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

You Are Special

Isaiah 61:1-7

I often reference one of my favorite quotes which says, “The end of a matter, with God, is always good, and if it’s not good, then it’s not the end of the matter.” These words encourage, and inspire me to continue fighting the “good fight of faith”, despite what I see going on around me. Bad things happen to good people, and suffering comes as a package deal with salvation, but God will one day wipe every tear from our eyes, and reward His people for their dedicated service.

The prophet Isaiah recorded, Christ will soon comfort all who mourn, and give to them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness, and establish God’s people as trees of righteousness. A tree, firmly rooted in good ground, is not easily moved, and brings forth good fruit. In the same sense, the body of Christ will be planted of the Lord, so that He might be glorified, through their good works.

Suffering is an occasional topic in my daily writings, because many are experiencing hard times, so I try to offer words of encouragement, to keep readers strong, and striving toward God’s expected end. While the world may despise, and call you names other than a child of God, when all this is over, the Father will call you His own, and tell you, “well done “.

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

Ell

Save Me!!!

Isaiah 49:1-7

If you were swimming in the ocean, and was caught off guard by an undertow current, would you ignore the help of an experienced lifeguard, swimming to your rescue? If you were severely injured in an automobile accident, and was unable to move, would you tell the ambulance and rescue team, you’ll figure things out on your own? When we’re in trouble, we rarely turn down the opportunity to receive assistance, especially if it’s rendered free of charge. Men and women are in position, in various areas of life, to aid and assist those, who require help. Whether a person was involved in a car accident, work injury, burglarized, or whatever the case, there are always people at the ready, to meet their need.

The world was once drowning in sin, and needed a savior, so God prepared for Himself, a body, by which to come to the earth, and redeem man back to Himself. For various ungodly reasons, many have refused to accept God’s help, and chose to figure things out on their own. These people fail to realize the gravity of the situation they’re in, and can ill afford to die in their sin, yet God offers limited time for them to reach out, and take hold of His hand.

Refusing to accept God’s free gift of salvation, is equivalent to the person rejecting the lifeguard’s help, while being pulled underwater, by an undertow current. Sin is real, and the devil cares nothing for men’s souls. For this reason, he attacks the children of God relentlessly, and won’t stop until his judgment is executed. Snap out of your world of selfishness and pride, and reach out to grab hold of God’s saving hand. Don’t allow the waves of sin to pull you under, into an eternity of sorrow.

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

Ell

God Brings Balance

Leviticus 25:8-17

The Year of Jubile, was an exciting season, ordained by God, so that all Hebrews could receive a fresh start in their way of living. During this hallowed year, people were required to live off their increase, so that the land could rest, and lie untended, for a season. Not only was the land given room to breath, but the people were also commanded to rest from work. God knew the importance of balance and fairness, so He made certain that during this year, business was to get a fresh start as well. This was a time when all mortgages were canceled, servants released back to there families, all debts forgiven, and all lands were reverted to the original owners. Jubile was set aside to be holy, and a time where liberty was proclaimed throughout the lands, and unto all the people there. God also stressed, that when conducting business, men were to be fair, and not oppress one another, during this time.

How I wish America feared God in such a way, that His standards ruled the government. Some say this country was founded on godly principles, but its obvious men have long pushed those standards aside, in place of their own ideals. Rather than proclaim liberty, fairness, and respect for our fellow man, this country is divided by parties, social classes, and the color of a man’s skin. Could you imagine how incredible it would be, if a year was set aside, where the government canceled everyone’s debt, including mortgage, credit card bills, student loans, and more? Although that’s only a fairytale, it would allow an opportunity for all things to return to balance.

Well, I guess I’ll snap out of my daydream, and focus back on reality. While we try to maintain balance in this world of unjust leaders, be certain to treat your fellow brothers and sisters with godly love, and respect. Always be honest, and keep God first in all your dealings. “For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13)

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

Ell

Mission Possible

Luke 4:14-21

This world is dying. Chaos resides among men, on every continent of the planet. People are hurting, hungry, and in need of many things. While some live lavish, basking in the accumulation of their wealth and possessions, others would be grateful to have a hot shower, and warm meal. There’s no balance in the earth, because sin has caused men to behave in ways that are immoral, and ungodly. In its present state, the world will only get worse, so God has a plan to destroy, and renew what was once sinless and beautiful.

Until the time comes for this world to pass, the body of Christ must be diligent in sharing the Gospel with others. People need hope in something real, and not in things that will eventually fade away. Believers must dare to be different, as was Christ, when He presented His purpose and mission, to His own people of Nazareth. Jesus boldly proclaimed, He was anointed to preach the Gospel to the poor, heal the brokenhearted, preach deliverance to the captives, recover sight to the blind, and free those who are bruised. The world back then, may not have been as vile and wicked as today, but there were still many who needed God’s deliverance from certain issues. Jesus gave the people hope, and assurance that better was coming. Despite dealing with unfavorable circumstances, God would come through for those who love Him in the end.

It’s the duty of the Saints, to continue spreading the Gospel to the world, even though it’s often rejected. There are many yearning for better in this life, but need a little encouragement, to press on, and not give up. Jesus took His calling seriously, and obeyed His Father despite the naysayers, so we should not allow anyone to stop us from obeying the will of God. Consider all those who are in worse conditions than yourself, then pray to God for them, that they will endure, until the end.

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

Ell

Be Wise In God’s Eyes

1 Kings 3:16-28

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” (Proverbs 4:7 KJV). Knowing how to rightly judge in all situations, takes more than book knowledge to accomplish. Those who have aspirations to become lawyers, or judges, are required to undergo years of extensive schooling, in order to be certified to operate in the field of law. Even with countless hours of training and experience, there will always be situations too complicated, from which to discern the truth.

With the wisdom of God, man has the ability to understand, and carefully uncover truths, not easily revealed. Our lesson gives a perfect example of how wisdom can bring truth from a confusing situation. When commanded to ask anything he desired from God, Solomon said, “Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad:” (vs. 9). Solomon knew he would need more than money and his father’s good name, to lead the people of God into glory, so asking for wisdom was the wisest decision he made in his entire life.

Before you begin a task, or are confronted with a challenging issue, do you deal with it head on, and wind up regretting your actions in the end, or do you ask God for wisdom, to make the decisions that would please Him? Never make the mistake of trusting your own wisdom, or the wisdom of men, over the wisdom that comes from above. The all-knowing Father, can guide you safely through all the difficult situations you’ll encounter in life, without causing harm to yourself, or innocent bystanders in the process.

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

Ell

Overcome Evil With God

Esther 7:1-10

“When they were but a few men in number; yea, very few, and strangers in it. When they went from one nation to another, from one kingdom to another people; He suffered no man to do them wrong: yea, he reproved kings for their sakes; Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm” (Psalm 105:12 -15 KJV). God protects those He loves; who diligently seek after Him, and keep His commandments. In the same way a father guards his children from robbers and thugs, or a lion protects its cubs from hungry predators, God will always clear the path of those who are purpose-driven, and seek only to fulfill His will for their lives.

While it’s not laid out in plain text what every man is supposed to do in the earth, the basic instructions written in Scripture, are fairly simple to grasp. We learn in the book of Ecclesiastes, “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil” (Ecclesiastes 12:12-13). Those who are fulfilling the whole duty commanded by God, will receive His divine protection and provision, while traversing their journey. Proof of this is evident throughout the Bible, but more specifically in our recent lessons concerning Mordecai and Esther. Despite the overwhelming obstacle set before them in the form of the wicked Haman, God imparted heavenly wisdom into the hearts and minds of Mordecai and Esther, that allowed them to devise a plan to destroy the enemy’s evil plot. With careful planning, patience, and fasting, the trap Haman set for Mordecai, was turned around against his own self. This is how God works through us today. While some are under the impression, God is like superman, who will swoop down from the skies, and rescue those in need (as they believed Jesus would do when He entered Jerusalem), through His Spirit, God imparts wisdom into us, that helps us plan, and develop strategies that will allow us to overcome the plans of evil.

The body of Christ has a job to do, and that’s for each member to carry out their individual assignments, until the end. Whether you are skilled in teaching, preaching, arts and crafts, or any other area, ask God to give you wisdom from Heaven, to aid you, as you use your gift, talent, or special ability, to win souls for the kingdom.

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

Ell