Faith With Works

Genesis 12:1-8

Everyone God created, has a purpose, and a plan to execute for their lives, but some are required to leave behind those things they hold dear, in order to fulfill special missions for God. One such person was, Abram. God selected this man, by whom to birth His chosen nation. God could have used any faithful man to carry out His purpose, but Abram was chosen to represent God’s kingdom in the earth. God knew, Abram would remain faithful and true to his calling, and willingly leave his family, so that God could establish him in another location. Sometimes, we have to also be willing to move, because God can do more from a different location, than where we are now.

God made promises to Abram, that show forth even today, but before Abram received God’s instructions, he had to first make a move. We often miss out on the things God has for us, because we get too comfortable in our ways. When serving God, there will come times when you have to be flexible, and willing to step out in faith.

Because of his obedience, God blessed Abram beyond his imagination, and God wants to do the same for us today. Are you holding on to things that have lost its value, while God is trying to replace it with something better? Take God at His word; when He tells you to move, don’t hesitate, because it could determine whether your future will be bright, or just the same old thing.

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

Ell

Hang In There

Zephaniah 3:14-20

“In that day…” Fighting the good fight of faith, has taken its toll on many faithful believers. Despite how prepared we are to face daily struggles, and fiery darts from the enemy, there’s only so much we can take, until we reach the point of breaking. We’ve been given the helmet of salvation, to guard our confession of being reunited with the Father, the breastplate of righteousness, to protect our hearts, as we boldly proclaim the Gospel, our feet are shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, so that we will always be swift to run, and not be weary, the shield of faith, to block all attacks from the enemy, and the sword of the Spirit, to slice and dice all manner of evil that confronts us.

God knew, living in a world of sin wouldn’t be a cakewalk, so He provided necessary spiritual tools, to keep us protected during our journey. The one thing I am grateful for the most is, knowing that our trouble has a deadline. There’s coming a day, when God will stand in the midst of us, and cast out all our enemies. At that time, there will be no reason for us to fear, because God will gather His people together, and give them joy, while allowing them to rest in His love. All who have suffered for the sake of righteousness, struggled while trying to maintain holiness, and contended for the faith, will soon be relieved from all their worries. In that day, God will undo all of our afflictions, whether they be sickness, pain, misery, persecution, or other attacks. The day is fast approaching, when God will turn back the captivity of the Saints, then all who proclaim God’s salvation, will see the goodness of the Lord, with their own eyes. Stay in the fight, and don’t give up, because God will soon step in to undo all that opposes His people.

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

Ell

I Believe!

Zephaniah 3:8-13

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12). “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:” (2 Timothy 3:16). “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away”. (Matt 24:35). “For verily I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” (Matthew 5:18). Without being forced to believe in, or submit to God’s Word, I made a choice to follow God, based on my own judgment. In many cultures, children are forced to believe in things, without being given a choice to weigh whether or not what they are being pressured into, is profitable for their health, well-being, and future. I grew up in a Christian home, but chose to find out the truth about God for myself, outside of what was poured into me from my youth. From 22 years of study, meditation, and research, I am totally convinced, God is real, and every word of Scripture is truth. In fact, proof of God’s Word has already been revealed during our time, through manifested prophecies. Some can be found in the following scriptures:

Matthew 24:6 “And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.”

2 Timothy 3:1-7 “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.”

2 Peter 3:3-4 “Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, and saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.”

Although there are many, who refuse to believe the Bible is true, and its words are being revealed daily, all things will play out accordingly, then those who remain in sin and ignorance, will be in for a rude awakening. Contrary to what’s being taught in modern times, there’s only one way to God, and that’s through Jesus. Christ sacrificed His perfect life for our imperfections, so that we could have the opportunity to spend eternity with the Father of all creation. Rest assured, the last days are upon us, and no matter what you believe, there are only two choices; either there is a God, or there isn’t. If there isn’t, then we’re all living for nothing, without proof of the origin of our existence, nor a reason to anticipate a purposeful end. If there is a God, then we all better line up, and do as He says, because He knows everything, and our hope in Him will not bring us to shame.

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

Ell

“I’m Doing This Because I Love You…”

Zephaniah 3:1-7

Parents typically deal with the neighbor’s kids with love and respect, even in times of misunderstandings and misfortunes. This is because they prefer to maintain unity in their community, while choosing peaceful resolutions, over senseless bickering. On the other hand, parents deal with their own children according to a different standard.

The ideal situation is, where children obey their parents, in the Lord, because it’s right, but kids aren’t always that shining light they were raised to be. For this reason, chastisement is implemented, during moments when children stray too far from their home teachings. While executing harsh discipline hardly ever feels good to the parent or child, the purpose is to remind the young one of the importance of obedience, because failing to listen, and do as they are told, could lead to regrettable issues down the road.

Isn’t it amazing, how a child can be totally convinced, they know more than their parent? I saw a child once being scolded by his mother, and all he kept saying was, “I know, I know mom”. Well, if he knew, he wouldn’t have done what he did. This is the same issue God is having with His people. Those who are willingly ignorant of the truth, will receive their just reward, but the children of God who stray, will be chastised, until they turn away from those things that so easily beset them. God loves everyone, but is especially more strict with His own children. This is because, the Lord is fully aware of what’s soon to come in the earth, and He doesn’t want His people to be left in shame and misery.

Everyone has a choice to choose life, or death. After a moment of discipline, a child can choose to straighten up, and walk right, or turn back to those things that caused them to get in trouble. Children obey your parents, in the Lord, and Christians, obey the Lord, that it may be well with thee, and you will live a long prosperous life in the earth.

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

Ell

A Powerful Church

Acts 5:27-32

All aboard!!! Welcome aboard the Train of the Past, Present, and Future! As we embark upon our journey, we’ll travel back a few thousand years, to witness the powerful effects, the early church had in the earth, after Jesus ascended to His Father. Buckle up, and prepare your minds to be blown away! (Choo choo…chooka chooka…choo choo).

We are now passing through the streets of 2020, and if you look out your window, you’ll notice churches are either closing, empty, or under government control. Watered down mega churches are exploited and publicized over the small churches, that are full of the power of the Holy Ghost. Unfortunately, there’s not much power residing in the House of Prayer, as there was in times before. On your left, you’ll notice those leaders are afraid to teach the truth, for fear of losing membership, or their government assistance. The churches to our right, have even been infiltrated with worldly habits including attire, music, and false doctrines.

Well, let’s zoom past this present mess of sorts, and head to the days of the apostles, when they were bold, and brave in speaking the truth of the Gospel, despite inevitable opposition.

Wakey wakey sleepy travelers, for we have arrived at our destination. Oh my, look to your right, and you’ll see Peter, and the other apostles, gathered together in Solomon’s porch, witnessing, and healing all in attendance. One moment please…(Mr train operator, can you please move the train to a more distant location? There are so many people coming, and gathering around the apostles, until we won’t have room to leave). Ladies and gents, the Word of God is being preached so effectively, until multitudes of men and women are believing on the name of the Lord! This is amazing! No one is asking for offerings, reading announcements, or doing anything except showing forth the power of God.

Now, the atmosphere of faith is growing even greater, as sick folk are being brought and laid in the streets. Wait a minute… waaaaaiit a minute! Are you people seeing this?!?! I think I’m going crazy! Excuse me sir, did you see that woman get healed, just by being in the shadow of the apostle Peter? How is that possible? I’m seeing it with my eyes, yet I still can’t believe it’s actually happening! Forgive my excitement folks, as I am totally standing in awe of this amazing power being revealed before our eyes.

This early church was totally committed to God, and their works prove it. Oh boy, look over there… some men are coming, and they don’t look happy about the apostle’s good works. This is interesting; the high priest looks filled with indignation, as if he’s going to arrest them! Oh nooooo! They’re forcing them to the ground, and binding them in chains! (No ma’am, we can’t go out there and help, or we’ll change the future, by interfering with the past). I think they’re taking them to prison. That’s no fair. Hey driver, follow those horses!! (Choo choo…chooka chooka….choo choo).

I must say folks, that was rather unexpected. You’d think the priests would be happy to see men and women get healed, and come to God, but I guess the things we experience in 2020, took place back then also.

We’ll have to wait outside this prison, and hope the apostles get released soon. (Approx. 7 hours later). We’ll, I guess we should head back to our time, because it’s getting late, and I’m not sure it’s safe to hang around too long. I hope you guys learned a few lessons.. wait, what’s this?! There’s a man dressed in white, and he’s opening the gates of the prison… the apostles are fleeing! Oh my word, people are you seeing this miracle?! The angel of the Lord set the apostles free, so that they could continue preaching, and teaching those things the Sadducees so ignorantly reject.

Alright, that puts a more positive stamp on our trip. We’ll head back now, and soak in all we’ve witnessed today. Hopefully, each of you can return to your local churches (after this virus season passes by), and convince your fellow brothers and sisters to hold fast to the faith, regardless of inevitable circumstances and opposition. God will give you the strength and strategy you need, to be effective witnesses, in these last days. Thanks for traveling on the Train of the Past, Present, and Future, and I pray y’all have a blessed life!

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

Ell

Breath In… Breath Out… Relax

Zechariah 10:6-12

Order, is God’s way of normal operations. When He created the world, it was done in decent order as well. God also made man to follow the standard of order, as he went about doing those things that brought pleasure to the Lord. When things are done according to proper order, there’s little, to no room for chaos to have any place. Well, this world is in chaos, and it’s impossible to bring order back into it, except drastic measures be implemented.

Men are too far gone in their evil doings, and the earth has suffered severely for it. Men have also advanced so far in technology, until they can even manipulate the weather. Although these times may appear frightening, the church should remain strong, and confident that God will soon gather His people together, to give them their coveted rewards. Restoration is coming to the body of Christ, but until it does, evil will be allotted its time to roam the lands. But, when the devil’s time is up, God’s children will receive recompense, restoration, restitution, and redemption from all this craziness and mayhem.

“I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works. I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High. When mine enemies are turned back, they shall fall and perish at thy presence. For thou hast maintained my right and my cause; thou satest in the throne judging right. Thou hast rebuked the heathen, thou hast destroyed the wicked, thou hast put out their name for ever and ever. O thou enemy, destructions are come to a perpetual end: and thou hast destroyed cities; their memorial is perished with them. But the Lord shall endure for ever: he hath prepared his throne for judgment. And he shall judge the world in righteousness, he shall minister judgment to the people in uprightness. The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee. Sing praises to the Lord, which dwelleth in Zion: declare among the people his doings. When he maketh inquisition for blood, he remembereth them: he forgetteth not the cry of the humble. Have mercy upon me, O Lord; consider my trouble which I suffer of them that hate me, thou that liftest me up from the gates of death: That I may shew forth all thy praise in the gates of the daughter of Zion: I will rejoice in thy salvation. The heathen are sunk down in the pit that they made: in the net which they hid is their own foot taken. The Lord is known by the judgment which he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah. The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God. For the needy shall not always be forgotten: the expectation of the poor shall not perish for ever. Arise, O Lord; let not man prevail: let the heathen be judged in thy sight. Put them in fear, O Lord: that the nations may know themselves to be but men. Selah.” (Psalm 9 KJV).

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

Ell

Scattered And Scared

Ezekiel 34:11-16

During these recent times of fear, sorrow, and mourning, it’s only right that Christian leaders buckle down, and do their best to keep their flocks encouraged, uplifted, and well-informed of these prophetic end-times. It’s one thing to be in a leadership position to enjoy the glory of men’s praises, but it’s God’s intention that shepherds guard, cover, and protect their people at all costs.

In times of trial or testing, sheep should always be able to reach out to their shepherd, and receive the help they desperately desire, but when a leader cares more for his own will, than the needs of the flock, the sheep will inevitably scatter, and wander in places they ought not be.

Our text reveals prophecy of the time when God Himself, will search and seek out those scattered sheep, and when He gathers them together, He’ll bring them to their own land, feed them properly, and give them rest from all their worries. That’s a great time to look forward to, seeing how bad things have become today. But, to all the men and women who are leading disciples astray, or are causing them to scatter, God will also feed them, but rather than partake of the goodness of the Lord, they’ll feast on His judgment. “In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you” (Titus 2:7-8).

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

Ell

The Right Investment

Deuteronomy 30:1-6

Living, is more than breathing, walking, talking, producing, reproducing, working, exercising, fishing, or all the things we consider enjoying life. In the eyes of God, living begins when a man’s heart has been circumcised, so that he can love the Lord with his whole heart, and soul. Many today, involve themselves in various activities, that constitute living, according to society, but only in God, does a man’s life truly begin to have purpose.

The desires of a carnal man are to live their “best life” now on this earth, but they fail to invest in the life that truly matters. There are religious leaders who support this erroneous theology, and encourage their members to aim to live their best lives now also. This life offers nothing but pain, shame, and, suffering, so making investments in a corrupt society, is like investing in bad stocks; you’ll never yield positive returns. God desires that His people stay connected to Him, because He knows that the corruption in this life has a time limit, and He expects us to remain strong, while not confirming to the world. Unfortunately, many have conformed, therefore God allows things to happen in the earth, to shake them back into His reality.

If the body of Christ was focused more on God’s agenda, rather than storing treasures on the earth, I’m apt to believe, the lost would be more convinced God is real, by witnessing their peculiar lifestyles. But, when we suffer, we cry, moan, and complain more than the world. When bad things happen, we speak doubt, and not faith. The light of the church has grown dim, thus fulfilling the end time prophecy, when God will intervene to pour out His Spirit on all men. “And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:” (Acts 2:17 KJV).

Despite those who fail to represent holiness the right way, God will reveal His power to this world, then all will be totally convinced, He is, everything the Bible says He is.

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

Ell

Power In Prophecy

Isaiah 61:8-11, 62:2-4

Of all the spiritual gifts God bestowed upon His chosen, the apostle Paul advised the church at Corinth to desire the gift of prophecy. Paul felt strongly about his preference, because “greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.” (1 Corinthians 14:5). Spiritual gifts that actually benefit the whole body of believers, offer greater blessings than those that bless individuals persons, so it’s wise that we covet those gifts that will edify more people, than just ourselves.

The gift of prophecy was exercised throughout Scripture; more notably through the books of the prophets. Isaiah was considered one of the major prophets, but not because he was greater than the others. His book comprises a great amount of text, and prophecy, than what the minor prophets have recorded. Isaiah’s prophetic words offer great hope, especially for those who have suffered, or are suffering for the sake of the Gospel.

Whether we choose to believe it, or not, Christ will return, and all who remain true to their calling, will be rewarded. We learn in our text, there will be an “acceptable year of the Lord”, where God will have vengeance on those who persecuted His children. Such prophecies help us endure hard times, and keep us encouraged, while striving to serve God daily.

Allow God’s prophetic Word to inspire, motivate, and push you to work diligently in the earth. Watch, pray, love, and exercise all the gifts you operate in, to the glory of the almighty God.

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

Ell

The Redeemed

Isaiah 62:5-12

Upholding righteous standards, while living in a sinful world, isn’t always easy to accomplish, because the children of God face daily struggles and temptations, that are set to distract them from walking the path of righteousness. Fortunately, God has allowed His Spirit to dwell in His children, to provide comfort in uncomfortable situations, wisdom beyond human intellect, and remembrance of the teachings of Christ’s doctrine. God has also set men in place (although many have fallen away from the faith), to build up, encourage, edify, and strengthen the faith of all who are in Christ Jesus.

While the world continues on its downward spiral toward destruction, Christ’s disciples are to keep unity amongst themselves. As the redeemed of the Lord, Christians have a responsibility to express their affinity to God, through their living. When all members of Christ’s body are unified in their approach to soul winning, God empowers them to cause significant change, wherever they go. Times truly have changed since the days of the early disciples, but the power of God remains potent, and can still prove effective, if we make wise use of it.

We have been mandated to occupy, or work until Christ returns, so Christians should always be seen doing something for God’s kingdom. In John 9:4, Christ said, “I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.” The works we do are not to benefit ourselves only, but to help others see the goodness of the Lord. Many are occupying their time, concerning themselves with frivolous worldly matters, when they should be more focused on where they’ll spend eternity.

The church must do a better job keeping themselves holy in the sight of God, so that their witnessing to others will have the right impact, and can yield positive results. “Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, Whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy” (Psalm 107:2).

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

Ell