Pensacola Helene Jefferson's Blog, page 9

GETTING, FROM GOD, WHAT YOU DON'T DESERVE!

GRACE AND MERCYGETTING, FROM GOD, WHAT YOU DON'T DESERVE

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

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

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God chose each one of his children to be his very own. This is the place where the UNDESERVING “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, actually begins.

In other words, the relationship starts the moment God, the sovereign Holy Spirit, willingly DECIDES to choose you in CHRIST and ON PURPOSE. It is important for God’s people to know that God choose THEM, on purposeand that THEY were NOT the ones who chose Him!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Not ONLY does he CHOOSE his people out of HIS LOVE, but he OFFERS them GRACE in order to FAVOR them with his FREE GIFT of SALVATION. “…BY GRACE have ye been saved through… FAITH (through dependence upon God’s WORD); and that NOT OF YOURSELVES, IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD; not of works, that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

Every male and female upon earth was born WITHOUT God’s, indwelling Holy Spirit In all truth, without Jesus, the atoning sacrifice of sin, mankind is deserving of death. “…All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23). “….I was born a sinner (I was born without the indwelling holy spirit)….” (Psalms 51:5 NLT).

“...I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good,but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin[ful nature] …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT). “…the wages of sin is [spiritual]... death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “…For all have sinned (all have been BORN “without” the indwelling Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV). “…all have ... come short of the glory of God (all are missing God’s indwelling PRESENCE)…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

God, the Holy Spirit, GIVES the LOST and SPIRITUALLY dead SOUL what they DON'T and CAN'T deserve on their own.

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

He chose each of his REDEEMED children with the intention of bestowing upon them everlasting love, multiple blessings, miraculous mercy, unlimited favor, amazing and sufficient grace, and bountiful spiritual gifts.  “…in [him] whom also we were made a heritage, having been foreordained according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his will...” (Ephesians 1:11 KJV). They DIDN'T earn it, deserve it, nor were they worthy of his GRACE and MERCY!

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

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

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

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

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

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

God said “this” about Israel, “...For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth...” (Deuteronomy 7:6).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GOD SAID: “... In every nationHE ACCEPTS thosewho fear him and do what is right—…there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all…” (Acts 10:34-36 NLT). "...You did not choose me but I chose you...” (John 15:16 ASV). 

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

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

God is sovereign and omniscient. Thus, whatever “predestination” view you choose, if you are part of the world, God has personally, called YOU to respond by faith. “...But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name...” (John 1:12).

God chose and elected YOU, which means EVERYONE was predestined to be called and SAVED if they received Jesus as Lord. “No one can come to me except the Father which hath sent Me draw him...” (John 6:44 KJV).

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

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

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

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

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

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

GOD "CHOSE" AND "ELECTED" EVERYONE, BECAUSE HE LOVED THE WORLD AND THOSE IN EVERY NATION; WANTING EACH OF THEM TO BE SAVED.  HOWEVER, EVERY LOST AND SPIRITUALLY DEAD SOUL CHOSE, ON THEIR OWN VOLITION, TO ACCEPT GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT, THROUGH JESUS CHRIST! 

NOBODY DESERVES GOD'S GRACE AND MERCY THAT COMES THROUGH HIS SALVATION IN JESUS CHRIST! 

 

CHOOSE TO FOLLOW AFTER THE SPIRIT, YOUR FLESH IS ACCUSTOMED TO DISOBEDIENCE

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 and practiced to the point they become automatic behaviors that are skillfully performed with little or no thought.

Automatic behaviorscan 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 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 (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 training, practice, exposure, and shaping become habitual responses, for the SOUL, that continually maintain and sustain the 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 BEING and is the immaterial self that HOUSES the EMOTIONS, AFFECTIONS, HEART, THOUGHTS, conscience, personality, 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 dictated by the body of flesh, through the senses on how to live or the soul is freed to decide, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, how they choose to live.

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 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. 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.  

The soul was created to dominate, rule, be blessed, multiply, 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 PERSON]... sin (transgression) entered into the world, and [spiritual] ...death through sin, and so death passed to all men (women)—“(Romans 5:12 KJV). “… One sinner (transgressor of God’s holy law) destroy[ed]… MUCH good…” (Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB). DISOBEDIENCE IS INVITED INTO A PERSON'S LIFE THROUGH THEIR CHOICES.

Three things happened to Adam and Eve: 1. They became separated from God. 2. They died spiritually. 3. They became enslaved to the body of flesh through their SENSES.  Adam and Eve had a body of flesh, a soul, and the Holy Spirit, but the Holy Spirit separated from them, which means 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 (with 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). “…the 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 missing or FELL short of the glory of God (his presence) or was separated from the indwelling Holy Spirit. NOW all humanity is born with the same problem. “…the wages of sin (the payment (results) 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 (the flesh) was NOT created to OBEY God. The LIVING SOUL was 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 PURPOSES ADEQUATELY.

IF YOU WERE TRAPPED INSIDE A FORK, BOWL, PLATE, COUCH, COAT, OR TELEVISION YOU COULD NOT MAKE THEM be SOMETHING ELSE OR 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 or disobey God. “…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, the 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 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.

The sinful nature, is a FALLEN 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. The sinful nature meant they had DIED spiritually and were SEPARATED 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] ...death through 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 or don't DO, but it is a REALITY of what YOU ARE. “….I was born a sinner —yes, from the moment my mother conceivedme….” (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 or RESULT 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 (evil and disobedience are the symptoms of having the flesh nature). …I [am] …a slave to the sin (slavery is the RESULT of  having 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). “… [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 or disobey) and CAN ONLY do evil (sin or disobey). “...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 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 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 offfrom 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 reconcileGod 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 accustomed 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).

GOD HAS "FREED" HIS PEOPLE FROM SIN AND THEY ARE "NO LONGER" SLAVES. WHEN THEY PRACTICE A LIFESTYLE OF SIN, THEY DON'T PRACTICE THE LIFESTYLE AS SLAVES, BUT AS VOLUNTEERS.

WHEN GOD'S PEOPLE LIVE A LIFE OF SINFUL PRACTICES THEY ARE CONSCIOUSLY  "VOLUNTEERING" TO GO BACK INTO THE "YOKE" OF BONDAGE!!   

 

LIKE IT OR NOT, YOU "NEED" GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT!

                                                           
NEED THAT IS ESSENTIAL FOR INTIMACY

“…I will supply all your NEED…” (John 12:32 KJV).

*

God says he will supply all HIS PEOPLE'S “need” accordingto his riches in glory, but many of them have experienced various need, in our lives, that they felt God didn’t seem to supply at all.

How are they to believe God supplies “ALL” their need when they have been desperate for his help and God didn’t seem to be available?

Instead, like Sarai, when a so-called “need” arrives they take matters into their own hands. God had promised Sarai a child, but she was impatient, especially since she’d been barren for years and had no children (Genesis 11:30). “…Sarai Abram's wife bare him no children: and she had an handmaid, an Egyptian, whose name was Hagar. And Sarai said unto Abram, Behold now, the Lord hath restrained me from bearing: I pray thee, go in unto my maid; it may be that I may obtain children by her. And Abram hearkened to the voice of Sarai. And Sarai Abram's wife took Hagar her maid the Egyptian, after Abram had dwelt ten years in the land of Canaan, and gave her to her husband Abram to be his wife. And he went in unto Hagar, and she conceived: and when she saw that she had conceived, her mistress was despised in her eyes.  And Sarai said unto Abram, My wrong be upon thee...” (Genesis 16 KJV).

Philippians 4:19 is a promise and yet many believers feel God has failed to keep his word regarding the supplying of their “need” But God doesn’t lie, so what does he mean when he says “… I will supply every need…” (Philippians 4:19 KJV).

The first thing to remember is that there is a difference between a “real” need and a “personal” desire, wish, or want. “Need” is something deemed a necessity from God’s perspective; therefore, anything else (desire, want, greediness, self-indulgence, etc,) is not.

Parents supply their children’s “needs” and so does God. Parents ‘decide’ what their child or children need and supply them accordingly, even if the children complain or whine for something else they “feel” they need.

Parents decide what needs their child or children can or cannot do without. Parents also decide what is vital for the child’s well-being and overall best care. Taking care of a child’s needs are highly connected to the parent-child attachment relationship.

According to the unspoken law of parental duty, taking care of your child’s or children’s needs is a basic requirement. Therefore, parents, by way of duty, will deem what is necessary and best for their own child or children. God does the same thing. He knows each of his children so well, knows what’s best for them, and knows exactly what they need at all times, better than they do (Psalm 139).

Remember when God speaks to his children he is coming from a holy and supernatural REALM and perspective, not a natural one. God has a TOTALLY different view of life. God tell his people, “… [my].. thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways…..as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts…” (Isaiah 55:8-9 ASV).

Therefore, God’s thoughts about your needs and their priority are different from yours. Yes, there are financial, social, and physical needs which are important to each of us, but they are possibly viewed as temporary or provisional to God. 

In addition, there are spiritual or perpetualneeds, which are also essential, yet eternal. God may view eternal needs as having priority over temporary needs in many situations and circumstances of your life. So when God talks about supplying your need, exactly what does he mean?

Pay attention to this, Paul said, “…My God will supply all your [need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus...”(Philippians 4:19 NASB). The bible talks about the “riches” of God in the following scriptures: “……the riches of his goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering….” (Romans  2:4 KJV). “…the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy…” (Romans 9:23 NIV). “…O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God!...” (Romans 11:33 KJV). “…in him (Jesus), we have redemption through his blood the forgiveness of sin, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace….” (Ephesian 1:7 NIV). “…the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people…” (Ephesian 1:18 NIV). “…the incomparableriches of his grace, expressed in his kindness in Christ Jesus...” (Ephesians 2:7 NIV). “….the unsearchable riches of Christ…” (Ephesians 3:8 KJV). “…according to the riches of his glory to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV). “…make known….the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory…” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “….unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ…” (Colossians 2:2 KJV). Again, when God talks about supplying your need, exactly what does he mean?

He is either talking about the perpetual (eternal) need like in the above verses or the provisional (temporary) need in Matthew chapter six. “…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).

When Paul made this statement about God supplying your need what was the biblical context and who was he talking to? “…My God will supply all your [need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus...” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

Whatever your need, God will supply it, according to his holy and righteous decision and NOT YOURS. “…Your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things…” (Matthew 6 KJV).

Like it or not, God doesn’t always supply something WHEN you think he should. He also doesn’t supply what you thought he should have supplied either.

It’s painful when you don’t get what you want from God or what you wanted is removed. Did you survive? If you survived without it, no matter how painful; maybe you didn’t need it after all or you didn’t need it any more.

Sometimes certain things or even people are “needed” for special seasons ONLY. That’s just some food for thought. Hard as it is to face, not getting or keeping what you WANT or felt you needed is God supplying your need too. God PROMISES: “….that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose…”(ROMANS 8:28 KJV).

And remember, whatever you GIVE UP because God deems it unnecessary at the time, God promises to reward you for it abundantly! “…[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).

Getting back to Paul, he was talking to the Philippians and they had supplied his need through generous and abundant almsgiving. Almsgiving is not about tithes or offering, but about giving to meet the provisional (temporary) need of God’s people.

Paul was more than grateful and knew he could not repay them for their lovingkindness and copious generosity.

Therefore, Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, said to them “…My Godwill supply all your [need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus…”(Philippians 4:19 NASB). Why would God supply their need because they supplied Paul’s need?

Whenever one of God’s little ones (HISchildren/brother/sister) are in provisional need and YOU supply that need, God says“…ye have done it unto me…”(Matthew 25: 40 KJV).

Almsgiving is the kind of giving that God also rewards and specifically talks about: “[When]… I was hungry and YOU gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and YOU gave mesomething to drink, I was a stranger and YOU invited me in, I needed clothes and YOU clothedme, I was sick and YOU looked after me, I was in prison and YOU came to visitme. Then the righteous will answer him Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in or needing clothes or in prison and go to visit you? ….WHATEVERyou did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, YOU DID [IT] FOR ME…”(Matthew  25:35-41 KJV).

The Philippians GAVE to meet a provisional need for one of God’s brothers, Apostle Paul, but they didn’t just GIVE to Paul; they GAVE to the Almighty God, Jehovah Jireh. “…YOU DID [IT] FOR ME…” (Matthew  25:35-41 KJV).

Though these scriptures talk about meeting the need of hunger, thirst, clothing, and sickness, God said,….WHATEVER you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, YOU DID [IT] FOR ME…”(Matthew  25:35-41 KJV). Don’t limit God.  “…WHATEVERyou did …YOU DID [IT] FOR ME…” (Matthew  25:35-41

Through Apostle Paul, God was letting the Philippians know he was pleased with their loving and heartfelt generosity towards their brother in need. Further, he would likewise meet their need “…according to His riches….”

The Philippians, by the evidence of their fruitful almsgiving, demonstrated God’s intimate, heartfelt, loving care - he has for each one of us - in supplying our need.

God uses people to supply your provisional need. “For it is God who works in [his people]… to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). You will always recognize God’s disciples by the way they demonstrate love “…one to another…” (John 13:35 KJV). 

Giving to meet provisional need is not limited to tithes and offerings. God promises reciprocity when you give to supply provisional need for others as well. Paul had needs, especially since he was imprisoned and collectively, the Philippians met his needs.

Paul was the recipient of the Philippians “gift” of alms. Paul and the Philippians loved each other affectionately too. The Philippians did not give out of a religious duty, or for show, or with the motive of receiving from God, but because they deeply cared for Paul and wanted to genuinely help him.

God looks at the heart of a giver and his blessings return to them overflowing and abundant when their giving is unselfish and bestowed with a benevolent attitude. “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give, NOT grudgingly, or of necessity, for God loveth a cheerful giver...” (2 Corinthians 9:7 KJV).

You can give generously and without selfish motive when you are not worried about your own provisions.

God is your provider! Jehovah Jireh is your provider!! Therefore, you are assured, “…God will generously provide all [I]… need… [too]. [Therefore, I] … will always have everything [I]… need and plenty left overto share with others” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

Jesus told his disciples, regarding provisional need, “..take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on…” Also, “…the fowls of the air….sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them…”  Therefore, “…if God so clothed the grass of the field, which today is, and to-morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?” AGAIN “...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…” “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; all these things shall be added unto you.” “…therefore [take] no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for itself, Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” (Matthew 6:25-34 NIV).

Paul wasn’t expecting the gift of alms from the Philippians and he was not a mercenary. Paul would usually find work as a tent-maker whenever he went to minister so as not to burden the church.

However, Paul was in prison and truly had a need, yet he was joyful and content in spite of his dire conditions. God, his parent, his loving caregiver, his provider knew his need and supplied it through the Philippians.

The whole point of Philippians 4:19 was for Paul to inform the Philippians of God’s guaranteed compensation for what they had done for him, God’s servant.

Paul, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, told them, because of their generous almsgiving, God would, without a doubt, FULLY, ABUNDANTLY, supply their need. “…All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.…”(2 Timothy 3:16-17 KJV).

God would FULLY, ABUNDANTLY supply their need, and do it according to the “…RICHES OF HIS GLORY, WHICH IS “IN” CHRIST JESUS…” (Philippians 4:19 KJV). This simple but profound truth meant God would fully, abundantly supply the Philippians every need through Christ.

The Philippian’s generous almsgiving to Paul resulted in God’s generous giving BACK to them “…according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus…”

What is God’s glory anyway? Can God’s glory be defined? I don’t know. I think God’s glory is his HOLY presence, his abundant goodnesses, and the witness of his power. We know, without a doubt, “…. the whole earth is full [to the brim and overflowing]… of his glory” (Isaiah 6:3).

Moses in Exodus asked about God’s glory too. We have been told on numerous occasions not to look directly at the sun, the brilliant star in the morning sky. 

However, if you do happen to look at the sun with the naked, human eye, the damage to the retina is irreversible. God’s glory is more brilliance than that of the sun. “And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof...” (Revelation 21:23 KJV).

 “... [So when] Moses said, “Now show me your glory.” …The Lord said, “I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the Lord, in your presence.…But,” he said, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.” Then the Lord said, “There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock.When my glory passes by, I will …cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen...” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV).

Looking directly at the sun damages the eyes, looking at God’s Glory will kill you. LOL. “…You cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.” Then the Lord said, “There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock.When my glory passes by, I will …cover you with my hand until I have passed by….” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV).

God’s Glory passed by Moses and it was the HOLY-presence, the abundant goodnesses, and the eternal power of God, the Holy Spirit. God’s Glory is so RADIANT (his divine SPIRITUAL being), “…no one [can] see [Him]… and live…” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV).

God’s Glory distinguishes HIM from all others “…there isnone like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). His Glory marks him with privileged magnificence “…there isnone like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). SHOUT!!!

God’s glory establishes him in a category of GREATEST all by himself, “…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). “Bless O my soul!my God, You are veryGREAT;You are clothed with splendor Covering Yourself with light as with a cloak…”(Psalm 104:1-2 NASB).“…there is none like unto thee…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV).

His Glory positions Him high above all that is rare and unique, and the radiance of his GLORY is deadly to the human eye. “…no one [can] see [Him]… and live …” (Exodus 33:16-23 NIV). “…His radiance is like the sunlight; He has rays flashing from His hand…” (Habakkuk 3:4.NASB).

God’s Glory is flawless and “…there is none like unto thee, O LORD; thou art great, and thy name is great in might…” (Jeremiah 10:6 KJV). “….the whole earth is full of his glory” (Isaiah 6:3).

 I can’t give God’s glory its true reverence, but I will make a feeble attempt to talk about three aspects of God’s glory for this chapter: the visible manifestationof his glory, the sovereignty of his glory, and Jesus Christ, the radiant witness of his glory.

One aspect of God’s glory, to me, personally, is witnessed through visual manifestations or symbols of his glory, which serve as examples of his manifested presence to his people. “…The heavens declare the glory of God…” (Psalms 19:1 KJV).  “And ye said, Behold, the Lord our God hath shewed us his glory and his greatness, and we have heard his voiceout of the midst of the fire: we have seen this day that God doth talk with man, and he liveth…” (Dueteronomy 5:24 KJV).

“It came even to pass, as … [they] praised the Lord, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever: that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the house of the Lord; So that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the glory of the Lord had filled the house of God” (2 Chronicles 5:13-14 KJV).

“…..Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?” (John 11:40 KJV).

“….The Godof glory appeared unto our father Abraham…” (Acts 7:2 KJV).

“…Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory ofGod…” (Acts 7:55 NIV).

“And the temple was filled with smoke from the gloryof God, and from his power … ”(Revelation 15:8 KJV).

“It shonewith the glory of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal” (Revelation 21:11 NIV).

“And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of Goddid lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof” (Revelation 21:23 KJV).

“And [For 40 years] [God’s presence] went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light (His glory); to go by day and night…Moses could not enter the tent of meeting because the cloud had settled on it, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.  So the cloud of the Lord was over the tabernacle by day, and fire was in the cloud by night, in the sightof all the Israelites during all their travels…” (Exodus 13:21 KJV; Exodus 40: 35-38 NIV).

“The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory” (Psalm 97:6 KJV).

In the Old Testament, the pillar of cloud, pillar of fire, and the smoke represented God’s glory. These symbols of God’s glory were visible to the Israelites and also represented his presence as He also spoke to them through the cloud, or thunder, or lightening. “…Behold, the Lord our God hath shewed us his gloryand his greatness, and we have heard his voice out of the midst of the fire: …” (Deuteronomy 5:24-25 KJV).

Another aspect of God’s glory, to me, is witnessed through manifestation of his power in the different situations and circumstances. “…..This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God…” (John 11:4 KJV). “…Jesus said to her, "Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?…”(John 10:40 NASB). “…Jesus said…I am the resurrection and I am the life…..” (John 11:25 KJV). “And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go...” (John 11:43-44 KJV).

Another aspect of God’s glory, to me, is witnessed through Jesus Christ. “For God, who commanded the light to shine out ofdarkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:6 KJV).

“And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:11 KJV).

“The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being…” (Hebrews 1:3 KJV).

“If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength Godprovides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen” (1 Peter 4:11 NIV).

“And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of Goddid lighten it, and the Lamb (Jesus) is the light thereof” (Revelation 21:23 KJV).

Like the angels, we recognize God’s glory, acknowledge it, praise it, and reverence it.  “…“Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory” (Isaiah 6:3). “…the earth is filled with the LORD's glory” (Number 14:21 NLT).

Remember, Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, said to them “…My Godwill supply all your [need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus(Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…the whole earth is full of his glory…” (Isaiah 6:3). “…Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father…” (Philippians 2:11 KJV). “The Son (Jesus) is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being….”(Hebrews 1:3 KJV).

“…Godwill supply all your [need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus(Philippians 4:19 NASB).

In other words, it is through Jesus your need will be supplied since the riches of God’s glory (riches of  his presence, goodness, & power) is “in” Him. “…according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

God wants to show you His Glory and the riches of his glory, like he did Israel. “He said to [them].., "You are My Servant, Israel, In Whom I will show My glory…” (Isaiah 49:3 NASB).

You are God’s servant and he WANTS to show you His Glory “in” Christ. “….The Word (Jesus) became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we [can see] His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father…” (John 1:14 NASB).

We can see God’s Glory because, “The Son (Jesus) is the radiance of God’s glory and the EXACT representation of his being….”(Hebrews 1:3 KJV).

God’s glory is God himself, which includes his presence, his goodness, and his power. “…My Godwill supply all your [need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus...”(Philippians 4:19 NASB).

So, after everything is said and done what is the “riches” of His glory? “…The mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints (they are able to see it and personally experience his glory): To whom God would make known (aware of) what is the riches of the glory… “which is” CHRIST IN YOU, the hope of glory:…” (Colossians 1:25-28 KJV). “…I pray that out of the riches of His glory, He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being…” (Ephesians 3:16 NIV).

The “riches” of His Glory is “Christ in YOU.” The question is not just “What is God’s Glory,” but “Where is His Glory today?”

This truly boggles the mind, but it is nonetheless truth, His Glory is IN YOU!  “…To whom God would make known [make aware...where]… is the riches of the glory….. “which is” Christ in you, the hope of glory (the hope of his presence, his goodness, and his power)…” (Colossians 1:25-28 KJV). “ …we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us...” (2 Corinthians 4:6-7 KJV).

God’s Glory or his presence, his goodness, and  his power is IN YOU through Christ Jesus. “…Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you…” (2 Corinthians KJV).

This is the intimacy God's people SHARE with HIM that TRANSFORMS their ENTIRE lives and identities! Jesus is literally IN THEM, dwelling intimately within the HEART of the believer!  POWERFUL!! Do you believe it? How does this truth make you feel right at this moment?

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

Believe it or not, you are God’s temple, the place WHERE His Glory dwells. People, in the Old Testament, came from everywhere to see the temple of the Israelites, where they believed God’s Glory dwelled.

The temple represented a place where God’s Glory or presence, goodness, and power actually dwelled upon earth, among His people. “…Do you not know thatyou yourselves are God’s temple, God’s Spiritdwells inyou?...” (1 Corinthians 3:16 NASB).

Without understanding “…Christ is in YOU…” you will continue to live common, minimize sin, and will take God’s temple anywhere, do anything, and, hang with anybody. “…If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple...” (1 Corinthians 3:17 NASB).

Just like you recognize God’s Glory in the heavens and in all creation; He is also IN YOU. Just like others also witness God’s Glory in nature and creation, God wants His Glory to be witnessed in YOU as well. So, “…Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven...” (Matthew 5:16 KJV).“...This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples...” (John 15:8 KJV).

Therefore, “…the riches of the ...[HIS]...glory…is Christ in you…” (Colossians 1:25-28 KJV).  Further, Paul said, “…My God will supply all your [need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus...”(Philippians 4:19 NASB).

The “riches” in Glory in Christ Jesus include: “……the riches of his goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering….” (Romans  2:4 KJV). “…the riches of his glory (His whole divine being) known (intimately) to the objects of his mercy (through the INDWELLING Holy Spirit)…” (Romans 9:23 NIV). “…O the depth of the riches both of the (divine)wisdom and (revelation) knowledge of God!...” (Romans 11:33 KJV). “…we have redemption through his blood the forgiveness of sin, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace (undeserved and unmerited favor)….” (Ephesian 1:7 NIV). “…the richesof his glorious inheritance (born again birthright) in his holy people…” (Ephesian 1:18 NIV). “…the incomparableriches of his grace, expressed in his kindness in Christ Jesus...” (Ephesians 2:7 NIV). “….the unsearchable riches of Christ…” (Ephesians 3:8 KJV). “…according to the riches of his glory to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV). “…make known….the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory…” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “….unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ…” (Colossians 2:2 KJV).

“... [God’s] ways are higher than your ways [and His] thoughts than your ways...” (Isaiah 55:9 KJV). Therefore, “need,” for God is coming from a holy perspective. According to “God’s ways” there is a difference between a “real” need and a “personal” desire, wish, or want.

Paul said, “…My God will supply all your [need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “Need,” in this scripture, is something deemed essential from God’s perspective; therefore, anything else (desire, want, greediness, self-indulgence, etc,) IS NOT.

If you are a parent or have been a parent, you supplied the needs of your children based on what you thought was best for them. Even if the children complain or whine for something they “feel” they need, parents ultimately decide what’s best.
“...Since we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn't we submit even more to the discipline of the Father of our spirits, and live forever?...” (Hebrews 12:9 NLT).

God does the same thing when it comes to “…[supplying] all your [need]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). He knows you so well and knows exactly what you need at all times, better than you do. “..You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways…” (Psalm 139:1-3 KJV).

Remember when God speaks to you he is coming from a Spiritperspective and REALM, not a worldly or human one. “…the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life…” (John 6:63 KJV). There are financial, social, and physical needs which are important to each of us, but they may be deemed temporary or provisional to God.  

But spiritual needs, which are perpetual(grace, mercy, forgiveness, etc.) may be deemed essential to God as well as eternal. God is Spirit and thus spiritual needs may often take priority over other needs in many situations and circumstances of your life.

When God talks about supplying your need, He is talking about both the ongoing, daily perpetual (spiritual) needs and the provisional (temporary) needs. The bottom line is that God promises, through Paul, that “…[He] will supply all your [need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus...” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

You have NEEDS and “…your heavenly Father already knows ALL your needs…” (Matthew 6:32 NLT). “…And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you needand plenty left over to share with others…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

“...The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever...” (Psalms 23 KJV).

I DON'T KNOW "HOW" OR "WHEN," BUT I DO KNOW HE WILL!!! “…[He] WILL supply all [my need]… according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus...” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).

YOU CAN FACE TOMORROW

 

Peter FACED CERTAIN DEATH, BUT THE NIGHT BEFORE, HE slept

“THE NIGHT BEFORE HEROD WAS TO BRING HIM TO “TRIAL”, PETER WAS SLEEPINGBETWEEN TWO SOLDIERS, BOUND WITH TWO CHAINS, AND SENTRIES STOOD GUARD AT THE ENTRANCE...” (ACTS 12:6 niV).

                                                                              *

What was Peter’s SECRET of PEACE and CONTENTMENT as he sleeps between two soldiers “WAITING” for his trial? Did he know what Paul SAID? “…[Had Peter]... learned to be content whatever the circumstances. [Did Peter know]… what it ,,,[was]... to be in need, and …what it ...[was]...to have plenty... [Had Peter]… learned the secret of being content in any and every situation,whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want…” Philippians 4:11-12 NIV).

All of God’s people are encouraged by Apostle Paul to“…BE PEACEFUL and CONTENT. “...God has said “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “... BE STRONG and of good courage, FEAR NOT, “NOR” BE AFRAID of them (problems, issues, trials, tribulations, concerns, divorces, or any of life’s sudden stresses, etc.): for the Lord thy God, he it is that DOETH GO with thee; he SHALL NOT FAIL thee; “NOR” FORSAKE thee...” (Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV).

No matter what God’s people FACE, they can FACE it with Christ who PROMISES to strengthen them. “…[They]… can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth [them]….” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). The indwelling Holy Spirit EMPOWERS them“…to be strengthened (empowered) with might by his Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV). THEY “…can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth (empowers) [THEM]….” (Philippians 4:13 KJV. “….Apart from [jesus], [they]… can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).  “…[It is]...the God of PEACE … that great Shepherd of the sheep...[who will]... equip (empower) [his people]… with everything good for doing his will, and may he work IN [his people]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…according to the POWER that worketh IN [god’s people]…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV). “…HE WHICH HATH “BEGUN” A GOOD “WORK” IN [his people]… “WILL” “PERFORM” IT “UNTIL” the day of Jesus Christ…” (Philippians 1:6 KJV).

WHY WILL GOD DO THESE THINGS FOR “HIS” PEOPLE?“…[God] … careth for[them]… (1 Peter 5:7 KJV).  “…I … will comfort them and give them joy for their sorrow…”  (Jeremiah 31:13 NASB).   “…You, O Lord, have helped me and comforted me…” (Psalms 86:17 NASB). “…This is my comfort in my affliction, That Your word has revived me…” (Psalms 119:50 NASB). “…O may Your lovingkindness comfort me, According to Your word to Your servant…” (Psalms 119:76 NASB). “..The Lord has comforted His people  And will have compassion on His afflicted…” (Isaiah 49:13 NASB). “…For the Lord has comforted His people…” (Isaiah 52:9 NASB). “… Isaac was comforted after his mother’s death…” (Genesis 24:67 NASB).  “…All his (Jacob) sons and all his daughters arose to comfort him…” (Genesis 37:35 NASB). “…So he comforted them and spoke kindly to them…” (Genesis 50:21 NASB). “…I have found favor in your sight, my lord, for you have comforted me and indeed have spoken kindly to your maidservant…” (Ruth 2:13 NASB). “…David comforted his wife Bathsheba, and went in to her and lay with her…” (1 Samuel 12:24 NASB). “…Ephraim mourned many days, and his relatives came to comfort him…” (1 Chronicles 7:22 NASB). “…Then all his brothers and all his (Job) sisters …they consoled him and comforted him...”  (Job 42:11 NASB).  “…Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted…” (Matthew 5:4 NASB). “…They took away the boy alive (healed), and were greatly comforted…” (Acts 20:12 NASB).

Going through situations and circumstances can ROCK and SHAKE the strongest of God’s people. When they’ve done ALL they do to STAND, sometime STANDING can become challenging. “…I will instruct [them] and teach [them] in the way which [they] shalt go: I will guide [them] with mine eye…” (Psalms 32:8 KJV). “…The Lord helps them, …” (Psalms 37:40 NLT). “…Blessed are those who wait for his help…” (Isaiah 30:18 NLT). “…The Lord who made you and helps you …” (Isaiah 44:2 NLT). “… The Sovereign Lord helps me…” (Isaiah 50:7 NLT).  “… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “…You are my helper and my savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT). “…He guided them  …with a pillar of cloud, and … with a pillar of fire.  …” (Exodus 13:20-22 NLT).

However, the story of Peter, sitting and sleeping, PEACEFULLY and CONTENTLY, between two soldiers was written for ENCOURAGEMENT so that God’s people, TODAY, might continue to HOPE in his promises through the STORMS of life! “…For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope” (Romans 15:4 KJV). “Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come...” (1 Corinthians 10:11 KJV).

God’s people can have HOPE, as they continue to trust in and depend upon the ALMIGHTY God, to cause ALL THINGS to work together for their personal GOOD. “...ALL THINGS work together for good …” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV).

God’s people are empowered by indwelling PEACEand CONTENTMENT while they WAIT upon the LORD, during the trials and tribulations in life, that often come to disturb them with physical fear, fatigue, anxiousness, and overwhelming concern about what their future will become. “…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).

 “…I am leaving you with a GIFT- peace of mindand heart...” (John 14:27 KJV). “…letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT). “…The fruit of the [invisible indwelling Holy]… Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).  “...The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives…” (Galatians 5 NLT). “…Ye shall know them by their fruit…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV).

God-given PEACE is a BESTOWED GIFT “…I am leaving you with a GIFT—peace of mind and heart...” (John 14:27 KJV). “…The God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing…” (Romans 15:13 NASB). “…the God of peace…” (1 THESSALONIANS 5:23 NASB). “…What do you have that God hasn’t given you?...”(1 Corinthians 4:7 NLT).

“…The Kingdom of God is …a matter of … living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit…” (Romans 14:17 NLT).

“..I have told you all this so that you may have PEACE IN ME. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have OVERCOME the world…” (John 16:33 NLT).

INSIDE Peter’s STORM he slept double-chained between two of Herod’s soldiers in a prison which was then like a dungeon. There was several other quads of guards stationed outside of the dungeon, at the iron gate, which was securely fastened to hinder any attempt to escape. “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue thatshall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV). “…What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? ... …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “…Who...[or what]... will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “ ... [NO] … [NOTHING] …will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord…” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to giveyou an expected end” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV). “…He willkeep you strong to the end…” (1 Corinthians 1:8 NLT). “…Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God…” (2 Corinthians 3:5 KJV).

The following morning, Peter would face trial, which would result in his death. Yet Peter slept peacefully in the trusting hands of God, the Holy Spirit, depending upon his love and promises while his fellow sisters and brothers prayed through night for him. “...the church was earnestly praying to God for him...” (Acts 12:5 NIV). “…I am leaving you with a GIFT - peace of mind and heart...” (John 14:27 KJV). “…letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

God gave Peter PEACE and desired for him to rest, sleep and NOT to worry. “….God is leading you away from danger …to a place free from distress. He is setting your table with the best food. But you are obsessed with whether the godless will be judged.Don’t worry, judgment and justice will be upheld…”  (Job 36:16-21 NLT). “...he giveth his beloved sleep...” (Psalms 127:2 KJV). “…The LORD (the indwelling Spirit) “WILL” accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “…God is the one who provides …” (2 Corinthians 9:10-13 KJV).  “…God will generously PROVIDE all you need (INCLUDING “HIS” PEACE during the STORMS of life)…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

One of the reasons Christ died upon the cross was to SECURE our PEACE. “…He [was] wounded for our transgressions, [he was] bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace [was] upon him; and with his stripes we are healed (freed from WORRY, FEAR, SHAME, etc.)…” (Isaiah 53:5 KJV). “...Peace I leave with you...” (John 14:27 NIV). .“...my peaceI give unto you...” (John 14:27 NIV). “...my peace...not as the world giveth, give I unto you. ...[Therefore,]... let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 NIV).

Getting back to imprisoned Peter, we see him in a dungeon, restrained and chained between two soldiers, behind securely fastened iron gates, waiting for his morning trial, which would, under normal circumstances, end in his death. Peter was guilty for being holy, living righteous, and belonging to the church (body of Christ). “...It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. When he saw that this met with approval among the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Festival of Unleavened Bread. After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover. So Peter was kept in prison...” (Acts 12:1-5 NIV).

 INSIDE the STORMS of life, INSIDE the frightening situations we face, INSIDE the wearisome PROCESS of tribulations, INSIDE the dungeon, INSIDE the prison, what can CALM the troubled, human heart? GOD’s indwelling PEACE. “...Peace I leave with you...” (John 14:27 NIV)..“...my peaceI give unto you...” (John 14:27 NIV). “...my peace...not as the world giveth, give I unto you. ...[Therefore,]... let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 NIV).

“…He that is joined (fused) unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV). “…God has sent forth the Spiritof His Son “INTO” OUR HEARTS…” (Galatians 4:6 NASB). “…Christ [the Word of God, is]…in you…” (Colossians 1:27 KJV). “…THE WORDS THAT I SPEAK unto you … they ARE spirit…” (John 6:63 KJV). “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]… in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…The fruit of the SPIRIT is love... peace…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). “…The Holy Spirit producesthis kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control….” (Galatians 5 NLT). “… [God’s] …Holy Spirit …is the SOURCE [of PEACE]…” (1 Corinthians 12: 4-11 NLT). “…It is God who works ... [peace]... IN YOU…” (Philippians 2:13 NIV). “…May …God … work in … [you, his peace, which] … is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…The Holy Spirit producesthis kind ...peace…” (Galatians 5 NLT).

INSIDE the STORMS of life, INSIDE the frightening situations we face, INSIDE the wearisome PROCESS of tribulations, INSIDE the dungeon, INSIDE the prison, GOD’s indwelling PEACE is ABLE to CALM the troubled, human heart that has been fiercely disturbed with the terrors of processing through difficult trials and tribulations. “...my peace ...give I unto you … [Christ [the Word of God, is]…in you]  ... [Therefore,]... let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 NIV & Colossians 1:27 KJV).

INSIDE the STORMS of life, INSIDE the frightening situations we face, INSIDE the wearisome PROCESS of tribulations, INSIDE the dungeon, INSIDE the prison; GOD’s HELPS when, his people, find themselves in the LION DENS, FIREY FURNANCES, JOB TRADEGIES, and PETER DUNGEONS of life. “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “…The Lord who made you and helps you says: Do not be afraid …my servant …my chosen one…” (Isaiah 44:2 NLT). “… The Holy Spirit helpsus in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “…You are my helper and my savior…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT).

 “..Therefore come boldly unto the throne of GRACE, that [you]… may obtain mercy, and find GRACE to help in time of need…”(Hebrews 4:16 KJV). 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). “… God  … work[s] … in … [you] … what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…the Father... [that DWELLS within YOU]… he doeth the works…”(John 14:10 KJV).

“...my peace ...give I unto you … [Christ [the Word of God, is]…in you]  ... [Therefore,]... let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 NIV & Colossians 1:27 KJV).

INSIDE the STORMS of life, INSIDE the frightening situations we face, INSIDE the wearisome PROCESS of tribulations, INSIDE the lion’s den, INSIDE the fiery furnace, INSIDE Job’s tragedies, INSIDE the dungeon, INSIDE the prison - GOD ASSURES his people, through his WORD, through other Christian Warriors, and through the PRAYERS of the SAINTS - he is the GREAT DELIVERER!

The WORD says: “...ALL THINGS work (PROCESS) together for good (overwhelming victory) to them (the redeemed; God’s people) that love God, to them who are the called(purposely chosen by God, the Holy Spirit) ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE…” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV).

God will SEND Christian Warriors that will encourage and build you up:  “... Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing...” (1 Thessalonians 5:11 NIV).

God empowers the CHURCH to pray for you: “...the church was earnestly praying to God for him. (Peter)...” (Acts 12:5 NIV).

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

The WORD, CHRISTIAN WARRIORS, and the PRAYING church strengthens, the WEARY, and assures them God, the HOLY SPIRIT, is the GREAT DELIVERER, who will FIGHT for them!

 “…Your rock and Your fortress, your deliverer, Your GOD ...in whom [you can] … take refuge; Your shield and the horn of Your salvation, YOURstronghold.…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB). “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). . “…If God isfor us, who is against us? ... …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “...No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper...” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV).

“...God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam. Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! A river brings joy to the city of our God, the sacred home of the Most High.God dwells in that city (God dwells in his people); it cannot be destroyed. From the very break of day, God will protect it. The nations are in chaos, and their kingdoms crumble! God’s voice thunders, and the earth melts! The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress. Come, see the glorious works of the Lord: See how he brings destruction upon the world. He causes wars to end throughout the earth.He breaks the bow and snaps the spear; he burns the shields with fire. “Be still, and know that I am God:  I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress...” (Psalms 46 NLT).

“….Then you will know that I am the Lordyour God…’” (Exodus 16:12 NLT).

INSIDE the STORMS of life, INSIDE the frightening situations we face, INSIDE the wearisome PROCESS of tribulations, INSIDE the lion’s den, INSIDE the fiery furnace, INSIDE Job’s tragedies, INSIDE the dungeon, INSIDE the prison – though you may FEEL anxious, though you may not know where you are going or what will happen; TRUST and DEPEND upon God to continue to DIRECT your steps.

“…Trust in (DEPEND UPON) the Lordwith 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). “…The steps of a good man (woman) are ordered (DIRECTED) by the Lord: …” (Psalms 37:23 KJV). “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer…” (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

“…BY THE WORD of the Lord  [YOU are delivered from ALL trials and tribulations with OVERWHELMING victory] …” (Psalms 33:6 NASB). “... Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world..." (John 16:44 NLT). “...Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 KJV). “...we must [go]...through much tribulation [to]...enter into the kingdom of God...” (Acts 14:22 KJV). “...despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

“...It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. When he saw that this met with approval among the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Festival of Unleavened Bread. After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover. So Peter was kept in prison...” (Acts 12:1-5 NIV).

“THE NIGHT BEFORE HEROD WAS TO BRING HIM TO “TRIAL”, PETER WAS SLEEPINGBETWEEN TWO SOLDIERS, BOUND WITH TWO CHAINS, AND SENTRIES STOOD GUARD AT THE ENTRANCE. (ACTS 12:6 niV).

Peter, through the Word, through other Christian Warriors, and through the Praying Church, entrusted himself to God. Only God could help him OVERCOME every PROBLEM he faced. “...Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 KJV). “... Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world..." (John 16:44 NLT).

Peter was INSIDE or in the MIDST of a TROUBLESOME TRIAL where he had been arrested, put into prison or the dungeon, was double-chained between two of Herod’s soldiers, was securely fastened behind iron gates, he had quads of guards watching over him, and he was facing a pending trial that threatened to lead to his death by the sword, “...We must [go]...through much tribulation [to]...enter into the kingdom of God...” (Acts 14:22 KJV).

“...despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours  (and Peter’s) through Christ, who loved us (and him)...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

Peter’s VICTORY represents the FAVOR of God upon the lives of HIS PEOPLE, which REVEALS God’s love and desire to show his GLORY (presence, goodness, and power) to them! “…the Lord loves His people …” (2 Chronicles 2:11 NASB). “...Be still, and know that I am God ... the God of Israel is our fortress (defense, stronghold, place of protection, etc.).” (Psalms 46 NLT). “…BLESSINGS are on the head of the righteous…” (Proverbs 10:6 NASB).  “…You surround [your people] ... WITH FAVOR as with a shield…” (Psalms 5:12 NASB). “...overwhelming victory is ours  (and Peter’s) through Christ, who loved us (and him)...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

 “…I’ve also done it … so you will know that I am the Lord…” (Exodus 10:1-2 NLT). “…your deliverer…” (Psalms 18:3 NASB). “…For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning…” (Romans 15:4 KJV).

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

Peter witnessed and experienced, first hand, the LOVE and FAVOR of God. God REVEALED his GLORY to Peter through his presence in the angel (could be a Christian Warrior), his goodness in directing his steps (through his Word), and his power to deliver him out of Herod’s clutches (overwhelming victory)!  “...Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel (this could be a Christian Warrior) and rescued me from Herod’s clutches (overwhelming victory) and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen...” (Acts 12:6-11 NIV).

“…I HAVE DONE IT, declares the Lord…’” (Ezekiel 37 NIV). “…the Father (the indwelling Holy Spirit) that dwelleth in me (Jesus, the WORD), he doeth the works (the Holy Spirit doeth the works of bringing overwhelming victory to his people that trust and depend upon HIM) …” (John 14:10 KJV).

“… at God’s [miracle-performing WORD) … what we now SEE (everything witnessed and experienced) did not come from anything that can be SEEN (it came from the WORK of the Holy Spirit)…” (Hebrews 11:3 NLT). “… He (Jesus) had a name written, that no man knew … his name is called The Word of God (the miracle-performing POWER of God)…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB).

“... When this had dawned on him ... [Peter realized] ...  “he (God, the Holy Spirit)...hath done marvellous things…” (Acts 12:7 NIV & Psalms 98:1 KJV). “… Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done …” (Psalms 40:5 KJV).

“...the chains fell off Peter’s wrists...They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him. Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has ... rescued me from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen...” (Acts 12:6-11 NIV).

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

INSIDE the difficult trials and tribulations, we face, in life such as the death of a loved one, a divorce, the loss of a lucrative job, unexpected diagnoses, fear of going to prison for a crime you didn’t commit, the loss of material possessions,  unjust treatment, false accusations, and other sudden life changes; follow Peter’s LEAD. “...Peter was sleeping....” (Acts 12:6-11 NIV).

Like Peter, many of God’s people, are FACING things that cause the heart to be flooded with troubling stresses such as dread, anxiousness, discouragement, weariness, questions of faith, fear of the unknown, having no control of the situation or the outcome, etc., BUT TRUST and DEPEND upon God ANYWAY.

“...despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours  (and Peter’s) through Christ, who loved us (and him)...” (Romans 8:37 NLT). “...Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 KJV). 

WHY should you SLEEP during these troubling TIMES? “...Peter was sleeping....” (Acts 12:6-11 NIV). “...If God is for ...[peter]... who...[or what could be]... against ...[peter]? ... …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “…Who...[or what would]... separate ...[peter]... from the love of Christ?…” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “....Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword...[separate you or peter from god’s love]? …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “ ... [NO] … [NOTHING] …will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord…” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to giveyou an expected end” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV). “…Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency isof God…” (2 Corinthians 3:5 KJV).  “… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “...ALL THINGS work (PROCESS) together for good to them (the redeemed; God’s people) that love God, to them who are the called ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE…” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV).

“...Peter was sleeping....” (Acts 12:6-11 NIV).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AMBASSADORS OF CHRIST ARE ON A MISSION: GO TELL IT!!

AMBASSADORS OF CHRIST

THEY GO TELL IT ON THE MOUNTAIN

“...[God’s people or citizens]... are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through [them]....” (2 Corinthians 5:20 NIV).

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Many of God’s people SAY they are ambassadors of Christ, but have NO IDEA what it truly means. “...[God’s people or citizens]... are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through [them]....” (2 Corinthians 5:20 NIV).

Here is a working definition of an “ambassador of Christ.” An ambassador of Christis a citizen of the Kingdom of Godwho is employed by God, the Holy Spiritand has been SENT to EARTH on a mission.

The ambassador of Christ represents the KINGDOM of God and its “governing authority.” The ambassadors of Christ also conduct God’s business with the inhabitants of the land

While upon earth “...[God’s people or citizens]... are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through [them]....” (2 Corinthians 5:20 NIV). “...[they are]...citizenship is in heaven. And [his citizen’s]... eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ...” (Philippians 3:20 NIV).

While upon earth Jesus was an ambassador, sent to DO God’s business. “... And [Jesus]... said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?...” (Luke 2:49 KJV). “...He said, “Why were you looking for me? Didn’t you know that I had to be here, dealing with the things of my Father?...” (Luke 2:49 MSG).

“...[Jesus] went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God...” (Luke 8:1 KJV).

“...[Jesus said]... the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me...” (John 5:36 KJV).

“…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD WAS WITH HIM. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

“...the crowds learned about [the Kingdom of God]... and followed [Jesus]. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing...” (Luke 9:11 KJV).  Jesus SAID: “…the Fatherthat dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

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

Signs, wonders, and miracles confirmed that God’s presence, God’s goodness, and his supernatural working POWER was with Jesus, the ambassador. “…God (the Holy Spirit) publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know. …” (ACTS 2:22 KJV).

“...[god, the holy spirit’s].. kingdom  [had]...come ...[upon earth through jesus]...” (Matthew 6:10 KJV). “...the kingdom of God [was] within [Jesus, the AMBASSADOR]...” (Luke 17:21 KJV).

Jesus, God’s ambassador, from the KINGDOM, CAME with a MESSAGE from God, the Holy Spirit. “...[Jesus] went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God...” (Luke 8:1 KJV).

Jesus, God’s ambassador, was an exact representation of God, the Holy Spirit, the SOVEREIGN RULER. “The Son (Jesus) is... the exact representation of his being…” (Hebrews 1:3 KJV). “…Jesus saith  … he that hath seen me hath SEEN THE FATHER…” (John 14:9 KJV).

God’s people are “ambassadors of Christ” and are SET APART for a DIVINE purpose. “...[Christ’s ambassadors...” (2 Corinthians 5:20 NIV). “...[they are]...citizenship is in heaven...” (Philippians 3:20 NIV).

God’s people, by faith, must SEE themselves as the “NEW CREATIONS” that are, because of the indwelling Holy Spirit within them. “…God’s (Holy) Spirit dwells in [his people]...” (1 Corinthians 3:16 NASB). God says:  “… I AM HOLY...” (1 Peter 1:14-16 KJV). “...Therefore if any man(woman) be in Christ, he(she) is a new creature...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “...old things are passed away...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

“...behold, all things are become new...” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

New Creations are AMBASSADORS of CHRIST and are sent to earth to DO God’s business. One important mission, each ambassador has, is reconciling mankind BACK into a right relationship with God, the Holy Spirit.

Ambassadors of Christ SPEAK and REPRESENT God, the Holy Spirit, and his KINGDOM that has COME to earth through his citizens and will SOON takeover. “...we have stopped evaluating others from a human point of view. At one time we thought of Christ merely from a human point of view. How differently we know him now! This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!  And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us (his ambassadors) this task of reconciling people to him.  For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through [his people or citizens). We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!...” (2 Corinthians 5:16-20 NLT).

"...For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it...” (Matthew 7:14 NASB).  Many of God’s people SPENT the greater part of their TIME upon EARTH trying to ensure they live right and go to heaven, but NEGLECT others that God sent his SON to die for too!

The CALLING of God’s people to become “ambassadors of Christ” is a CALL to always be about their Father’s business of RECONCILING the lost, sin-sick and spiritually dead souls to God, the Holy Spirit.

It is an HONOR to be CHOSEN by God, the HOLY SPIRIT and SENT to earth to SPEAK and REPRESENT the SOVEREIGN RULER of all rulers, King of all kings, Lord of lords, and God of all gods! “…You did not choose… (God, the Holy Spirit]...” (John 15:16 ASV). “... [God, the Holy Spirit] ...chose ...[you] ...” (Ephesians 1:11 NLT). “…That was his plan from before the beginning of time—to show ...[mankind]... his GRACEthrough Christ Jesus…” (2 Timothy 1:9 NLT). "… I have chosen you….” (John 15:16 KJV).   

“...God has chosen you from the beginning for SALVATION through SANCTIFICATIONby the Spirit and faith (trust and dependency) in the truth…” (2 Thessalonians 2:13 NASB).

“…[God’s people or citizens]... are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that [God’s ambassadors]... should shew forth the praises of him who hath called [them]... out of darkness into his marvellous light…(1 Peter 2:9 KJV).

“...And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us (his ambassadors) this task of reconciling people to him. For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through [his people or citizens). We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!..” (2 Corinthians 5:16-20 NLT).

Every “ambassador of Christ” was chosen. “... God chose ...[the REDEEMED]... in Christ before the foundation of the world.” (Ephesians 1:4 KJV) "…You did not choose ...[God].... but [god, personally]... chose you….” (John 15:16 ASV).   “... [God, the Holy Spirit] ...chose ...[the REDEEMED, citizens, ambassador, etc.,] ... in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan...” (Ephesians 1:11 NLT).

While it’s true that God’s ambassadors have been SENT to a foreign land, they willingly choose to REFLECT the KINGDOM of God in the ROLES and MISSIONS they’ve been given. “… not My will, but Yours be done [God, the Holy Spirit]..." (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).

Ambassadors of Christ KNOW that JESUS’ obedience, upon earth, made it possible for their OWN, personally reconciliation with God, the Holy Spirit. “…[He sent the] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

Jesus, God’s ambassador, didn’t LOSE his focuse, but FINISHED the business his HEAVENLY gave him to DO. He said, “…[he came] ... to giveHis life a ransom for many...” (Matthew 20:28 KJV). “...[AND Jesus]... said, It is finished…” (John 19:28-30 KJV). “… I [laid]... down my life... [FOR the LOST]…” (John 10:17-18 KJV).  “ ... [Jesus, God’s only begotten son, made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he [bore]...all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT).

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

“...And all of this is a gift from God, who brought [the LOST]... back to himself through Christ. And God has given us (his ambassadors) this task of reconciling people to him.  For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave [his new creations, citizens, ambassadors, etc.) this wonderful message of reconciliation. So [THEY]... are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through [his ambassadors or citizens). [They]... speak for Christ when [they].. plead [to the LOST], “Come back to God!...” (2 Corinthians 5:16-20 NLT).

Like Jesus PREACHED the “GOOD NEWS” of the KINGDOM of God, ambassadors of Christ have NOW, also, been entrusted with the GOSPEL. “...[Ambassadors of Christ]... have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not intending to please people, but to please God, who examines our hearts...” (1 Thessalonians 2:4 NASB).

God’s ambassadors are REPRESENTATIVES of the KINGDOM of God just like Jesus was when he was upon earth. “...Jesus answered, “...My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm...” (John 18:36 NASB)

Ambassadors of Christ are KINGDOM officials sent to earth on God, the SOVEREIGN RULER’S, business.

Ambassadors of Christ are SENT into the world, but they are not of the world, but they are of the KINGDOM of God.“...They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world...” (John 17:16 NASB).

Ambassadors of Christ are EMPOWERED by the indwelling Holy Spirit to do God’s KINGDOM WORK. They are CALLED to take the message of reconciliation to the lost.

In order to KEEP their focus, God’s WORD encourages ambassadors of Christ to regularly SEEK the KINGDOM of God and his righteousness. “...But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you...” (Matthew 6:3 KJV). “...Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need...” (Matthew 6:33 NLT).

God’s ambassadors of Christ came to earth to take care of God, the Holy Spirit’sbusiness. “....And [God, the Holy Spirit]... gave [his citizens from Heaven]... this wonderful message of reconciliation. So [they] are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through [his people or citizens). [They]... speak for Christ when [they] plead [for the lost, sin-sick and spiritual dead souls to], “Come back to God!...” (2 Corinthians 5:16-20 NLT).

“...seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness..” (Matthew 6:3 KJV).

The KINGDOM of God is the SPHERE of God’s RULE over ALL of heaven, earth, and its inhabitants. To SEEK something is to purposefully go look forward it, pursue it, and search it out.

Jesus was the first ambassador of Heaven and when he CAME to earth he preached and spoke about God’s KINGDOM.

He also demonstrated what it was like by going around doing GOOD and HEALING ALL who were oppressed by the DEVIL and his DARKNESS. “…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

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

Jesus proclaimed that, upon his arrival, the KINGDOM of God or the SOVEREIGN RULE of God, the Holy Spirit had COME upon earth. “...Thy kingdom come...” (Matthew 6:10 KJV).

Jesus demonstrated God’s RULE had come upon earth through his AUTHORITY over the works of the devil and darkness. “… His name (Jesus Christ) is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “… Jesus (the WORD of GOD) …came and SPAKE, unto them saying, “All POWER is given unto me IN heaven and earth…” (Matthew 28:18 KJV).

“...Jesus Christ (the LIVING WORD of God), who is ...the RULER of the kings of the earth...” (Revelation 1:5 NIV). “...he is Lord of lords and King of kings... (Revelations 17:14 NIV).

“...On his (Jesus’) robe and on his thigh he has this name written: king of kings and lord of lords...” (Revelation 19:16 NIV). “...God, the blessed and ONLY RULER, the King of kings and Lord of lords... Amen...” (1 Timothy 3:13-16 NIV).

“...May all kings bow down to him and all nations serve him...” (Psalms 72:11 NIV). “...Give thanks to the Lord of lords...” (Psalms 136:3 NIV). “...Thank the God of all gods, His love never quits. Thank the Lord of all lords. His love never quits...” (Psalms 136:1-3 MSG).

Jesus, through God’s AUTHORITY, set the captives free, preached the good news, delivered, healed, opened human eyes to spiritual truths, and healed minds, emotions, bodies, and hearts oppressed by the devil. “...he hath anointed [him]… to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent [him]… to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord…” (John 4:16-21 KJV).

Jesus MAINLY and intentionally focused on KINGDOM WORK, which REVEALED his CLOSE, covenant relationship with God, the Holy Spirit.  Jesus, the ambassador from the KINGDOM of God said: "...I and my Father are one." (John 10:30 KJV).

God, the SOVEREIGN RULER endorsed Jesus, his ambassador. “…God publicly endorsed Jesus the Nazarene by doing powerful miracles, wonders, and signs through him, as you well know. …” (ACTS 2:22 KJV).

God, the SOVEREIGN RULER heard the prayers of Jesus, his ambassador. “…Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. And I knew that thou hearest me always…” (John 11:41-42 KJV).

God, the SOVEREIGN RULER was presence within Jesus, doing the spiritual WORK of the KINGDOM. “…the Father that dwelleth in me (Jesus, his ambassador), he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

God, the SOVEREIGN RULER empowered Jesus to DO the physical WORKS of the KINGDOM. “...Jesus gave them this answer: "Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; [Jesus, the ambassador could] do only what he [saw]... his Father doing, because whatever the Father [did] the Son (Jesus) also [did]...” (John 5:19 NIV).

God, the SOVEREIGN RULER created Jesus, the ambassador to REPRESENT his GLORY or his presence, goodness, and working power upon earth. “The Son (Jesus) is... the exact representation of his being…” (Hebrews 1:3 KJV). “…Jesus saith  … he that hath seen me hath SEEN THE FATHER…” (John 14:9 KJV).

God, the SOVEREIGN RULER was ALWAYS with Jesus, the ambassador, in EVERYTHING he did upon earth. “… Jesus of Nazareth...went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD (the indwelling Holy Spirit) WAS WITH HIM…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

Jesus, the ambassador from the KINGDOM of God “SHARED” his relationship with God, the Holy Spirit by preaching the GOOD NEWS and doing the WORK of the KINGDOM. “...[JESUS].... went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings (good news) of the kingdom of God...” (Luke 8:1 KJV).

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

“... The word of God spread....” (Acts 6:7 NIV). “... the word of God continued to spread and flourish...” (Acts 12:24 NIV). “... So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed...” (Act 12:20 KJV). “...God’s word [was un]chained...” (1 Timothy 2:9 NIV). “... the word of God [was un]bound...” (1 Timothy 2:9 KJV).

Jesus wanted others to experience the SAME covenant relationship he had with his Father. “… I and my Father are one…”  (John 10:30). Jesus said, “…that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me…” (John 17:21-23 NASB).

Jesus SACRIFICED his life, while upon earth, to get others into the KINGDOM of God. “...[Jesus)… [God’s ambassador and]… righteous servant …[made]... it possiblefor many to be counted righteous, for he [bore]...all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “…he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him…”(Hebrew 5:7-8-9 KJV).

Jesus was JOYFUL, no matter what he had to endure, to be God’s ambassador for bringing & becoming his GIFT of SALVATION to lost, sin-sick, and spiritually dead souls upon earth. “…Because of the JOY awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame…” (Hebrews 12:2 NLT).

Seeking the KINGDOM of God, for citizens of Heaven and ambassadors of Christ means DOING all they are LEAD, by the indwelling Holy Spirit, to do in order to promote, preach, speak, and demonstrate that God’s KINGDOM has COME!

It doesn’t NEGATE the human experience, nor does it remove trials and tribulations, but “seeking the KINGDOM” helps God’s citizens and ambassadors KEEP their focus on the MISSION regardless of what they are FACING.“…In this world [god’s ambassadors]... are like Jesus…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “...[They are to be] … imitatorsof [Jesus]…”(Hebrews 12:14; Ephesians 5:1 ASV). “… growing in every way more and more like Christ…” (Ephesians 4:14-16 NLT).

NONETHELESS, “...In the world [his ambassadors]... shall have tribulation...” (John 16:33 KJV). “... Here on earth [his ambassadors]...will have many trials and sorrows..." (John 16:44 NLT). “...Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...”(John 14:27 KJV). “...[His ambassadors]... must [go]...through much tribulation [to]...enter into the kingdom of God...” (Acts 14:22 KJV). “...[YET]...despite all these things, overwhelming victory [belongs to his ambassdors] ...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

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

Their MOTTO: “… not My will, but Yours be done [God, the Holy Spirit]..." (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).

Every ambassador of Christ HOPES to hear the SOVEREIGN RULER said, one day, “WELL DONE!!!” “…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).

“...[God’s people or citizens]... are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through [them]....” (2 Corinthians 5:20 NIV).

 

GOD'S PEOPLE GET FULLY DRESSED "EVERY" DAY!

                                                                      
             PUT ON THE FULL ARMOR OF GODAND ABSTAIN FROM THE “APPEARANCE” OF EVIL                          LET GOD'S PEOPLE #TAKECHRISTIANITYBACK TO HOLINESS AND RIGHTEOUSNESS

 “….Abstain from all appearance of evil.….” (1 Thessalonians 5:22 KJV).

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The bible says, “….Abstain from all appearance of evil.….” (1 Thessalonians 5:22 KJV). There are too many groups or individuals representing Christianity, in the lime lights of life, who care nothing about how they appear to the Holy God, the world, or those who are witnessing their actions or behaviors.

True adherents sit back and say nothing while others blatantly misrepresent Christianity and allow it to “appear” as an evil religion or give it a bad name among possible converts or those who are novices of the Gospel of Salvation. “….Abstain from all appearance of evil.….” (1 Thessalonians 5:22 KJV).

There are many things absolutely and undoubtedly forbidden by the Word of God, yet many, who claim Christianity, do them anyway knowing they are wrong, improper, or inconsistent with biblical principles.

Christians are more divided than ever on their opinions of what is considered sinful or not sinful these days. Right and wrong is NOT based on human opinion or feelings about something, but it is based on the truth of God’s Word.

Christian conduct is often based on man’s opinion or feelings about God’s word than God’s actual truth. Some Christian conduct is CLEAR in God’s word and doesn’t need some major deciphering or interpretation to understanding what is required of individuals.

There may be debates over how to dress, types of music to listen to, whether to drink wine or not, or is it okay to smoke cigarettes, or what games are acceptable to play, but even those should be engaged in based on whether or not they “appear” evil.  The concern is not simply a matter of right and wrong, but does it violate, or corrupt your representation of the Holy God and his Holy values.

Christianity has GAINED a negative reputation NOT because it’s a negative FAITH system, but because the people claiming Christianity have TARNISHED it.

According to historical literature Mahatma Gandhi is quoted as saying: “I like your Christ, but I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.” That was Gandhi’s observation of those claiming Christianity as their faith system.

Jesus Christ distinctly explains how you will recognize HIS Christians. “…BY THIS SHALL ALL MEN KNOW that ye are my disciples, “if” YE HAVE LOVE ONE TO ANOTHER…” (John 13:35 KJV). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…every one that loveth …. KNOWETH God. He that loveth NOT KNOWETH NOT God; for God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

Christianity has been high-jacked, abused, misrepresented, twisted, and contaminated over the years from inappropriate use by individuals or by groups whose agenda does NOT match that of Jesus Christ at all.

Christians are to become and act like Jesus Christ in this world. Real Christians are progressively being conformed to his image. “…In this world we are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV). “…be[ing]… conformed to the IMAGE OF HIS SON…” (Romans 8:29 KJV).

God sent Jesus Christ because he loved “THE WORLD,” which makes his love ALL inclusive and impartial. “For God so loved THE WORLD, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life…” (John 3:16).

 THE GIFT OF ETERNAL LIFE THROUGH JESUS CHRIST. .“…The GIFT of God is ETERNAL LIFE through Jesus Christ ….” (Romans 6:23 KJV).

HE DIED FOR THE SINS OF ALL MANKIND. “…Christ …. died for sins ONCE for “ALL”…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “… Christ died for OUR SINS according to the scriptures; And ...he was buried, and …he rose again the third day according to the scriptures…” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4 KJV).

HE DIED FOR THE SINS OF MANKIND BECAUSE HE LOVED “ALL” MANKIND.  “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent His Son...” (1 John 4:10 KJV).   “For Christ …. died for sins ONCE for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit;” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

Jesus Christ did NOT died in order to CREATE Christian SOLDIERS. “…Christ …. died for sins ONCE for “ALL”…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “…YE ARE “ALL” CHILDREN OF GOD BY FAITH “IN” CHRIST JESUS. … YE ARE ALL ONE IN CHRIST JESUS…” (Galatians 3:26-28 KJV).

Jesus Christ died for God’s purposes ONLY and not mankind’s. “… Christ died for OUR SINS according to the scriptures; And ...he was buried, and …he rose again the third day according to the scriptures…” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4 KJV). “….THE SON OF MAN CAME “NOT” to be served but to serve others and TO GIVE his life as a ransom for many…" (Matthew 20:28 NIV).

Jesus Christ did NOT come for any purpose of man AT ALL. Jesus came to do his Father’s will ONLY. “…I seek NOT mine own will…but THE WILL of the Father which hath sent me...” (John 6:38 KJV).  “…For I have come down from heaven “NOT” TO DO MY WILL BUT to do THE WILL of him who sent me…” (John 6:38 NIV).

It was OBVIOUS that Jesus Christ was presenting SOMETHING NEW and that something "new" would cause a SPIRITUAL BATTLE. "…Behold, I will do SOMETHING NEW…” (Isaiah 43:19-20 NASB). “……There is NEITHER Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female…” (Galatians 3:26-28 KJV).

  "I am the LORD, that is My name; I will not give My glory to another, Nor My praise to graven images... "Behold, the former things have come to pass,Now I declare NEW THINGSBefore they spring forth I proclaim them to you." (Isaiah 42:9 NASB).  

 “…Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword (of the SPIRIT, the Word of God)…” (Matthew 10:34 NLT). “…Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other! (righteousness against unrighteousness)...” (Luke 12:51 NLT)

Jesus Christ did acts that made people recognize God was with him. Nicodemus said this about Jesus Christ. “….NO MAN can do these miracles that thou doest, EXCEPT GOD BE WITH HIM…” (John 3:2 KJV).

People tack the word Christian on their causes, purposes, agendas, lifestyles, politics, organizations, churches because Christianity represents one of the highest standards of ethics and morality.

Christianity may represent one of the highest standards of ethics and morality, but it does NOT mean the people CLAIMING Christianity are actually representing those standards. “…Ye shall know them by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV). “…But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

Those claiming Christianity tack the word Christian on their causes and agendas as an implication of having those SAME moral and ethical standards, when in fact, by their OWN behavior, IT IS NOT!

Please PAY ATTENTION. Jesus Christ tells you, in his Holy Word, how you will recognize HIS Christians. “…BY THIS SHALL ALL MEN KNOW that ye are my disciples, “if” YE HAVE LOVE ONE TO ANOTHER…” (John 13:35 KJV). “…God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “…every one that loveth …. KNOWETH God. He that loveth NOT KNOWETH NOT God; for God is love…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV).

Furthermore, the Word says, “…My sheep (true disciples) HEAR HIS VOICE, and I know them, and they FOLLOW Me…” (John 10:27 KJV). “…whoever believes in me (my true disciples) WILL DO THE WORKS I HAVE BEEN DOING, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father...” (John 14:12 NIV). "Anyone who loves me (my true disciples) WILL OBEY MY TEACHING. …” (John 14:23 NIV). "…If you hold to my teaching, YOU ARE REALLY MY (true) DISCIPLES…” (John 8:31 NIV).

Causes, organizations, purposes, agendas, individuals, lifestyles, organizations, or churches can all do good deeds, but if Christianity is a part of it, LOVE will be a sign. “… if I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I AM NOTHING. And 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).

Everyone claiming Christianity is also claiming I am a follower of Jesus Christ. “…In this world we are LIKE JESUS…” (1 John 4:17 NIV).  If you do not SEE Jesus Christ in the fruit of the labor, their claim it is NOT true. “…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 (God) profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity…” (Matthew 7:22-23 KJV).

Christians were first called Christians, back in Antioch because they were recognized by unbelievers as true “disciples” or followers of Jesus Christ. “…When he found him, he brought him back to Antioch. Both of them stayed there with the church for a full year, teaching large crowds of people. (It was at Antioch that the BELIEVERS were first called Christians…” (Acts 11:26 NLT).

“…the BELIEVERS were first called Christians (followers of Christ)…” Who are the true believers? “…Ye shall know them by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV). “…The fruit of the Spiritis love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV). "My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and SO PROVE to be My disciples” (John 15:8 NIV).

 Is someone a Believer just because they say they are?  Who can be a believer? “… AS MANYas received him, to them GAVE HE POWER TO BECOME THE SONS OF GOD, even to them that believe on his name…” (John 1:12 KJV). “…WHOSOEVER shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved...” (Romans 10:13 KJV). “…REPENT YE, AND BELIEVE the gospel…” (Mark 1:15 KJV).

Mankind like division, and polarization, or separatism, or hierarchy, or some false sense of superiority, but they are WRONG. Are some Believers MORE special than others when it comes to Christianity? NO!!!!!!!!!!!!! “…YE ARE “ALL” CHILDREN OF GOD BY FAITH “IN” CHRIST JESUS. …There is NEITHER Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for YE ARE ALL ONE IN CHRIST JESUS…” (Galatians 3:26-28 KJV).

The Holy God does not show favoritism and is therefore, no respecter of one individual over another. When it comes to Christianity God died for ALL people equally. ALL OF "HIS" PEOPLE ARE EQUALLY CHRISTIANS SOLDIERS. “…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). “…Christ …. died for sins ONCE for “ALL”…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “…YE ARE “ALL” CHILDREN OF GOD BY FAITH “IN” CHRIST JESUS. … YE ARE ALL ONE IN CHRIST JESUS…” (Galatians 3:26-28 KJV).

Christianity brings people together and puts every human being on earth on the leveling ground of truth. “…ALL HAVE SINNED (including you) and fallen short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23). ALL“… [have become]…..unclean and [your] righteousnesses are as FILTHY RAGS….” (Isaiah 64:6 KJV).  Unfortunately, “…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). “….Jesus said unto him ….there is none good but one, that is, God” (Mark 10:18 KJV).

On the leveling ground of God’s truth every human being, who claims Christianity are claiming they are SAVED. If they are truly SAVED somewhere in their lives they had to answer the following or similar questions in order to accept or receive Jesus Christ as their Savior:

1.) ARE YOU A SINNER? “…For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God…” (Romans 3:23 KJV).  “…As it is written, There is NONE RIGHTEOUS, NO, NOT ONE: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is NONE THAT DOETH GOOD, NO, NOT ONE...” (Romans 3:10-12 KJV).

2.) WHAT IS THE PAYMENT FOR SINS AGAINST GOD? “…the wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23 KJV). “…YE SHALL DIE IN YOUR SINS: for IF YE BELIEVE NOT THAT I AM HE, YE SHALL DIE IN YOUR SINS…” (John 8:24 KJV).

3.) IF YOU RECOGNIZE YOU ARE A SINNER AND ARE SORRY FOR YOUR SINS; CAN YOU CHANGE? “…REPENT YE, AND BELIEVE the gospel…” (Mark 1:15 KJV). “…REPENT ye therefore, and BE CONVERTED, that your sins may be blotted out …” (Acts 3:19 KJV).

“…REPENTANCE TOWARD GOD, and FAITH TOWARD our Lord Jesus Christ. …” (Acts 20:21 KJV).

4.) CAN YOU BE RESCUED FROM YOUR SINS? “…God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever BELIEVETH IN HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house…” (ACTS 16:31 KJV). "…Therefore REPENT AND RETURN, “SO” that your sins may be wiped away…” (Acts 3:19 NASB).

5.) DO YOU BELIEVE CHRIST DIED FOR YOUR SINS, WAS BURIED, AND ROSE AGAIN? “… Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And ...he was buried, and …he rose again the third day according to the scriptures…” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4 KJV).  “…God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ DIED FOR US…” (Romans 5:8 KJV). “… believe in thine heart that GOD HATH RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD, thou shalt be SAVED…” (ROMANS 10:9 KJV).

6.) WHY DOES BELIEVING IN JESUS’ DEATH, BURIAL, AND RESURRECTION IMPORTANT IN SALVATION? The shedding of blood was commanded by God as an atoning sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins. “…without shedding of blood is no remission” (Hebrews 9:22 KJV). “…Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29 KJV). “He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins…” (1 John 2:2 NIV).  HIS DEATH PAID GOD FOR YOUR “DEBT OF SIN.”

7.) WOULD YOU LIKE TO CONFESS JESUS WITH YOUR MOUTH AND BELIEVE ON HIM IN YOUR HEART? “…Confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and … BELIEVE IN THINE HEART that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be SAVED…” (ROMANS 10:9 KJV). “…For WITH THE HEART MAN BELIEVETH unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made UNTO SALVATION…” (Romans 10:10 KJV).  “…For WHOSOEVER SHALL CALL UPON THE NAME OF THE LORD SHALL BE SAVED…” (Romans 10:13 KJV). “…REPENT ye therefore, and BE CONVERTED, that your sins may be blotted out …” (Acts 3:19 KJV).

8.) WHEN DOES SALVATION BEGIN? THE VERY MOMENT YOU “…REPENT …AND BELIEVE the gospel…” (Mark 1:15 KJV). Once you repent and believe you are SAVED from the consequences of sin and its effects. If you did, you are SAVED. It is as simple as that.

9.) CAN YOU FIND SALVATION ANYWHERE ELSE? “…SALVATION is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved…” (Acts 4:12 NIV). “…Jesus saith unto him, I AM THE WAY, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me…” (John 14 6 KJV). “…BY GRACE have ye been saved THROUGH FAITH; and that NOT OF YOURSELVES, IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD; not of works, that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).  “…There is SALVATION IN NO ONE ELSE…” (Acts 4:12a NLT).

IF YOU ANSWERED YES TO QUESTION 7 ABOVE AND DID WHAT IT SAID; YOU ARE SAVED. “…For WHOSOEVER SHALL CALL UPON THE NAME OF THE LORD SHALL BE SAVED…” (Romans 10:13 KJV). “…REPENT …AND BELIEVE the gospel…” (Mark 1:15 KJV).

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “…Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ…” (Romans 5:1 KJV). “…Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…” (Romans 8:1 KJV).

DO YOU NEED TO BE BAPTIZED? “…Peter said to them, "REPENT, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit….” (Acts 2:38 NASB). “…Confessing their sins, THEY WERE BAPTIZED by him in the Jordan River… (Matthew 3:6 NIV). “…He that believeth and IS BAPTIZED shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned…” (Mark 16:16 KJV).

Baptism publicly signifies you are NOW “in” Christ, are committing to live a new life, are made holy, are dead to sin, and dead to the old life. “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in the newness life.” (Romans 6:4 KJV).

Baptism is the outward activity that simply mirrors the inward “oneness” between God and the Believer. Paul said, “……those who received his word were baptized….” (Acts 2:41 KJV).  “….walk in the newness of life….” (Romans 6:4 KJV).

Baptism doesn’t save you; it is simply an outward event that represents what has already taken place, inwardly, between God, through Christ and the believer.

If you have truly repented, believed, and accepted him as you Lord and Savior; you are SAVED. That’s all there is to it. “…For WHOSOEVER SHALL CALL UPON THE NAME OF THE LORD SHALL BE SAVED…” (Romans 10:13 KJV). “…REPENT …AND BELIEVE the gospel…” (Mark 1:15 KJV).

If you are a new convert, you need to find a church home that teaches the bible basics and be baptized. Start studying the Holy Bible for yourself. Pray and ask God to help you live a new repentant lifestyle. “…You must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. All glory to him, both now and forever! Amen…” (2 Peter 3:18 NLT).

If you are a longtime believer, but have never truly repented you need to pray and trust God to work IN and THROUGH you. “…If My people which are called by My name SHALL HUMBLE THEMSELVES …AND TURN FROM their wicked ways…” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV). “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness…” (1 John 1:9 KJV). “…I will forgive …and will remember their sins no more…" (Hebrews 8:12 NIV).

God through Jesus Christ SAVES you and you are NOW a part of the Christian faith and family. You did not join a religion, or an organization, or an ethnic group, or a cultural group; you joined JESUS CHRIST. “But he that is joined (attached) unto the LORD is ONE SPIRIT…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

Once JOINED with Jesus Christ, Christianity can transform you. By faith in the truth; you won’t remain the same. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).

If your lifestyle was contrary to God’s holy standard before you were saved; it will be contrary to his holy standard after you are saved. True REPENTENCE is necessary. "…Therefore REPENT AND RETURN, “SO” that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord…” (Acts 3:19 NASB). “….God …now commandeth all men every where to REPENT…” (Acts 17:30 KJV). “…EXCEPT YE REPENT, ye shall all likewise PERISH…” (Luke 13:3 KJV).

GOD WILL “NOT” CHANGE HIS HOLY STANDARDS FOR ANYONE, ANY CAUSE, ANY ORGANIZATION, ANY ETHNIC GROUP, ANY POLITIAN, OR ANY OTHER REASONS. “…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).

IT IS DISHONORABLE TO GOD TO JUSTIFY YOUR SIN BY HIDING BEHIND THE WORD “CHRISTIAN.” “I AM A CHRISTIAN “THIS”” OR “I AM A CHRISTIAN “THAT.”” “…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).  “…for thy heart is not right in the sight of God…” (Acts 8:21 KJV).

IT IS DISRESPECTFUL AND AN ABOMINATION TO TAKE GOD’S HOLY WORD AND TWIST IT TO SUPPORT “Any” SINFUL LIFESTYLE OR CAUSE. “…WOE unto them THAT CALL EVIL GOOD, AND GOOD EVIL; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” (ISAIAH 5:20 KJV). “…He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, …they both are ABOMINATION to the LORD…” (PROVERBS 17:15 KJV).

When you claim Christianity, you are claiming you are a FOLLOWER of Jesus Christ and intend to reflect similar characteristics. Jesus had NO personal agenda and focused strictly on giving God glory through his lifestyle. “Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath SEEN ME HATH SEE the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father?” (John 14:9 KJV). “The Son is the RADIANCE of God’s glory and the EXACT representation of his being…”(Hebrews 1:3 KJV).

This is how Jesus identified himself. “…And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read.And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him. And he began to say unto them, THIS DAY is this scripture fulfilled in your ears…” (John 4:16-21 KJV).

Jesus did NOT identify with any hate groups, political groups, sexually immoral groups, cultural agenda groups, or any other groups. He identified with God’s purpose for his life. “…The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord…” (John 4:16-21 KJV).

Jesus identified himself with his heavenly father."I and my Father are one." (John 10:30 KJV). It is similar to saying “I am a Christian.”

Jesus was claiming he was the same as his father and reflected his characteristics. God backed up Jesus’ claims.  “…God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and WITH POWER: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for GOD WAS WITH HIM. And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem…” (Acts 10:38-39 KJV).

“…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 (unChristlike), WE LIE, and DO NOT THE TRUTH…” (1 John 1:6 KJV).

Christianity IS continually lived out through a lifestyle of unrighteous behavior or it is FAKE Christianity.“…Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God…” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10 KJV). “…Don’t you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don’t fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality,  or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God…” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10 NLT).

For those “IN” Jesus Christ, the power of every righteous action and every righteous thought is fueled by God’s inner work.“…it is God which worketh in [them]… both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).

True Christianity comes shining through true Christians when God “…grant[s]… [true believers]… according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man…” (Ephesians 3:16 KJV).

When God grants, the true believer inner strength through his indwelling Spirit, true Christianity will be quite apparent. . “…Ye shall know them by their fruits…” (Matthew 7:16 KJV).

True Christianity should prove NOT disprove who God’s disciples really are by the fruit they bear.  "My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so PROVE to be My disciples” (John 15:8 NIV). “…But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, GOODNESS, faith, Meekness, temperance…” (Galatians 5:22-23 KJV).

True believers would NEVER use Christianity to promote 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). "That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” (John 3:6 KJV).

True believers want to be used as vessels that give glory to God ONLY and to promote his agenda; not THEIRS! “…So whether you eat or drink or WHATEVER you do, do it all for the glory of God…” (1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV). “…And WHATEVER you do, whether IN WORD OR DEED, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him…” (Colossians 3:17 NIV).

I DECLARE AND DECREE THAT TRUE BELIEVERS TAKE BACK CHRISTIANITY IN THE NAME OF JESUS. MAY EVERY FAKE, PHONEY, OR IMPOSER USING, ABUSING, DISHONORING, DISREPECTING, DEFAMING CHRISTIANITY BE REVEALED AND REMOVED….IN JESUS NAME. AMEN.

“…For “in him” we (true believers) live and move and have [our]… being.…”(ACTS 17:28 NIV).  They aim to “…Walk in the Spirit, and …[NOT]…the lust of the flesh (sinful nature)…” (Galatians 5:16 KJV).

TRUE CHRISTIANITY PROMOTES AND HONORS GOD, THE FATHER AND JESUS CHRIST, THE SON; “NOT” SELF! “…WHATEVER [they]… do, [they]…do it all for the GLORY OF GOD…” (1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV).

God called every Believer and he makes a place for them on earth to fulfill and walk in that calling. Christians have become the sleeping giant and the world has silenced them with fear. “….God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind….:” (2 Timothy 1:7 KJV).

If the true Christians are silent, who is speaking? There is a CALL on the life of every believer. “….among whom you also are THE CALLED of Jesus Christ. “ (Romans 1:6 NASB).

“…The sheep hear his voice: and HE CALLED HIS OWN SHEEP BY NAME, and leadeth them out…” (Jude 10:3 KJV). “…..and these whom He predestined, He also CALLED…” (Romans 8:30 NASB). “….Whereunto HE CALLED YOU by our gospel…” (2 Thessalonians 2:14 KJV).

When the devil leaves an individual and the individual doesn’t fill the emptiness; what happens? “…When an evilspirit leaves a person, it goes into the desert, seeking rest but finding none.  Then it says, ‘I will return to the person I came from.’ So it returns and finds its former home empty, swept, and in order. Then the spirit finds seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they all enter the person and live there. And so that person is worse off than before. That will be the experience of this evil generation…” (Matthew 12:43-45 NLT).

When God calls his people to different places to minister and cleans it up for them, but they don’t go. “…Then the spirit finds seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they all enter the person (or place) and live there. And so that person (or place) is worse off than before. That will be the experience of this evil generation…” (Matthew 12:43-45 NLT).

Does the silence of Christians and their failure to answer the Godly CALL on their lives leave an opening for false prophets (evil spirits)? “…But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction...” (2 Peter 2:1 KJV).

“…Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves…” (Matthew 7:15 KJV).

“…How long shall [this] be in the heart of the prophets that prophesy lies? yea, [they are] prophets of the deceit of their own heart…” (Jeremiah 23:26 NLT).

“…In the last days there will be very difficult times.For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is good. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that! 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. (Such women are forever following new teachings, but they are never able to understand the truth.) These teachers oppose the truth just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses. They have depraved minds and a counterfeit faith. But they won’t get away with this for long. Someday everyone will recognize what fools they are…” (2 Timothy 3:1-9 NLT).

SPEAK UP!! “….For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, And for Jerusalem’s sake I will not keep quiet, Until her righteousness goes forth like brightness, And her salvation like a torch that is burning….” (Isaiah 62:1 NASB).

God’s judgement won’t begin with politicians, or false prophets, or fake organizations, the government, or sinners, but it will begin with Believers.“…For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” (1 Peter 4:17 KJV).

“…IF MY PEOPLE, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then I WILL HEAR FROM HEAVEN AND WILL FORGIVE THEIR SIN, AND WILL HEAL THEIR LAND….” (2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV).

In order to take BACK Christianity it begins with the true BELIEVER, who is NOT silent and who is willing to answer the CALL of God. God's people ARE SOLDIERS and realize they are ON a battlefield for the Lord. They PUT ON the full armor of God every single day!!

 

GOD'S FAVOR COMES THROUGH JESUS AND PRAYER IS ONE OF THEM!

 PRAYER ”IS” AN EXAMPLE OF GOD'S GRACE AND UNDESERVED KINDNESSES

“…Since it is through God’s kindness …[and] not by [your] good works. For in that case, God’s GRACE (FAVOR) would not be what it really is—free and undeserved…” (Romans 11:5 NLT). “…For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this, not because we DESERVED it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time—to show us his GRACE (FAVOR) through Christ Jesus…” (2 Timothy 1:9 NLT). “…A few of the people of Israel have remained faithful because of God’s GRACE (FAVOR)—his UNDESERVED kindness in choosing them…” (Romans 11:4 NLT).

 

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         God’s FAVOR is also his VARIOUS GRACES, which EXPRESSES and REVEALS itself as God's undeserved kindnesses toward mankind in general and “his people” in particular.

God’s FAVOR is his gestures or actions or GIFTS of GOOD WILL and KINDNESSESS toward mankind in general and his people in particular spurred by his immutable LOVE and DIVINE choice.

God, the Holy Spirit’s, immutable LOVE and DIVINE choice activates GRACE or FAVOR. His GRACE or FAVOR is “NEVER” activated by how “good” or “deserving” you or anyone else may think they are.

However, being empowered by faith, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, to depend upon his powerful WORD will enable you to become a ready, willful, cooperating, and GREATER recipient of his GIFTS, BLESSINGS, and FAVOR.

Becoming a GREATER recipient of God’s FAVOR means you have CHOSEN to live by “his” faith, depend upon his Word, and cooperate with his indwelling Holy Spirit. FDC – Faith, Dependencyand Cooperation.

FDC: “...The life which I now live in the flesh I live by ...[HIS]... faith [which DEPENDS upon] ... the Son of God (the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT) …” (Galatians 2:20-21 KJV). “…GOD IS SPIRIT…” (John 4:24 KJV).  “…The Spirit of God dwell[s]… in you…” (Romans 8:9 KJV). “…Jesus Christ is IN YOU…” (2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV). “…[You] CAN DO all things THROUGH Christ which strengtheneth [you]…” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).“…The …HOLY SPIRIT …is the SOURCE of [all God’s FAVOR]. …it is …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 (who Cooperate) … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT).

His SOVEREIGN FAVOR is GRANTED to the unearned, undeserving, and the unworthy recipients who willfully CHOOSE to receive his endless kindnesses. “…Since it is through God’s kindness …[and] not by [your] good works. For in that case, God’s GRACE (FAVOR) would not be what it really is—free and undeserved…” (Romans 11:5 NLT)

God’s FAVOR is granted, because of his desire to freely bestow GOOD WILL and KINDNESS upon all mankind, in general, and upon “his people” in particular. “…He did this, not because we DESERVED it, but because that was his planfrom before the beginning of time…” (2 Timothy 1:9 NLT).

God’s FAVOR is NOT simply to be a SANTA CLAUS or GENIE to mankind’s every beck and call or personal desires.  God WANTS “...to show us his GRACE (FAVOR) through Christ Jesus

God’s FAVOR is meant to bring enjoyment to mankind, in general, and “his people” in particular. “…He causes His sun to rise on theevil and the good, and sends rain on therighteous and the unrighteous…” (Matthew 5:45 NASB).  However, “…You  (God, the Holy Spirit, particularly) surround [your people] WITH FAVOR as with a shield…” (Psalms 5:12 NASB).

In addition, his FAVOR toward “his people,” particularly, is to extend and spread his blessings to others and bring GLORY to his PRESENCE upon earth. God does this by displaying his MANY acts of GRACE, which are witnessed in and through his people. “…God will supply all [your need (FAVOR]…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB). “…my cup runneth over (FAVOR)…” (Psalms 23:5 KJV). “…God will generously PROVIDE (give FAVOR to) all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to “SHARE” WITH OTHERS…” (2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT).

“…Let your light so shine before men, that they may seeyour good works(FAVOR) and glorify your Father which is in heaven…” (Matthew 5:16 KJV).

It gives God pleasure to grant his FAVOR. God’s FAVOR is “his” to GIVE and “not” yours to EARN. “…This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure…” (Ephesians 1 NLT). God “…does whatever pleases him” (Psalms 115:3 NIV). “… [God]… does as he pleases…” (Daniel 4 NLT).“…Everything I plan will come to pass, for I do whatever I wish…” (Isaiah 46: 9-10 NLT).

His FAVOR is his to GIVE to whom “HE” chooses and “not” yours or anyone else to DEMAND whom he gives it to. “... God said to Moses, “I will show mercy to anyone I choose, and I will show compassion to anyone I choose...” (Romans 9:15 NLT). 

 Even though God’s FAVOR is his to GIVE and CHOOSE recipients as he pleases he is GENEROUSLY to ALL. “The Lord is ...of great mercy…” (Number 14:18 KJV). “… because HE DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV). “…Mercy triumphs over judgement.” (James 2:13 NASB).   

Prayer is the way God’s people communicate with God, the Holy Spirit and therefore, is a very important part of the covenant relationship between soul and Spirit.

Making requests and supplications to God, the Holy Spirit, is a PART of God's FAVOR. However, God is NOT a GENIE in a bottle NOR is HE there to cater to his people’s ever whim, desires, or wish. God, the Holy Spirit, therefore, is NOT controlled or manipulated by ANY KIND of prayer.

God, the Holy Spirit, listens for and answers the PRAYERS of the RIGHTEOUS. That’s why it is important for his REDEEMED sons and daughters to PRAY for themselves and for others in a way that it promises to be BENEFICIAL and meet someone’s NEED. “…pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective…” (James 5:16 NIV).

God, the Holy Spirit encourages his people to PRAY for a divine reason and purpose. Jesus PRAYED, often for himself and others and when he did, he was communicating with God, the Holy Spirit, his heavenly Father.

Jesus PRAYED for his present disciples and the disciples that would be converted THROUGH them. “…My prayer is not for them alone. I prayalso for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me…” (John 17:20-21 NIV).

Jesus PRAYED about his willing and voluntary submission to God’s SOVEREIGN will.“…not My will, but Yours be done…" (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).  Jesus came to do God’s will. “…I seek NOT mine own will…” and submitted to God, the Holy Spirit’s, will. “…but THE WILL of the Father which hath sent me...” (John 6:38 KJV).  “…For I have come down from heaven NOT TO DO MY WILLBUT to do THE WILL of him who sent me…” (John 6:38 NIV).

When Jesus PRAYED, he spent HOURS communicating with God, the Holy Spirit.  “…One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God…” (Luke 6:12 NIV). “…One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God…” (Matthew 14:23 NIV).

When Jesus PRAYED, he liked to talk with God, the Holy Spirit, alone and EARLY in the morning.  “…Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed…” (Luke 5:16 NIV). “…Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed…” (Mark 1:35 NIV).

When Jesus PRAYED, he was honest and frank about his experiences and how he felt about them. “… Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed,“My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me…”(Matthew 26:39). Nevertheless, he submitted to God’s will, through prayer, as was his custom.  “…He went away a second time and prayed,“My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done…” (Matthew 26:42 NIV). “… Yet not as I will, but as you will…”(Matthew 26:39).

When Jesus PRAYED, he KNEW, TRUSTED, and RESPECTED the Sovereignty of the one he was communicating with, God, the Holy Spirit. He left God’s people an example:  “…This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come,your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.  11 Give us today our daily bread.12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one…” (Matthew 6:9-13 NIV).

JESUS CHRIST is also a FREE GIFT of GRACE (FAVOR) that comes through FAITH (FDC).“…BY GRACE (FAVOR) have ye been saved THROUGH FAITH; and that NOT OF YOURSELVES, IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD; not of WORKS, that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

NO ONE demanded God’s FAVOR through Jesus Christ. NO ONE forced God’s FAVOR through Jesus Christ. NO ONE can claim they earned it, deserved it, or were worthy of God’s FAVOR through Jesus Christ. “... I will have mercy on whom I will (whom I choose to) have mercy...” (Romans 9:15 KJV). “…IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD ... that no man should glory…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV).

However, ANY ONE, of his people, can ask for God’s FAVOR through Jesus Christ, which he FREELY gives by GRACE through FAITH. “…Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies BLOT OUT “MY” TRANSGRESSIONS (sin). WASH ME THROUGHLY FROM “MINE” INIQUITY (sin), and CLEANSE ME FROM “MY SIN.” For I acknowledge my TRANSGRESSIONS (sins): and “MY SIN” is ever before me. AGAINST THEE (God), THEE ONLY, HAVE “I SINNED” AND DONE THIS EVIL IN THY SIGHT…” (Psalms 51:1-4 KJV).“... He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ …” (Luke 18:9-14 NIV). “... [God] ... DELIGHTETH IN MERCY…” (Micah 7:18 KJV). “…REPENT ye therefore, and BE CONVERTED, that your sins may be blotted out…” (Acts 3:19 KJV).

God’s FAVOR “begins” with Jesus Christ, because the BLESSINGS, GIFTS, and RICHES of his GRACE comes with the spiritual life restored to the SOUL by the INDWELLING Holy Spirit. “…whosoever believeth in him, SHOULD NOT PERISH, but have everlasting life...” (John 3:16 KJV). “...god will supply (blessings, gifts, and favor)... according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 4:19 NASB).  

God’s FAVOR is “not” MERELY or is LEAST about having an abundance of material blessings, circumstantial blessings, or having lots of money, or about fame and fortune. “…[SALVATION] ...  IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD…” (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). “...God has given [his people] ... [SPIRITUAL] ...riches and wealth, ...this is the gift of God…” (Ecclesiastes 5:19 NASB).

God’s FAVOR FOCUSES “HIGHLY” upon his SOVEREIGN KINDNESS in offering JESUS CHRIST as an atoning SACRIFICE for your SINS. “….The exceeding [SPIRITUAL] ...RICHES of his GRACE(HOW?) ... in his kindnesstoward us through Christ Jesus…” (Ephesians 2:7 KJV). “…the riches of his glory (presence of his goodness) (WHERE?) in Christ Jesus….” (Philippians 4:19 KJV).

Jesus Christ became God’s FAVOR to  mankind as the GREAT atoning SACRIFICE. “...He is the atoning sacrifice (PAYMENT) for our sins…” (1 John 2:2 NIV).  “… which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29 KJV).

The NEED for an atoning SACRIFICE, for mankind’s sin,  was and has been a SIGNIFICANT concern all throughout biblical history. “...For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the bloodthat maketh an atonement for the soul...” (Leviticus 17:11 KJV).

An biblical atoning SACRIFICE is when one LIFE is offered up to God as a payment or as an exchange for the guilty offenses of another life. “... the life of the body is in its blood. I have given you the blood on the altar to purify you, making you right with the Lord.  It is the blood, given in exchange for a life, that makes purification possible...” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT).

God has “ALWAYS” given and provided mankind with the atoning sacrifices needed. He created the animals and gave each one to his people, for the purpose, of being their atoning sacrifice.“...  I have given you the blood on the altar to purify you, making you right with the Lord....” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT).

The actually atonement was not in the EXISTENCE (LIFE, BREATH) of the sacrifice, it was the “in” the BLOOD. “... the life of the body is in its blood ... It is the blood ... that makes purification possible...” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT).

Most people can’t get beyond the physical rituals of the blood sacrifice system and therefore have reduced it to being similar to the practices of pagan deities. However, God is SPIRIT and makes his decisions from a spiritual perspective. “… [My]… thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways…..as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts…” (Isaiah 55:8-9 ASV).

Therefore, God’s thoughts about ATONING SACRIFICES are higher than yours and anybody else’s.“…my ways [ARE] ... higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts…” (Isaiah 55:8-9 ASV).

The BLOOD “covered” the sinful offenses mankind MADE against God, the Holy Spirit. “... the life ... is in its blood. I have given you the blood on the altar to purify you, making you right with the Lord...” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT).

The BLOOD covered OVER the sinful offenses of mankind, which also temporarily cleansed them and released them from the consequences of their sins.“... the life of the body is in its blood ... It is the blood ... that makes purification possible...” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT).

“... the life of the body is in its blood. I have given you the blood on the altar to purify you, making you right with the Lord.  It is the blood, given in exchange for a life, that makes purification possible...” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT).

The BLOOD makes the ATONEMENT, and it ALWAYS required the lost of one LIFE in exchange for the survival of another. Often an innocent life was offered so the life of the OFFENDER could go FREE.

From a biblical perspective, the BLOOD symbolizes (represents) the LIFE (spiritual life) that is necessary to ATONE for SIN. “... the life of the body is in its blood ....” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT).“... the life of the body is in its blood....” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT).

“... It is the blood, given in exchange for a life, that makes purification possible...” (Leviticus 17:11 KJV).“.... It is the blood ... that makes purification possible...” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT).

“... the life of the body is in its blood ....” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT). “…the body without (blood  is dead like the soul without) the spirit is dead …” (James 2:26 KJV).

“... It is the blood, given in exchange for a life, that makes purification possible...” (Leviticus 17:11 KJV).“…Jesus said…I am the life…..” (John 11:25 KJV).

Meditate on this: The life of the body is “in” the blood. The life of the soul is “in” the Spirit. The human body without blood is dead. The human soul without the Spirit is dead also.

The body represents natural life. The soul represents metaphysical life. The body is temporal. The soul is eternal.

The blood sustains human life. The Spirit sustains spiritual life. If the blood is GONE so is human life. If the Spirit is GONE so is spiritual life.

The human life is DEAD without blood and the soul is also DEAD without Spirit. If the blood is restored to the dead human life it can live again. If the spirit is restored to the dead soul it can live again.

However, the dead human life or the dead soul can do NOTHING to save its “own” life, but if someone CHOOSES to show them FAVOR by willfully offering up or donating their life for the dead life; the dead life can LIVE AGAIN!

If someone else dies and gives their blood to you; you could be physical alive again. If Jesus Christ dies and gives his life to you; you will be SPIRITUALLY alive.

After someone dies for you, offers up their blood, and it restores you to life again, remember it is their BLOOD that saved your life and NOT your own. That’s exactly what Jesus did!

To exchange one life in order to save another’s life is an example of atonement. Jesus Christ exchanged his life for yours.

The soul was spiritually dead because of SIN and the spiritually dead soul could do NOTHING to restored itself to spiritual life again. God is the “…restorer of thy life…” (Ruth 4:15 KJV). “…He restoreth my SOUL…” (Psalm 23 KJV). “…The law of the LORD (the WORD of God) is perfect, restoring the SOUL…” (Psalm 19 NASB). “….He (the WORD OF GOD) restoreth my soul….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT). “…the Holy Spirit gives birth to (or restores) SPIRITUAL LIFE…” (John 3:6 NLT). “….Jesus Christ (the WORD of GOD) maketh thee WHOLE (AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV). “... and man became a living soul (AGAIN)…” (Genesis 2:7 KJV).

 Thus, UNLESS someone (qualified) willfully CHOOSES to FAVOR mankind, by offering up their life, mankind would remain spiritually dead FOREVER. “... God SHOWED HIS GREAT LOVE FOR US  (FAVOR) (HOW?) by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners (DEAD SOULS)…” (Romans 5:7-9 NLT). “ ... he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent His Son...” (1 John 4:10 KJV).

God, through his FAVOR CHOOSE to ATONE for the SINS of the soul, by exchanging Jesus’ sinless LIFE for your sinful one. “…[God] … SPARED NOT his own Son, but DELIVEREDhim up FOR US ALL…” (Romans 8:32 KJV). “… the just for the unjust, that he might BRING US to God…” (1 Peter 3:18 KJV). 

Jesus willfully and voluntarily GAVE his life, as a ransom, so you could be spiritually ALIVE again and GO LIVE FREE from SIN!  “… I lay down my life... No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. …” (John 10:17-18 KJV).

He willfully  “…[gave]... his lifeas a ransom for many…” (Matthew 20:28 ASV). “…without [the] ... shedding of  [Jesus’] ...blood[there] ... [would be no] ... remission [of mankind’s sins]...” (Hebrews 9:22 KJV).

The soul would REMAIN a DEAD soul for all eternity. “….He restorethmy soul (restored my spiritual life)….” (PSALM 23:1-3 NLT).

The BLOOD of Jesus made the ATONEMENT for the soul, even though it cost his LIFE. “…Christ diedfor [your] SINS according to the scriptures...” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4 KJV). “For Christ ...died for sins ONCE for all,the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

 “... One of the soldiers, however, pierced his (Jesus’) side with a spear, and immediately blood (LIFE) and water (HEALING, CLEANSING SPIRIT) flowed out...” (John 19:34 NLT).

The BLOOD of Jesus symbolizes (or represents) the LIFE (spiritual life) that is necessary to ATONE for “your” SIN “once” and for ALL.“... the life of the body is in its blood ....” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT).“... the life of the body is in its blood....” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT). “For Christ ...died for sins ONCE for all...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

The life of the soul, is “in” the BLOOD of Jesus Christ too. “For Christ ...died for sins ONCE for all,the just for the unjust,.” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “... one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood (life) and water (cleansing Spirit). …” (John 19:31-37 KJV).

Water is used figuratively to represent the Holy Spirit and its cleansing power. “... Jesus replied, “I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit...” (John 3:5 NLT). “... ye have purified  (cleansed from sin) your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit...” (1 Peter 1:22 KJV).

The water represents, the cleansing power of the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ. Jesus had another name. “… His name is called The Word of God…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB). “…THE WORDS ... they ARE SPIRIT,…”(John 6:63 KJV). “...[Jesus] ... gave up his life for  [mankind, to make them] ... holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God’s Word (the Spirit)...” (Ephesians 5:26 KJV).

“... one of the soldiers with a spear pierced [Jesus’]... side, and forthwith came there out blood(life) and water (cleansing Spirit). …” (John 19:31-37 KJV).

Out of Jesus’ side came the cleansing power of God’s Holy Spirit and the ATONEMENT!!! God’s FAVOR!!!

 “... It is the blood , given in exchange for a life (Jesus’ life) , that makes purification possible...” (Leviticus 17:11 KJV).

It is the shed blood of Jesus, given in exchange for HIS life (death upon the cross), that restores spiritual life to your soul and purifies you from ALL sin. “... [Out of Jesus’]... side ...came ... blood(life) and water (cleansing Spirit). …” (John 19:31-37 KJV). “.... It is the blood ... that makes purification possible...” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT).

“... the life of the body is in its blood ....” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT). “…the body without (blood  is dead like the soul without) the spirit is dead …” (James 2:26 KJV).

The LIFE of the soul is “in” the shed blood of Jesus, upon the cross. The SOUL without the spirit is DEAD. “…YOU (YOUR SOUL was)… DEAD in your transgressions and sins…” (Ephesians 2:1 NIV). “...Christ ...died for sins...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “…Jesus said…I am the life…..” (John 11:25 KJV). “... the life ... is in its blood ....” (Leviticus 17:11 NLT).  “…It is the SPIRIT (Jesus) who gives LIFE…” (John 6:63 NASB). “…Apart from Me (Jesus) you can do nothing…” (John 15:4-6 NASB). “…I am the life…..” (John 11:25 KJV).

God’s PRECIOUS FAVOR toward mankind, through the shed BLOOD of Jesus, was activated when “... [jesus] ... said, It is finished…” (John 19:30 KJV).“… my righteous servant (Jesus) ... [made]... it possible for many to be counted righteous, for he [bore] ... all their sins…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT).  “…[God sent the ] …one … who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus (the atoning sacrifice)…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

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

During ancient times certain animals died to serve as temporary substitutes for the people’s sin. Because they were temporary, they had to be repeated over and over every year.

The animal sacrifices, therefore, were a small tedious sample of the ultimate and permanent sacrifice necessary and predicted in Jesus Christ

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

It took Jesus Christ to became the final and permanent atoning sacrifice in order to restored mankind’s soul BACK to Him. “...Christ also died for sins once for all...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB). “… [God sent the] …one… who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

“... it ..[was] ... impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins…” (Hebrews 10:1-4 NASB). “... [They made] ...the same sacrifices ... continually year by year,? But ... it [was] impossible ...to take away sins (permanently)…” (Hebrews 10:1-4 NASB).

The DIFFERENCE between animal sacrifices and Jesus’ sacrifice is animal sacrifices COVERED mankind’s sin (a TREATMENT) and Jesus FREED mankind from sin (a CURE).

Because animal sacrifices ONLY covered mankind’s sin. but didn’t FREE them from the domination of the sinful nature. The sinful nature continued  to influence them to produce sinful actions.

Jesus’ sacrifice FREES mankind from the domination of the sinful nature by restoring spiritual life to them through the indwelling Holy Spirit. They become “new creations” and can now live free from sin. The new nature, when depended upon, can empower them to live free from the domination of the sinful nature and  produce spiritual  fruit.

“…The things which are impossible with men … [are] …POSSIBLE… [with God] …” (Luke 18:27 KJV).   “…I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). Therefore, “...Christ [came and] ... died for sins once for all...” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).

God’s HIGHEST FAVOR toward mankind was the shed BLOOD of Jesus Christ upon the CROSS for the REMISSION of SINS, which RESTORED the DEAD SOUL to a LIVING SOUL again.“... and man became a living soul (soul)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV). 

The BLOOD is the ATONEMENT.

Jesus OFFERED up his LIFE (his life was offered the moment he shed his blood) in exchange for your DEAD SOUL so that you could AGAIN become a “LIVING” soul!

You are spiritually ALIVE again, because Jesus GAVE or exchanged his life for yours! “…the just for the unjust…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).  

Who GAVE his life for YOU? Jesus Christ GAVE his life in exchange for yours. The FAVOR in this act of kindness is that Jesus switched places with you. “…he (Jesus) by the grace (FAVOR) of God ... [TASTED] ... death for every man…” (Hebrews 3:9 KJV). “…[This is]... the grace (FAVOR) of our Lord Jesus Christ, that... [Jesus] was [spiritually] ...rich, yet for your sakes he became [spiritually] ...poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich…” (2 Corinthians 8:9 KJV). “…the justfor the unjust…” (1 Peter 3:18 NASB).  

Adam and Eve were once spiritually wealthy, but became spiritual poor when they willfully CHOOSE to receive and follow the LIES of the evil one.

All of their biological children were born spiritually poor too.“,,, [Therefore,] ...through one man sin entered (physically life without the indwelling Holy Spirit entered) into the world, and [spiritual] ...death through 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 (all have been born with a sin nature) and fallen short of the glory of God (have been born without the indwelling Holy Spirit)...” (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).

Adam and Eve’s children are ALL born with a sin nature, a dead soul, and were ALL spiritually poor.

In order to be SAVED from the condition of spiritual poverty and death, they must do the opposite of their fore-parents, by willfully CHOOSING to receive, repent, and follow the TRUTH found in Jesus Christ.  “…For WHOSOEVER SHALL CALL UPON THE NAME OF THE LORD SHALL BE SAVED…” (Romans 10:13 KJV).

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

Through Adam and Eve, mankind once had spiritually wealth, but they choose to let it go. “…[They  choose to follow the flesh and became] … separated …[from].. God[, the Holy Spirit]…” (Isaiah 59:2 KJV).  

Now mankind DOES NOT have spiritual wealth, unless they choose to receive it again through the atoning sacrifice of Christ. “… I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life…” (Deuteronomy 30:19). Jesus saith…I am... THE LIFE…” (John 14:6 KJV). “…Choose you this day whom ye will serve….” (Joshua 24:15 KJV).

“... When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought [spiritual] ... death, so [spiritual] ... death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned (is born without the indwelling Holy Spirit) ... But there is a great difference between Adam’s sin and God’s gracious gift. For the sin of this one man, Adam, brought [spiritual] death to many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace  (FAVOR) 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. For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace (favor) 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, the ATONEMENT) ... [made]... it possiblefor many to be counted righteous, for he  [bore] ... all their sins (FREEING them from sin)…” (Isaiah 53:11 NLT). “… [God sent the ] …one… who can reconcileGod and humanity—the man Christ Jesus (whose shed blood “is” the atonement)…” (1 Timothy 2:5 NLT).

YOU (soul) were “…[SPIRITUALLY] ...DEADin trespasses and sin...” (Ephesians 2:1 KJV). “…Jesus said…I am the resurrection ( I BRING YOU BACK FROM DEATH) and I am the LIFE (I RESTORE SPIRITUAL LIFE TO  YOU)…..” (John 11:25 KJV). .

“…Jesus Christ maketh thee whole (SPIRITUALLY ALIVE AGAIN)…” (Acts 9:34 KJV).“…Therefore if any man (woman) be in Christ, he (she) is a NEW creature …” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). “… All things are … [MADE] … NEW…” (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV).  “…I will put a new spirit (BREATHE OF LIFE) in you. …” (Ezekiel 36:26 NLT). “... and man (woman) became a living soul (soul AGAIN)…” (GENESIS 2:7 KJV).  “…By the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).

I AM SPIRITUALLY ALIVE AGAIN!!

Jesus’ shed blood is the atonement.

That’s the highest FAVOR of God.

“…He did this, not because we DESERVED it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time—to show us his GRACE (FAVOR) through Christ Jesus…” (2 Timothy 1:9 NLT).

That’s the highest FAVOR of God.

 

IF GOD IS FIGHTING YOUR BATTLES, WILL YOU HAVE THE VICTORY?

INSIDE THE BATTLES: LIFE IS DISTURBED, NORMALCY IS DISRUPTED, AND YOU ARE “FOREVER” TRANSFORMED, BUT

GOD IS FIGHTING FOR AND WITH YOU!!

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

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

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

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

                                                   *

 

         A climate STORM is a violent disturbance of the atmosphere, like a battles and it is usually accompanied by strong winds, rain, dust devils, whirlwinds, blizzards, thunder, hail, ice, lightning, tornadoes, hurricanes, typhoons, earthquakes, etc.

          Climate STORMS can last for a few moments, days, or weeks. However long a STORM lasts, when it comes, it disturbs the ENVIRONMENT and DISRUPTS normal conditions.

ALL climate STORMS have the potential to harm lives, destroy property, and change the environment. Climate STORMS are a regular part of life and can change the conditions of people’s lives.

Some Climate STORMS, can and will damage or destroy something in the environment. The things that are damaged or destroyed can be MAJOR and effect normal life spiritually, physically, emotionally, financially, and mentally.

Some Climate STORMS can actually cause a DIASPORA for some and change their home location forever. Nonetheless, a real climate STORM can and will change the ATMOSPHERE and NORMALCY!

CLIMATE STORMS are similar to the BATTLES OF LIFE and come through the experiences people face un-expectantly. The BATTLES of LIFE like climate storms disrupt peoples atmospheres and disturbs their normal conditions through unexpected death, divorce, long-lasting sicknesses, stock market crashes, lost jobs, injustices, sudden tragedies, fiery furnaces, lion dens, prison, etc. “…But before very long there rushed down from the land a violent wind, called Euraquilo ... we gave way to itand let ourselves be driven along … ” (ACTS 27:14-19 NASB).

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

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

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

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

“Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him. And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and they put on him a purple robe. And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands….Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man! When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in him. But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him...” (John 19:28-30 KJV).

INSIDE the above BATTLES, Job faced tragedies, Daniel faced the lion’s den, the Hebrew Boys faced the fiery furnace, Peter faced a dooming trial, and Jesus faced death upon a cross. Their LIVES were seriously disturbed by a variety of situations and nothing was NORMAL anymore.

 “…But before very long there rushed down from the land a violent wind, called Euraquilo ... we gave way to itand let ourselves be driven along … ” (ACTS 27:14-19 NASB).

“...they brought Daniel and threw him into the lions’ den ......” (Daniel 6:16-18 NIV).

 “… [Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego ...[WERE CASTED]... into the burning fiery furnace…” (DANIEL 3).

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

“......he proceeded to seize Peter also ...[and]... Peter was kept in prison...” (Acts 12:1-5 NIV).

“ ...[They]...took Jesus, and scourged him. And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and they put on him a purple robe. And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands…”(John 19:1-16 KJV).

Job, Peter, the Hebrew Boys, Daniel, Jesus were POWERLESS against their BATTLES and could NOT deliver themselves. Each of them FACED and were INSIDE BATTLES with different circumstances, but each one had NO DELIVERER except God, the Holy Spirit.

“... Then Jehoshaphat stood up in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem at the temple of the Lord in the front of the new courtyard and said: “Lord, the God of our ancestors, are you not the God who is in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. Power and might are in your hand, and no one can withstand you.Our God, did you not drive out the inhabitants of this land before your people Israel and give it forever to the descendants of Abraham your friend? They have lived in it and have built in it a sanctuary for your Name, saying, ‘If calamity comes upon us, whether the sword of judgment, or plague or famine, we will stand in your presence before this temple that bears your Name and will cry out to you in our distress, and you will hear us and save us.’ “But now here are men from Ammon, Moab and Mount Seir, whose territory you would not allow Israel to invade when they came from Egypt; so they turned away from them and did not destroy them.  See how they are repaying us by coming to drive us out of the possession you gave us as an inheritance. Our God, will you not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you...” (2 Chronicles 20:5-12 NIV).

“...God is ...a very present help in trouble...” (Psalms 46:1 KJV). “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). “… The Sovereign Lord helps me…” (Isaiah 50:7 NLT).  “…You are my helper…” (Psalms 40:17 NLT).

“…[God is]…Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock, in whom [you can] … take refuge…" (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

In other words, “...No weapon that is formed against ...[God’s people]... shall prosper…This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord…” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV). BATTLES happen, but they won’t prosper over God’s people! “….All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose…” (Hebrews 13:5 & ROMANS 8:28 KJV).

“…ye (THE ENEMY) thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good…” (Genesis 50:20 KJV). God, through Jesus, defeated the ENEMY, so his people could be VICTORIOUS in the BATTLES of LIFE. “...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).  “...overwhelming victory is ours in christ ...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

The ENEMY may bring FORTH BATTLES to disturb your atmosphere and disrupt normal conditions, in this FALLEN world, but his people, are promised victory over the works of devil. “... But the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil...” (1 John 3:8 NLT). Therefore, “...No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper…” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV). “...overwhelming victory is ours in christ ...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

INSIDE THE BATTLES of LIFE, it is not unusual for people, even the strongest warriors, to feel helpless, scared, vulnerable, terrified, nervous, overly concerned with the outcome, naked, exposed, or weak. “ … he ...offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears ... and was heard in that he feared…” (Hebrew 5:7-8-9 KJV). “…take this cup from Me..." (Luke 22:42-43 NIV).“…Jehoshaphat was TERRIFIED by this news...” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

“...We do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted (inside the battle) in every way, just as we are--yet he did not sin...” (Hebrews 4:15 NIV).

However, “…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 BATTLES of LIFE. “…Jehoshaphat was TERRIFIED by this news...” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

When going through the BATTLES of LIFE, God will find a WAY to strengthened his people and empower them to submit to God’s sovereign love and care. “…Great is his love toward us...” (Psalms 117:2 KJV). “… “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you…” (Hebrews 13:5 NIV). “…I am with you always, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV). “…Behold, I am with … [you] and will keep … [you] whithersoever [you]… goest…I will not leave [you] ..." (Genesis 28:15 ASV). “...He careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 KJV). “…God is LOVE…” (1 John 4:4-8 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “… Jehoshaphat was terrified by this news and BEGGED the Lord for guidance.” (2 Chronicles 20:1-30 NLT).

“...God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear when earthquakes come and the mountains crumble into the sea. Let the oceans roar and foam ...“Be still, and know that I am God ... The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress...” (Psalms 46 NLT).

God will FIGHT for his people and TAKE CARE of the things that concern them. “…He helps me…” (Psalms 28:7 NLT). . “…If God isfor us, who is against us? ... …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “...No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper...” (Isaiah 54:17 KJV). “…The LORD will accomplish (take care of)…that which concerns [you]…” (John 14:31 NASB). “… THE LORD … is Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer…” (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

The events, situations, circumstances, or BATTLES OF LIFE that concern God’s people are ALL under God’s sovereign control. “… No onecan hold back his hand or say to him: “What have you done?” (Daniel 4 NLT).

“... Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows.  But take heart, because I have overcome the world..." (John 16:44 NLT). “...Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 KJV). “...we must [go]...through much tribulation [to]...enter into the kingdom of God...” (Acts 14:22 KJV). “...despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

“...THE NIGHT BEFORE HEROD WAS TO BRING HIM TO “TRIAL”, PETER WAS SLEEPING BETWEEN TWO SOLDIERS, BOUND WITH TWO CHAINS, AND SENTRIES STOOD GUARD AT THE ENTRANCE. (ACTS 12:6 NIV).

Peter’s VICTORY from THE BATTLE represents the FAVOR of God upon the lives of HIS PEOPLE. Peter’s victory also REVEALS God’s love and desire to show his GLORY (presence, goodness, and power) to them! “…the Lord loves His people …” (2 Chronicles 2:11 NASB). “...Be still, and know that I am God ... the God of Israel is our fortress (defense, stronghold, place of protection, etc.).” (Psalms 46 NLT). “…BLESSINGS are on the head of the righteous…” (Proverbs 10:6 NASB).  “…You surround [your people] ... WITH FAVOR as with a shield…” (Psalms 5:12 NASB). “...overwhelming victory is ours  through Christ, who loved us (and him)...” (Romans 8:37 NLT).

 “…I’ve also done it … so you will know that I am the Lord…” (Exodus 10:1-2 NLT). “…your deliverer…” (Psalms 18:3 NASB). Peter was able to SEE, with his OWN eyes, the GLORY (God’s presence, goodness, and power) of God and his FAVOR upon his life, because of the GREAT THINGS he did for him.

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

Peter witnessed and experienced, first hand, the LOVE and FAVOR of God. God REVEALED his GLORY to Peter through his presence in the angel (for  you, this could be another Christian Warrior or brother/sister-in-the Lord), in his goodness in directing his steps (for you, this is experienced by following his Word), and in his power to deliver him out of Herod’s clutches (overwhelming victory came when he was miraculously delivered from prison)!  “...Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel (this could be a Christian Warrior) and rescued me from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen...” (Acts 12:6-11 NIV).

“…I HAVE DONE IT, declares the Lord…’” (Ezekiel 37 NIV). “…the Father (the indwelling Holy Spirit) that dwelleth in me (Jesus, the WORD), he doeth the works (the Holy Spirit doeth the works) …” (John 14:10 KJV).

“… at God’s [miracle-performingWORD) … what we now SEE (everything witnessed and experienced) did not come from anything that can be SEEN (it came from the WORK of the Holy Spirit)…” (Hebrews 11:3 NLT). “… He (Jesus) had a name written, that no man knew … his name is called The Word of God (the miracle-performing POWER of God)…” (Revelation 19:12-13 NASB).

“... When this had dawned on him ... [Peter realized] ...  “he (God, the Holy Spirit)...hath done marvellous things…” (Acts 12:7 NIV & Psalms 98:1 KJV). “… Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done …” (Psalms 40:5 KJV).

“...the chains fell off Peter’s wrists...They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him. Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has ... rescued me from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen...” (Acts 12:6-11 NIV).

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

INSIDE THE BATTLES, God's people face in life, such as the death of a loved one, a divorce, the loss of a lucrative job, unexpected diagnoses, fear of going to prison for a crime you didn’t commit, the loss of material possessions,  broken relationships, unjust treatment, false accusations, and other sudden life changes; follow Peter’s LEAD. “...Peter was sleeping....” (Acts 12:6-11 NIV).

Like Peter, many of God’s people, are FACING things that cause the heart to be flooded with troubling, stressful “feelings” such as dread, anxiousness, discouragement, weariness, questions of faith, fear of the unknown, having no control of the situation or the outcome, etc., BUT TRUST and DEPEND upon God ANYWAY. “...despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours  (and Peter’s) through Christ, who loved us (and him)...” (Romans 8:37 NLT). “...Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 KJV). 

WHY should you SLEEP during these troubling TIMES? “...Peter was sleeping....” (Acts 12:6-11 NIV). “...If God is for ...[peter]... who...[or what could be]... against ...[peter]? ... …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “…Who...[or what would]... separate ...[peter]... from the love of Christ?…” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “....Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword...[separate you or peter from god’s love]? …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “ ... [NO] … [NOTHING] …will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord…” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

“...For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to giveyou an expected end” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV). “…Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency isof God…” (2 Corinthians 3:5 KJV).  “… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “...ALL THINGS work (PROCESS) together for good to them (the redeemed) that love God, to them who are the called ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE…” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV).

“...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).

Again, INSIDE THE BATTLES, God's people face in life, such as the death of a loved one, a divorce, the loss of a lucrative job, unexpected diagnoses, fear of going to prison for a crime you didn’t commit, the loss of material possessions,  unjust treatment, false accusations, and other sudden life changes; follow Peter’s LEAD. “...Peter was sleeping....” (Acts 12:6-11 NIV).

AND like Peter, many of God’s people, are FACING things that cause the heart to be flooded with troubling stresses such as dread, anxiousness, discouragement, weariness, questions of faith, fear of the unknown, having no control of the situation or the outcome, etc., BUT TRUST and DEPEND upon God ANYWAY. “...despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours  (and Peter’s) through Christ, who loved us (and him)...” (Romans 8:37 NLT). “...Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid...” (John 14:27 KJV). 

Nonetheless, they, too, need to remember,  “...If God is for ...[you, inside the battle,]... who...[or what could be]... against ...[you]? ... …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “…Who...[or what would]... separate ...[you]... from the love of Christ?…” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “....Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword...[separate you or peter from god’s love]? …” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB). “ ... [NO] … [NOTHING] …will be able to separate ...[you]...from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord…” (Romans 8:31-39 NASB).

“...For...[God, the Holy Spirit]... know the thoughts that ...[he thinks]... toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to giveyou an expected end” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV). “…Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency isof God…” (2 Corinthians 3:5 KJV). 

“...he (God, the Holy Spirit)...hath done marvellousthings…” ( Psalms 98:1 KJV). “… Many, O Lord my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done …” (Psalms 40:5 KJV).

“… The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness…” (Romans 8:26 NLT). “...ALL THINGS work together for good to them (God’s people) that love God, to them who are the called (chosen by HIM) ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSE…” (ROMANS 8:28 KJV).

“…[God is]... GOOD…” (Psalm 119:68 KJV). “.…there is none good but one, that is, God” (Nahum 1:7 & Mark 10:18 KJV). “… “I AM WHO I AM …” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  “…he remains faithful [and good], for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

“… [God, the invisible Holy Spirit] … is Your rock and Yourfortress, your deliverer, Your GOD, Your rock ...[ YOUR goodness]…  in whom [you] … take refuge...” (Psalms 18:3 NASB).

 “...overwhelming victory is [y]ours ...” (Romans 8:37 NLT). IN THE BATTLE, “...Peter was sleeping....” (Acts 12:6-11 NIV). He was RESTING by putting his FAITH in God to FIGHT for HIM!

 

THE SPIRITUAL BLESSING OF GOD'S FAITHFULNESS TO HIS PEOPLE

GOD’S FAITHFULNESS TO HIS PEOPLE

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

“...If we confess our sins, HE is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness…” (1 John 1:9 KJV). “…God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship (bondship) of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord…” (1 Corinthians 1:9 KJV). “…he remains faithful,for he cannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “… “I AM WHO I AM…” (Exodus 3:14-15 NASB).  

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

 

*

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

God, the Holy Spirit, will NEVER wane, waiver, or weaken on ANY responsibility or obligation of his position as SOVEREIGN RULER to his people. “…He has granted to [his people]… His precious and magnificent promises…” (2 Peter 1:4 NASB). “…I am the Lord, I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV).  “...Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever…” (Hebrews 13:8 NIV).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Within the “covenant unity” relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, his people make mistakes, they struggle with the old nature, they are imperfect, they are weak, and they fail, but through it all, HE never changes. God remains faithful. ““…If we confess our sins, he is FAITHFUL and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness…” (1 John 1:9 KJV). … he remains ...(STAYS) ... faithful …(it is his STANDARD)...” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

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

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

The SECURITY OF the FAITHFULNESS of God, the Holy Spirit, in the “covenant unity” relationship with HIM is that he doesn’t change and thus, WILL NEVER LEAVE “HIS” PEOPLE!  “…I change NOT…” (Malachi 3:6 KJV). “…I am with [my people]... always, to the very end…"(Matthew 28:20 NIV).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“ …[God’s people said:]... will continue to live as we want to, stubbornly following our own evil desires…” (JEREMIAH 18:12 NLT).

“…[God said:].... my people have stubborn and rebellious hearts. ….” (JEREMIAH 5:23 NLT). “…My people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted…” (Jeremiah 7:24 NLT).

“…They have turned away and ABANDONED me….” (JEREMIAH 5:23 NLT).

“...[YOU]… FORGOTall about ME,” says the Lord…” (Hosea 2:13 NLT). “…for years on end my people have FORGOTten ME…” (Jeremiah 2:32 NLT).

“…They ABANDONED ME and did not obey my word….” (JEREMIAH 16:11 NLT). “…They ABANDONED the Lord… they turned their backs on him….” (2 Chronicles 29:6 NLT).

“… he remains ...(STAYS) ... faithful …” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT). “…hecannot deny who he is…” (2 Timothy 2:13 NLT).

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

God STAYED faithful. “…the righteous CRY and Lord the heareth and delivereth them out of ALL their troubles…” (Psalms 34:17 KJV). “…Again and again [God, the Holy Spirit] rescued them…” (Psalm 106:39-43 NLT).

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

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

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

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

"…REPENT  AND RETURN, “SO” that your sins may be wiped away…” (Acts 3:19 NASB). “…EXCEPT YE REPENT, ye shall all likewise PERISH…” (Luke 13:3 KJV).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“…Becauseyou belong to him, …” (Romans 8:1-14 NLT).

“... thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live  in the light ...” (Colossians 1:12 NLT). “… AS MANY as received him…” (John 1:12 KJV).

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

 “…This [was ALL]… God’s plan: [Everyone]… who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. [They]…are [ALL]… part of the same body, and enjoy the promise of blessings because they belong to Christ Jesus...” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“… [Everyone]… who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. [They]…are [ALL]… part of the same body, and enjoy the promise of blessings because THEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  “….You (also) belong to God…” (1 John 4:4 NLT). “…He (she) that is joined unto the Lord is ONE SPIRIT [with God, the Holy Spirit]…” (1 Corinthians 6:17 KJV).

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

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

Those who BELONG to God, the Holy Spirit, through Jesus Christ are the ones who will SHARE in the INHERITANCE of gifts and blessings. They are HIS CHILDREN and BELONG to God, the Holy Spirit. “…  [Everyone] … who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. [They]…are [ALL]… part of the same body, and enjoy the promise of … [provisions] … becauseTHEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).  “… [They, those “IN” Christ]… enjoy the promise of blessingsbecauseTHEY BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS…” (Ephesians 3:6 NLT).

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

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

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

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

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

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

IF THE CANDLESTICK ISN'T DISPLAYING THE "WITNESS" OF THE LIGHT; IT SERVES NO PURPOSE

                                           
YOU IF YOU ARE A CANDLESTICK, BUT DON'T DISPLAY THE CANDLE, WHAT PURPOSE ARE YOU SERVING?

“…I KNOW THY WORKS, AND THY LABOR, AND THY PATIENCE, AND HOW THOU CANST NOT BEAR THEM WHICH ARE EVIL: AND THOU TRIED THEM WHICH SAY THEY ARE APOSTLES, AND ARE NOT, AND HAS FOUND THEM LAIRS… [however,]… you hath left your first love…” (REVELATION 2:2 KJV).

 “… Repent and do the first works…”(REVELATION 2:5 KJV).  “… or else I WILL COME QUICKLY, AND WILL REMOVE THY CANDLESTICK…” (REVELATION 2:5 KJV).

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Most believers are excited, passionate, and zealous about FIRST LOVE (God), and they want to tell everybody and will do anything for FIRST LOVE (God).

However, over TIME their perspective of FIRST LOVE (God) changes, even though he NEVER changes. “…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).

Some of God's people think they are martyrs for Christ. They feel they DO the necessary "religious" works. They DO the labor. They patiently endure various hardships They hate evil. They don't tolerate hypocrisy. 

However, somewhere along the way they start depending upon their own strength and NOT that of the indwelling Holy Spirit.

God shows, teaches, and empowers his people to walk in his ways. “…Christ liveth in [you]…” (Galatians 2:20 KJV).“…God who works in you 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 you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in [you]… what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV).

God’s indwelling Holy Spirit empowers each of his people to walk in his ways of love. God’s indwelling Holy Spirit empowers them to walk in his ways of showing grace and mercy. God’s indwelling Holy Spirit empowers them to walk in his ways of forgiveness. God’s indwelling Holy Spirit empowers them to walk in his ways of being patient and endurance. “….Apart from [the indwelling Holy Spirit], you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV However, “….I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me…” (Philippians 4:13 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 faithof the Son of God.   …” (Galatians 2:20-21 KJV). “…by the GRACE of God I am what I am…” (1 Corinthians 15:10 NIV).

When God's people start to learn God’s ways, they can begin to falsely believe they can DO spiritual WORKS  or live a RIGHTEOUS life without him. “….Apart from [the indwelling Holy Spirit], you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).

God's people allow themselves to become deceived,  will stop depending upon his indwelling Holy Spirit, and will start depending on their own self-efforts. “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13 KJV). 

Apart from Jesus’ and his indwelling Holy Spirit, God’s people can DO “NOTHING!” Eventually the FLESH wears out! “….Apart from [Jesus, the indwelling Spirit], you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). “The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. I don’t really understand myself, for I wantto do what is right (by myself), 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 (by my own self-effort), but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. …I [am] …a slave to the sin that is … within me. Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin? …” (Romans 7:14-25 NLT).

 In the beginning of the Christian journey, the redeemed are more fervent about their God-given purpose, as a life WITNESS of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Most of his people start out depending upon HIM and allowing themselves to become empowered by the indwelling Holy Spirit, until they DON'T.

Thus, as time tarries their original enthusiasm fades tremendously. So they simply adapt to their dutiful obligations by religiously doing the Lord's work, doing the labor, and being patiently enduring in their own strength.

Most of those proclaiming God don't deny him, but they are NOT WITNESSING for him either. However, they will remain faithful and loyal to the Christian religious practice, but have  grown weary, given up, lost interest, laid it down, and became detached, unknowingly, from FIRST LOVE (God) in regard to this particular test.

God's people's ongoing prayer may go from asking God to give them the strength to overcome it - to give me the strength to live through it. They actually need both; the strength to overcome and the strength to get through. However, most of God's people are merely praying for the strength to get through the Christian journey.

God's people become HOPELESS about their situations changing and like Lazarus, feel its DEAD and BURIED. In addition, the bible said this about Lazarus' death. “… by this time, [it] stinketh: for [it]…hath been dead for …[years] …” (John 11:39 KJV).

After a while and without knowing it, God's people are no longer listening Thankfully, God “…dealt to every man (woman) the measure of faith...” (Romans 12:3 KJV).

 In addition, God's people have the “the indwelling Holy Spirit” to depend upon if they choose to do so. Yet, sometimes their flesh convinces them God isn’t going to change their situations. Plus its TOO LATE, its OVER and it has DIED OUT.  Martha’s declaration was THIS: “… As soon as she heard that Jesus was coming … Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died… ” (John 11:20-22 KJV).

After a while or so many years, God seems to have abandoned his people or have trapped them in situations where duty-bound obligations become the norm. Many think they are being “humbly” accepting of their lots in life. “Poor me, the suffering little martyr.”

The truth is that man of God's people are no longer depending upon the Holy Spirit to Do the WORK of faith “in” and “through” them. They are simply trying to get through it or survive it in their OWN efforts.  “…In the world ye have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 ASV).  

God's people overcome "EVERYTHING" by faith or depending upon Jesus, the indwelling Holy Spiritand the Word of their testimony. DEPENDING UPON JESUS gives them experiences to testify about: “….Apart from [Jesus, the indwelling Spirit], you can do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV). THE WORD OF OUR TESTIMONY: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:13 KJV).  “…they overcamehim by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony…” (Revelation 12:11 KJV).

God's people choose to let their situations became a duty-bound, boring, joyless and religious obligations. They have, unknowingly, fallen away from GRACE. They are becoming irrelevant as God's WITNESSES, upon earth and useless as God’s agent of change.

Depending upon their own self-effort changes their perspective of FIRST LOVE (GOD) too. They can begin to believe God can't transform their situations or DO all that his WORD promises to DO “…Thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself…“(Psalm 50:19-21 KJV).

God's people get tired, weak, and depleted of hope, which are the places self-effort takes you. Yet, they continue to do religious duties, but have, in reality,  laid down their hope for a resurrection, because they don't believe God can FIX certain situations in their lives.  “THEY”can't and won't overcome the problem, in their own strength and, therefore THINK neither can God. “…Thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself…“(Psalm 50:19-21 KJV).

“…the thingswhich are impossible with men ARE POSSIBLE WITH GOD…” (Luke 18:27 KJV).  “….I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: IS THERE ANY THING TOO HARD FOR ME?” (Jeremiah 32:27 KJV). “… [GOD]… IS ABLE to do exceeding abundantly aboveall that we ask or THINK…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).

When God's people FORGET to continue to grow in his GRACE and KNOWLEDGE they can get STALE. When they start depending upon their OWN self-efforts they also get STALE.  Their puny power and the indwelling powerof the Almighty God are NOT the same and will NOT produce the same results.

When the Christian journey becomes duty-bound and religious it is usually because his PEOPLE took their eyes off of FIRST LOVE (God, the Holy Spirit's) and his power and grace. MANY need to repent. Job said, “…Now I have seen you with my own eyes.  I take back everything I said [and did], and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance” (Job 42:1-6 NLT). I got it wrong and “…[thought] … that [God]… was altogether such an one as [myself]…“(Psalm 50:19-21 KJV).

It is hard to look at the places you have willfully chosen to exclude God or reduce him to some human perception of mankind.

Sometimes, during specific trials and tribulations, God is only trying to get your attention, or humble you, or prepare you for his great, divine purpose.

God knows what it will take to get your attention, prepare you, or humble you. “…God is mighty, but he does not despise anyone! He is mighty in both power and understanding. He does not let the wicked live but gives justice to the afflicted.He never takes his eyes off the innocent, but he sets them on thrones with kings and exalts them forever. If they are bound in chains and CAUGHT UP in a web of trouble, HE SHOWS THEM THE REASON. HE SHOWS THEM THEIR SINS OF PRIDE. HE GETS THEIR ATTENTION AND COMMANDS THAT THEY TURN FROM EVIL…” (Job 36:6-10 NLT).“…But by means of their suffering, he rescues those who suffer. For he GETS THEIR ATTENTION through adversity…” (Job 36:15 NLT). Therefore,  “..In the day of prosperity be happy, But in the day of adversity consider-- God has made the one as well as the other…” (Ecclesiastes 7:14  NASB).

Thus,“… Repent and do the first works…”(REVELATION 2:5 KJV).  “… or else I WILL COME QUICKLY, AND WILL REMOVE THY CANDLESTICK…” (REVELATION 2:5 KJV).

You CAN “NOT’ go through TEST without being EMPOWERED by the indwelling Holy Spirit to endure them. Human pride is a deceiver. Human pride will puff you up falsely, but God will humble you authentically. It is NOT “what” you know, but “who” you KNOW.

 Thus, during a TEST, choose to avoid thinking more highly of yourself than you should. “… Repent and do the first works…” (REVELATION 2:5 KJV).

What make you think “YOU”can turn around ANY situation without continuing to depend upon the indwelling Holy Spirit to DO the WORK? “….Apart from …[God’s indwelling Holy Spirit], [YOU can]… do nothing…” (John 15:5 NIV).“…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “… [God] work[s] IN [you]… what is pleasing to him…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…It is God which worketh in you…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “… [He doeth the work] according to the POWER that worketh in [you]…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).

God does the WORK of the Hebrews 11:1 faith, the measure of faith or the spirit of faith that works “IN” and “THROUGH” you. “…The … HOLY SPIRIT who is the SOURCE of [it]… all. …it is the same God who does the work IN and THROUGH all of us who are his… THROUGH each of us … … (1 Corinthians 12:4-11 NLT). “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).

Laying down your dependence upon the indwelling Holy Spirit is the same as leaving FIRST LOVE out of the situation and falling away from FIRST LOVE’S GRACE. “…If you are trying … [in your OWN effort] … to make yourselves (or your situation) right with God by keeping the … [commandments dutifully], you have been cut off from Christ! You have fallen away from God’s GRACE…” (Galatians 2:21 NLT). “…a person is made right (or their situation is made right) with God by faith [or depending upon]… Jesus Christ…” (Galatians 2:16 NLT).

Self-effort is a sign of pride and a false belief of one’s OWN ability; OVER God’s. “Pride [goeth] before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall…” (Proverbs 16:18 KJV). “A man's pride shall bring him low…” (Proverbs 29:23 KJV). “… For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself” (Galatians 6:3 KJV). “…Thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself…“(Psalm 50:19-21 KJV).

Some of God's people don't know that their pride or their dutiful, religious self-effort is an issue, but God did. Thankfully, God, “… [has] searched  [his people]… and … know[s them] …[He is]… familiar with all [their] ways” (Psalm 139:1-3 KJV). “…And those who walk in pride … [God] is able to humble” (Daniel 4 NIV). Like Job, “…I take back everything I said [thought or did), and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance” (Job 42:1-6 NLT).

Removing someone's candlestick, from a particular place is humbling and gave me a deeper respect for the IMPORTANCE of God's WORK upon earth. “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV). “… [God] work[s] IN [you]… what is pleasing to him…” (Hebrews 13:20-21 NIV). “…It is God which worketh in you…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “… [He doeth the work] according to the POWER that worketh in [you]…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).

Only God can empower the WORK of FAITH through his indwelling Holy Spirit and NOT self-effort “…the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works…” (John 14:10 KJV).  “…It is God which worketh in you…” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).  “… [He doeth the work] according to the POWER that worketh in [you]…” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV).

Removing someone's candlestick from that particular WORK is about GOD’S love for them and other lost souls.  “…If you are trying … [in your OWN effort] … to make yourselves (or your situation) right with God by keeping the … [commandments, dutifully], you have been cut off from Christ! You have fallen away from God’s GRACE…” (Galatians 2:21 NLT). “… Repent and do the first works…” (REVELATION 2:5 KJV).  “… or elseI WILL COME QUICKLY, AND WILL REMOVE THY CANDLESTICK…” (REVELATION 2:5 KJV).