Abstain From The Profane

Ezekiel 36:22-28

God is holy, and His name is to be praised, feared, and reverenced in all the earth. As the Creator of all things, it’s only right that all creation render to God His just due.

“The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.” (Psalm 19:1)

“O come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is his also. The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land. O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our maker. For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand.” (Psalm 95:1-7a)

“He watereth the hills from his chambers: the earth is satisfied with the fruit of thy works. He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth; And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face to shine, and bread which strengtheneth man’s heart. The trees of the Lord are full of sap; the cedars of Lebanon, which he hath planted; Where the birds make their nests: as for the stork, the fir trees are her house. The high hills are a refuge for the wild goats; and the rocks for the conies. He appointed the moon for seasons: the sun knoweth his going down. Thou makest darkness, and it is night: wherein all the beasts of the forest do creep forth. The young lions roar after their prey, and seek their meat from God. The sun ariseth, they gather themselves together, and lay them down in their dens. Man goeth forth unto his work and to his labour until the evening. O Lord, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches. So is this great and wide sea, wherein are things creeping innumerable, both small and great beasts.” (Psalm 104: 13-25)

“For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:” (Colossians 1:16)

All things were created for God’s good pleasure, so when something tends to sway off its normal path, God has a unique way of setting it back right. Not only does this apply to nature, but to men also. We were created by God, to serve His purpose, and He expects us to do what brings glory to His name. Unfortunately, many things have changed, since the error of the first couple, that has caused all sorts of imbalances in the earth. Despite the effects of sin, and satan’s unyielding plot to destroy God’s people, the children of God are required to uphold God’s holy standard, no matter what.

The children of Israel, in the past, fell victim to satan’s influences, as they profaned the name of the Lord, by delving into heathen practices and beliefs. These actions no doubt caused many heathen nations to lose respect for the power of the living God, because His own people had turned against Him. But, for His holy name’s sake, God said, “I will sanctify my great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, saith the Lord GOD, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes” (vs. 23). God chose a people to represent His good name in the earth, but Israel brought only shame to it, so He had to step in, and reestablish that He alone, is the true and living God, who holds all power in His hand.

When we mess up, God gives us opportunities to correct the errors of our ways, but when we settle in our mistakes, God has to step in, and give us a little push, to get us back on track. When we claim to be children of God, we are expected to live as such, on a daily basis. Despite how the world is ever-changing around us, we must stay rooted, and grounded in the Word of God, because He alone, is worthy to be praised, feared, and reverenced in all the earth.

Walk in love,

Ell

God, The Potter

Isaiah 63:15-16, 64:8-9

A potter, or pottery maker, is a craft artist who uses their artistic talents to create pots, dishes, mugs, vases, and other types of artwork. Most potters create functional pieces that are meant to be put to everyday use. However, they can also create pieces that are decorative, and meant to be appreciated purely as works of art. A potter can train for decades to become a true master of the art of making pottery; forever learning and improving their craft (https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/potter/).

A potter takes his time, molding clay into its desired shape, and keeps it moist, until he’s satisfied with its final design. At times, pieces may break off, or the potter decides to alter a section of the piece, in order for it to properly display what he intends for it to look like. When the pottery maker is fully convinced that a piece is to his liking, he places it in an oven, and allows the heat to solidify it into its permanent form.

Understanding the concepts of a potter and his craft, makes it very easy to also understand the relationship between God, and His people. “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them” (Genesis 1:27 KJV). After creating man and woman, God was done with those works of art. Nothing needed to be added, nor taken away from His final products (from the natural perspective), but after sin infiltrated man’s domain, man had to be placed back on the potter’s wheel, to be molded properly into good spiritual form.

While I’m forever grateful, Christ came to redeem us back to God, I’m also grateful God is wise enough to understand, we’re still susceptible to making mistakes. Thankfully, God’s pottery wheel runs continually, and He’s always available to mold us back into good shape. At times, we’ll find ourselves doing some foolish, and dirty things, but God doesn’t mind getting His hands dirty, to help us look good again. So, we should learn to develop a greater appreciation for God’s mercy, and the patience He has, that allows us time to repent, and retake our desired form. Equally important is, the Holy Spirit, that acts as the water that keeps us moist, so that we’ll never harden with our mistakes, and blemishes.

No matter how scarred, or marred you get in this life, always remember, “🎶🎵 the Potter wants, to put you back, together again 🎵🎶” (The Potters House – Song by Tramaine Hawkins).

Yes, He cares

Matthew 6:25-30

In the beginning, God created so many amazing things, including birds that fly in the air, fish to swim in the seas, trees, plants, and all types of flora and fauna that inhabit the entire planet! There are millions of different trees and animals that exist in the earth, that all rely on God’s sustaining hand, to keep them fed. He gives sunlight and rain, so that plants and trees can receive nourishment, and makes certain that all the animals get their daily nutrition as well. God made everything good in the beginning, and still provides for His creation today, from the tiny little bumblebee, to the great oak tree. It’s amazing to even fathom how God pays attention to the smallest details of everything He created! This not only applies to plants and animals, but to you and I as well. To all who feel that God doesn’t, or has stopped caring for them, I strongly advise you to think again. Yes, God looks after things that may last mere moments, but He certainly cares for His people the more. God didn’t create man for jest or nought, but we were fashioned in His own likeness, to inhabit the earth, and spread goodness throughout. If God thinks enough to care for birds and trees, do you have faith enough to believe that He’ll take care of you too?

Walk in love,

Ell

All temple furnishings completed

2 Chronicles 4:19-5:1

Detail! Detail! Detail! The body of Christ is joined in union to a God who is keen on doing things specific, and according to detail. This is evident in everything our eyes see on a daily basis. The earth, stars, moon, and sun, were all set in particular places, so they could function properly, and be effective continually. Even the gravity that holds all things together, was designed according to detail, so that all things would remain in their aligned positions. Birds were made specific, so they could inhabit their predestined atmosphere, without issue. Fish were made in such a way, to inhabit aquatic areas, beasts were designed to effectively roam the lands while being sustained in all types of weather, and humans were made beautifully, and capable of sustaining themselves in all manner of environments. Our eyes were uniquely designed to see an image, and automatically adjust, to get the best view (even those who require a little help 🤓). In addition, the human eye can differentiate approximately ten million different colors. That is so cool! Our skin has unique details as well, including five different types of receptors that respond to pain and touch. Our entire body is so detailed, until it would take years to break down the importance, and uniqueness of all its parts.

God took His time, and made us great, and the likeness we share with Him, can be seen in many of the things we do as well. A prime example of our connection with God’s attention to detail, is found in our text. I’ve made mention of the temple king David, and Solomon, planned to build for God in previous lessons, and throughout the building process, David, and his son, were detailed in literally every part of the temple construction. I won’t list those things again, but feel free to check out the text in your free time.

I can say with absolute certainty, you’ve had experiences in your life where details were a major factor to you. Whether you planned for a wedding 💍, funeral 🙁, picnic 🍉, or even getting dressed for school 📚 or work 💼, details are what make you unique. Take a moment, and examine your wonderfully made body, then give God a head nod of appreciation, for making you “one of a kind”!

Walk in love,

Ell

Priests praise God with music

2 Chronicles 5:11-14

Out of all the tests and trials life throws at you, that often leave you depressed, what are some things that actually make you smile? Are you fond of nature, and enjoy the changing seasons, with all the beauty they bring? Do you find yourself occasionally basking in the beauty of God’s creation, as I usually do? I oftentimes set aside moments to pause, close my eyes, tilt my head back, inhale, exhale, then open my eyes to see the vast and majestic sky-filled wonders of God’s creation. If nature doesn’t inspire you, then do you find pleasure in animals, whether they be on land, or beneath the deep blue seas? From the birds that inhabit the heavens, to the smallest critters that scurry on land, the earth is littered with all types of great and small unique creatures. For those who are parents, how does it make you feel, when your children tell you they love you? Do you privately pat yourself on the back, when you realize that you endured the struggles that came along with teaching, and raising your children to be respectful, obedient, and well-mannered individuals? It does the heart of any parent or guardian good to see a child they raised, grow up to be a mature and respectful adult. In a world where sin abounds, and men often favor the negative over the positive, there remains opportunities where we can smile, in the midst of it all.

After considering what things bring pleasure to your life, have you ever thought about what makes God smile? We learn in the book of Proverbs, the things the Lord hates, but knowing what He loves can benefit our lives as well. God literally inhabits the praises of His people. In other words, when we offer praise to God, He directs His full attention toward all who offer up praise in His name. In the same way we get lost in the music that flows through our headphones, I can imagine God sitting with His feet relaxed, while vibing to the sounds of our praise and worship. God does listen when we reach out to Him, but our approach is what makes the difference. Let that marinate for a moment. Imagine coming to a parent, always crying and complaining about situations, how would you expect them to respond? On the flip side, imagine coming to them with words of appreciation, and gratitude, then presenting that same issue, how then, would you expect them to respond?

God loves His people, even more so when they walk in obedience to His will. God smiles when we love our neighbors, as we love ourselves. He takes pleasure in our spiritual songs, and hymns, because they encourage, and remind us of the wondrous things He has done, and continues to do in our lives. Even in our text, when the priests praised God with singing and instruments, God filled the temple with His glory (in the form of a cloud). The glory of the Lord was so immense, until “the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud…” (vs. 14). This may seem strange to some, as to how a cloud can distract men from praising God, but when a man gets a taste of who God really is, the only option is surrender, and simply soak it all in.

God is so good, that even reading the words from the pages of Scripture can bring inspiration to the readers. In the same way a parent smiles when witnessing their children doing good in their sight, make it a habit to consider those things that bring smiles to the face of our heavenly Father, then do them willingly, consistently, and wholeheartedly.

Walk in love,

Ell

David orients builders about the temple construction

1 Chronicles 22:14-19

When God created man, He made him good, and very good. After the image of God, and in His likeness, was man made. Based on the evidence in Scripture, it’s hinted that man was originally created to live forever, in the presence of God, but when satan caused man to sin, the man, woman, and serpent, were all cursed in the earth, introducing elements of life man and woman were not intended to partake of. The apparent curse of the woman continues today, as the average female is reminded monthly of Eve’s big mistake, but unlike the woman, who’s punishment came from within the body, the man was forced into hard labor, until he returns to the dust of the earth. God intended for life to be lived carefree, and in total submission to His way, but things took a turn for the worse, when God’s greatest creation willingly chose to do the opposite of what He commanded.

From the days of Adam until now, men continue to endure hard labor, in order to maintain balanced lifestyles. Our days are filled with constant hardships, sufferings and trials, but we must endure, so that we can support ourselves, and family consistently. Although work can become a hassle, proper planning, and preparation can help alleviate the stress work commonly produces. For example, I’m an engineer, and when I don’t have the proper tools and supplies necessary to complete a job, it causes lots of stress, but when all things are in supply, and readily available, it makes the day better for myself, and all those who’s issues and concerns I am able to resolve.

King David also understood how important it was to plan properly before starting a job. It’s estimated that David invested over 3 billion dollars worth of supplies and resources to build the temple of God. More than likely, majority of what David gathered came from years of accumulating spoils of war, and other methods. More than obtaining the necessary supplies required to complete the temple, David was also aware of the fact that God needed to be at the forefront of one’s motivation, to ensure that all work would be done decent, and in order.

After gathering the abundance of supplies, David encouraged Solomon to build God’s temple, and use the resources he accumulated for him, then add to them accordingly. David also mentioned to his son, “Only the Lord give thee wisdom and understanding, and give thee charge concerning Israel, that thou mayest keep the law of the Lord thy God. Then shalt thou prosper, if thou takest heed to fulfil the statutes and judgments which the Lord charged Moses with concerning Israel: be strong, and of good courage; dread not, nor be dismayed” (vs. 12-13). In the same way God encourages His people, by reassuring their victory through the Word, and multiple examples of men and women in Scripture who were faithful until the end, David made Solomon even more confident in fulfilling his assignment, by mentioning the innumerable amount of skilled workers ready to assist at a moment’s notice. How encouraging it is, to be tasked with an extremely challenging assignment, but having an army of helpers standing at the ready to offer assistance! David literally went “all out” to ensure that his son had everything he needed to make God’s temple magnificent!

As you continue to walk in obedience to God, be sure to take advantage of all opportunities to edify your brothers, and sisters in Christ. There will be times, when you’ll meet some who have dreams and desires, but lack the resources to bring them to pass. But, you can be the one to make a difference in the life of those who seek to do great things, and may need a little push to get started. You may not have the wealth and material resources to assist, but your words of edification, and encouragement can be just what someone needs to be great in the kingdom of God.

Walk in love,

Ell

No people like our people

2 Samuel 7:23-29

In the beginning, God put His great and mighty works on full display, when He spoke all things into existence. From light being separated from darkness, to spreading various animals across vast lands, God’s incredible power has brought forth things beyond what created beings can only begin to fathom. Rather than bask in the glory of His goodness alone, God chose a people, from whom He could work through, to set the example of what His will was for all creation. Israel was God’s chosen people, and during the reign of king David, God performed many marvelous things for, and through them. No other nation could compare to Israel, because God chose them to be the beacon of light and hope, to guide all other nations to Himself. Although the children of Israel veered off to the left a few times, God never stopped loving, nor providing for them, because He promised to be their God forever. As long as Israel did according to the commandments of the Lord, their lives were set.

Believers today are in the same position, where God is ready, and willing to be everything for them, but they must first commit to His agenda. When our ways please the Lord, He grants us access to heavenly treasures, and other resources that are unattainable by those who walk contrary to the Word. Christians aren’t considered better than anyone else, they are simply rewarded accordingly for their obedience. The body of Christ is a massive unit of members working together to edify God’s kingdom. Each member has specific duties to maintain, that effect all other members as well. Similar to the workings of the different systems in the human body, believers work together to maintain a healthy, single unit called, the church. The church is special for many reasons, but most importantly, is the fact that it’s the bride of Christ.

All who are joined together in the body of Christ should be proud of who they represent, because standing with the people of God is always a better choice than walking with those who abide in unrighteousness.

Walk in love,

Ell

Leaders bring ark to Jerusalem

1 Chronicles 15:4-13

The God of Heaven and earth, is keen on things being done according to order. The evidence of this can be seen throughout all creation. The heavens are layered specifically, and according to detail, the oceans are divided and set to flow in various directions, even the trees are designed to take root in the ground, but give fruit above the surface. Order is important to God, and He expects His people to live in such a way, that their lives are also lived according to structure, and order. Order brings balance, and structure allows for one to develop and mature at healthy rates. Operating in chaos only leads to dysfunction, and unhealthy lifestyles.

In our text, king David gathered all the priests of Israel (862 of them), to sanctify themselves before bringing the ark of the Lord God of Israel, back to Jerusalem. David mentioned to the men, how they failed before to follow God’s order of how things were expected to be done, and that he refused to disobey God a second time. So, the men wisely sanctified themselves before God, and were then permitted to transport the ark safely.

God always required proper instructions to be followed in seeking Him, and in carrying out His plans. As finite beings who rely on God for breath, and all other necessities of life, we are in no position to say anything against how God expects things to go. Only our obedience, and positive attitude are what we should give to God, in appreciation for all the things He does daily for us. If God did not excuse king David, whom He loved dearly, neither are we are exempt from committing to God’s order.

Walk in love,

Ell

Mediator of the new covenant

Hebrews 8:1-12

Does God make mistakes? If not, then why is there so much trouble in the world? Fair question, but one of the best things God ever did was create living beings with the freedom to make their own decisions. Could you imagine what the world be like if everything was created as robots, to only do what God required, and nothing could willingly go against His commands? For one thing, there would definitely be peace and tranquility in the land, but Heaven and earth would be missing a sense of genuine authenticity that comes with the power of personal choice. God made everything, then called it good, and very good, but one being’s pride caused changes in God’s original plan for creation that continue to plague the world to this very day.

In an effort to unify God’s people to Himself, a covenant was established, whereby men were granted promises, but only if they obeyed what was written in the law. The first covenant wasn’t a mistake that God implemented, rather it had faults and had to be done away with, because although it helped men live according to a better standard, it didn’t provide salvation and eternal life. Where the first covenant’s laws were written on external sources, according to the new covenant, God put His laws into men’s hearts and minds. This is interesting on so many levels, because having God’s words written in your mind and heart eliminate all excuses as to not knowing what He expects from you. In addition, every man can know God for themselves, and it would be difficult for pride to overtake the minds of those who have full knowledge, and understanding of the will of God.

Unlike the first covenant which had no mediator, but priests who offered gifts and sacrifices to God, Christ Jesus, the Son of the true and living God, serves as the high priest, who offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice to God, so that the new covenant could be sustained forever. Jesus is indeed the everlasting high priest, and has made the only true atonement for man’s sins. It’s because of Christ, that no matter where a person is, or how bad their circumstances in life are, no one is too far that His grace cannot reach them, and His love can’t save them. Thank you Father for a new, and better covenant!

Walk in love,

Ell

God answers Hannah’s prayer

1 Samuel 1:9-20

When a person truly understands the nature of God, only then will they be able to discern between the things they should pray for, as opposed to what they should avoid. I said that based on Hannah’s heartfelt prayer, after fulfilling her vow to the Lord. She desired something that should have come naturally to her, but was kept from producing children, because God had revelation, and a miracle planted in her suffering. In her delight, and great appreciation for God’s blessing, Hannah revealed the issues of her heart toward God. Not only did she pray, but in her speaking, God’s Spirit inspired her to also prophesy.

In her own words, she said, “My heart rejoiceth in the Lord, mine horn is exalted in the Lord: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation. There is none holy as the Lord: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God. Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogancy come out of your mouth: for the Lord is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed. The bows of the mighty men are broken, and they that stumbled are girded with strength. They that were full have hired out themselves for bread; and they that were hungry ceased: so that the barren hath born seven; and she that hath many children is waxed feeble. The Lord killeth, and maketh alive: he bringeth down to the grave, and bringeth up. The Lord maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up. He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the Lord’s, and he hath set the world upon them. He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail. The adversaries of the Lord shall be broken to pieces; out of heaven shall he thunder upon them: the Lord shall judge the ends of the earth; and he shall give strength unto his king, and exalt the horn of his anointed” (1 Samuel 2:1-10). From these words, it’s evident that Hannah knew God, and placed His will above all else. It’s because of her faith in His power, and patience during suffering, that God blessed her above measure, and prospered the seed of her womb even the more. It’s one thing when God blesses us in ways we can hardly imagine, but it’s even better when He does amazing things through our children as well.

Before you kneel down to pray, first understand “Who” it is you’re praying to. God created EVERYTHING, and has been sustaining His creation since the beginning of time, until now. Trust that He knows all things, and wishes only that His children seek to fulfill His will, over their own. Just as a good parent knows what’s best for their child, and sets them up to live a prosperous life, God wants us to do exceedingly, and abundantly in our lives, but we must willing, and obedient to His Word, His will, and His way.

Walk in love,

Ell