Divine Connection

Acts 8:26-35

“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9). God cares for all men, whether they do evil, or good. In fact, one of God’s most amazing and unappreciated characteristics is, His patience. Oftentimes, men take for granted, the time God grants them in the earth, but soon that time will expire.

King Solomon helps us understand, “The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.” (Prov. 15:3). God wants all men to submit themselves to His will and authority, so they can reap the best benefits of this life, and the next. Unfortunately, the world has become so corrupt to the point men, women, and children alike, are dying at unfathomable rates. Many pass away too soon, before they can even begin to enjoy the benefits that come with living a saved life. God the Father sees all, knows all, and desires that all come to Him, before their time is cut short. For this reason, the Spirit of God works through those who are attuned to His will, and joins them with others who diligently seek the truth of God’s Word. God is good, and His mercy endures forever, so all who have a strong desire to known Him, will indeed discover the depths of His unparalleled love, grace, and mercy.

Our text introduces a certain man; one who was of great authority, and served under queen Candace of the Ethiopians, who had come to Jerusalem to worship. While it may seem strange for an Ethiopian eunuch to seek worship in Jerusalem, tradition tells that king Solomon taught his religion to the queen of Sheba, who established it among her people. So it was only right for the man to travel to give honor to the God of the great king Solomon. As the man sat in his chariot, he struggled to understand the readings of the prophet Isaiah. It’s evident he had a desire for godliness, but couldn’t grasp its concepts. This was the perfect opportunity for God to connect a man seeking the truth, with another who understood and lived the truth.

During this time, persecution of the church had elevated to astounding rates (spearheaded by Saul, who had recently ordered the death of Stephen), yet the apostles and disciples of Christ continued to branch out to spread the Gospel to different lands. While watching the Ethiopian man from Heaven, struggling to understand the Word, God sent an angel to Philip, instructing him to get up, and go to Gaza. Not knowing the reason for the urgent request, Philip arose and did as he was instructed. When he arrived, the Spirit told Philip to join himself to the same chariot which the Ethiopian man sat upon. I’m certain God was smiling, as He observed the willing and obedient servant, approaching the chariot of someone seeking to know and abide by the truth. After Philip literally ran to meet the man, the Bible says, “Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.” (vs. 35).

God knows what we have need of, and He always has someone in place, to assist in whatever way possible. The Ethiopian man may have left his estate with questions, but I’m certain he arrived back home with more than he expected. Trust God to help you find answers to questions you may have concerning His Word, or life in general. When you seek God with all your heart, He’ll always send someone to help you gain a better understanding of those hard things you are unable to grasp.

Godly Connections

1 Samuel 18:1-5

Throughout your onward Christian journey, be very careful who you allow in your life, after God either uses you in a great way, or bestows bountiful blessing upon your life. When the days of your life are calm and steady, not many will seek to join themselves to you, especially if you’re considered lame or boring, but the moment God allows you to be used to serve a great purpose, you’ll quickly become surrounded by those who may want to connect to you, but for all the wrong reasons.

Our previous lesson touched a little on the story of David and Goliath, and how God worked mightily through the humble, young David, and brought victory to Israel. While David played his part in standing for righteousness, and confronting one who deliberately blasphemed the God of Israel, the omnipotent power of the almighty, all-powerful, and all-knowing Creator was what caused David’s bold and brave actions to overcome the great opposition against Israel.

After prevailing over such a feared foe, David’s act caught the attention of king Saul, who inquired deeply concerning who David’s father was. I’m uncertain whether or not king Saul’s initial motivations toward David were pure, but as you read further along in this story, you’ll discover how the reverence he once had for David, would change in an instant.

Fortunately, king Saul’s selfish and unpleasant personality didn’t pass on to his son, because after hearing David’s words to his father, “the soul of Jonathan was knit with David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul” (vs. 1b). I’d like to take a moment and insert a brief excerpt concerning the relationship between Jonathan and David, written by Finis Jennings Dake that reads, “The love of Jonathan and David was like that of Father and son (as it was noted, Jonathan was probably 40 years old when he met young David), and as true brothers in the same nation – not the low, depraved, unnatural homosexual and demonized love which some have sought to attach to this story. There was a genuine affection which was pure and normal, as it should be with all men”.

Bless God daily, for all the people in your life, who are true to the Word, sincere in their friendship with you, and seek only to promote kingdom business, above all else. Saul connected to David to fulfill his selfish ambitions, but Jonathan saw the spirit of God in the young man, that caused him to willingly offer all the support he would need, so that he could do his best for God. How many friends do you have, who work hard to make you look God in the eyes of God?

“We live this life for purpose and reason, but not too long, for only a season.” – Ell

Plugged In To God

Proverbs 3:13-18

Any device that requires a power source to function, is useless without being connected to that same source. An iron will never get hot and steamy without being plugged into an outlet, which will prove ineffective at getting all the wrinkles from your clothes. A vacuum can’t pick up the dust and debris from your floor, except it also be plugged in to a source of power. I can give hundreds of examples of different things requiring power in order to produce, but I’m sure by now you get the point.

A Christian who is plugged into the source of God’s power, has the ability to produce good fruit consistently, while operating in God’s divine wisdom. Wisdom literally makes the believer a force to be reckoned with, in the earth! While some strive for silver, gold, and rubies, those who have direct connection to the wisdom of God, can achieve far more than the value of precious stones. Wisdom grants the people of God long life, riches and honor, pleasantness, peace, happiness, and eternal life. Is that not enough to make you excited?!

This world looks horrible, with all the past, and current events taking place, but the Word of God is still relevant, and we, the children of God, can continue to live out the pages of Scripture, even in this dying world. It’s obvious that suffering will come at times, but never rule out the opportunity for God to work wonders in our lives, as we stay connected to His unlimited source of DUNAMIS power!

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

Ell

A covenant to marry

Ruth 3:1-6, 8-12, 16-18

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another exciting episode of, “Why Did I Get Married”! Starring, three of the most honorable and humble characters in Scripture; Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

Naomi: Ruth, my loyal and faithful daughter, you’ve been with me all this time; showing support, and helping me in more ways than I can imagine. Ever since we lost our husbands and left Moab, not once did you do anything to offend, or disrespect me. Many years have passed, and I’ve grown old, but you’re still young and vibrant! I think it’s about time that I return the favor by helping you find a husband. As a matter of fact, the maidens you were gleaning with the other day, weren’t they working for my cousin Boaz?

Ruth: Umm…I think so mother.

Naomi: Girl that boy is rich! Not only is he rich, but he’s also righteous! Rich and righteous…now you can’t go wrong with that babygirl.

Ruth: Yes mother, but…umm…

Naomi: What is it girl, let it out!

Ruth: Well, if he’s our cousin, is it lawful for us to marry? And I don’t want him just for his wealth. I want to be a wife who pleases God, then in turn, can please my husband.

Naomi: Of course it’s lawful. In fact, your closest of kin is entitled to the opportunity to take you as his wife, and give you children, since your husband died without giving you any. Later on in the future, most countries will forbid the marrying of relatives, but some will still practice it. Don’t ask me how I know 😉.

Ruth: Alright mother. I will trust your words, and follow whatever advice you can offer. But what if he doesn’t like me, or think I’m not attractive enough?

Naomi: Child please! You’re one of the most beautiful, and desirable women God has ever created. If he doesn’t fall for you, then something is wrong in his brain.

Ruth: (LOL)

Naomi: Alright, listen up. Here’s what I want you to do. Take a good, long shower, freshen yourself with your best perfume, then dress up in something modest, yet appealing. Then, I want you to go to a certain place where he usually rests, hide out for a few, then wait for him to fall asleep. After he’s snoozing good, go to him, uncover his feet, then lay down. When he gets up, he’ll tell you what you should do from there.

Ruth: Uhhh….umm… you’re joking, right?

Naomi: No time for games honey.

Ruth: So, you want me to hide in a man’s house, wait until he falls asleep, then lay near him until he wakes up?

Naomi: Precisely!

Naomi: Alright mother. I trust you. At your word, I will do it.

(Tradition says that women of the East, when going to be with their lawful husbands would, through modesty, and in token of subjection to them, go to the foot of the bed, gently raise the covers, and creep under them up to their place. In the case of Ruth, she was instructed to only uncover the feet of Boaz and lie down there until he should discover her presence, then tell her what to do. Naomi evidently knew that Boaz was a man with good moral character, which is why she could safely advise this.)

*Ruth follows Naomi’s plan to the letter, and now rests at the feet of the snoozing Boaz.

Boaz: Zzz…zzz…zzz…zzz…mmm..whaa… wha… what’s going on? (Rolls over) Is someone there? (Feels something at his feet, then looks up with sleepy eyes) Ohhh sugga snaps! Who whaa what..what are you doing….who the…what are you doing here?

Ruth: Please don’t be alarmed, forgive me if I’ve violated your personal space. I am Ruth, your handmaid. If you would be so kind, spread your skirt over me, for we are near relatives.

(Spreading the skirt over a woman was a symbol of taking her under one’s protection, and entering into marriage with her. (Sounds like my kind of wedding; private, simple, cheap, and already at the honeymoon).

Boaz: Ohhhh, it’s you! Hey beautiful! How are you? Did Naomi put you up to this?

Ruth: Yes, she wants a better life for me, and suggested that you and I would be a good match.

Boaz: Sigh… you are a beautiful and blessed woman, whom God favors, because you have shown more kindness to me since we met. I know I’m at fault for not following through with the kinsman redemption duty, and I’m grateful that you, and my cousin have reminded me to act on it. I give you my word, that I’ll take care of this today. As a matter of fact, take these six measures of barely, and give it to Naomi. I’ll get back with you when things are settled.

Ruth: God bless you for your kindness, and extreme generosity. I promise to be the wife you need, to help meet all your needs, and fulfill God’s will for your life.

Boaz: See, now you’re trying to make me blush. You better get your beautiful self outta here before I have to repent…

Ruth: (Smiles) You’re so crazy boy…

Boaz: Crazy about you boo…

*Ruth returns to Naomi to tell her the good news.

Ruth: Hello mother!

Naomi: Is that you, Ruth?

Ruth: Yes ma’am, it’s me.

Naomi: Well… I’m listening. How’d it go?

Ruth: It went well mother.

Naomi: Well, geesh! Where’s all the excitement?

Ruth: Mother, I’m overjoyed! I just don’t know…I mean… well, this is like a dream come true. It feels like I’m floating in the clouds. Boaz is sooooo fine, and sooooo sweet…. and I saw his feet. His toes weren’t ugly. That’s a major plus!

Naomi: Girl, I know what you mean.

Ruth: Here, he told me to give you this, as a gift.

Naomi: (Receives the measures of barley) That boy is a true God-send. They don’t make them like him anymore. Hang out here with me for a while. From the way you explained things, I’m certain Boaz won’t rest until he takes care of this matter today.

Ruth: (Smiles, and blushes)

This concludes another episode of, “Why Did I Get Married”! Thanks for tuning in.

Walk in love,

Ell

A mother-daughter covenant

Ruth 1:6-11, 14-18

The importance of good examples is necessary to ensure that those who follow behind us will have a better chance of avoiding unnecessary problems and situations in their own lives. Parents strive to raise their children in ways that will set them up to be respected, as they grow and mature in life. Fathers teach their sons how to be men, and develop the necessary work ethics required to be effective in their future roles. Mothers show their daughters what it takes to maintain the home, as well as groom them to one day be a good wife to their husband, and mother to their children. We are all products of what we gleaned from the examples of those who came before us, and whether we gravitated toward the good, or the bad, the way our lives are set today is based on who’s example we elected to follow after.

The life of Ruth was greatly increased, because she decided that following after Naomi, and her God, was better than returning to the pagan life she was once associated with. I’m certain the way Ruth and her sister-in-law lived prior to being found and married by the sons of Naomi seemed senseless and unprofitable up to this point in their lives, because when they were advised to return home to their past, they both wept and refused, because they found that following Naomi’s example was far better than what they had left. After refusing to leave Naomi’s side, Ruth cemented her covenant with those famous words she spoke in verses 16 and 17.

Who’s example did you follow, that caused your life to turn out the way it did? We’re your parents or grandparents an influential part of your development as a man or woman, or were you heavily influenced by others who either encouraged you to grow in the grace of God, or exposed you to things contrary to holiness at an early age. No matter what she faced in life, Naomi made certain to stay true to God, and protect those under her care. We should do the same in our lives as well, and make certain that those who are under our wings are properly cared for, respected, and encouraged to do their best in this life, so that they’ll store up great rewards in the next.

Walk in love,

Ell

The unbreakable marital bond

Mark 10:2-9

Being married can be a beautiful experience, because it allows the chance for a man and woman to be joined by God as one flesh, and one union. In the beginning, God instituted marriage between a man and woman, so that the man would not suffer being alone, the couple could replenish the earth with little rascals, and many other reasons I’ll one day experience for myself. The union between male and female was intended to be permanent, and each partner was expected to love, honor, and respect one another without conditions. When partners take seriously their vows and roles in marriage, there’s absolutely nothing that can sever their connection. Unfortunately, many marriages have ended in divorce for reasons including infidelity, money, lack of communication, unrealistic expectations, lack of intimacy, lack of equality, and many more. I’m beginning to sound like a marriage counselor, hmm…

In our text we find where the Pharisees were still up to no good, as they made another attempt to try and tempt Jesus. They asked, with ill intentions, whether it was lawful for a man to “put away” his wife. During this time, there was a great controversy about divorce and remarriage. It was known as, the Hillel-Shammai dispute. Hillel taught that a man could divorce his wife for any cause whatsoever. Shammai believed that a man could not divorce for every cause, except for fornication and adultry. The question posed to Jesus was not the right to remarry, but only the right to divorce. The simple-minded Pharisees wanted to know which side of the controversy Jesus was on, and their strategy was to make Jesus unpopular to the masses, or even be killed by Herod, like his cousin John the Baptist. Typical of Jesus, He threw a curve ball, or provided an unexpected response the men could not speak against, when He brought to their attention Moses’ thoughts on divorce. Jesus didn’t say that Moses was out of the divine will in making a law of divorce, but that it was because of the hardness of their hearts, that such a law was permitted by God, although it wasn’t His will from the beginning.

“But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder” (vs. 6-9).

Walk in love,

Ell

Maintain your union with Christ

Colossians 2:16-23

If Jesus had not given His life so that mankind could be redeemed, then we’d all still be commanded to honor the whole law of Moses which was against us, and contrary to us. God the Father made sure to have that law taken out, and nailed to the cross with Jesus, along with the powers of satan to kill and condemn man to eternal damnation. Jesus took the law of Moses out of the way so that we wouldn’t have to remain under its curse. Now that it’s been removed, it’s wise that we not stumble over it again, and keep it far away from us. There were many in the past, who continued to follow things in the law that were abolished, including the use of clean and unclean animals, holydays, festivals, and sabbaths. These men would cause others to feel convicted, if they didn’t follow the strict rules of the old law. None of the old law restrictions are commanded in the new covenant, so men are now free to do as they please in those things. As I often mention, being redeemed doesn’t give the body of Christ a license to live frivolous and wild, instead, it allows us to love freely, without the penalty attached to disobeying the handwriting of old ordinances. Even in modern churches, many are led to believe that certain traditions are mandatory in fellowship and worship, but those things are only kept as tradition, and should not convict others of wrongdoing.

Never let a man force you to do anything Jesus died for on the cross. The Spirit of God lives inside of all those who’ve been redeemed, and He alone convicts men of the error in their ways. Christ did an amazing thing for everyone in bringing salvation through His blood, and making us free from sin by the Holy Spirit. Be mindful of those who nullify the fact that you were born-again in the Spirit, and take delight in inducing you to walk according to the flesh. The body depends on the Head, which is Christ, and human religion is powerless against anything spiritual. In all you do in this life, be certain to maintain your union with Christ. Without the head, the body won’t function, so keep God first in all things, and study the Word for yourself, so that you’ll never be deceived by carnal men who aim to satisfy the flesh, over the Spirit.

Walk in love,

Ell

Nothing separates us from God’s love

Romans 8:31-39

How do you know that God loves you? What have you experienced in life that proves His love for you, as mentioned in Scripture? Why do you believe in a God whom you’ve never seen, and what keeps your faith tied to an invisible Creator? These are a few of many questions I would ask myself in the past, some of which many still struggle with today. Like the apostle Paul, I’ve had my share of humbling experiences that proved, clear as day, that God was indeed real, and His power was awesome and matchless.

From Genesis to Revelation, scripture reveals that God is in favor of those who trust Him, and abide by His Word. God proved His love to His people over, and over again, as He delivered them from countless enemies, and caused them to prosper everywhere they went. The Father extended His unconditional love when He gave His BEST asset, Jesus, as a sacrifice so that all the sins of man could be washed away, and forgiven. If God could give His very BEST to save a sinful people, how much more would He do for those who dedicate their whole lives to Him? When your life pleases God, He looks for ways to pour blessings into it. We serve a God of love and abundance, and He wants to fill our lives with the best of all things. There’s nothing on earth that God needs in Heaven, so why not live in such a way, that God can’t wait to overload you with good things here on earth? Now don’t get it twisted, we don’t serve God simply to get things from Him. He’s neither a pimp, nor can He be hustled. We serve the God of all Creation, because He’s deserving of it.

Paul asked a very interesting question in verse 35 of this text. In that verse, he mentioned, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?” Think on that for a moment… Knowing that God is the source of life, health, strength, provisions, safety, purpose, and salvation, what else is there that exists that can rival His love for us? Is your job more important to you than God? Would you allow the love you have for a family member, friend, or spouse take the place of God’s love in your heart? I don’t recommend you allow anything, or anyone to take the place of God’s love for you. As was Paul, I am fully persuaded that nothing will ever separate the children of God from His love. We are strong when we stand together, and can build up those who may be weak or weary. When we strive to live a godly life on a daily basis, it’s nearly impossible for the enemy to catch us off guard, and cause us to slide back from God’s protection.

Allow these famous words Paul wrote to the Ephesians to resonate in your heart for the rest of your life; “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints (Ephesians 6:10-18).

Seek peace,

Ell

Stay connected to Jesus

John 15:1-11

Listening to the raindrops gently tapping on my window, I consider this world and how much it’s changed so dramatically over the years. Technology has introduced us to a plethora of devices that seem to have made life a little easier. Cars are safer and more energy efficient, scientists are developing ways to make food appear to be more healthier and abundant, yet the value of money sometimes seems to have no value at all, because the quality of products lack quality.

The state of this world is in steady decline, and will eventually become an afterthought. Knowing this, it only makes sense to understand the purpose for our existence, and the expectations of life after this earth.

Every word Jesus spoke to His disciples was for their spiritual enrichment, and to keep them knowledgeable of His purpose, and the Kingdom of God. But as He neared the end of His time on earth, He took a moment to stress to His followers the importance of staying connected to Him, while striving to live a faithful life.

Jesus considered Himself as the “true vine”, and those who follow Him are the branches. Using this analogy, it’s easier to understand our value and purpose in God. A branch that’s connected to a tree can only produce the fruit that’s associated with type of tree it is. You’ll never get an orange from an apple tree, nor vice versa. So when we’re in Christ, our fruit will mirror the same fruit that Jesus Himself produced.

Although there are times when branches fail to produce fruit, even still being connected to the vine. This is when pruning is necessary to remove the unfruitful branches, so that the tree can bring forth more fruit. There are people around the world who say they are in God, go to church faithfully, and even give consistently. Though they appear to be in God, they have no fruit to prove it. Unproductive branches have no use to the tree, so they must be removed so that the tree can flourish.

Jesus’s love for us is amazing! As long as we stay in Him, and Keep His word in us, then we can expect to live a life full of purpose, meaning, and prosperity. God gets glory, not from us owning nice houses, cars, boats, or fine jewelry, but He takes delight when we produce fruit.

We produce when we love our neighbors as we love ourselves, give to those in need, pray for our enemies, do good to others when they render evil to us, and win as many as we can to the Lord’s side.

We are to continue in Christ’s love, not the love we learn from friends or coworkers. The love of Christ goes beyond what we can fully understand. Jesus laid down His life for us, so we should lay down our lives for others.

Bearing fruit is one of the many purposes of the believer. Stay connected to Christ, and continue to be fruitful as you live out each day of your life.

Seek peace,

Ell