The Best Gifts

1 Corinthians 12:27-31

During Christmas time, millions of dollars are spent on various items, that are shared as gifts amongst family, friends, coworkers, and even strangers. Although the reason for the Christmas celebration is to acknowledge the birth of Jesus, American society has turned the season into a gift-giving frenzy. Children and adults alike, expect to receive good things from those who love them, and they render the same in return. While gifts offered to the receiver offer little benefit to others, the best gifts are those that can bless multiple people.

This same concept can be seen in the foundation of the early church. The apostle Paul taught the Corinthian believers the importance of the various functions in the church. Although the people were considered one body, they all had different functions. God organized the church in a way that all members can contribute, and exercise their gifts, without feeling as if their lives are meaningless. Paul was also detailed in dissecting the various functions in the church, and stressed that the people should covet earnestly the “best gifts”. The best of anything, is usually something that can help more than one person. In the case of the Corinthian church, the apostle Paul desired that the members seek to exercise gifts that will benefit not only themselves, but also bring edification to the entire body of Christ.

It’s easy to covet those gifts that may seem to bring attention to oneself, but as children of God, we are commanded to walk in humility, while keeping our focus on peace, love, and unity amongst the body.

Why does the living man complain?

Ell

With One Accord

Acts 2:1-12

One of the most iconic moments in Bible history was, the day of Pentecost, recorded in the book of Acts. When the day of Pentecost was “fully come”, this was referencing the fiftieth day from the waving of the sheaf of the first-fruits. According to the book of Leviticus, Pentecost was one of the original eight feasts of the Lord, or holy convocations, which were to be proclaimed in their appropriate season. God appointed times for His people to gather and offer sacrifices and praises for all that He had done for them. This was important to keep the minds of the people focused on the source of their peace, prosperity, and protection.

Our text picks up a short while after the first business meeting of the church, and the election of the replacement disciple (Matthias). During this gathering of about 120 men, the Bible mentions all these men were in one place, and with one accord. In other words, none of the men gathered were lukewarm, shady, doubtful, unconcerned, nor uninterested in God’s affairs. Instead, they were all united in faith, love, and prayer. Can you pause for a moment, and imagine if this was the state of the church today. If every man and woman, who gathers together in the name of the Lord, were always sharing the same mind, will, and motivations, how do you think the earth would look today? Well, we have an absolutely amazing experience that takes place in the verses of our text.

Being of the same mind, and gathered together in unity, provoked the almighty God, to literally invade the space where the men were, and fill them with His Spirit, while unlocking the ability for them to speak a language they never spoke. This was done, so that all the nations of the earth that would also come to witness God’s power, could be ministered to in their native tongue. God knew, many would come together to join the ever-growing church, so He (in His infinite wisdom), was fully aware that those whom He called, needed to capable of reaching all who would show up. Unlike men, who think mostly in “the now”, God sees the end of a thing, and knows how to prepare His people to handle it, before it manifests.

Although the modern church seems to have lost its once renowned potency and effectiveness in the earth, the power of God is still readily available, to invade the lives of those who will gather together in one mind, one heart, and one Spirit. Never underestimate the power of unity, because doing so could prohibit you from reaching your full potential in God.

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold… don’t become one of them.

Ell

Stay On Track

Psalm 119:169-176

During my early years of life, I always found trains to be a fascinating means of transport. Watching those intricate machines glide across the tracks while waiting in the back seat of my parent’s car, was always a thrill to witness. I would often get scolded by my grandmother, because whenever I would ride with her while going over a train track, I always felt the need to add a few extra bounces in the van, even after we had rumbled over the tracks.

Trains have one mission, and that’s to get its cargo from point A, to point B. While technology has made for more efficient transportation, there are rare occasions when a train will get derailed from its track. As strange as it may seem, dealing trains is rather easy. In fact, the most common way is to drive it too fast for the rail position. The wheels can ride up the side of a rail on a curve at high speed, and if the alignment is too wide or narrow it will cause the train to dip, and rise up off the rails. That’s a scary thing to witness. The process of placing a derailed train back on its track is rather tedious, and requires hard labor, but once the train is placed back into its proper position, it can then proceed to carry out its assigned duties.

The church can be compared to a train. While the train is set on a track, and assigned to carry resources from place to place, believers are also positioned in God’s will, to carry His message of the Gospel from heart to heart. Oftentimes, a believer will veer off track, and end up in places and positions God didn’t intend for them to be in. But, getting back on track with God, requires one to first realize they are out of position, then cry out to Him for His salvation. It’s unfortunate how many only consider God’s grace, after they’ve fallen, rather than cling to it before a fall, in order to remain on track.

Never allow yourself to stray away from God’s leading, and commit to doing His will, so that you’ll always be in the right position to fulfill your mission. Remain consistent in God’s Word, stay on track, and choo choo nonstop, until you reach your final destination.

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold… don’t become one of them.

Ell

Dead Men Walking

Colossians 3:1-11

Have you considered the seriousness of death lately? If not, could it be, you’re too consumed in the affairs of this present world, until you forget to take note that someday you’ll cease to exist in this realm? During my nearly 39 years traversing this planet, I’ve discovered there are three things in this life that are guaranteed; toothaches, taxes, and death. The Bible teaches that by man came death, and its because of the first Adam, our physical bodies must be done away with. That may have sounded a bit sad and gloomy, but, death is actually the beginning of eternal life. In fact, according to Scripture, in order to obtain eternal life in Christ, one must put to death the “old man”, and all the ways and behaviors associated with him.

The old man represents the sinful nature you once submitted to, before surrendering your life to Christ. Now don’t get it twisted, we all have a past, and would be ashamed if God played how we use to be on a jumbotron, for all to see. I find it disheartening, at times, when I witness those who claim to have God in their hearts, judge others who are guilty of committing the sins they were once delivered from. Rather than have compassion on those who have fallen, while remembering their own deliverance, some people (with their short-term memory) easily forget how God reached down to save them one day.

Our old nature favored behaviors including lying, fornication, inordinate affection, filthy communication, malice, wrath, and all manner of disobedient deeds. Once we had mortified, or literally put those behaviors to death, we were then able to put on the “new man”, which was renewed in knowledge, after the image of the Creator. That’s sooooooooooooo awesome! God waits for us to give up evil, so that we can then put on good. It’s all up to us, and God will never force us into anything. We have the liberty to choose whom we’ll serve, but sadly, many have, and will choose the evil way, over the good.

As we walk in our newness, we are commanded to set our affections on things that are relevant to God, and not on things contrary to His will and purpose, because as I often mention, this world will soon be destroyed, and only what we’ve invested in heavenly matters will be safely secured in the next life. Die to the flesh, but live in the Spirit.

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold… don’t become one of them.

Ell

Bold And Brave

Isaiah 50:4-11

Earlier this morning, I received a call from one of my favorite cousins, who was weary and distraught, concerning the way evil men appear to be living far better than those who strive to live right, and how they seem to be escaping the judgment they deserve, for their consistent disobedient behavior. Hearing her express those thoughts touched my heart, because her words actually seem truthful. Wicked men and women do seem to have certain advantages in this life, than those who actually deserve better, but I tried hard to help her understand, this present world is temporary, and all those who remain in sin, will surely receive the judgment of God, in due time.

It’s expected for all members of the body of Christ to suffer while doing the works of the Lord, because our Savior, Christ Jesus, set the example we would need to follow, after He ascended back to His Father. The prophet Isaiah was inspired to write how the Son of God would indeed suffer greatly, on behalf of the people of God. Not only did Jesus suffer, but He did it willingly. Can you imagine willingly presenting yourself to men who seek only to see you fall, and do great harm to your physical body? The average person (not fully delivered lol) would be quick to defend themselves against any and all who step to them the wrong way. But, Christians are taught that suffering for Christ’s sake is counted as joy, according to the Bible.

Carnal minded men are unable to see the value in suffering in the name of God, but all will be revealed in that great day. While it does seem that good people only see suffering, and evil ones enjoy good, the real rewards of each person’s labor will be given by God, on the day of judgment.

To all those who may get weary while doing well, strive to keep moving forward, and don’t give up. Yes, this world doesn’t favor those who love God, and sin has caused men to act in ways that are unseemly toward the church, God can still bless us, even during these disheartening times.

Be careful not to judge those who hate and persecute you, but pray for them, and show them that God’s love is way more powerful than their hate. If Jesus didn’t turn His back on God during the most mind-blowing suffering in the history of history, then never allow your struggles and hard times to cause you to turn yours either.

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold… don’t become one of them.

Ell

Listen, And Take Heed

Proverbs 5:7-14

If you were to take a moment to think back on all the times you bumped your head for not adhering to wise counsel, how many bumps would you count? Oftentimes, people (especially children) tend to seek advice when it’s too late. Parents warn and teach their children of the dangers that lurk outside the walls of their safety, so that in the event the child encounters such a temptation, they’ll know how to escape it unharmed, and unscathed. Unfortunately, many children have had to run home with a few bumps and bruises, because they failed to follow their parent’s teachings.

Failure to follow instruction is also typical of some members of the body of Christ, unfortunately. The church has been commanded to read and obey God’s holy Word, but there are times when even God’s own children hate instruction, and despise reproof. It’s during these moments when even the believer gives in to temptation. Not only are these persons disobeying God’s direct commands, but they’re also giving of themselves, to those who consume them without remorse.

If allowed to, the enemy will drain every bit of energy and life from the believer, so that they’ll be unfit to walk according to God’s standards. For this reason, it’s of great importance that the church take heed to the words of Scripture, and apply them daily, as to keep from falling into temptation. To avoid living in regret, or wasting time, effort, and resources on those who are cruel and undeserving, hear the words of the Lord, and depart not from the instruction of those who care for your soul.

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold… don’t become one of them.

Ell

Show Me Something!

James 2:14-26

Whenever I hear someone brag or boast about their skills, abilities, or accomplishments, I tend to back away from those types of conversations, and eventually maintain my distance from those persons altogether. Men who puff themselves up, are usually consumed with pride, and have little to no desire to walk in humility. Then, there are those who are capable of making others feel beyond special with their honeyed words, but they fail to contribute what’s necessary to see that those persons truly attain their desires. My siblings and I were raised to let our works speak for us, rather than toot our horns loudly to impress others. Talking means very little, especially when works aren’t attached to them. This applies heavily in the Christian faith. The Bible teaches, faith without works is dead, and I highly doubt it could get any more plain than that.

God judges us not by faith alone, but by the works, or lack thereof, associated with what we profess. You can tell any person you love them, or that they’ll make it through their struggles, but the sign that you truly believe what you say, would be revealed in the actions you take to make those words manifest. The Bible also equates dead faith with the human body without the spirit: it’s lifeless, and incapable of producing anything.

A wise woman taught me, “Talk is cheap! Show me something!” Those words ring loudly everytime I hear someone give advice, or offer wise counsel. Nowadays, people care less about what you say, and more about what you do. So, make sure if you’re bold enough to say something, be ready to back it up with your works. If you told God you love Him, and He’s first in your life, then how you live from now on, should reflect those very words that left your lips.

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold… don’t become one of them.

Ell

The Royal Law

James 2:8-13

Do you love yourself? Do you really take note of the way you care for your own well-being? Do you make sure to keep yourself well-groomed, fed properly, healthy, safe from dangerous situations and areas, well-informed of worldly affairs, clothed in decent and clean apparel, distanced from drama, lies, and gossip, and covered in prayer, with fasting? When you love yourself, you’ll be certain to do all that’s necessary to ensure a safe, healthy, and productive lifestyle. In fact, God appreciates when His people keep themselves healthy in their physical bodies, and sound in their mind and soul. While God loves to see us care for ourselves, it pleases Him the more when we show that same love and care for others.

Do you find it easy to love others the same way you love yourself? Can you bless someone with something you could possibly need for yourself, or are you unable to sacrifice, so that someone else can bask in a moment of peace and provision? Loving “thy neighbor as thyself”, should never be a hard task for the children of God, because all their works are motivated by the Holy Spirit. When a believer sees someone with a need, their first instinct is usually to meet that person’s need (if possible). Even if you lack what someone else has need of, rather than give up on them, it’s wise to walk with them to seek resolution elsewhere. When we see others hurting, we are to show sympathy, as if their hurt was our own. Even during this unprecedented season of sickness and death, the church should remain humble, and sensitive to the feelings of all those who have suffered great loss.

Treating others the way we desire to be treated, is counted as well doing, according to Scripture, but showing respect to some, while avoiding others is considered sin. That’s right! It’s a sin to show favor to some, while avoiding others like the plague. In our society, we judge men based on their outer appearance, but God despises having respect of persons, and promotes meekness, kindness, and mercy amongst all who bear His holy name.

As you continue on your journey through life, be mindful of how you treat others. Have you been guilty of showing any degree of partiality or injustice toward others? If so, repent quickly, and strive to love everyone the same way you love yourself.

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold… don’t become one of them.

Ell

With My Whole Heart

Deuteronomy 6:4-9

When a husband commits to a wife, he is literally committing all of himself, to join in union with the woman he loves. After his decision is made, there’s no room for him to consider, nor desire any other woman, because the one he found, should be all that he needs. When a child commits to a college or university, he or she has decided that all other options did not meet, nor satisfy the expectations they had set. As they matriculate through their years of education, they’ll eventually pledge themselves to the culture and environment of their school, and could possibly be seen sporting their schools athletic jerseys, or license plate covers.

When we commit to something, we literally give it all of us, and our intentions and motivations are usually in support of what we’re committed to. Are you fully committed to God, like for real for real? Does God have the attention of all your heart, all your soul, and all of your strength? When you decided to commit to the Father, did you turn away from everything that’s not conducive to His way of living?

When you choose to be on God’s team, you can’t give in to, nor support anything contrary to His gameplan. God is the creator of everything, so why would anyone choose to reject following after Him? If you’re still riding the fence on serving God and dabbling in things that are unhealthy for your soul, spend more time meditating on the Word, praying without ceasing, and focusing your attention on keeping your commitment to God solid. God is the real deal, and all else can’t compare, so when you give all of yourself to Him, you’ll be making the wisest decision ever.

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold… don’t become one of them.

Ell

Meek And Gentle

Titus 3:1-2, 8-11

Whether it’s observed and appreciated or not, the good works performed daily by the church, actually benefit those who are unbelievers. Exchanging love for hate, or good for evil, works to the advantage of those who still have time to submit themselves to the authority of God. The Bible mentions in Matthew 19:17, “there is none good but one, that is, God:”, but Christians can in fact perform good works. That’s not a statement to cause confusion, but a simple truth.

Believers are found doing good because, their good fruit resemble their repentant hearts. Every member of the body of Christ “should” be ready to only say, and do things that are pleasing to the Father. God is pleased when His people speak kind of others, and not evil. Have you been guilty of speaking things that aren’t positive, nor beneficial of someone you know, or may not know? If so, what caused you to say such things? If the love of God rests, rules, and abides in your heart, then you should always be nudged by His Spirit, to monitor what you say about others.

God’s love also allows for the church to operate in the spirit of meekness, “unto all men”. There should be such a desire in you to be like Christ, until you’ll look forward to responding to all men in love. While that may sound far fetched or fairytale, when a person truly understands the purpose of life, they’ll see the real value in the soul of a man, that will provoke them to want to help make their lives better, rather than worse.

The church is unpopular to the world, because they have love for God, while the world hates Him. But, I advise all those who remain true to God’s Word, to continue producing works that are pleasing to God, profitable to men, and encouraging to yourself.

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold… don’t become one of them.

Ell