEL 3). “…God has said “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you …” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…Behold, I am with… [you] and will keep… [you] whithersoever [you]… goest…I will not leave [you]…." (Genesis 28:15 ASV).The Hebrew boys DID not compromise their BELIEF in God’s TRUTH or his righteous ways just to appease King Nebuchadnezzar or the STATUS QUO. “...Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded ... if ye worship not , ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands ? Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, ... be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up ...” (Daniel 3:13-19 KJV).AS A RESULT, they changed the entire NATION and got PROMOTED. “...Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego , who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego , shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort… Then the king PROMOTED Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego , in the province of Babylon…” (DANIEL 3). “...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).INSIDE THE HEBREW BOYS’ STORM: “... Then Nebuchadnezzar came [again]… near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire. And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king's counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power , nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them …” (DANIEL 3). “...Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, ... Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego , who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. …” (DANIEL 3). “...Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort …” (DANIEL 3). “...Then the king PROMOTED Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, in the province of Babylon…” (DANIEL 3).  “... God ... who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, …” (DANIEL 3).  “...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). “... overwhelming victory is ours ...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

THE SINFUL NATURE IS "ACCUSTOMED" TO DOING EVIL; NOT GOOD!

THE SINFUL NATURE: ACCUSTOMED TO DOING EVIL
“… The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).    “…I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… Can an Ethiopian change his skin or a leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil…” (Jeremiah 13:23 NIV). “... I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t… ” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).
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Sinful behaviors learned through the body of flesh and dictated by the senses are developed to the point they become automatic behaviors that are skillfully performed with little or no thought. Automatic behaviors simply means, through lifelong practice, the body of flesh (sinful nature) and its dictates have become ACCUSTOMED (habitual, familiar, the usual, normal, customary, etc.) to DOING evil. “… Can an Ethiopian change his skin or a leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil…” (Jeremiah 13:23 NIV). 

Automatic behaviors can be done or performed without conscious knowledge, or fully thinking about them, or independent of the heart and mind. The one doing the automatic behaviors may not be able to explain HOW they did it. Automatic behaviors are so well practiced by the body of flesh, through the senses, that these automatic behaviors have conditioned, innate reactions that are second nature to the ones performing them.
“… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind ….”(Romans 12:2 KJV).
“... letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death . But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. ..” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT).
“…The sinful nature (body of flesh) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants ...These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions . ..” (Galatians 5 NLT).
SINFUL CONDITIONING done by the body of flesh, through the SENSES is when a lifetime of familiarity, practice, exposure, and shaping normalcy that became habitual responses, for the SOUL, that continually maintain and sustain the learned behaviors of the sinful nature. “… The sinful nature (flesh) wants to do evil ... so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions . ..” (Galatians 5 NLT).
THE SOUL is one’s very BEINGand is the immaterial self that HOUSES the EMOTIONS, AFFECTIONS, HEART, THOUGHTS, conscience, personality, identity, and human will. The heart and thoughts are the information and command centers of the soul. The heart INFORMS the thoughts and the thoughts COMMAND behavior. 
The heart of the soul is either informed by the body of flesh, through the senses on how to live and behave. On the other hand, the soul may be freed to decide, through the enabling POWER of indwelling Holy Spirit, how they choose to live and behave.
The HEART of the SOUL is the information center and influences everything from the emotions, to the appetites, to orientations to life, and of course, the thoughts. The heart will glean its information from the senses through the body of flesh or from the indwelling Holy Spirit. If there is NO indwelling Holy Spirit, the heart has received ALL its information from the senses through the body of flesh that is ACCUSTOMED to doing EVIL. Everything they say, think, do, believe, feel, model after, become, or don’t become are all dictated by the senses through the body of flesh, which is UNDER the POWER of the EVIL ONE.  
The soul was originally created to dominate, rule, be blessed, multiply, be spiritual, and be free to make choices, but it is NOW imprisoned by the dictatorship of the senses through the body of flesh. “…keep (guard) thy heart , with all diligence; for out of it are the issues (influences) of life …” (Proverbs 4:23 KJV). All behaviors, that mankind displays outwardly, originate from information within the heart. It is “… from within, out of the heart of man, proceed evil thoughts (thoughts that command behavior)…these … come from within, and defile a person (dictate evil behavior)... ” (Mark 7:21-23 KJV). The heart, however, “…is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked…who can know it…” (Jeremiah 17:9 KJV).  "…Offspring of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. The good man, out of his good treasure, brings forth good things, and the evil man, out of his evil treasure, brings forth evil things." (Matthew 12:34-35).
LET’S LOOK AT THE BODY OF FLESH, THE SOUL, AND THE INDWELLING SPIRIT THROUGH ADAM AND EVE.  GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT SAID: “…of every tree of the garden THOU MAYEST FREELY EAT: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou  SHALT NOT EAT of it; for in THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). 
THE SERPENT APPEALED TO ONE OR MORE OF THE WOMAN’S SENSES, USING THE BODY OF FLESH. “… The woman [became] ... convinced (THROUGH SOUND) [to eat from the tree, anyway]... She saw (SIGHT) that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked (SIGHT) delicious (TASTE), and she wanted (LUST of the EYES or FLESH) the wisdom (PRIDE of LIFE) it would give her. So she took (TOUCH and EXPERIENCE) some of the fruit and ate it (TASTE)...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “….She [choose to take (HUMAN WILL)] ... some of the fruit and [eat] ... IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).
Thus, “…through [the behavior of one man]... sin (transgression) entered into the world, and [spiritual] ...death through sin (through that transgression), and so death (spiritual death) passed to all men (women)—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). “… One sinner (one transgressor of God’s holy law) destroy[ed]… MUCH good … ” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB).
Three things happened: 1. They (Adam and Eve) became separated from God. 2. They (Adam and Eve) died spiritually. 3. They (Adam and Eve) became enslaved to the body of flesh (now a sinful nature) through their SENSES.  Adam and Eve had a body of flesh, a soul, and the Spirit, but the Spirit separated from them and thus, they died spiritually. “….let us make man in our image (SPIRIT), after our likeness (SPIRIT)…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV).  “…..God created man in his own image (SPIRIT)...male and female created he them…”(Genesis 1:27 KJV). “…. God formed man of the dust of the ground (body), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Spirit); and man became a living soul (soul)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).
“….let us make man in our image (SPIRIT), after our likeness(SPIRIT)…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). They were originally created in God’s “image”, which is SPIRIT. “…God is not human …” (Numbers 23:19 NIV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “… t he Spirit of God dwell in you (dwelt in Adam and Eve) …” (Romans 8:9 KJV).
However, they became SEPARATED from the SPIRIT and were left with ONLY the soul and the body of flesh.  Mankind was, now, missing or FELL short of the glory of God (his presence) and was separated from the indwelling Holy Spirit. NOW all humanity is born with the same problem. “… the wages of sin (the payment for having a sin nature) is death …” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “… [Now]... all have sinned (all have been born with a sin nature) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “… all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born missing or WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV).
"…That which is born of the flesh is flesh…” (John 3:6 KJV). “…. I was born a sinner (I was born without the indwelling Holy Spirit) —yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). Adam and Eve had NOTHING to pass down to their descendants, but the flesh nature.
Every soul is a dead soul born, into the world without spiritual life, and trapped within the prison of the body of flesh, which is NOW a totally SINFUL NATURE. The BODY of FLESH, without the indwelling Holy Spirit, can ONLY be a SINFUL NATURE, because it was NOT created to OBEY God. “… The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).    Thus, all of mankind is “… DEAD “IN”trespasses and sin (within the body of flesh or sin nature) ...” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV).
THE BODY OF FLESH CAN’T OBEY GOD, BECAUSE IT WASN’T CREATED TO OBEY GOD, BUT IT WAS CREATED TO BE A VESSEL AND SERVANT FOR THE SOUL AND SPIRIT TOGETHER.
A FORK, BOWL, PLATE, COUCH, COAT, TELEVISION WAS CREATED TO SERVE ITS PURPOSE “ONLY.” THESE THINGS WILL DO “ONLY” WHAT THEY WERE CREATED TO DO AND WILL NOT OBEY OR SERVE ANY OTHER PURPOSE APPROPRIATELY.
IF YOU WERE TRAPPED INSIDE A FORK, BOWL, PLATE, COUCH, COAT, OR TELEVISION YOU COULD NOT MAKE THEM OBEY YOU OR GOD. THEY ARE WHAT THEY ARE. THE BODY OF FLESH “IS” WHAT IT IS!
All of mankind is born“… separated from the LIFE of God …” (Ephesians 4:18 NIV). “… It is the SPIRIT who gives LIFE …” (John 6:63 NASB). Before sinners are SAVED “…[THEY are] ... DEAD in[their]... transgressions and sins (within the sinful nature)…” (Ephesians 2:1 NIV).
“… [The redeemed]... were [once]... dead in [their] sins and ... [NOW]…God made [them]... ALIVE with Christ. He forgave [them]… all [their]… sins…” (Colossians 2:13 NIV). God “….made [the redeemed]… ALIVE with Christ …when [the redeemed]… were DEAD in transgressions …” (Ephesians 2:5 NIV). Like the prodigal son, “… [THEY were]…. DEAD and [have been made]… ALIVE AGAIN; [they were]… lost and [have been]… found…” (Luke 15:24 NIV).
If the redeemed were made “ALIVE AGAIN” it implies they were DEAD. The soul was a DEAD soul. “…. 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).
Adam and Eve BECAME “LIVING” souls AFTER God breathed into their nostrils the “breath of LIFE.”
Spiritually DEAD souls are under the power of the evil one through the body of flesh and the dictates of the senses, which influences them to sin. “… The sin of my SOUL …” (Micah 6:7 KJV). “......I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t . I want to do what is good, but I don’t…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).   
The spiritually DEAD souls are imprisoned within the body of flesh and the dictates of the senses, which are totally influenced by the evil one. “…. When you follow the desires (influences) of your sinful nature, the results are very clear : sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division,envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these . Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life WILL NOT inherit the Kingdom of God. …” (Galatians 5:22-23 NLT).
God told Adam and Eve they would “surely die” “... THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE …” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV).  “… [Their] ...INIQUITIES … separated … [them from] ... God [the Holy Spirit or the breath of LIFE]…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). THEY BOTH DIED SPIRITUALLY AS GOD SAID THEY WOULD.
Now every man or woman born, into the world without God’s Holy Spirit, is spiritually dead.  “… For all have sinned (all have been born with a sin nature) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “… all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…. I was born a sinner —yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).
When God’s Holy Spirit is not present, all of mankind is born with ONLY a body of flesh which is automatically and organically a sin nature that will not and cannot obey God. “…. I was born a sinner —yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). “… The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).   
God is “spiritual life” and anyone separated from God is “… dead intrespasses and sin (IN that sin nature)...” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV). “… The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).    “… For all have sinned (all have been born with a sin nature) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…. I was born a sinner —yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).
There is an ongoing DEBATE as to what the SINFUL NATURE is and an enduring attitude about why Adam’s GUILT has been PASSED to all of mankind. Adam could only pass on what he had, which was the flesh nature. It wasn’t so much his guilt he passed on to all mankind, but his condition.
Sin, is an INNATE CONDITION of the flesh nature which every male and female is born with, because they inherited it from Adam and Eve, but they did NOT inherit the SPIRIT. "…That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit…” (John 3:6 KJV).
Adam and Eve could ONLY reproduce what they had become; A BODY of FLESH. They had DIED spiritually and were SEPARTED from God, the Holy Spirit. Thus, “… all have sinned (been born with a flesh nature) , and come short of the glory of God (is born without the presence of the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).
“,,, [Therefore,] ...through one man sin entered (physical life without the indwelling Holy Spirit entered) into the world, and [spiritual] ...deaththrough sin, and so [spiritual] death passed to all men, for that all sinned (all have been born without the indwelling Holy Spirit]—“(Romans 5:12 KJV).
“… All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23). “…. I was born a sinner (I was born without the indwelling holy spirit) —yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).
If you can be BORN a sinner, then being a sinner is NOT simply what YOU DO, but it is a REALITY of what YOU ARE. “…. I was born a sinner —yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). “… The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).   
SINFUL BEHAVIOR is an INNATE condition of what YOU ARE. “…. I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).  “… The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).   “... I want to do what is right, but I can’t . I want to do what is good,but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (the symptoms of the flesh nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… For all have sinned (all have the flesh nature) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “… all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV).
SIX (6) TRUTHS ABOUT THE SINFUL NATURE: 1.The bible tells us that all of humanity are BORN sinners, because of the FLESH nature. “…. I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT) “… The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).   
2. All of humanity will become a slave, in one form or another, to the SINFUL BEHAVIORS produced by the FLESH nature. “…I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).    
3. Without the indwelling Holy Spirit, mankind has NO POWER over the flesh naturel it is what it is. “...Who will free me from this life that is dominated by [the sin nature ]?” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “... APART FROM [Christ]... you can do nothing  …” (John 15:1-11 NASB). “ … [You] … can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth … [you]… ” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).“… The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).
4. Mankind is left with a flesh nature that ONLY wants to DO EVIL (sin) and CAN ONLY do evil (sin). “... I want to do what is right, but I can’t .I want to do what is good, but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… The sinful nature (body) wants to do evil ... so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions. ……” (Galatians 5 NLT).
5. The sin nature is automatically and naturally hostile toward God and is totally incapable of DOING anything righteous or holy. “… The sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will . …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).
6. The sinful nature and the dictates of the senses, trains the lost soul to practice sin and PROVES that mankind is a SLAVE to SIN through the SINFUL NATURE. “…Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16 KJV).
“… SIN is the transgression of the... [Holy] ... law ….” (1 John 3:4 KJV).
“…of every tree of the garden THOU MAYEST FREELY EAT: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou  SHALT NOT EAT of it; for in THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). BUT“… The woman [became] ... convinced [to eat from the tree, anyway]... She saw that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “….She [choose to take] ... some of the fruit and [eat] ... IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “.... At that moment their eyes were opened … ” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).  At that moment, they transgressed God’s holy law and “… [their] ...INIQUITIES … separated … [them from] ... God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “… It’s YOUR SINS that … [will] ... cut you off from God…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT).
“… SIN is the transgression of the... [Holy] ... law ….” (1 John 3:4 KJV).
“... When Adam sinned (chose to transgress God’s Holy law), sin (the enslaving symptoms of the flesh nature) entered the world. Adam’s sin (transgression) brought [spiritual] ... death (separation from God, the Holy Spirit). “... [ THOU SHALT SURELY DIE …” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). “... so [spiritual] ... death (physical existence without God) spread to everyone ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT).
“...  there is a great difference between Adam’s sin and God’s gracious gift. For the sin of this one man, Adam, brought [spiritual] death to many . But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of forgiveness to many through this other man, Jesus Christ. And the result of God’s gracious gift is very different from the result of that one man’s sin. For Adam’s sin led to condemnation, but God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God ( being restored, reunited with the Holy Spirit again), even though we are guilty of many sins..[through the sin nature]. For the sin (transgression of God’s holy law) of this one man, Adam , caused [spiritual]...death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness , for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ...” (Romans 5:10-16 NLT).
“…, my righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous,for he will bear all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “… [He sent the ] … one … who can reconcile God and humanity— the man Christ Jesus …” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).
“… Jesus Christ maketh thee whole ( SAVES, RESTORES , AND MAKES YOU WHOLE YOU AGAIN ) …” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm (enduring) and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery...” (Galatians 5:1 NASB).
Adam and Eve were both, originally, MADE whole, but HAD the FREEDOM of choice. My son, Oshawn, said, the only choice they HAD, because SIN was “NOT” an issue, was to OBEY. You are ALSO made whole again and HAVE the FREEDOM of CHOICE to OBEY. Therefore, “... Stand fast (keep enduring) therefore in the liberty (freedom from sin and freedom to OBEY) wherewith Christ hath made us free , and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage ...” (Galatians 5:1 KJV).
YOU HAVE BEEN FREED FROM SIN AND FREED TO OBEY. HOWEVER, YOU CAN “STILL” FREELY CHOOSE TO BECOME ENTANGLED AGAIN WITH THE YOKE OF BONDAGE, BY PRACTICING and LIVING A SINFUL, LIFESTYLE!
YOU LIVE and PRACTICE a SINFUL LIFESTYLE, NOT BECAUSE YOU HAVE TO (YOU ARE FREE FROM SIN), BUT BECAUSE YOU “CHOOSE” TO!!
“…I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… Can an Ethiopian change his skin or a leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil…” (Jeremiah 13:23 NIV). “... I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t… ” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “...Who will free me from this life that is dominated by [the sin nature that is accustom          `med to doing evil ]?” (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). “…. Apart from [the indwelling spirit],.. [you]… can do nothing …” (John 15:5 NIV).  WHEN YOU ARE IMPRISONED WITHIN THE SINFUL NATURE, YOU HAVE NO CHOICE, BUT TO DO WHAT THE SINFUL NATURE WANTS TO DO.HOWEVER, WHEN YOU ARE FREED FROM SIN, THE INDWELLIN HOLY SPIRIT THAT RAISED JESUS FROM THE DEAD, NOW, LIVES "IN" YOU. JUST LIKE JESUS TOOK AUTHORITY OVER SIN AND DEATH, HE GAVE THAT AUTHORITY TO YOU. IT IS YOUR "FREE" CHOICE TO PUT DEMANDS UPON THE SINFUL NATURE THAT IS ACCUSTOMED TO DOING EVIL.  IN ORDER TO ALLOW THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT TO EMPOWER "YOU" TO LIVE HOLY; MAKE A CHOICE! 

THE SINFUL NATURE IS "NOT" DEPENDABLE FOR LIVING HOLY!

                                           THE SINFUL NATURE IS NOT DEPENDABLE FOR LIVING HOLY



  “…. I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).  "…That which is born of the flesh is flesh…” (John 3:6 KJV). “…. I was born a sinner (I was born without the indwelling Holy Spirit) —yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).
“... I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t .I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… For all have sinned (all have the flesh nature) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “… all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV).
                                               ****
The body of flesh was NOT designed or created to OBEY God, therefore, the body of flesh became the sinful nature. The sin nature ONLY has a proclivity to DISOBEY God. “… The sinful nature is always hostile to God . …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “..[The sinful nature]... never did obey God’s laws , and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “...those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).
Ethical behavior is NOT spiritual behavior. “… The flesh (ethical behavior) profiteth nothing …” (John 6:63 KJV). “… Human effort (ethical behavior) accomplishes nothing ….” (John 6:63 NLT). “… If I bestow all my goods to feed the poor (ethical behavior) , and if I give my body to be burned (ethical behavior), but have not love (God is LOVE and SPIRIT), IT PROFITETH ME NOTHING…” (1 Corinthians 13:2-3 ASV). IF YOU USE A FORK, FOR ANYTHING ELSE, SUCH AS DIGGING, POKING, PUTTING HOLES INTO SOMETHING, OR STABBING, IT WILL STILL BE A FORK DOING IT!
A man or woman, without God, the Holy Spirit, is a dead soul. They have NO true spiritual inclinations. They can have ethical behaviors, trained by the flesh that is hostile to God, but their natural proclivities will STILL be to sin and do what they want to do; not what God wants them to do. “…the body without (apart from) the spirit is dead…” (James 2:26 KJV). “… The sinful nature is always hostile to God . …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “..[The sinful nature]... never did obey God’s laws , and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…. I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).  I WAS BORN WITH A NATURE THAT KNOWS TO DO NOTHING, BUT SIN. “... 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 (a slave to the sin nature where sin is INNATE) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… the wages of sin (the definite prognosis of having a sin nature) is death …” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “… For all have sinned (all have been born with a sin nature) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV).
THE TRUTH ABOUT THE SINFUL NATURE IS THIS:  GOD ORIGINALLY MADE MANKIND “GOOD.” “…And the LORD God formed man [of] the dust of the ground (this was good), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (this was good); and man became a living soul (this was good)…”(GENESIS 2:7 KJV). “….God saw everything he had made……and, [said] … it was VERY GOOD…” (Genesis 1:31 KJV).
ADAM AND EVE WERE UNITED, TOGETHER, WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT. THEY WERE “WHOLE” AND GOOD.  However, THEY WERE ALSO “HAD”  BEEN GIVEN A HUMAN WILL TO CHOOSE TO DO GOOD.
GOD SAID: “…of every tree of the garden THOU MAYEST FREELY EAT: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou  SHALT NOT EAT of it; for in THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE …” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV).
The EVIL ONE SAID: “… ye shall not surely die. …” (Genesis 3:4-5 KJV). HE LIED, BECAUSE THEY DIED SPIRITUALLY, IMMEDIATELY!However, Adam and Eve, suddenly, had a choice and an opportunity to CHOOSE between TWO options.
THE WOMAN AND MAN “CHOOSE” TO DO WHAT “THEY” WANTED: “… The woman [became] ... convinced (THROUGH SOUND) [to eat from the tree, anyway]... She saw (SIGHT) that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked (SIGHT) delicious (TASTE), and she wanted (LUST of the FLESH) the wisdom (PRIDE of LIFE) it would give her. So she took (TOUCH) some of the fruit and ate it (TASTE)...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).
“... THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE (SPIRITUALLY) …” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV).
IMMEDIATELY, they died SPIRITUALLY! “…[They became] ... DEAD in trespasses and sin (within the body of flesh)…” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV). They became“… separated from the LIFE of God …” (Ephesians 4:18 NIV). BECAUSE, “… It is the SPIRIT who gives LIFE …” (John 6:63 NASB). “... I want to do what is good, but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).
“… [The redeemed]... were dead in [their] sins[too] (imprisoned within the body of flesh) and ... [NOW]…God made [them]... ALIVE with Christ. He forgave [them]… all [their]… sins…” (Colossians 2:13 NIV). God “….made [the redeemed]… ALIVE with Christ …when [they]… were DEAD in transgressions …” (Ephesians 2:5 NIV). Like the prodigal son, “… [they were]…. DEAD (imprisoned in the body of flesh) and [have been made]… ALIVE AGAIN (freed from the body of flesh); [the redeemed were]… lost and [have been]… found…” (Luke 15:24 NIV).
“…He restoreth my SOUL…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “…The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the SOUL…” (Psalm 19 NASB). “IN” Christ your DEAD soul has been restored and made “ALIVE AGAIN.” (Luke 15:24 NIV). “... and man became a living soul (again)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).
YOU ARE UNITED, TOGETHER, WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT AGAIN. YOU ARE “WHOLE” AND CAN DO “GOOD” AGAIN THROUGH THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT.
IN ADDITION, YOU STILL “HAVE” A HUMAN WILL TO CHOOSE TO SERVE GOD OR NOT. “… Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).
YOU ARE COMPLETELY FREED FROM SIN or the sinful nature. THE SINFUL NATURE IS CRUCIFIED AND DEAD, BUT IT IS UP TO YOU, BY TRUSTING IN AND DEPENDING UPON THE INDWELLING SPIRIT,  TO “CHOOSE” TO “WALK” AND “LIVE” FREE!!
Mortifying the DEEDS of the SINFUL NATURE is what the process of sanctification entails, but ONLY “THROUGH” the indwelling Holy Spirit.
If you can be BORN a sinner, then being a sinner is NOT simply what YOU DO, but it is a REALITY of what YOU ARE. “…. I was born a sinner —yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). “… The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).   
SINFUL BEHAVIOR is a symptom of what YOU ARE. “…. I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).  “… The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).   “... I want to do what is right, but I can’t . I want to do what is good,but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (the symptoms of the flesh nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… For all have sinned (all have the flesh nature) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “… all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV).
SIX (6) TRUTHS ABOUT THE SINFUL NATURE: 1.The bible tells us that all of humanity are BORN sinners, because of the FLESH nature. “…. I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT) “… The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).   
2. All of humanity will become a slave, in one form or another, to the SINFUL BEHAVIORS produced by the FLESH nature. “…I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).    
3. Without the indwelling Holy Spirit, mankind has NO POWER over the flesh nature. “...Who will free me from this life that is dominated by [the sin nature ]?” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “... APART FROM [Christ]... you can do nothing  …” (John 15:1-11 NASB).  However, “ … [You] … can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth … [you]… ” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).“… The ...[flesh]... nature ...never did obey God’s laws, and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).
4. Mankind is left with a flesh nature that ONLY wants to DO EVIL (sin) and CAN ONLY do evil (sin). “... I want to do what is right, but I can’t .I want to do what is good, but I don’t …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… The sinful nature (body) wants to do evil ... so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions. ……” (Galatians 5 NLT).
5. The sin nature is automatically and naturally hostile toward God and is totally incapable of DOING anything righteous or holy. “… The sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will . …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). YOU CAN NOT DEPEND UPON THE SINFUL NATURE TO LIVING HOLY!!
6. The sinful nature and the dictates or the senses, trains the lost soul to practice sin and PROVES that mankind is a SLAVE to the EVIL ONE. “…Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” (Romans 6:16 KJV).
“… SIN is the transgression of the... [Holy] ... law ….” (1 John 3:4 KJV).
“…of every tree of the garden THOU MAYEST FREELY EAT: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou  SHALT NOT EAT of it; for in THE DAY THAT THOU EATEST thereof THOU SHALT SURELY DIE…” (Genesis 2:16-17 KJV). BUT“… The woman [became] ... convinced [to eat from the tree, anyway]... She saw that the tree was beautiful and its fruit looked delicious, and she wanted the wisdom it would give her. So she took some of the fruit and ate it...” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “….She [choose to take] ... some of the fruit and [eat] ... IT. Then she gave some to her husband, who was with her, and HE ATE IT, too …” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT). “.... At that moment their eyes were opened … ” (Genesis 3:1-7 NLT).  At that moment, they transgressed God’s holy law and “… [their] ...INIQUITIES … separated … [them from] ... God…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV). “… It’s YOUR SINS that … [will] ... cut you off from God…” (Isaiah 59:2 NLT). 
Adam and Eve were both, originally, MADE whole and HAD the FREEDOM of choice. My son, Oshawn, said, they only had one choice, because SIN was “NOT” an issue, and that was to CHOOSE to OBEY. You are ALSO made whole again and HAVE the FREEDOM of CHOICE to OBEY. “… Jesus Christ maketh thee whole ( SAVES, RESTORES , AND MAKES YOU WHOLE YOU AGAIN ) …” (Acts 9:34 KJV). Therefore, “... Stand fast (keep enduring) therefore in the liberty (freedom from sin and freedom to OBEY) wherewith Christ hath made us free , and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage ...” (Galatians 5:1 KJV).
YOU HAVE BEEN FREED FROM SIN. HOWEVER, YOU CAN FREELY CHOOSE TO BECOME ENTANGLED AGAIN WITH THE YOKE OF BONDAGE, BY PRACTICING and LIVING A SINFUL, LIFESTYLE!
YOU LIVE and PRACTICE a SINFUL LIFESTYLE, NOT BECAUSE YOU HAVE TO (YOU ARE FREE FROM SIN), BUT BECAUSE YOU “CHOOSE” TO!! “…the willof God (his heart’s desire, his choice, what he wants, etc.), [is]…your SANCTIFICATION …” (1 Thessalonians 4:3 NASB).  “…Be transformedby the renewing of your mind….” (Romans 12:2 KJV). “…beconformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV). “... Resist the devil, AND he WILL flee from you...” (James 4:7 KJV). “... RESIST him (the evil one), standing firm in the faith ( in your trust in and dependency upon God)...” (1 Peter 5:9 NIV). “...do not give the devil an opportunity...” (Ephesians 4:27 NASB). Not ONLY did God FREE you from the POWER of sin's control, with the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the death, but he EMPOWERS you to LIVE in that FREEDOM through HIS indwelling Holy Spirit. YOU CAN'T DEPEND UPON THE SINFUL NATURE TO HELP YOU LIVE HOLY, BUT YOU CAN DEPEND UPON GOD'S POWERFUL INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT!    YOU CHOOSE!

THE SINFUL NATURE: THE BIRTH OF DYSFUNCTIONAL

                                   THE SINFUL NATURE: THE DEEDS OF THE FLESH

“… the deeds of the flesh are evident , which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).
“... But if through the power of the Spirit (the indwelling Holy Spirit) you [choose to]... 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).*The PERSONALITY and the IDENTITY is formed from early childhood. All people are born with the same NATURE (sinful) with particular temperaments or propensities. Nobody is born with a developed  personality OR identity, but they start FORMING them through early life experiences.
Personality and identity GROWS, DEVELOPS, and FORMS or SHAPES people into unique individuals as they repeat certain behaviors over and over within their life experiences.
The body of flesh and the FIVE SENSES were originally given to help mankind engage, interact, and experience being “LIVING SOULS” who were meant to develop, grow, and form or shape them into healthy spiritual personalities and identities within God’s GOOD created world.
However, the EVIL ONE USED the body of flesh and its five senses to KILL, STEAL, and DESTROY the relationship between the SOUL and the Holy Spirit.
The “LIVING” part of the soul DIED spiritually, immediately, and was left to grow, develop, and form or shape their personalities and identities within a world that was NOW under the POWER of the EVIL ONE; without the indwelling Holy Spirit.
The personalities and identities, of mankind, became tainted and  DSYFUNCTIONAL. 

god make mankind body, soul, and spirit. they are dysfunctional because. without god, the holy spirit, they are "only" a body and a soul.
Information, put into the heart, that is responsible for growing, developing, forming personality and identity was LEARNED from the things of the world - under the power of the EVIL ONE.
 Being in a world, under the power of the EVIL ONE, has completely impacted the character traits, decisions, and identity of mankind.
Most of a person’s daily activities form, shape and mold their personalities and identities which EMERGE within routine situations that one is consistently exposed to.
The routine situations that one is consistently exposed to allows them to learn formations of behavior that empower them to reach necessary or desirable goals.
The formations of behavior that empower people to reach necessary or desirable goals are usually repeated over and over again. It is the repetition of particular behaviors, within, various environments, stable or unstable, that personality and identity FORMS or SHAPES,
Under the power of the EVIL ONE ALL, formations of behaviors that are learned through the body of flesh and its five senses and are practiced over a lifetime become unchanging parts of the personality and identity.
 The unchanging parts of personality and identity will influence how a person internalizes values, makes decisions, develops character traits, and create individuality that eventually become amazingly stable over time.
Personalities and identities that grow, develop, and form or shape through the body of flesh and its senses not only produce formations of behavior, but also formations of mental processes too.
Formations of mental processes is the consistent, stable way a person thinks, which is also a result of their early childhood experiences and has an POWERFUL influence over personality, identity, and the formations of behavior that empower them both.
Formations of behavior and formations of mental processes are POWERFULLY enduring and are uniquely second nature to every individual.  “…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there anything too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV).
These LEARNED ways of being and doing, which is heavily influenced by one’s NATURE or what man calls temperament, are impossible to change. However, behavior can change or be modified, but one’s BEING, which involves one’s NATURE/ temperament, cannot.  “…. I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).  “... I want to dowhat is right, but I can’t .I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… For all have sinned (all have the flesh nature) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “… all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV).
Formations of behavior and formations of mental processes are POWERFULLY enduring and you cannot CHANGE your NATURE/ temperament, but you can be DELIVERED from it.  “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN (nature/temperment)  …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).
DELIVERANCE from the SINFUL NATURE is impossible without God. “…The things which are impossible with men are possible with God…” (Luke 18:27 KJV). “…I want to do what is right, but I can’t . I want to do what is good … ” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN  …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).
God’s SOLUTION along with deliverance is: “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind ….”(Romans 12:2 KJV).
“... letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death . But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. ..” (Romans 8:5-7 NLT).
“…The sinful nature (flesh) wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the [Holy] Spirit wants ...These TWO FORCES are constantly fighting each other, so you are not FREE to carry out your good intentions . ..” (Galatians 5 NLT).
The CONDITIONING of personalities and identities developed by the body of flesh, through the SENSES is when a lifetime of practice and shaping become habitual responses to life experiences.
This CONDITIONING that grew, developed, and formed personalityand identity WILL continue to maintain and sustain its influence through the formations of behavior and formations of mental processes of God’s redeemed people. “… so you (the redeemed) are not FREE to carry out your good intentions . ..” (Galatians 5 NLT).
“… The sinful nature (is CRUCIFIED, but through its formations of behavior and formations of mental processes ) wants to do evil ...” (Galatians 5 NLT).
“ … the deeds of the flesh are evident , which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).
The body of flesh and its five senses, without the indwelling Holy Spirit, is a SINFUL NATURE/temperament.
The body of flesh and its senses, without the indwelling Holy Spirit, is a SINFUL NATURE/temperament totally UNDER the POWER (influence) of the EVIL ONE.
The body of flesh and its senses, without the indwelling Holy Spirit, is a SINFUL NATURE/ temperament, that leads MANKIND to commit many “deeds of the flesh” through their personalities and identities that are empowered, continued, and are influenced by the enduring and unchanging formations of behavior and formations of mental processes.
What about all the GOOD people in the world? Remember, the sinful nature/temperament is NOT simply what you DO, but it is who you ARE: a born sinner.
Formations of behavior and formations of mental processes can include LEARNED kindnesses, decency, caring and moral human ethics, but these too have been influence by the EVIL ONE. “ …There is not a just man upon earth , that doeth good, and sinneth not… ” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV). “...there is “NONE” good but one, that is, God ” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). “… [god, the holy spirit]... is GOOD…” (Psalm 107:1 KJV). “… There is none righteous , no, not one:” (Romans 3:10 KJV). “… ALL HAVE SINNED and fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23).
GOOD, without the indwelling Holy Spirit, comes from a world TOTALLY UNDER the POWER of the EVIL ONE and his LIES. “… he (the evil one) is a liar and the father of lies …” (John 8:44 NASB). “...there is “NONE” good but one, that is, God ” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). “… [ALL have become]…..unclean and [their so-called] righteousnesses (efforts to do good is) as filthy rags….” (Isaiah 64:6 KJV).  
“… Apart from [the Holy Spirit]… [mankind cannot]... do nothing [they cannot be GOOD] …” (John 15:5 NIV).
“… All he DOES (God, the Holy Spirit DOES) is just and GOOD ...” (PSALMS 111:7 NLT).  One of “…The fruit of the Spirit is ... GOODness …” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). "....The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives …” (Galatians 5 NLT). 

There is NONE good, but God, therefore, there is NONE good without Him.Formations of behavior and formations of mental processes are LEARNED from the EVIL ONE’s world and it teaches people to be “ETHICAL” and “MORAL” but NOT righteous or holy.
It is easy to THINK and BELIEVE an “ETHICAL” and “MORAL” man or woman would surely get into heaven; right?
What about the RICH MAN in the bible. He was an “ETHICAL” and “MORALLY” upright man. He was even religiously devoted and behaved according to God’s commandment. He knew about the commandments, but ONE DAY he asked Jesus what he needed to do to be SAVED. “...As Jesus started on his way, a [rich]...man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” ...   (Matthew 10:17-22 NIV).
Jesus complimented the rich man on his knowledge of the commandments. “...You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother...” (Matthew 10:17-22 NIV).
The rich man boasted on his “ETHICAL” and “MORAL”  goodness in keeping on God’s commands.  “... “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy...” (Matthew 10:17-22 NIV).
The rich man sounded like a “GOOD” man. Not many truly redeemed people could boast of keeping God’s commandment since they were a young child, but he did. Yet, in spite of his “ETHICAL” and “MORAL” behavior Jesus said he LACKED something. “...Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”   At this the [rich]...man’s face fell. He went away sad , because he had great wealth ...” (Matthew 10:17-22 NIV).
I don’t know if this is the same rich man or not, but he had great wealth too, and ONE DAY he died without SALVATION.“...There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom .  And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame . But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented ...” (Luke 16:19-22 NIV).
The rich man sounded like a “ETHICAL” and “MORAL” person who might have been considered a “GOOD” person upon earth, especially since he behaved according to God’s commandments.
Yet, he too, needed SALVATION, which PROVES it is NOT what you DO, his “ethical and moral deeds” were just “ethical and moral deeds.” His ethical and moral behavior didn’t earn him anything, make him specially deserving of anything, or make him worthy of anything particular. The reality is: “ …There is not a just man upon earth , that doeth good, and sinneth not… ” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV).
The rich man needed SALVATION because of WHO he WAS by NATURE: a born sinner. "…That which is born of the flesh is flesh…” (John 3:6 KJV). “…. I was born a sinner —yes, from the moment my mother conceived me….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).
“… all have sinned (all have been born with a sin nature) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “… all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born missing or WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV).
Thus, it was NOT what the rich man DID, but it was WHO he was by NATURE: a born sinner.  “…. I was born a sinner ...” (Psalms 51:5 NLT). The consequences for having a SINFUL NATURE, even for the “ethical and moral” rich man is spiritual DEATH. “… the wages of sin (the payment for having a sin nature) is death …” (Romans 6:23 KJV).
Formations of behavior and formations of mental processes LEARNED from the EVIL ONE’s world and teaches people to be “ETHICAL” and “MORAL” according to societal standards will NOT “SAVE” them.
“ETHICAL” and “MORAL” actions are empowered by a person's “OWN” efforts whereas the “FRUIT” of “GOODNESS” is produced and empowered by the indwelling Holy Spirit.
It is “NOT” what people Do, it is WHO they are by NATURE; a lost soul. “…The Son of man (God’s PLAN of SALVATION) came to seek and to save THAT WHICH WAS LOST…” (Luke 19:10 KJV).
The rich man DID many ethical and moral deeds, but Jesus pointed out that BEING truly “ethical and moral” was MORE IMPORTANT. “… [ALL have become]…..unclean and [their so-called] righteousnesses (efforts to do good is) as filthy rags….” (Isaiah 64:6 KJV).  
“… Apart from [the Holy Spirit]… [the rich man could not]... do nothing [he could “not” BE GOOD] …” (John 15:5 NIV).
One of “…The fruit of the Spirit is ... GOODness …” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). "....The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives …” (Galatians 5 NLT).
“… I can do all things (produce the fruit of goodness) through Christ which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “... For it is God who worketh in you..” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). 
God’s commandments also said: “... If you help the poor , you are lending to the Lord— and he will repay you...” (Proverbs 19:17 NLT). “...Blessed are those who are generous , because they feed the poor ...” (Proverbs 22:9 NLT). “... Whoever gives to the poor will lack nothing, but those who close their eyes to poverty will be cursed...” (Proverbs 28:27 NLT). “... If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion —how can God’s love be in that person? Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions ...” (1 John 3:17-18 NLT).
With a NEW NATURE what you DO and WHO you are will MATCH.“...Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”   At this the [rich]...man’s face fell. He went away sad , because he had great wealth ...” (Matthew 10:17-22 NIV).
“ … the deeds of the flesh are evident , which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).
“...Look here, you rich people: Weep and groan with anguish because of all the terrible troubles ahead of you... This ... treasure you have hoarded will testify against you on the day of judgment ...” (James 5:1-3 NLT). “... And he (the RICH MAN) cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame . But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented ...” (Luke 16:19-22 NIV).
The RICH MAN said: “... “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy...” (Matthew 10:17-22 NIV). “… The flesh (ethical and moral behavior) profiteth nothing …” (John 6:63 KJV). “… Human effort (ethical and moral behavior) accomplishes nothing ….” (John 6:63 NLT). “… If I bestow all my goods to feed the poor (ethical or moral behavior) , and if I give my body to be burned (ethical or moral behavior), but have not love (God is LOVE and SPIRIT), IT PROFITETH ME NOTHING…” (1 Corinthians 13:2-3 ASV).
“… [ALL have become]…..unclean and [their so-called] righteousnesses (efforts to do good is) as filthy rags….” (Isaiah 64:6 KJV).  
One of “…The fruit of the Spirit is ... GOODness …” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). "....The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives …” (Galatians 5 NLT).
“… Apart from [the Holy Spirit]… [the rich man or YOU could not]... do nothing [he or YOU could “not” BE GOOD] …” (John 15:5 NIV).
“ …There is not a just man (or woman) upon earth , that doeth good, and sinneth not… ” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV). “...there is “NONE” good but one, that is, God ” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV).
Formations of behavior and formations of mental processes LEARNED from the EVIL ONE’s world also teach people to practice sinful lifestyles that are EVIDENT by what they DO.
“ … the deeds of the flesh are evident …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).“... immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).
 “... immorality, impurity, sensuality ...and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).
“... idolatry, sorcery, enmities...and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).
“.. strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger ...and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).
 “... disputes, dissensions, factions, envying ...and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).
“... drunkenness, carousing, ...and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB). “...This ... [behavior, you]... treasure ... will testify against you on the day of judgment ...” (James 5:1-3 NLT).
“. .. Then the king said to his aides, ‘Bind his hands and feet and throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth .’...” (Matthew 22:12-14 NLT).
.“.... And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom .  And he cried and said ... I am tormented in this flame . But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented ...” (Luke 16:19-22 NIV). “...Those cities were destroyed by fire and serve as a warning of the eternal fire of God’s judgment ...” (Jude 1 NLT). 
“... These things happened as a warning to us, so that we would not crave evil things as they did, or worship idols as some of them did ...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 deeds of the flesh are evident …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB). “... I forewarn you ... that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God ...” (Galatians 5:19-21 NASB).
 “... immorality, impurity, sensuality ...and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB). These kind of sinful practices include adultery, fornication, and uncleanness. Formations of behavior and formations of mental processes LEARNED from the EVIL ONE’s world, justifies or condones  having sex outside of marriage, with a married person, single person, same sex person, bestiality, with the lusts of the eyes through pornography, prostitutes (male or female), lusts of the flesh, whore-mongering (male or female), incest, rape, sexually abusing another, or any other form of sexual perversion. It also includes apostasy or unfaithfulness to God with idols (people or things). In addition, all immoral behavior is anything in opposition of purity and holiness, including impure thoughts.
“... idolatry, sorcery, enmities...and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB). These kind of sinful practices include lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, and hatred. Formations of behavior and formations of mental processes LEARNED from the EVIL ONE’s world, justifies or condones improper actions or communications toward another that indicate lewdness or an expressions of lust. Improper communication could be expressed in how you dress, especially in ways that could induce impure or lustful thoughts and feelings toward you from another person.
The worship of idols, which is anything (object), or activity, or images, or persons you have excessive, blind or reverent devotion to or for other than keeping your focus upon God. This idol worship could include praying to empty statues, an obsession, an addiction, a family member, a friend, food, sex, drugs, self, fame, career, money, or your appearance.
The practice of magic using demonic forces or evil spirits that engage you in the dark arts - such as sorcery, incantations, casting spells, enchantments, using charms, voodoo, or potions- whether the intentions are good or to hurt someone.
Hatred is having an intense dislike or hostility toward a person or group of persons. Hatred causes people to be bitter, hold grudges, be unreasonably angry, have a desire to hurt or murder, and harbor ill-will against a person or a group of persons. Murder can be actual or within one’s heart.
“.. strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger... and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB). These kind of sinful practices include variance, emulations, and wrath. Formations of behavior and formations of mental processes LEARNED from the EVIL ONE’s world, justifies or condones being intentionally quarrelsome, argumentative, disagreeable, difficult to get along with, and the initiater of most conflict or strife (drama king or queen).
Unbridled rivalry in one’s private or social life is expressed in the way a person competitively strives to excel  at someone else’s expense, or how they copy off of someone in order to be like them or be better, or how they resent a rival, or their dislike of a person enjoying their success or advantages, or how they demonstrate jealousy with the intent to harm another person (malice) physically or emotionally.
Having a lasting, enduring, or fierce anger, against another, to the degree you act it out by getting revenge or harming this person. Whether your wrath is justifiable or a perceived wrong doing toward you, vengeance and punishment it all you can THINK about DOING.
“... disputes, dissensions, factions, envying ...and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB). These kind of sinful practices include strife, seditions, heresies, and envying. Formations of behavior and formations of mental processes LEARNED from the EVIL ONE’s world, justifies or condones always being in opposition with one person or a group of people with the intention to hurt them using words or action to inflict emotional or physical pain. Hatred and wrath is a vital part of strife, especially when one competes with someone or a group of people for superiority, advantage, or selfish gain.
Causing trouble or constant rebellious disorder of any kind at home, work, in the community, within the family, or among friends is sedition.
Intentionally creating division in the religious communities in order to hurt others or to elevate one’s religious position, intelligence or knowledge over others. Heresies, also reject established doctrine by replacing it with false doctrine that severely conflict with biblical views of the faith.
Being discontent to the point of coveting (envying) another person or group of people’s successes, advantages, material possessions, spiritual possessions, or prosperities and wishing them ill-will, especially if you think you are more deserving than they are.
“... drunkenness, carousing...and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).These kind of sinful practices include drunkenness and revellings. Formations of behavior and formations of mental processes LEARNED from the EVIL ONE’s world, justifies or condones excessive drinking or drug use to the point of altering, the mind, losing judgement, demonstrating improper actions, losing self-control, self-destructing, or hurting others physically (drunk driving) or emotionally (words, vulgar gestures, etc.).
Becoming rowdy, unruly and loud during events or festivals just for the heck of it by indulging in rioting, partying to an offensive extreme, possibly breaking the law, going on drunken rampages, destroying property, or letting loose of all morals or inhibitions regardless of how it affects one person or a group of people.
“.. and things like these …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB). “... “Teacher,” he declared, “all these (ethical and moral rules and regulations) I have kept since I was a boy...” (Matthew 10:17-22 NIV). This kind of sinful practice includes thinking more highly of yourself than you should. Formations of behavior and formations of mental processes LEARNED from the EVIL ONE’s world, justifies or condones that being “ETHICAL” or “MORAL” is a sign you are better than others who are NOT ethical or moral, because you are VIEWED as one of the “GOOD” people, upon earth, compared to others.
“… Jesus told this story to some who had great confidence in their own righteousness and scorned everyone else: “Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector.The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: ‘I thank you, God, that I am not like other people—cheaters, sinners, adulterers. I’m certainly not like that tax collector!  I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.’ “But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’  I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted…” (Luke 18:9-14 NLT).
“ …There is not a just man (or woman) upon earth , that doeth good, and sinneth not… ” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV). “...there is “NONE” good but one, that is, God ” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV).
“… do not think of yourself more highly than you ought …” (Romans 12:3 NIV).  “… there is none good but one, that is, God” (Mark 10:18 KJV).
“ … the deeds of the flesh are evident …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB). “... I forewarn you ... that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God ...” (Galatians 5:19-21 NASB).
“... Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness ; and sin is lawlessness ...  the one who practices sin is of the devil ...   No one who is born of God practices sin ...” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB).
“ … the deeds of the flesh are evident …” (Galatians 5:20-22  NASB).
“...By this the children of God and the children of the devil are obvious: anyone who does not practice righteousness is not of GOD ..” (1 John 3:7-10 NASB).

THE IDENTIFY OF THE SINFUL NATURE VERSES THAT OF A NEW CREATION

THE IDENTITY OF THE SINFUL NATURE VERSES THAT OF A NEW CREATION
“…Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).
“...For in him we live, and move, and have our being (IDENTITY); as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 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). “ …it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV). 
“…by the grace of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV). “… [Therefore]… we all … are changed into the same image [of Christ] from glory to glory … ” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV). 
*
 Identity is based on who you are, how you think about who you are, and the qualities and character traits that define who you are.
IDENTITY is who you are. BEHAVIOR is what you DO. Most people identify themselves by WHAT they DO.
IDENTITY also relates to the internal values that guide and dictate behavior revealed in the choices and decisions you make in life.
Choices and decisions you make in life reflect who YOU are and what YOU value.
If a person values “mental health” and helping people they may become a therapist, or psychologists, or psychiatrist. Who they ARE motivated to DO something.
Unfortunately, only a few people choose their identities (who they are), but instead choose external values that focus on what they DO.
Focusing on what you DO allows a person to build any IMAGE they choose, without engaging WHO they are. Further, they may pursue material possessions, fame, power, or outward appearance as a way to CREATE, for themselves,  a different IMAGE.
When a man or woman CHOOSES to CREATE an IMAGE they are attempting to CREATE a better version of SELF. They may use and copy the behaviors of one or more ROLE MODELS in order to CREATE “that” IMAGE.
MANKIND was once CREATED in the VERY BEST IMAGE ever. God CREATED mankind and they were originally CREATED in the IMAGE of the DIVINE NATURE which is HOLY! “….let us make man in “our” image, after our likeness …”(Genesis 1:26 KJV).  “…..God created man in his own image …..male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “….God formed man of the dust of the ground (BODY), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (SPIRIT); and man became a living soul (SOUL)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).
When a man or woman attempts to CREATE an IMAGE they combine, what they think, are “ideal” behaviors, together, to make themselves “seem” like they have preferable characteristics that are socially acceptable or “good” in order to please or gain the favor of others.“…thou hast gone a whoring after the heathen, and …art polluted with their idols…” (Ezekiel 23:30). “… What shall it profit a man (woman), if he (she) shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul ?” (Mark 8:36 KJV).
The reason CREATING an IMAGE works is because MANKIND will look upon the outside, at what a person DOES, but not at WHO they are.“...God SEES NOT as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance , …”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB). .  “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward , but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness… ” (Matthew 23:27 KJV).
The problem with CREATING an IMAGE is that GOD looks on the inside, at the TRUE SELF, at who a person truly “is” in their heart. You may FOOL others, but God knows a hypocrite when he sees one. “...the LORD LOOKS AT THE HEART…”(1 Samuel 16:7 NASB).  “... hypocrites! ...which indeed appear beautiful outward , but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness… ” (Matthew 23:27 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). “…Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men…” (Acts 1:24 KJV). “… He watches everyone closely, examining every person on earth. The Lord examines both the righteous and the wicked…” (Psalm 11:4-5 NLT).
Some people have found that CREATING an IMAGE is good from a distance, but when there's too intimacy, sooner or later, the TRUE SELF will emerge.“... hypocrites! ...which indeed appear beautiful outward , but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness… ” (Matthew 23:27 KJV).
You may GAIN the favor of some, but LOSE the favor of those that really matter! “… What shall it profit a man (woman), if he (she) shall gain the whole world, and lose his (her) own soul (who you really are) ?” (Mark 8:36 KJV).  
CREATING an IMAGE that is nothing like the TRUE SELF won’t work within INTIMATE relationships. INTIMATE relationships were designed to engage with the TRUE SELF. They may. end up, seeing you as a HYPOCRITE!
What is a “hypocrite?” A hypocrite is someone who PRETENDS to be something they KNOW they are NOT! The term comes from an old Latin word that meant “play-acting.”
Jesus pointed out hypocrites all the time on their public fasting, long, drawn-out prayers, showing off their gifts, and their wanna-be-seem alms-giving. “… Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward…” (Matthew 6:2 KJV). “… When thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward…” (Matthew 6:5 KJV).“… When ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward…” (Matthew 6:16 KJV).
There was a group of Scribes and Pharisees, who were hypocrites and they play-acted their roles by pretending to be public examples of religious holiness, but Jesus KNEW they were NOT. He KNEW their hearts were TOTALLY opposite of their public pretense.
“…Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites ! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrite s!for ye devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves. Woe unto you, ye blind guides , which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor! Ye fools and blind : for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold? And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty. Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift?  Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon. And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein.  And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne of God, and by him that sitteth thereon. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites ! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess. Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward , but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men , but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity . Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous, And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets. Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets. Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers. Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?” (Matthew 23:13-33 KJV).
Jesus frequently talked about religious pretenders too and misguided zealots play-acting the role of “disciple” and called them hypocrites. “…And then he added, “It is what comes from inside that defiles you. For from within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you…” (Mark 7:20-23 NLT).
Hypocrisy or PRETENSE is a SIN. “…Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and HYPOCRISIES , and envies, and all evil speakings..” (1 PETER 2:1 KJV). “… So get rid of all evil behavior. Be done with all deceit, HYPOCRISY , jealousy, and all unkind speech…” (1 PETER 2:1 NLT).
There are consequences to pretending to be someone you are NOT, especially with God. Remember Ananias and Sapphira, who pretended to GIVE more than they actually GAVE. “… There was a certain man named Ananias who, with his wife, Sapphira, sold some property. He brought part of the money to the apostles, claiming it was the full amount. With his wife’s consent, he kept the rest. Then Peter said, “Ananias, why have you let Satan fill your heart? You lied to the Holy Spirit, and you kept some of the money for yourself.The property was yours to sell or not sell, as you wished. And after selling it, the money was also yours to give away. How could you do a thing like this? You weren’t lying to us but to God!” As soon as Ananias heard these words, he fell to the floor and died. Everyone who heard about it was terrified. Then some young men got up, wrapped him in a sheet, and took him out and buried him. About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened.Peter asked her, “Was this the price you and your husband received for your land?” “Yes,” she replied, “that was the price.” And Peter said, “How could the two of you even think of conspiring to test the Spirit of the Lord like this? The young men who buried your husband are just outside the door, and they will carry you out, too.” Instantly, she fell to the floor and died. When the young men came in and saw that she was dead, they carried her out and buried her beside her husband…” (Acts 5:1-10 NLT). “… There is a way which seemeth right unto a man , but the end thereof are the ways of DEATH...” (Proverbs  14:20 KJV). “… There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof arethe ways DEATH ….” (Proverbs 16:25 KJV). “… and sin, when it is finished, BRINGETH FORTH DEATH …” (James 1:13-15 NLT).
Hypocrisy brings forth DEATH: physical, relational, financial, mental and/or spiritual. Spiritually it can lead others AWAY from God and into hypocrisy too. “… I went back to Jerusalem again, this time with Barnabas; and Titus came along, too. I went there because God revealed to me that I should go. While I was there I met privately with those considered to be leaders of the church and shared with them the message I had been preaching to the Gentiles. I wanted to make sure that we were in agreement, for fear that all my efforts had been wasted and I was running the race for nothing. And they supported me and did not even demand that my companion Titus be circumcised, though he was a Gentile … But when Peter came to Antioch, I had to oppose him to his face, for what he did was very wrong.  When he first arrived, he ate with the Gentile believers, who were not circumcised. But afterward, when some friends of James came, Peter wouldn’t eat with the Gentiles anymore. He was afraid of criticism from these people who insisted on the necessity of circumcision. As a result, other Jewish believers followed Peter’s hypocrisy , and even Barnabas was led astray by their hypocrisy …” (Galatians 2:1-13 NLT).
In addition, when a man or woman attempt to CREATE an IMAGE based on “acceptable” or so-called “good” behavior, it is within a world, where ALL PEOPLE are UNDER the POWER of the EVIL ONE (the GREATEST hypocrite of all). “… He was a murderer from the beginning …” (John 8:44 NASB).
The EVIL ONE will lie to you, as he did to Eve, and make you believe you can be“good” and “acceptable” without God. “… for he is a liar and the father of lies …” (John 8:44 NASB). Thus, “… There is none righteous , no, not one:” (Romans 3:10 KJV). “ …There is not a just man upon earth , that doeth good, and sinneth not… ” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV). “… ALL HAVE SINNED and fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23). “… [ALL have become]…..unclean and [their so-called] righteousnesses (efforts to BE good is) as filthy rags….” (Isaiah 64:6 KJV).
You can CREATE the IMAGE and “still” NOT “BE” the image.  “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward , but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness… ” (Matthew 23:27 KJV).
Therefore, even if you CREATE an IMAGE it only APPEARS beautiful on the OUTSIDE, but inside is the TRUE SELF and TRUE NATURE.
YOU can’t CREATE an GOOD IMAGE without God.“…. Apart from Me (the indwelling Holy Spirit and Word), you can do nothing …” (John 15:5 NIV).  “...The lord is GOOD …there is none good but one, that is, God... ” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). IF THERE IS "NONE" GOOD, BUT GOD, THEN THERE IS "NONE" GOOD WITHOUT HIM!
CREATING an image (who you want to  pretend to be) is NOT the same as IDENTITY (who you really are). Choosing IMAGE over IDENTITY can be unfulfilling.
A person can have many ROLES in life too, such as mother, father, grandmother, sister, brother, friend, relative, teacher, doctor, writer, and spouse, but those are positions of expectations and responsibilities.
Who you are (identity), in those ROLES, will also depend upon the internal values that guide and dictate your behavior and the choices you make within each of those social context. . “… So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives . Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves.…” (Galatians 5 NLT).
IDENTITY initially develops within the family unit and through the many role models a person encounters in their life. “… You arethe light of the world (parents, family, role models)..." (Matthew 5:14 KJV). "…Let your light shine before men (women, children) in such a way that they may see your good works , and glorify your Father who is in heaven…” (Matthew 5:16 NASB).  
A person’s IDENTITY starts to be formed through the eyes of the family unit, especially parents. The family unit or parents initially DEFINE a person’s IDENTITY for them.  If the parents treat or say, “...you are stupid...” You will DEFINE yourself as “...stupid...” “…As [person] THINKETH within his [or her] heart (thoughts, words, etc), so is he [or she] (actions, behaviors, etc.) …” (Proverbs 23:7 KJV).
IDENTITY is FORMED, SHAPED, MOLDED, and TRAINED in a world (family and social context) under the power of the EVIL ONE. “…. I was born a sinner ….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).  “... I want to do what is right, but I can’t . I want to do what is good,but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin (nature) …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… For all have sinned (all have the flesh nature) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “… all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are born WITHOUT the indwelling Holy Spirit) …” (Romans 3:23 KJV).
Depending upon a person’s life experience their IDENTITY formationmay or may not MATCH available or preferred social or acceptable roles in the dominant society. However, “… There is none righteous , no, not one:” (Romans 3:10 KJV). “ …There is not a just man upon earth , that doeth good, and sinneth not… ” (Ecclesiastes 7:20 KJV). “… ALL HAVE SINNED and fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23).
The struggle with IDENTITY (who you are) - when it does not MATCH available or preferred social or acceptable roles in the dominant society- will often, make a person, compensate it with something else.“... Be … imitators of [Jesus]…”(Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:1 ASV). “… growing in every way more and more like Christ …” (Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT). “… In this world we are like Jesus …” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “...The lord (Jesus) is GOOD …there is none good but one, that is, God (the Holy Spirit)... ” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). “…. Apart from Me (the indwelling Holy Spirit and Jesus, the Word), you can do nothing …” (John 15:5 NIV).  
That COMPENSATION, for not meeting up to available or preferred social or acceptable roles, may be to CREATE an whole other IMAGE or FALL PREY to a negative or darker side of identity. The darker side of identity may involve living with low self-esteem, addictions, compulsions, depressions, meaningless activities, angry attitudes, hopeless worldviews, going on crime sprees, or self-destructive as a past-time.
Whenever some kind of  COMPENSATIONis chosen it is because IDENTITY formationwas seriously damaged.
When IDENTITY formation is seriously damaged, a person’s CHOICES and decisions can negatively affect the way they see the TRUE SELF.
BAD, WRONG, DIDN’T-MEAN-IT, CHOICES, mistakes, weaknesses, failures, decisions etc. affect the way people see the TRUE SELF.
People, with damaged IDENTITIES, prefer to deny the TRUE SELF, especially if it has too many mishaps and even worst behavior. They begin to believe the TRUE SELF is WORTHLESS and has NO value.
In a world, UNDER the POWER of the EVIL ONE, what you DO is a reflection of who YOU are by nature.
IDENTITY formation that is inundated with the wrong values have guided and dictated a hosts of SINFUL BEHAVIORS that have chronically affected the WRONG CHOICES and decisions one has made in life. The TRUE SELF seems UNREDEEMABLE.
It is through God’s redemption, however, that we ALL discover the TRUE SELF, which was originally created with the indwelling Holy Spirit.“….let us make man in our image, after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV). Mankind was originally created in God’s “image”, which is SPIRIT. “…God is not human (he is not a body or flesh)…” (Numbers 23:19 NIV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV). “… t he Spirit of God dwell in you (dwelt in Adam and Eve) …” (Romans 8:9 KJV).
“…..God created man in his own image…..male and female created he them…”(Genesis 1:27 KJV). “…. God formed man of the dust of the ground (body), and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (HIS Spirit or spiritual LIFE); and man (woman) became a living soul (soul)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).
“...and man (woman) became a living soul (soul)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).
When the soul is RESTORED to a LIVING SOUL it is a NEW CREATION. “…Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “...and man (woman) became a living soul (soul) ... [AGAIN] …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).
 A new IDENTITY formation, in seed form, is planted in the heart. “…… THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “… …The seed is the WORD OF GOD …” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV).
The SEED is WATERED by the HOLY SPIRIT (the Word of God), so it can GROW and produce fruit in the life of the redeemed.
“…God is Spirit …” (John 4:24 KJV). God, the Holy Spirit represents a type of water and refers to himself as “...spring of living water...” (Jeremiah 2:13 KJV).
 “… …The seed is the WORD OF GOD…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). The bible says, “....I (God, the Holy Spirit) will pour my Spirit upon THY SEED...” (Isaiah 44:3 KJV).
The SPIRIT is the WORD, which WATERS the SEED and produces spiritual FRUIT.  Jesus had another name. “… His name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “… THE WORD …was sown in THEIR HEARTS…” (Mark 4:14-15 & Luke 8:11 KJV). “… THE WORDS ... they ARE SPIRIT…”(John 6:63 KJV).“....I (God, the Holy Spirit) will pour my Spirit upon THY SEED...” (Isaiah 44:3 KJV).
“… The Spirit of truth (the indwelling Spirit) … will guide you into all the truth. …” (John 16:13 NIV). “… BY THE WORD of the Lord … [GOD GUIDES HIS PEOPLE] …” (Psalms 33:6 NASB).
“… The [indwelling]...HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power (to produce fruit) THROUGH [the redeemed] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “... the  (indwelling) Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in [their]... lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control God is NOT like HUMANS; he originally created them to be LIKE him. Thus, HUMANS were CREATED in the image of the DIVINE NATURE “not” the other way around. “….let us make man in “ our” image , after our likeness…”(Genesis 1:26 KJV).  “…..God created man in his “own” image …..male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). “….God …breathed into his nostrils the breath of life …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV). MOST HUMANS TRY TO "BOX" GOD INTO "THEIR" IMAGES.


The REDEEMED can FREELY choose to WALK or LIVE in a NEW IDENTITY, because they are totally NEW CREATIONS! “…Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “...For in him we live, and move, and have our being ( our NEW IDENTITY); as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).
The old IDENTITY is GONE. You are NOT what you USED to be by IDENTITY formation or by the old SINFUL NATURE. “...You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world. But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language...” (Colossians 3:6-8 NLT). “...once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light!  For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true...” (Ephesians 5:7-9 NLT).  “... thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God. Some of you were oncelike that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God...” (1 Corinthians 6:10-11 NLT).“… old things are passed away ; behold, all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).
THESE SCRIPTURES ARE TRUE ABOUT YOU!!“… The truth shall MAKE YOU FREE …” (JOHN 8:32 KJV).
You are totally DELIVERED FROM your  OLD IDENTITY created through the SINFUL NATURE. Jesus, the WORD said: “… The Spirit of the Lord is upon me (Jesus, the Word of God) , because he hath anointed me (with the Holy Spirit and POWER) to preach …. deliverance to the captives …” (John 4:16-21 KJV). “… all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).
YOU are DELIVERED “THROUGH” JESUS CHRIST WHO EMPOWERS YOU TO “BE” FREE FROM THE OLD IDENTITY AND THE OLD SINFUL NATURE. THROUGH, HIS INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT, HE HAS GIVEN YOU THE POWER TO WALK IN FREEDOM, AND TO LIVE IN FREEDOM!!!  THE SINFUL NATURE HAS THE CAPACITY TO INFLUENCE SINFUL BEHAVIOR, BUT THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT HAS THE CAPACITY TO EMPOWER RIGHTEOUS BEHAVIOR. IT IS UP TO GOD'S PEOPLE TO TAKE AUTHORITY OVER THE SINFUL NATURE AND PUT DEMANDS UP IT THROUGH THE AUTHORITY THEY'VE BEEN GIVEN "IN" CHRIST. THE SAME POWER THAT RAISED JESUS FROM THE DEAD DWELLS WITHIN THEM GIVING THEM POWER OVER THE SINFUL NATURE!
“…It is God who works in you … ” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…The God of peace … that great Shepherd of the sheep … work[s] in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…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). “… [God] grant[s]… [the redeemed]… to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man …” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV). “... 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).
“… BY THE WORD of the Lord ...[YOU are delivered from the OLD IDENTITY and the old sin nature] …” (Psalms 33:6 NASB).
Jesus, the WORD said: “… The Spirit of the Lord is upon me , because he hath anointed me (with the Holy Spirit and POWER) to preach …. deliverance to the captives …” (John 4:16-21 KJV). “…if the Son (Jesus Christ, the Word of God, and the indwelling Holy Spirit)…shall make you FREE, ye shall be FREE indeed.” (John 8:36 KJV).
“…if God be for [you], who [or what bondage] can be against [you]?” (Romans 8:31 KJV). “… BY THE WORD of the Lord [YOU are delivered from the OLD IDENTITY and the sinful nature] …” (Psalms 33:6 NASB). “…if the Son (THE WORD)…shall make you FREE, ye shall be FREE indeed…” (John 8:36 KJV).
Remember: “…The Lord bought ... [Israel] out with a mighty hand and redeemed [them] out of the house of bondmen … (Deuteronomy 7:8 KJV). If you are redeemed, HE BOUGHT YOU OUT TOO from the bondage of your OLD IDENTITY and the sinful nature!!
 GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, IS THE GREAT DELIVER!!!
“…Trust in (DEPEND UPON) the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto (DON’T DEPEND UPON) thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV).
YOU ARE A NEW CREATION WITH A NEW IDENTITY.
“…The LORD will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “…The steps (OF DELIVERANCE) of a good man are ordered (DIRECTED) by the Lord: …” (Psalms 37:23 KJV). “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Your fortress, your deliverer …” (Psalms 18:3 NASB).
Instead of trying to CREATE an IMAGE yourself, God, the Holy Spiritconforms you into the IMAGE of Jesus Christ, your new TRUE SELF!
“….let us make man in “ our” image , after our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26 KJV).  “…..God created man in his “own” image …..male and female created he them…” (Genesis 1:27 KJV).
“…Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a new creature ...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).
“...and man (woman) became a living soul (soul) ... [AGAIN] …” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).
“…be conformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV).
“... Be … imitators of ...[Jesus]…”(Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:1 ASV). “… growing in every way more and more like Christ …” (Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT). “… In this world we are like Jesus …” (1 John 4:17 NIV).
“...For in him we live, and move, and have our being ( our NEW IDENTITY ) ...” (Acts 17:28 KJV).

THE SINFUL NATURE: BREAKING HABITS VERSES DELIVERANCE!

                                        
TRYING TO BREAK HABITS YOU'VE BEEN DELIVERED FROM!

“…I want to do what is right, but I can’t . I want to do what is good, but I don’t…. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway . …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).
“… Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD OF GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).  “…if the Son (Jesus Christ, the indwelling Holy Spirit)…shall make you FREE, ye shall be FREE indeed.” (John 8:36 KJV).
“... Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin...” (Romans 6:6 KJV).
“... I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me...” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).
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A person is NOT born with a particular appetite, but an appetite is developed. Appetite GROWS and CHANGES into particulars as one experiences the diversity of things, within the world, that can be CONSUMED when one is HUNGRY (real or conditioned) for “something.”
HUNGER can be a GOOD thing and was God-given to HELP the SOUL properly care for the physical needs, of the body of flesh, in a WHOLESOME and HEALTHY Way!
The FIVE SENSES were given to help the SOUL engage, interact, and experience GOOD things to consume that benefit them, especially spiritually.
The EVIL ONE perverted HUNGER and USES it to KILL, STEAL, and DESTROY the SOUL so they will NOT properly care for the physical needs, of the body of flesh, in a WHOLESOME or HEALTHY way.
The FIVE SENSES are now PERVERTED and WON’T help the SOUL engage, interact, or experience GOOD things to consume, but SINFUL things that won’t benefit them, especially spiritually.
Information within the heart, gleaned from the world under the power of the EVIL ONE, is responsible for associating specific appetites with a reward system that satisfies the body of flesh in many carnal ways.
Specific appetites linked with a reward system that satisfies the body of flesh, most likely, provides an calming effect. This calming effect reduces stress.
This calming effect that reduces stress makes the body of flesh FEEL better. The memories associated with specific appetites that have a reward system (like calming) becomes desirable to repeat.
This desire, to repeat, turns into a craving when a specific appetite is satisfied over and over again, followed by a reward (like calming). Thus, the desire, now a craving, becomes a POWERFUL behavior that gets OUT OF CONTROL.
Trying to stop the “out of control” craving, through the body of flesh is like trusting in and depending upon the very thing that developed the habit in the first place.
Only God can truly DELIVER a person from entrenching habits or strongholds that have become established, “out of control,” cravings.
Trying to replace “out of control” cravings with something else in order to stop the habit depends on how rewarding, calming, and desirable the alternative is.
Using substitutes, alternatives, or modifications to stop “out of control” cravings associated with specific rewards, like calming, is “STILL” reinforcing the habit, though on a much smaller scale.
For the redeemed the key is “NOT” simply to BREAK the habit, but to be "TOTALLY" DELIVERED from it.
The EVIL ONE puts into the WORDLY environments many things that trigger, entice, manipulate, or reinforce mankind’s cravings, and make it almost impossible for them to BREAK habits.
GOD puts into the HEART the indwelling Holy Spirit that DELIVERS the redeemed from the POWER of triggers, enticements, manipulations, or reinforcements initiated by cravings and empowers them with FREEDOM from long established habits.
The problem with trying to BREAK habits are the demands and rules you place upon the body of flesh. The body of flesh is a vessel created to engage, interact, and experience the natural world through the FIVE SENSES. It does what it does. It doesn’t obey God; it is NOW a sinful nature.
Trying to BREAK a habit, by attempting to discipline your body of flesh alone or without the help of the indwelling Holy Spirit will ONLY make the “out of control” craving more DESPERATE. Eventually, you will end up indulging in the established habit, AGAIN and AGAIN, and AGAIN...maybe even MORE.
Being DELIVERED from a habit by trusting in and depending upon the FREEDOM through Jesus Christ, the POWERFUL indwelling Holy Spirit is the ONLY way to STOP an “out of control” craving.
The sinful nature is dead and crucified, but the old mindset is learned, informed, and conditioned to respond to triggers, enticements, manipulations, and reinforcements that are everywhere in the EVIL ONE’S carnal environments, which make it almost impossible to break  “out of control” and established habits.
In addition, indulging in, “out of control” cravings are easy, accessible, familiar, comfortable, and satisfying. The EVIL ONE through one or more of your FIVE SENSES conditioned your body of flesh to have an appetite for sinful pleasures that reward you, calm you, and fulfill your desire until it becomes an “out of control” craving and an established, unbreakable habit.
God does not come to REPAIR, FIX, ALTER, or REPLACE “out of control” cravings that have become established habits, he came to DELIVER  and FREE you completely from them. He came to EMPOWER the redeemed to walk and live in FREEDOM from “out of control” cravings and their established, sinful habits.
Trying to put RULES and REGULATIONS upon the body of flesh with “out of control” cravings and long established habits is a recipe for failure. Ethical behavior is NOT spiritual behavior. “… The ...[body of]...flesh profiteth nothing …” (John 6:63 KJV). “… Human effort (through the body of flesh) accomplishes nothing ….” (John 6:63 NLT). “… If I bestow all my goods to feed the poor (body of flesh effort only) , and if I give my body to be burned (body of flesh effort only), but have not love (God is LOVE and the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT), 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).
“… The sinful nature is always hostile to God . …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “..[The sinful nature]... never did obey God’s laws , and it never will .…” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “...those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).
Many go on diets from their “out of control” cravings and some are successful as long as they stick to the rules and regulations. It is always a struggle.
On the other hand, some choose to have faith in God, the Holy Spirit to DELIVER them from their cravings and have overwhelming victory as long as they continually trust in and depend upon his POWERFUL indwelling Holy Spiritto EMPOWER them to WALK in FREEDOM. “... In the world ye shall have tribulation : but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world...” (John 16:33 KJV). “... Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows . But take heart, because I have overcome the world..." (John 16:44 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). “... d espite all these things , overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).
Following rules and regulations to STOP “out of control” cravings and being DELIVERED from “out of control” cravings may MIRROR one another, but the DIFFERENCE is the HOLY SPIRIT EMPOWERS deliverance and HELPS the redeemed to WALK in FREEDOM. “... [God’s] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of  it ALL]…” (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).
Following rules and regulations is often LIKE trying to FIX “out of control” cravings and established habits, with the body of flesh. Whereas DELIVERANCE “IS” TOTAL FREEDOM from “out of control” cravings and established habits through the indwelling Holy Spirit. There are no rules and regulations, there is only belief and unbelief or trusting and depending upon God or NOT. “... You have died with Christ, and he has set you free from the spiritual powers of this world . So why do you keep on following the rules of the world, such as, “Don’t handle! Don’t taste! Don’t touch!”? Such rules are mere human teachings about things that deteriorate as we use them . These rules may seem wise because they require strong devotion, pious self-denial, and severe bodily discipline. But they provide no help in conquering a person’s evil desires ...” (Colossians 2:20-23 NLT).
“…Trust in (DEPEND UPON) the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto (DON’T DEPEND UPON) thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 KJV). “…The LORD will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “… He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “… You are my helper and my savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT).   “…The steps (OF DELIVERANCE) of a good man (woman) are ordered (DIRECTED) by the Lord: …” (Psalms 37:23 KJV). “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Your fortress, your deliverer …” (Psalms 18:3 NASB).
When the redeemed are DELIVERED from “out of control” cravings and established habits the problem is NOT the body of flesh and its dictates anymore, but the struggle is “IN” the MIND. “...Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there...” (Galatians 5:24 NLT). “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (through the WORD of God) ….”(Romans 12:2 KJV). 
Being DELIVERED and FREED from SIN requires exposure to the TRUTH. It is the TRUTH that sets you FREE.  “… Who will free me from this life that is dominated by SIN? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord (the WORD OF GOD)…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).   Jesus had another name. “… His name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB).“… the Son (Jesus Christ, the indwelling Holy Spirit. the Word of God)…shall make you FREE...” (John 8:36 KJV).
The EVIL ONE conditioned, your body of flesh and its FIVE SENSES, to CRAVE sinful pleasures and some of those pleasures have gotten “out of control.”
Thus, just because Jesus Christ has SET you FREE and DELIVERED you from the sinful nature doesn’t automatically STOP your “out of control” cravings and established habits.
The “out of control” cravings and established habits don’t just disappear. What should you do?
1. Don’t follow rules and regulations, but have faith in your DELIVERANCE from the passions and affections of the sinful nature which is now dead and crucified. “... w hy do you keep on following the rules of the world, such as, “Don’t handle! Don’t taste! Don’t touch!”? ... Such rules are mere human teachings ... . These rules may seem wise .. But they provide no help in conquering a person’s evil desires ...” (Colossians 2:20-23 NLT). “...Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there...” (Galatians 5:24 NLT). “..they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts...” (Galatians 5:24 KJV).
2. The “out of control” cravings and established habits NO LONGER have any POWER over you. “… you are not (no longer) controlled by your sinful nature. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “... you have no obligation (anymore) to do what your sinful nature urges you to do …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “... ye ...[are]... FREE indeed.” (John 8:36 KJV).
3. Trust in and depend upon God’s WORD in order to WALK in your FREEDOM and DELIVERANCE from “out of control” cravings and established habits. He will “… strengthened ... [you] … with might by his Spirit in the inner man …” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV). “… [He will strengthen you]…according to the POWER that worketh IN [YOU]…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV). “...Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, AND he WILL flee from you...” (James 4:7 KJV). “... RESIST him (the evil one), standing firm in the faith ( in your trust in and dependency upon God)...” (1 Peter 5:9 NIV). “...do not give the devil an opportunity...” (Ephesians 4:27 NASB).
4. God, the indwelling Holy Spirit is “IN” you. “… the Spirit of God dwell in you …” (Romans 8:9 KJV).  “…. the Spirit of God dwelleth in you ...” (1 Corinthians 3:16 KJV). “…your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you , which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” (1 Corinthians 6:19 KJV). “…God hath said, I will dwell in them ...” (2 Corinthians 6:16 KJV).
5. Not only is the indwelling Holy Spirit “IN” you; he will HELP you. “… He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “… The Lord helps them , rescuing them from the wicked. He saves them, and they find shelter in him…” (Psalms 37:40 NLT). “… The Sovereign Lord helps me …” (Isaiah 50:7 NLT).  “… You are my helper and my savior …” (Psalms 40:17 NLT). “…[God is]… Your rock and Your fortress, your deliverer , Your GOD , Your rock , in whom [you can] … take refuge; Your shield and the horn of Your salvation , YOUR stronghold .…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).
6. Have faith that you are ALREADY DELIVERED, but allow the indwelling Holy Spirit to empower you to walk in DELIVERANCE through the process of sanctification.“…Christ ….loved the church, and GAVE himself for it ; That he might SANCTIFY and CLEANSE it, with the washing of water by the word...”(Ephesians 5:25-25 KJV). “…The God of peace Himself SANCTIFY you ENTIRELY…” (1 Thessalonians 5:23 NASB). “...God has chosen you from the beginning for SALVATION through SANCTIFICATIONby the Spirit and faith in the truth …” (2 Thessalonians 2:13 NASB “….ye are SANCTIFIED…in the name of the Lord Jesus (the Word), and by the SPIRIT of our GOD …” (1 Corinthians 6:9-11 KJV).
7. Sanctification and becoming transformed (from “out of control” cravings and established habits) comes through renewing YOUR MIND with the Word of God. “… Be transformed by the renewing of your mind….”(Romans 12:2 KJV).“…be conformed to the image of his Son…” (ROMANS 8:29 KJV).“… [Therefore, the redeemed]… are changed into the same image [of Christ] from glory to glory …” (2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV). “…until we …become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ…” (Ephesians 4:14 NIV).  
8. Your DELIVERANCE may MIRROR those who are following rules and regulations, but remember the difference is JESUS CHRIST is doing the work of empowering you with strength, through the POWER of the indwelling Holy Spirit, to walk in “that” deliverance. “…It is …God [the indwelling Holy Spirit] ... who does the work (of deliverance) IN and THROUGH all of us who are his… (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “… The [indwelling]...HOLY SPIRIT DISPLAYS God’s power THROUGH [you] … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “... For it is God who worketh in you, both to will (to desire to be delivered) and to do (to actually walk in deliverance) of His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “… I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). “… the God of peace… that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in [you, through the indwelling Holy Spirit]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).
9. When the redeemed fail and fall back into “out of control” cravings and long established habits they have stopped trusting and depending upon the POWERFUL indwelling Holy Spirit. Most likely, they have started depending upon the rules and regulations of those who are simply MIRRORING their deliverance, but are not actually being empowered by it!  “...when the wheat spouted and formed heads, then the weeds appeared...Where ... did the weeds come from? .... Do you want us to go and pull them up?...NO... “... Let both grow together until the harvest...” (Matthew 13:30 KJV). “... allow both to grow together until the harvest...”(Matthew 13:30 NASB).“… GROW to maturity …” (2 Corinthians 13:11 NLT). “…until Christ be formed in you…” (Galatians 4:19 KJV). “…Ye shall know [the delivered]… by their fruits …” (Matthew 7:16 KJV). “… He(she) who ABIDES in Me and I in him (her), he(she) bears much fruit   … ” (John 15:1-11 NASB). "…My Father is glorified by this, that...[HIS PEOPLE]... bear much fruit, and so PROVE to be My disciples (MY DELIVERED people)...” (John 15:8 NIV).
10. BE CAREFUL of the TRICKS of the EVIL ONE! “… The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants ... ……” (Galatians 5 NLT). “… so you are not free to carry out your good intentions . …” (Galatians 5 NLT).  “...do not give the devil an opportunity...” (Ephesians 4:27 NASB). “... Resist the devil, AND he WILL flee from you...” (James 4:7 KJV). “... RESIST him (the evil one)...” (1 Peter 5:9 NIV).
FOLLOWING RULES AND REGULATIONS, THROUGH SELF-EFFORT IS NOT DELIVERANCE FROM THE BODY OF FLESH (SINFUL NATURE) or ITS CRAVINGS, AND HABITS. “... w hy do you keep on following the rules of the world, such as, “Don’t handle! Don’t taste! Don’t touch!”? ... Such rules are mere human teachings ... . These rules may seem wise .. But they provide no help in conquering a person’s evil desires ...” (Colossians 2:20-23 NLT). “...Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there...” (Galatians 5:24 NLT). “..they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts...” (Galatians 5:24 KJV).
 again, rULES AND REGULATIONS, THROUGH SELF-EFFORT IS NOT DELIVERANCE FROM THE BODY OF FLESH (SINFUL NATURE) or ITS CRAVINGS, AND HABITS. “... w hy do you keep on following the rules of the world, such as, “Don’t handle! Don’t taste! Don’t touch!”? ... Such rules are mere human teachings ... . These rules may seem wise .. But they provide no help in conquering a person’s evil desires ...” (Colossians 2:20-23 NLT).
However, trust in and dependency upon god’s deliverance through the powerful indwelling holy spirit makes you “free” from the body of flesh (sinful nature) and its cravings, and habits.
“… The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants ... ……” (Galatians 5 NLT). “… so you are not free to carry out your good intentions . …” (Galatians 5 NLT).  
“… Can an Ethiopian change his skin or a leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil…” (Jeremiah 13:23 NIV). “... I want to do what is right, but I can’t… ” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).
The body of flesh has too many “out of control” cravings, sinful appetites, and forbidden desires.“...The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin (through the body of flesh ( sin nature))…” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).
“… Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord … ” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).
The body of flesh (sinful nature) cannot and will not follow rules and regulations. “… The sinful nature is always hostile to God …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “... [The SINFUL NATURE]... never did obey God’s (HOLY) laws , and it never will …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “… The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants ...so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. ……” (Galatians 5 NLT).
Therefore, following rules and regulations, through the effort of the body of flesh, won’t deliver you from its “out of control” cravings, wrong appetites, sinful desires, and perverted hunger. “... These rules may seem wise .. But they provide no help in conquering a person’s evil desires ...” (Colossians 2:20-23 NLT). “... so you are not free to carry out your good intentions . … …” (Galatians 5 NLT).
There is only “one way” and that’s through the deliverance of jesus Christ.  “... [God, the Holy Spirit] ...has sent me (Jesus) to proclaim that captives will be released...” (Luke 4:18 NLT). “… Who will free me from this life that is dominated by [out of control cravings, wrong appetites, sinful desires, etc.)? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “… The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord … ” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).
He came to set you totally “FREE” from the body of flesh (sinful nature) and its cravings, wrong appetites, sinful desires, and perverted hungers.
“…The [invisible Holy] ...Spirit  … anointed [empowered JESUS] to preach the gospel to the poor ... [empowered him] to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives …” (John 4:16-21 KJV). “... to proclaim that captives will be released ...” (Luke 4:18 NLT).
“… He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “… The Lord helps them , rescuing them from the wicked. He saves them, and they find shelter in him…” (Psalms 37:40 NLT). “… The Sovereign Lord helps me …” (Isaiah 50:7 NLT).  “… You are my helper and my savior …” (Psalms 40:17 NLT).
 “…[God is]… Your GOD , Your rock , in whom [you can] … take refuge…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).
“…[God is]… Your shield and the horn of Your salvation , YOUR stronghold .…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).
“…[God is]… Your rock and Your fortress, your deliverer …" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).