Book Of The Law

2 Kings 22:8-13

As I near the 40 year mark of life on this earth, I can honestly say, I’ve invested hundreds of thousands of hours of reading and meditation in the holy Word of God. Mind you, I don’t say that with any ounce of arrogance, but humility. As a child raised in a Christian home, reading and studying the Bible was an everyday thing for the members of my household, and learning the importance of holiness and how to apply it was instilled in my siblings and I since I can remember. Although I’ve been privileged to grow up the way I did, I was in no way a stranger to mistakes, failures, and faults. But, by the grace of God, I’ve been blessed with time and opportunity to mature and grow continually in godliness.

While it’s important to teach children the ins and outs of life, it’s crucial that they learn about godliness as early as possible. Our text mentions a child of the lineage of king David, who would begin to reign over the people of Judah at the age of eight years old. From reading the text, it’s obvious young Josiah had godly parents, based on verse two which reads, “And he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, and walked in all the way of David his father and turned not aside to the right hand or to the left.” This is very encouraging to know, because there were no known scripture text available at this time, because the long line of evil kings probably did away with anything considered holy, but it’s revealed later, the high priest found the book of the law in the house of the Lord. The book was immediately brought and read to the king. After hearing the words according to the law, the now 26 year old king tore off his clothes, then called certain men together to inquire of the Lord concerning the words he had just heard. Based on the law, king Josiah concluded, their fathers had not hearkened to the words of the law, and the wrath of God would be kindled against he and his people. I can’t say of a certainty, that I’ve ever met anyone who read the Bible for the first time, then sought immediate reform, but Josiah was fully convinced that their nation needed to change.

Millions of people today own Bibles, but very few allow its words to penetrate beyond their pride, ignorance, and arrogance. The young and wise king realized how corrupt the nation had become, and made it priority to set things in order. It matters not how young or old a person is, God’s Word can reach you wherever you are. Josiah wasn’t blessed to have the Word of God in his home growing up as I did, yet he lived according to holy and godly standards without wavering. Take advantage of the privilege of reading God’s Word, and allow it to help you grow, so that your purpose for living won’t be in vain.

Forget-Me-Not

Deuteronomy 29:1-6

After experiencing the many wonderful blessings of the Lord in our lives, how do we so easily fall back into sin and the errors of our past? With each trial and struggle the Father brings us through, our faith should be strengthened, and trust in God’s sovereignty amplified to greater levels, but how do we give in to temptation, after witnessing miracles, healings, and wonders in our very own lives? If you took a brief moment to think of all the things God has provided for you, or kept you from, you’d go from counting on your fingers and toes, to writing them down on paper.

Contrary to how the world portrays God to be, He is indeed in favor of righteous indignation, but desires to bless those who willfully obey His commandments. Unfortunately, humans have a tendency to enjoy blessings for a moment, then revert back to their former way of thinking. This harmful cycle of living was prevalent amongst the children of Israel in Scripture. During times of good and plenty, they somehow allowed themselves to get caught up in idol worship and riotous living. The Israelites were reminded of the time when God delivered them from Pharoah’s oppression in Egypt, in addition to how for 40 years, their clothes and shoes never wore out, nor did they have to work for food. God took care of His chosen people, yet they still found time to murmur and complain. How much was enough? I mean, how much did God have to do, to keep their attention on serving Him?

The people of ancient times may not have had the technology or distractions we have today, but it’s evident their eras were littered with ungodly things to block them from serving God. But, despite the inevitable traps and snares set before them, God provided ways for His people to prosper, and do well in the earth. As in the past, God daily loads the people of today with benefits, the likes of which cannot be replicated by human strength or intellect. Who in the earth has ever created anything God didn’t bring into existence? God gives us the breath of life, and a sound mind to fulfill our daily duties. While we may not all become rich, wealthy, and famous, God gives every man what he needs to fulfill their assignment in the earth.

Appreciate the blessings of God, whether you consider them great or small, and don’t allow yourself to easily forget how wonderful He is to you every day. Keep your heart, mind, and eyes fixed on the Lord, so that when temptation comes to pull you away, you’ll keep a firm stance on holy and righteous living.

Believe ‘Til The End

Hebrews 4:1-11

No matter how hard life gets for you, don’t give up. Despite daily trials, tribulations, and seemingly unending struggles, strive to endure until the end. This advice goes out to all who are fighting the “good fight of faith”, and continue to boldly represent holiness, in an ever-changing world.

Throughout history, there were many who started out following after righteousness, but grew weary in doing well. While some had ample opportunity to consider the inward struggle between good and evil in their hearts (like Judas Iscariot), and allow their faith in God to supercede the latter, their supposed hope in the Lord was exposed as being fraudulent. Others who followed after Jesus, allowed the negative influence of family or peers to steer them away from doing what’s right, in place of fulfilling carnal desires. How often are you invited by someone close to you, to participate in events or activities that do very little to promote healthy spirituality? Oftentimes, we are tempted to do things that only satisfy our flesh, and does nothing to build or edify our soul. Gone are the days when believers looked forward to prayer and Bible study meetings, where God could be exalted, and hearts could be encouraged. Nowadays, church folk gravitate more toward what the world promotes on social media or television.

The church looks identical to the world in the way they dress, speak, and think. This is very unfortunate, as many who blend in with the world usually get pulled away from their first love (God), and cling to the fads and trends of carnality. The world is indeed a sphere of continual wickedness, masked with the guise of perpetual happiness, but underneath the semblance of peace and hope, is the true evil intent of the adversary of the believer.

Trust God until the end, and don’t let anything or anyone cause you to fall, or turn away from your faith in the Father. The enemy is coming at the church with full force, but the power of God resides in all His children, through His Spirit, and has equipped them to stand against all the wiles of satan. Don’t give up, don’t give in, because you have the victory over wickedness and sin.

Save Somebody

Psalm 25:1-10

Witnessing this present world continue its steady decline in its morality and sense of humanity, should provoke those who love God to consider their ways, and shift their focus on what’s really important. Time is passing by quickly, as prophetic events continue to manifest, so it’s imperative that the children of God make it their business to do those things that are pleasing to the Father, and not get caught up in carnal living.

Christians must first be sure that their own souls are right with God, and be diligent in obeying His Word. Although the world is full of distractions, which easily pull men’s attention from God, believers must strive to hold up a holy standard, in the midst of a fallen world. Salvation through the Son is free, and all who believe on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, shall be saved. But, being saved from sin is only the beginning of a new life in Christ. Maintaining a healthy balance of godly living is essential in the development of a man or woman’s spirituality.

Many say they are saved, yet their living aligns more with the world, rather than holiness. For this reason, it’s important for the church to be a light in this dark world, to show those who are lost, salvation is real, and the benefits of living for God far outweigh the temporary rewards this dying world offers.

I admonish all who claim to be sons and daughters of God, to continue in prayer, study and meditate on the Word, and keep your hearts with all diligence. There’s not much time left on the earth, despite how social media and other sources paint the world to be. Judgment is soon coming to the earth, and all who refuse to accept salvation will be lost forever.

After you’ve saved yourself (by accepting Jesus into your heart), go out and save as many more as you can, because he who wins souls is wise in God’s eyes.

In Awe Of You

Joshua 5

In the beginning, God created everything; from massive lands and trees, to animals and great seas! God the Father was, and is deserving of the praise and respect of all men, whether they are submitted to His authority, or not. In times passed, men and women would instantly become frightened at the appearing of a messenger of the Lord. This was in part due to natural human reaction, coupled with reverence and awe of the presence of the Lord.

When the Lord appeared to Abraham in the book of Genesis, chapter 18, he begged for Him not to leave, rather to stay, so that he could wash His feet, provide food and water, then set He and His company in a proper place to rest. This was indeed a great sign of honor and humility. God sent messengers to visit many others in scripture, including shepherds, Mary, Joseph, and others, all of whom became submitted to the heavenly messengers who graced their presence.

Men of the past showed great respect for God, and they were rewarded for their humility, but the same can hardly be said in the 21st century. Some people today say they’ve had encounters with heavenly beings, and I’m not one to judge, but God has revealed Himself to mankind today, through His Word, and the same respect we would give to a heavenly being who appeared to us, we ought to render the same in the presence of His holy Scripture, or even through prayer. Bible prophecy predicted long ago, men would lose their love and reverence for godliness in the last days, and this truth is undeniably evident. Some read God’s Word out of habit, or a forced feeling, and others come to God in prayer with selfish petitions and vain requests.

Many have lost their awe and fear of God, and tend to show more respect to worldly leaders and celebrities. Men and women literally cry tears for famous artists and musicians who perform ungodly shows, and could care less about the souls of their fanatics. God is responsible for giving life to all who walk the earth, and He alone deserves to be reverenced, feared, and respected. Without God, there would be no salvation. Without God, there would be no remission of sin. Without God, life would be eternal misery for all mankind. Without God, our goals, dreams, and passions would be impossible to attain.

Turn your attention away from men who are popular to the world, yet have no relevance in the kingdom of God, and rededicate your confession of submission to the Creator of the world. Honor God when you kneel to pray, make His name glorious when you praise, and reverence the power and authority of His name when you witness to others.

Show Me The Money!

Joshua 6

The oldest form of commerce throughout history is, the bartering system. In the past, men would exchange goods and services amongst each other, based on the equivalent value of such goods and service. For example, if a man was in need of 15 potatoes, he could exchange them with someone with goods of equal value. Exchanging an elephant for his potatoes would not be a fair exchange, but bartering 15 apples would suffice.

Over time, the bartering system was done away with, when money was introduced. With the state at which the world is in today, I believe it would have been better off maintaining the system of bartering. Money is good for many reasons, but men have adapted to loving it, thus changing the world forever. Money isn’t inherently evil, as it serves many purposes, including building upon kingdom business.

Because of the sin of Adam, man was cursed to work, but honest work deserves honest pay. Unfortunately, this is not always the case in some instances. The Bible warns against loving money, or gaining it the wrong way, because doing so can cause all manner of evil to interfere with your daily living. King Solomon wrote, “Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase” (Prov 13:11).

Money is simply a tool to be used to maintain a balanced lifestyle in the earth, but the love of it has brought never-ending chaos to people all over the globe. While the Bible teaches that we should not love money, we should embrace the good that can be done with it. Do you desire money in order to fulfill selfish desires, or are your motivations set on doing good for others with the increase God pours into your life?

By Faith…

Hebrews 11:23-31

“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1)

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:” (Ephesians 2:8)

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7)

“For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” (Romans 1:17)

“Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made by things which do appear.” (Hebrews 11:3)

“But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6)

The concept of faith can seem rather complicated at first glance, but the more the Spirit of God opens one’s understanding, they’ll soon grab hold of what the essence of faith is, and how to properly apply it to daily holy living. Faith can be understood as believing in something to happen, that has yet to manifest, based on past experiences. Another writer explained faith as the conviction based on past experience that God’s new and fresh surprises will surely be ours. Having faith in God requires confidence and conviction. God made it plain that He will provide for, and sustain His people, but the children of God must believe that he is, and that He’s a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Faith is necessary in all situations, whether they be good or not so good. In times of plenty, we must have faith in God to keep us humble, and not allow our prosperity to cause us to entertain pride. On the contrary, when we experience times of suffering or lack, it’s our faith in God that keeps us standing strong through our adversity, until God opens a window of Heaven, and pours out blessings that are beneficial and abundant. Faith in God eliminates all possibility of falling into temptation. This is certain, because with all your attention and hope centered on the Creator of all things, there’ll hardly be any room for doubt, fear, or temptation. Throughout history, many have overcome evil, sin, temptation, and hard times, by putting all their faith and trust in God. The same God that blessed Moses, Rahab, and king David for their unwavering faith, has an unlimited supply of resources to bless you, even today. Have faith in God!

Presumptuous Prophecy

Deuteronomy 18:15-22

Of all the spiritual gifts given by the Spirit of God, there are two of which men claim to operate in that easily manipulate others to believing it’s authentic. These include the gifts of speaking in tongues, and prophecy. The gift of tongues, or languages, was granted to the apostles on the day of Pentecost, and was used by them to make the Word of God plain and understandable to men who came speaking different languages. Speaking in tongues is sorely misused and misunderstood, as the Bible declares there should always be someone available to interpret what was being spoken. Doing things this way would eliminate all mystery and allow the church to remain on one accord.

Spiritual gifts are to be used for the edification of the body of Christ, so attempting to use a gift for selfish reasons is unacceptable to God. Aside from misrepresenting the gift of tongues, men also speak falsehoods, while proclaiming their words to be prophecy from God. Those who function this way have no fear or reverence for God, which allows for them to freely manipulate the body of Christ without conviction.

Our text teaches how to tell the difference between a true prophet and a false one. Verse 22 reads, “When a prophet speaketh in the name of the Lord, if the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord hath not spoken, but the prophet hath spoken it presumptuously:” That verse continues to mention, “thou shalt not be afraid of him.” Have you noticed lately, how people literally fear and show great respect to men and women who claim to be a prophet or prophetess? It’s almost like religious services stop so that those “special” persons can take over and delivere false words to the church. God said He’ll raise up a Prophet, and put His words in his mouth, and he will speak what God commands him to. Millions around the world are being deceived daily by false prophets, and without the Spirit of God, they’ll possibly end up broke and ruined, because they are convinced that giving all their money and possessions to these phony messengers will make their lives better.

Wherever or whoever you receive your teaching of the Word from, be certain you’ve checked their words with God’s Word. Don’t allow these foolish and fake men and women to deceive you any longer. Your mind, body, and money belongs to God, so be sure that what a person speaks into your life is truly from God, to avoid wasting your time, energy, and possessions on false prophets. God never contradicts Himself, so if anyone speaks words that are contrary to the Bible, you can rest assured they were sent by satan, and not God.

Study God’s Word earnestly, so that you can grow in your understanding of the Scriptures, then dissecting the words that men speak won’t be so difficult.

Everlasting Salvation

Multiple Scripture References

Once a person receives salvation, by the grace of God, are they saved forever? Are there any situations that can cause a person to lose their salvation? Is salvation earned through works? Is being good and doing good the same thing? Are we justified to God by our works? These are a few questions that have caused major division in the modern church. Many religious leaders are too consumed in their own self righteousness, until they are unable to bring clarification, so that members of the body of Christ can have a better understanding of how amazing God’s free gift actually is. Salvation is a free gift offered by God, through the sacrifice of His only begotten Son, Jesus, and all who confess their sins, and believe on the name of the Lord, are primed to accept God’s life-saving gift. Below are a few passages that help to dissolve some of the confusion many have encountered in reference to “once saved, always saved”:

*”And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. I and my Father are one.”
(John 10:28-30)

*”And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.”
(1 John 5:11)

*”For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
(John 3:16)

*”These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.”
(1 John 5:13)

*”He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.”
(John 3:36)

*”For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
(Romans 6:23)

There is a great divide amongst the church, where on the one hand some believe you can lose your salvation, while others hold fast to their understanding that salvation cannot be lost. Those who profess that salvation can be lost, attribute their beliefs to Scriptures like Matthew 7:21-23 which reads, “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” When Jesus mentions, “I never knew you”, His words were accurate, as in those who claimed to be children of God, never truly accepted Him into their hearts. Instead, they only played a role in order to achieve selfish desires, or manipulate men to their liking. But, God is watching the lives of all men, and He knows who are His, and who are simply “faking the funk”.

The simplest way to tell whether or not a person is truly a child of God, and have received God’s gift of salvation is, to compare their lives to 1 John 2:3-4 which reads, “And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” When a man or woman truly gives their heart to God, their old nature is put off, and they take on a new nature. The “new man” in Christ Jesus has different desires, thoughts, and goals. No longer does selfishness and pride take precedence in the hearts of the new creature, because old things are passed away, and “ALL” things are become new. The true believer will have no internal desire to do anything to disrespect, nor dishonor the name of the Lord God. While there are times when Christians may fall, their error doesn’t consume them, nor will it become habitual. The Holy Spirit of God keeps the Saints rooted in the Father’s love, and grounded in the teachings of the Son Jesus Christ.

So, can a person lose their salvation? If true confession is made, and belief in Jesus Christ is sincere from the heart, God will never separate Himself from anyone with true intentions to change, and motivation to be better. If losing salvation was a possibility, then we would lose it everytime we made a mistake, but thanks to Jesus, our eternal salvation has been signed, sealed, and secured forever!

Lighted Path

Proverbs 4

One of the hardest things for people to do is, find their way around in the dark. Whether someone wakes up in a dark room in hopes of reaching the rest room, or driving on a dark road with dim headlights, it’s very difficult to see the path to a destination without proper lighting to show the way. How many times have you stumped your toe while maneuvering to find a light switch, or veered off the the road until it eventually became more visible? Light does many things, but one of it’s most important functions is, to make things visible. Our text mentions two very profound verses concerning light and darkness, in reference to the way of the believer, contrasted with the unbeliever. “The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble” (vs. 19). “But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day” (vs. 18). Those who disregard the importance of the Gospel, and the necessity of God’s gift of salvation, are literally traversing the earth in darkness, or lacking the wisdom and knowledge of God’s written Word. All who refuse to accept Jesus as their Savior and the Son of God, allow their own thoughts and judgment to lead them. In fact, walking along the path of darkness only leads to an unpleasant end, and the lifestyle that precedes such an end is always unpleasant to God. Jesus is the light of the world, and the Word of God opens the eyes of those who lacked wisdom and understanding, then begins to shine a bright light on the righteous path, that all the children of God should follow. Evil men stumble over things in their darkness, but the righteous can avoid falling short of God’s glory, because the light that shines before them will reveal every ditch, trap, and stumbling block set before them.