WE’RE NUMBER ONE!

Isaiah 42:10-17

Fanatics of all sports, rave, root, and cheer, as they watch their favorite teams compete for victory. Whether their team’s probability of success is high, or low, fans typically express their unyielding support regardless. While sports team’s can’t guarantee their fans certain victory, the body of Christ can rest assured, the battle against evil, is already won! The praise, glory, and honor believers render to God, is never in vain, and actually pleases the Lord. The Scripture teaches that God inhabits, or takes residence in the praises of His people. When we offer pure praise and worship to the Father, He in turn shows His appreciation by daily loading us with benefits. How many times has your favorite sport team done anything for you, without a price tag attached to it? Unlike teams, that have a possibility to win, or lose, God is undefeated, and He never charges us for anything. His salvation, love, joy, peace, and mercy are all free of charge. The next time you prepare to lose your voice for the Dolphins, Eagles, or Patriots, reconsider screaming those cheers toward Heaven.

Walk in love,

Ell

IN GOD WE TRUST?

Matthew 12:15-21

“IN GOD WE TRUST”, is the official motto of the United States of America, and has been printed on US paper currency since 1957. Melkote Ramaswamy, a Hindu American scholar, wrote that the presence of the phrase “In God We Trust” on American currency is a reminder that “there is God everywhere, whether we are conscious or not.” While this phrase appears spiritually relevant on the surface, I’m certain the founders of this “great” country, didn’t share the same beliefs, as the true God above.

Many use the name of the Lord, only in situations that benefit their selfish motives, but even more fail to truly give reverence to the glory His name holds. Even in courts, the Bible is used as a prop, by which men solemnly swear to tell the whole truth, during times of questioning. If this country truly trusted in God, then the entire governmental organization would be set up totally different. Love would be at the forefront of every law, bill, or statute passed, if God ruled in the hearts of men. There would be no need for population control (COVID-19), if God’s will was engraved in the hearts of our leaders. Political parties would be nonexistent, and the unnecessary bickering and backstabbing between Republicans and Democrats, would cease to exist.

When men allow God to lead, all things are done decently, and maintain proper order. We can’t control the hearts of those who have rule over us, but we can control our own. Keep your trust in God, and not only in what He can do for you, but because of who He is. God is love, life, truth, and offers everything we need, to sustain the times. “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God” (Psalm 20:7).

Walk in love,

Ell

The Pride Of Life

Luke 11:42-44

Pride embodies the characteristics of an individual, who knowingly ignores just actions, and a righteous attitude, in order to satisfy self-righteous motives and desires. Pride inevitably leads to arrogance, which causes many to promote their own abilities and concerns above everyone else’s. Over time, arrogance takes the form of high-mindedness, haughtiness, and disrespect. At this point, an individual is beyond reproach, and have settled into a hardened state of hypocrisy. All actions and behaviors that proceed from a hypocrite, will never prove beneficial to anyone, except themselves.

The most prominent group of hypocrites Jesus encountered often were, the Pharisees. These men preached false doctrines, that caused many innocent souls to waver from faith in God. They took pride in appearing relevant and well-respected to crowds, by giving consistent tithes, sitting in higher seats in synagogues, and meandering through the markets, only to bask in the praise and greetings of the people. Rather than seek vain glory, or appear righteous before men, the Pharisees should have focused more on their neglect for judgment, and the love of God. This religious group knew right from wrong, as well as what God expected from them, yet they couldn’t separate themselves from the snares satan had them trapped in.

Turning from evil to good, requires a choice, followed by consistent righteous living. Although the Pharisees were known for their hypocrisy, they were given ample time to remove the evil from their hearts. God’s grace and mercy is still relevant today, and many have been given time to turn from evil, to good. Whether they decide to surrender their hearts to God, is based upon their choice. Death and life have been placed before all men, and I strongly suggest everyone choose life.

Walk in love,

Ell

House Of Prayer

Mark 11:15-19

The gathering of Saints in one place, was originally purposed for the body of Christ, to receive God’s Word, as well as offer praise, prayer, and thanksgiving, for who He is, and all He does for His people. Church was one of the most significant establishments set by God, so that unity could thrive, and remain constant among believers, throughout all generations. The church Jesus will soon return for, is a like-minded people, who’s faith, hope, and trust, is in the God of all creation.

The representation of what church was in the past, has taken on a new, yet familiar look, in modern times. Prayer, praise, and thanksgiving, have been set aside for ramblings, opinions, and money schemes from corrupt leaders. Similar to the days of Jesus, when He witnessed the House of prayer being changed into a den of thieves, churches today are operating under those same practices. Rather than seek God, and trust Him for directions, the people are directed to look for ways to make a quick buck.

There’s power in unity, and when the Holy Spirit works through two or three, great things can happen. This temporary quarantine, may offer a few benefits to improve the family structure, but we must not forget, God’s house needs to be cleaned up as well.

Walk in love,

Ell

Humility Is Key

Matthew 21:1-11

Celebrities are treated as kings and queens in America, and around the world. Athletes, rappers and singers, and even television and movie stars, receive royal treatment almost everywhere they go. Men and women alike, cry, scream, and lose themselves when a celebrity graces their presence. Oftentimes, businesses would render free, and expensive gifts to some, simply because they are considered famous. That sucks for those who are “regular Joes”, because most celebrities can afford anything they want. But, such is life. It’s sad how the average celebrity expects to be highly recognized, when entering an arena, walking out on stage, or just in the general public, because they are human, just as we are, but most have given up their morals and values, for the mighty dollar. It’s rare you’ll find a humble, and generous celebrity these days, because the love of money has caused many to set aside morality, for selfishness, but there’s one celebrity who regularly shunned the spotlight, and allowed His works to speak on His behalf.

When Jesus prepared to make His triumphant entrance into Jerusalem, His purpose was not to draw attention to Himself, at least not for selfish reasons. He could have chosen to enter Jerusalem, riding on a fine chariot, with the finest steeds, or trot in on a towering elephant, but His humble nature would never allow Him to succumb to the pleasures of men. Instead, the Savior sent His disciples to claim a donkey, and a colt (the donkey’s offspring) to use as He made His grand entrance. During those days, and even now, donkeys weren’t considered the choice means of transportation, for men of great stature and relevance, but Jesus knew the importance of His mission, and would not allow pride, nor ignorance to hinder Him from fulfilling His assignment.

The average person sees value based on outward appearance, but Jesus knew, the donkey was a symbol of determination and strong will. Donkeys are very dedicated, and they seem to not tire easily. These same characteristics of the donkey, were what Jesus put on full display; humility, dedication, determination, strong will, and endurance (I can safely assume, many of you never looked at it from that perspective).

God didn’t send Jesus to the earth to become popular to the world, nor to build His reputation to celebrity status. The problem many Christians have is, they feel the need to blend in with the world’s system, in order to appear attractive. But, that’s the opposite of what Christ came to do. The Son of God stuck out like a sore thumb, because He went against all of man’s doctrine, and delivered the unadulterated words from His Father.

We don’t have to be popular to the world, nor strive to be famous, to be relevant. Living for God makes us relevant by default, and He’ll exalt those who love Him, at the appropriate time. I advise all believers to walk in love, and humility, while following in the footsteps of Christ, all the days of your life.

Walk in love,

Ell

Faith Makes The Difference

Hebrews 11:29-35

What keeps you holding yourself together, when storms invade your life? How do you maintain composure, when everything around you seems to fall apart? How do you continue pushing forward, when tests, trials, and trouble press hard against you? What motivates you to get out of bed, in spite of global terror, and pursue peace in the midst of it? Why do you smile in the face of danger? Why haven’t you given up on your hopes and dreams, when they seem unreachable? Why aren’t you phased by the corruption in our governments? Who, or what keeps you standing?

Throughout history, men and women of God, have achieved the unachievable, attained the unattainable, and accomplished things that seemed to be impossible, all by faith. By faith, the children of God can do ANYTHING! The Bible has numerous examples of men who were heavily underestimated by the world, yet did great things through faith, in the power of God. The text mentions the faith Rahab had, in God’s deliverance, Gideon in miraculous victory, Barak in triumph, Samson in supernatural strength, Jephthah in boldness, David in God’s reliability, and Samuel in God’s integrity.

God has ALL power, and He loves to express His unmatched authority through His people. This is one reason why we were created in His very own image, and after His likeness, so that we can also experience the glory of His awesome power for ourselves.

Now, is not a time for panic, even though the media amplifies fear. Instead, we should have faith in the power of God to first, keep His people safe, so that we can be used by Him, to do great things during these troubled times. Now, is also a great time, for the Saints of God to shine bright, and reveal to the world, the power of our everlasting Father! Have faith in God, and never give in to the pressures of this world.

Walk in love,

Ell

Do The Right Thing!

Malachi 2:1-9, 3:5-6

Priests of the past, were required to uphold a strict standard, set by God, to keep themselves holy, and the people consistent in righteous living. All men were responsible for their own soul salvation, but some were set in place, to assist and guide men in the ways they should go. Priests were to first, keep the name of the Lord holy at all times. They were also required to be free from sin, and pure of heart, before presenting sacrifices to the Lord. These elect men were in covenant agreement with God, and promised to keep the law of truth in their mouths, abstain from iniquity, walk in peace and equity with the Lord, and deliver messages to the people that were approved by God alone. God’s name and very nature are to be respected and reverenced, more so by those who claim to follow Him, but when men and women of God fail to consistently obey His commands, warning comes as a last result, before judgment interrupts their unpleasant lifestyles.

Our text reveals a similar situation, when God gave a final warning to His corrupt priests. God said, ” If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory unto my name, saith the Lord of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings: yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay it to heart. Behold, I will corrupt your seed, and spread dung upon your faces, even the dung of your solemn feasts; and one shall take you away with it. And ye shall know that I have sent this commandment unto you, that my covenant might be with Levi, saith the Lord of hosts” (vs. 2-4). Wait a minute! Did God say He’ll spread doodoo on their faces? Out of all that, I would focus on that part lol. I know God wasn’t being literal, but it’s all the same in a sense. The men were committing reprehensible acts, and God despised them, so for all the wicked things they were doing, God would repay them in various ways (including spreading poop on their faces lol. My bad, I couldn’t help it).

When you do things that harm your own soul, it’s frowned upon, but when you commit acts that hurt the souls of others, this brings upon greater judgment and punishment. Whether you are in a position of authority, or not, commit all your works to the Lord, and allow Him to establish your thoughts. Also, be mindful of your actions, and make sure you never do anything to harm anyone’s soul.

Walk in love,

Ell

Cycle Mania!

Malachi 3:7-12

Watching men live in disobedience, is like listening to a scratched CD, or vinyl repeat the same tune, from God’s perspective. The average parent typically deals with maybe 18 to 21 years of behavioral issues from their children, but could you imagine dealing with misbehaved kids for your entire life (I can sense, some reading this feel they actually are lol)? For thousands of years, God has endured monitoring His people rebel against Him consistently. At times, they would return, and change their ways, but only to revert back into sin, after being forgiven. God hates sin, and cannot tolerate how it causes His people to deliberately disobey Him, yet His mercy endures forever. Generations of people have turned their hearts against God, and gone away from His ordinances, but when they’ve had their fill of humiliation and trouble, they would turn around to see God still standing, with His arms wide open, to receive them back unto Himself.

After counting all your blessings, take a brief moment to consider how many times you fell short of God’s glory, and He didn’t hesitate to forgive you, after you repented. It’s been written, we are not to grieve the Holy Spirit, but many find themselves constantly falling into sin, then seeking God for forgiveness after. Live your days striving to sin less, and not repeat cycles of disobedience. God will bless you abundantly, but you have to uphold His righteous standard, and live a consistent life of holiness, righteousness, and faithfulness.

Walk in love,

Ell

Back In The Day…

Malachi 2:17-3:4

If you could lay the ole’ days side by side with modern times, there would be very little similarities, and a looooooong list of differences. It’s hard not to think back on how things use to be, because the days continue to get worse. I can remember the times, when children actually enjoyed playing outside (after doing their homework, without internet assistance), and never complained that it was too hot, or got tired after 5 minutes of running around. Food was actually healthier in the past, and home cooked meals were a norm in most houses. Churches worked together in providing services to communities, and even managed to convince some to give their hearts to the Lord. “Those were the days” (in my Archie and Edith Bunker voice lol). Unfortunately, kids have become slothful, food isn’t really “food” these days, and churches have become more social clubs than houses of prayer.

There’s nothing new under the sun, because back in ancient times, the children of God experienced the same unhealthy habits we partake of today. They would offer up acceptable offerings to the Father, and He was pleased, but over time, those offerings would be rejected, because God was more concerned about the people living holy, rather than presenting unpleasant sacrifices. When our lives don’t mirror the image of God, He cares nothing for an offering or sacrifice, until we get ourselves together. “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Mark 8:36, 37). God cares for the human soul, but the soul that sins (without repentance), shall surely die. Forget about all your offerings, and things you do to supposedly make God proud, and focus on maintaining a healthy spiritual relationship with the Father. When you and God are tight, then the rest of your life will align itself accordingly. You’ll love people more, and be more apt to give acceptable offerings to God. Never forget, only in God, can you make this world a better place.

Walk in love,

Ell

Love Thy Neighbor…Or Else

Malachi 2:10-16)

*”why do we deal treacherously every man against his brother…?” In times of crises and distress, family should always stick together. Despite how difficult things get, family unity is what gives everyone hope, and strength to endure all things. The family of believers thrive, when each member faithfully carries out his or her calling, without being a hindrance or distraction to their brother or sister. Conversely, when supposed members of the church turn against those whom they should support, this allows the enemy the opportunity to infiltrate the church, and plant seeds of chaos and wickedness. This is why the state of the modern-day church is in total disarray. Leaders are beyond corrupt, and have caused many to follow in their misguided footsteps. God loves order, and can only bless those who walk according to His way, but corruption has overwhelmed, and overtaken the minds of many, who at one point, were committed to holiness, but have been turned over to a reprobate mind.

How can a man who claims to love God, harbor unforgiveness in his heart? To his surprise, the unforgiveness he clings to, doesn’t affect those he hates, but it negatively affects his own self. It’s impossible for anyone to truly love God, and hate or hurt their neighbor. God’s love works against all evil, and can never cause, nor initiate anything that would hinder a man from growing in godliness.

I often mention how these are the days when “The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law” (Luke 12:53). Knowing the days are evil, should motivate the body of Christ to join together, rather than fall apart. Our adversary, the devil, takes pleasure in watching us fight against each other, and uses our bitterness to keep us separated. But, God wants His people to be holy, and treat each other with kindness. Only together, can our witness be strong enough to have an impact on this perverse society.

Walk in love,

Ell