The Well-Trodden Path

Proverbs 2:20-22, 4:24-27

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another exciting episode of, “The Well-Trodden Path.” Starring, Grandpa Joe, and his grandson Charlie! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

(Grandpa Joe decided to take little Charlie on a road trip, to view all the wonderful sights of God’s beautiful creation)

Charlie: Hey grandpa, where are we going?

Grandpa Joe: Sit tight little one, because I’m taking you to see all the amazing things God created, including towering mountains, crystal clear rivers, and even scary deep canyons!

Charlie: Wow grandpa! That sounds like fun! I’m so excited! I’m so excited! I’m so…

Grandpa Joe: Alright, alright Charlie (as he chuckles). Strap on your safety belt, and let’s be on our way!

(About 2 hours into the drive, Charlie begins to point out all the massive trees, different animals, and even mountains in the distance)

Grandpa Joe: So Charlie, how are you enjoying the trip so far?

Charlie: This is fun grandpa! I never saw so many trees, and animals, and birds, and those mountains that look so close, but we haven’t even got close to them yet.

Grandpa Joe: (laughs out loud), well mountain views can be a little deceiving at times, because they are great in size.

(As they continue to travel, grandpa Joe notices the car begins to shake uncontrollably, then it spins out of control. Finally, it lands in the shrubs of a nearby forest)

Grandpa Joe: Charlie! Charlie! Are you ok?

Charlie: Yeah grandpa, that was scary and fun at the same time!

Grandpa Joe: Thank heavens you’re ok! Sigh…

Charlie: Grandpa, what will we do now? How will we get back to the road?

Grandpa Joe: First, let’s pray Charlie. God, it’s me again, I know you see our situation, and know that we are in need of help. We’ve been placed far away from the road, and have no sense of direction how to return there. We ask that you help us find our way back, in your Son Jesus’ name, amen.

Charlie: Amen. Grandpa, I’m scared. I only see trees and stuff, but no way out of here.

Grandpa Joe: Don’t worry little Charlie. God will take care of us.

Charlie: Okay grandpa, I trust you.

(Grandpa takes Charlie out of the car, and the two begin searching for a way out of the frightening forest. After searching for a while, Charlie notices a beaten path amongst the trees)

Charlie: Hey grandpa! I think I see something (as he points toward the path).

Grandpa Joe: Good eye Charlie! Maybe this path will lead us to safety. Hold my hand, don’t stray from this path, and let’s trust God to keep us safe.

Charlie: Okay grandpa, let’s do it!

(The day begins to darken, and Charlie and grandpa Joe become startled by various animal noises from within the forest. Charlie then sees a flicker of light away from the path.)

Charlie: Grandpa I see a light over there!

Grandpa Joe: Where Charlie?

Charlie: Over there grandpa (he points assuredly).

Grandpa Joe: Charlie, if we go to investigate that light, it’ll take us way off this path. I don’t think it’s wise to stray away.

Charlie: But grandpa, maybe it’s people over there, and maybe they can help us…

Grandpa Joe: Charlie, I doubt there is anyone other than us, in this forest. Trust me. Don’t get distracted by things that may seem to be good, because it could be a trap.

(Charlie clings tight to grandpa’s hand, and the two continue down the trodden path. As they continue to walk in the thick darkness that engulfed the forest, grandpa smells something burning in the distance.)

Grandpa Joe: Hey Charlie, you smell that?

Charlie: Smell what grandpa?

Grandpa Joe: If I’m not mistaken, I can smell food coming from that way. I think we’re nearing the end of this path.

(Grandpa Joe and Charlie indeed reach the end of the trodden path, that led them to a nearby cottage, where they were able to get assistance for their famished bodies, as well as locate their damaged vehicle again.)

Grandpa Joe: You see Charlie, if we had strayed away from that beaten path, who knows what would have happened to us in that forest.

Charlie: Right grandpa! I’ll make sure that if I ever get lost again, I’ll search for a path where others walked before. Then I’ll know I’ll soon find safety.

Grandpa Joe: That’s a good lad.

Being a Christian, and living a righteous life won’t always be a cakewalk, but as long as we follow the path Christ walked before us, we’ll always be led to a place of refuge.

“That thou mayest walk in the way of good men and keep the paths of the righteous.” (Proverbs 2:20).

This concludes another episode of, “The Well-Trodden Path”! Thanks for tuning in.

Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,

Ell

Why Good Men Fall

Proverbs 2:12-19

How do good people turn bad, and how can men who once pledged their allegiance to God, commit themselves to the way of evil men. Throughout history, many had started out as sensible, wholesome, and genuine individuals. These persons were reliable, and would offer assistance to those who were in need, without hesitation. But over time, such persons begin to show signs of notable change; revealing behaviors contrary to their once praised virtues.

At the root of all things evil, is sin, and the author and orchestrator of wickedness, is the fallen cherub, satan. The believer’s adversary, the devil, is extremely crafty, and more cunning than the average human. He seeks nothing more than to kill, steal, and destroy all that the body of Christ stands for. Not only is satan the master of deception, but he’s fully equipped to infiltrate, and subdue the hearts and minds of those who lack God’s spiritual armor. The devil is indeed a formidable foe, but a man who’s rooted in God’s Word, and properly girded in the right armor, will be able to withstand the wiles of the enemy.

In addition to being clothed for spiritual warfare, warring against satan and his minions requires one to be full of God’s wisdom, and mature in the knowledge and understanding of the words in Scripture. It’s easy for any man to put on the equipment of an NFL football team, but wearing the uniform while not knowing the coach’s plans and schemes, would cause them to easily be defeated by their opponents.

Good men fall, because they fail to invest enough time in meditating, and walking according to the Word of God. The more time we spend entertaining carnal things, the more we neglect to solidify our godly foundation. No man ever “arrives” in godliness, so it’s imperative for believers to grow in the knowledge of God daily. Times will come when a child of God will fall or error, but if handled properly, that person can be restored and become stronger, while avoiding being ensnared by the enemy’s traps.

Our gracious Father in Heaven, freely gives wisdom to all who ask for it, but without His wisdom, you’ll become easy pickin’s for the enemy to distract, and deceive.

Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,

Ell

A Good Name

Genesis 39:6-18

“A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.”(Prov. 22:1 KJV) Can you recall a moment in your past, when you failed to consider the consequences of an evil action you were willing to commit? There are times when doing evil seems good, but only when seeking to satisfy the flesh. Therefore, ignoring the fact that God sits high, and monitors our every move, only brings displeasure to the Father. The next time you’re presented with temptation, take a moment to consider the consequences of your action. Will God be pleased by the choice you make? Will your family, friends, and those who trust you, lose the respect they have toward you? Will your action tarnish the good reputation you built up for years?

In our text, Joseph was met with a temptation, that could have possibly ruined his established reputation with God. Aside from being handsome and well-favored, Joseph was a man of integrity, good morals, and walked according to a holy standard. The short version of the life of Joseph goes as such: He was the younger brother of many men, who became jealous of their father’s love for him, so they sold him to slave traders, lied to their father that he died, and moved on with their lives. Fortunately, God protected Joseph, and gave him favor even in his master’s house. The favor of God not only showered upon Joseph, but his master was blessed by God, simply for having Joseph under his watch.

The text reads, “And he left all he had in Joseph’s hand:” Joseph was in charge of all the master’s possessions, and business. From this, one would think that this young man who was previously dissed by his own blood, was now living rather good. Unfortunately, the moment things start going good for a brother, there’s always someone plotting to mess it up. Since being taken in, and given authority over the master’s house, Joseph was being watched closely by the master’s wife. Rather than honor the sanctity of her marriage, the vile woman had intentions to “lie” with God chosen vessel. “And it came to pass, as she spake to Joseph day by day, that he hearkened not unto her, to lie by her, or to be with her.” In other words, once Joseph knew she was feeling him, he made it his business to avoid her at all costs.

When faced with temptation, do you try hard to avoid it, or do you easily give in? Joseph had a reputation to keep with his master, but most importantly, with God. When the devil knows he can’t get to you with wicked plots and schemes, he’ll always result to tearing down your good name. Think it not strange, when evil men attempt to tarnish your good reputation. Instead, trust that no matter how far men go to bring you down, God will always, and I repeat ALWAYS, make it possible for the truth to reveal who you really are. Don’t allow yourself to get so worked up until you try to fight the enemy in the natural realm, instead take the fight to the spiritual realm, and seek God to fight on your behalf.

Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,

Ell

Disguised Deception

2 John 4-11

From reading this text many times, and from different perspectives, I found it interesting how the apostles would speak to unique congregations, on different occasions. Oftentimes, the crowds which gathered under the apostles, consisted of only men, and the messages delivered were centered on certain duties that pertain to fathers, and their roles as men in the body of Christ, as well as in their homes. This lesson’s text specifically identifies John’s audience as “the elect lady and her children”. Whoever this elect lady was, she was relevant enough for the apostle John to hold an audience with, to warn her and her children about false teachers.

Men who are under the authority of satan, typically plot to infiltrate the minds of woman, because they are considered the “weaker vessel”, and if convinced, they can spoil the minds of their husbands and children as well. In the garden of eden, the serpent knew this truth, and took advantage of his opportunity to beguile the woman, who in turn convinced the man to disobey God. Women aren’t inherently dumb or naive, but when under pressure or confused, they have a tendency to making emotional decisions. John knew full well the susceptibility of the woman, so he gave warning to the elect lady, and taught her how to recognize a deceiver, and their wicked presentations.

John was filled with joy upon hearing that the children of the elect lady were all walking in the truth of God’s commandments. For those who have children, imagine how you would feel, if all your kids were living a committed life to God. I’m certain your days would be filled with love, joy, peace, and laughter. Well, John’s gladness provoked him to deliver a message of warning, so that the elect lady could be fully equipped to guard her children against those who would attempt to steer them away from holiness.

It is mentioned in the text, that “many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh”. Satan is known for mixing a wee little lie, with a lot of truth, but that small bit of deception is powerful enough to turn men away from the truth. Those who know God, and abide in the doctrine of Christ, are easily recognizable by the fruit they bear. But, those who are of the devil, will reveal themselves by their tainted doctrine, and unholy lifestyles. John told the elect lady to turn away from men who dilute the Word of God, with their deceptive words, and refrain from bidding them God speed, or engaging in greetings with them, because doing so would deem her a partaker of their evil deeds also.

As you continue to live for God, allow your excitement for knowing Him keep you focused, and committed to doing His will, but don’t forget to guard yourself, and your children, from deceivers who are littered all over the world, and seek only to pull you away from your heavenly Father.

Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,

Ell

Selfless Consideration

Romans 15:1-6

In our society, working together is promoted in all areas of business, education, and entertainment. Businesses thrive on increase and productivity, but their success can only go as far as their unified organization allows them to. Teachers work hard to ensure that their students learn and develop the skills required to advance to the next grade level. When done for the right purpose and with right intentions, teachers can impact the lives of their students far beyond their initial expectations. Without unity and togetherness, it would be unwise for any team, of any sport, to attempt to challenge an opponent, because their lack of teamwork would weigh heavily against them, causing them to suffer a great and embarrassing loss. From these examples, it’s safe to presume that working together as a single unit, will always produce better results, than operating from a system of dysfunction.

While teamwork involves all members working together toward a common goal, each individual must exhibit behaviors of humility, compassion, and understanding, in order for the “team” to “work” effectively. In our text, the apostle Paul helps Roman believers grasp a better better understanding of the importance of unity, amongst the body of Christ. Although each member of the body performs different functions, not one area holds more importance than another. The Bible does teach that we are to honor our leaders, and give them respect, but we must not consider our own callings irrelevant, in comparison to theirs.

The church is at its best, when all members perform their duties with all their heart, aiming to give God glory from their lives. Unfortunately, times will arise when those who are weak in faith, may tend to get weighed down by the heaviness of life’s struggles. During these critical moments, those who are strong in the Lord, ought to make haste to cover, protect, edify, and restore those who may fall, because at any moment the enemy could come and sift them as wheat. The Bible doesn’t teach us to be “people pleasers”, but we are commanded to live to please others. In pleasing others, we make ourselves available to lift them up during times when they feel down, supply their needs during seasons of lack, or simply loaning an ear or shoulder for someone to cry on, giving them hope that they’re not alone in the fight of faith.

Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,

Ell

Straighten Up And Fly Right

Galatians 6:1-10

As a whole, the church should conduct themselves totally opposite of what the world represents. Whether a member of the body of Christ lives in California, China, Sudan, or Germany, all who are deemed as children of God are expected to maintain a standard that is holy, and acceptable unto the Lord, at all times, and in all places.

When the Bible is taught, and the pages of Scripture preached, those who deliver the oracles of God should always do so under the leading of the Holy Spirit. When done this way, the message will always be brought forth as God intended, and the Spirit won’t allow man’s pride to take precedence over God’s intended purpose.

I mentioned the previous statements to establish a grounds for this lesson. In order for the church to remain unified, we must all have equal understanding of the Word of God. God’s Word has been the same since its inspired recording, and its relevance is of the upmost importance to all who are in Christ Jesus. Without God’s Word, there would be no sense of direction or purpose for the church, and we’d be left to traverse the earth on our own wisdom and judgment. Fortunately, God made sure to provide a means by which all men can have equal opportunity to learn, study, and meditate on the things He expects from His people.

In our text, some of the most important principles of holy living are mentioned. The apostle Paul taught the church in Galatia the importance of teamwork, humility, and reaping and sowing. Believers are to stick together in times of good, and not so good. Paul taught that we are to bear one another’s burdens, because doing so fulfills the law of Christ (to love thy neighbor as thyself). All members of Christ’s body are dependent upon each other to function properly, and when one member falls, the others are to restore them with meekness. This is very important, because men are known to point the finger, and make those who fall, feel bad, but they forget that while their pointing their finger at someone who made a mistake, a situation is awaiting them around the corner, to test them in the same area. Christians are to walk in humility at all times, remembering how Jesus carried Himself among those who followed after Him.

Lastly, Paul encouraged the Galatian church that sowing to the Spirit, will bring everlasting life, but sowing to the flesh will reap corruption. The world is expected to sow seeds to their flesh, because they are of their father the devil, but the children of God should always be found investing their time and energy, into building God’s kingdom. Be sure your attitude, behavior, and actions are aligned with God’s expectations, and allow His love to shine through you, as you walk in obedience to His Word.

Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,

Ell

Wisdom For All

Proverbs 1:1-11, 20-22, 32-33

Why do foolish men hate knowledge, and the simple-minded shun wisdom? Most people who lack basic knowledge of God, are easily attracted by sin, because it presents to them ways to make easy money, and feel like they are a part of the crowd. The average person wants to be accepted by their family, but more so by those in society. Yearning to be accepted by the world is the first step to falling into pride, and God despises those who seek after the things of the world, rather than His spiritual gifts. Wisdom, knowledge, and understanding work in unison, to guide the child of God in the ways of holiness, but when those life-saving virtues are rejected, the path one walks will soon become darker, and more broad.

God is more than willing to pour out His wisdom on all who ask for it, but many fail to understand that without the wisdom of God, life will literally deceive them. Men seem to prosper by obtaining things in life such as cars, homes, college degrees, business, and the like, but all things gained in this life, that doesn’t bring glory to God, is a waste of time, effort, and possibly money. The wisdom of God keeps us from falling into temptation, investing time in futile things, and focusing too much attention on worldly matters. Don’t be like the foolish, who despise wisdom and instruction, but in all things, seek the wisdom of God, so that your actions and decisions will always render positive results.

Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,

Ell

The Wise Ones

Proverbs 4:1-9

Those who place the wisdom of God at the forefront of their character traits, will consistently show forth the behavior of Christ in their daily living. Wisdom is the ability to carefully assess and understand a thing, then judge accordingly. King Solomon had taken on the mantle of his father David, and realized his shoes were too great to walk in by his own intellect, so he asked of God to give him wisdom, so that he would be properly equipped to judge millions of men and women, under his watch. Without the wisdom of God directing his hand, Solomon’s reign would have no doubt ended in great ruin, like others who refused to abide by the oracles of God, but because he put God first, his legacy has become one that will be remembered forever. Godly wisdom offers tremendous benefits, that can literally advance one’s life to levels far beyond the wisdom gained of men. Aside from one being molded into the image of Christ, by becoming loyal, kind, trustworthy, righteous, humble, and teachable, wisdom ensures that the life of the believer has a great chance of being lengthy, favorable, successful, prosperous, peaceful (most of the time), approved by God, and reputable in the sight of God and men. As you journey through this life, be sure to allow the wisdom of God to lead and guide your every move. This way, you can rest assured, your thoughts and actions will be pleasing to the Father, and He will bless you abundantly in the earth.

Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,

Ell

A Stroll Down Memory Lane

1 Kings 4:29-34

When you finally transition from this life to the next, what do you think people will remember most about you? All the men and women in the Bible, who lived by God’s example, are long dead, but they are still referenced today by their noteworthy lifestyles. Abraham will always be remembered as the father of faith, while Jacob proved that God could use someone, who once took pride in deceiving others, and change the heart of that same person, causing them to take delight in steering men from being deceived. Joseph was a man who endured unparalleled levels of injustice (by the hands of his brothers, and others) and was elevated to heights he would have never reached on his own. Moses grew up in the house of the Pharoah, and was possibly on his was to soon rule, or hold a position of great authority, but he sacrificed fame, riches, and glory, in order to promote the will of God instead. Balaam was widely know for his effective blessings and curses, but when he disobeyed God’s command, not to go with the princes of Moab, God allowed a donkey to speak, and warn him of the angel of the Lord, who was prepared to slay him for his disobedience. This miraculous event quickly changed the heart of Balaam, and set him right to walk in obedience to God, to bless Israel, and not curse them. Joshua was Moses’ assistant, and eventual successor, and He was one of two faithful men, unafraid to take over the land of Canaan. His effective leadership was the product of good preparation, and continuous encouragement. Rahab was a young lady, known to give up her goods, for the right price, but her act of protecting God’s people during their spy mission, caused her to be listed in the Bible’s Hall of Faith (Hebrews 11). This is proof that God can still use us to do great things, regardless of how dirty our past is.

Other great men and women including Deborah, Esther, Samuel, king David, all the prophets, and king Solomon, will forever be known for their unyielding dedication to the service of God, and caring for the needs of His people. I present the question again: When your time on this earth runs out, will you be remembered as someone who was full of evil, lies, deceit, and other vices, or will your name run through the hearts and minds of others, and cause them to smile, and take great delight in knowing you touched their lives in a good way?

Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,

Ell

Seeds Of Love

Matthew 26:47-52

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” (Galatians 6:7-9). These verses aren’t the basis of this lesson, but they tie in well with the Matthew Gospel account of Jesus’ final moments on the earth.

Not much is recorded in Scripture of the life Jesus lived prior to His 30’s, but it’s evident from how He conducted Himself during the three years of His ministry, His actions were only good, and acceptable in the sight of His Father. Jesus sowed good seed consistently, and desired only that the will of His Father be fulfilled through Himself. Every fruit associated with the attributes of the Holy Spirit, were on display in nearly ever occasion in Jesus’ life. When men despised Him, He showed love. When others lied, and attempted to slander His name, He continued to speak the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Even when His most trusted disciples were unable to help Him carry His burdens, Jesus dealt with them in the Spirit of meekness, and showered them with love, unconditional.

Our text picks up where Jesus took a few of His disciples with Him to pray, before Judas and the group of those who sought to kill him, prepared their assault. Being all God in a flesh body, Christ knew every detail of Judas’ evil plan, and was fully aware of where He needed to position Himself, so that the plan of God could be carried out. Rather than fight against His betrayer, Jesus called Judas friend. If that’s not a “WOW” moment, then I don’t know what to tell you. The first thing most people do when they are betrayed by a supposed friend is, entertain anger, that oftentimes turn into rage and thoughts of revenge. Unlike carnal men, Jesus saw the whole picture, and knew that although His enemies seemed to successfully subdue and make the Son of God look like the villain, He would rise with all power in just a few days.

All the good Jesus had sown throughout His life on the earth, would soon pay off big time before the eyes of all men. Even when Peter stepped in to defend the non-resistent Jesus, he was refrained from continuing his attacks, and learned in that moment,  “for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.” (vs. 52). When we choose violence as our method to solve unreasonable and unfair treatment, our end will yield the same judgment, but when we sow seeds of peace, love, and kindness, even to those who betray us, God will ensure that our end will render only good things.

Keep your chin up… it’s easier to see Heaven that way,

Ell