Strong Hearts

Ephesians 3:14-21

As the world turns, and end-time prophecy continues to be fulfilled, it’s imperative for the body of Christ to tighten their unity amongst each other, and pray to God to strengthen their hearts. Standing for the truth is becoming more challenging, as hard times continue to plague the lives of the Saints. It’s unfortunate when members of the church are at odds with each other, when they were commanded to love, but believers can’t allow the events of the world to sever their togetherness. The church is stronger when all members join together with one mind, and set their affections on things above, but when unity and love are absent, the church will suffer greatly. In our text, the apostle Paul suffered greatly for the church, but his suffering was to their benefit. Paul’s example was proof that the church could also stand strong in times of persecution. Paul then prayed to God, in name of Jesus Christ, that the church be strengthen with might, by God’s Spirit, in the inner man. The enemy targets our most vulnerable points, the heart and mind, and once he can infiltrate either of them, he’ll quickly gain access to our soul. We must guard our hearts against all wickedness and temptation, and keep our focus on edifying each other in the Lord. The apostle Paul knew the importance of unity, especially during challenging times, and was confident that if the church would allow God to fill them with all His fulness, they could remain in the right place in Him, to be used for His glory. Be strength to one another, especially during these times, because only when all members of the body of Christ work together, can our impact in the world truly make a difference.

A Faithful Journey

Romans 15:22-33

The apostle Paul is known to be one of the greatest of all apostles in Scripture. His reputation was not based on prideful dealings, instead his preaching of the Gospel and establishment of churches had a major impact in the kingdom of God. Paul’s journeys through different regions were often met with confrontation, and there were many obstacles on his path that could have easily hindered his progress. For this reason, Paul would often ask the churches to strive with him in prayer, because his missions were often met with strong contention.

In our text, the apostle Paul planned in his heart to visit the church in Rome, but he delayed his trip in order to minister to the poor Saints in Jerusalem, and deliver blessings to them from the Saints of Macedonia and Achaia. It’s a beautiful thing when the church comes together to support one another. There are few today who actively participate in fellowship and giving to the needy, but it’s not as profound as it was in Paul’s day.

Knowing that the churches he established were continuing in the things of the Lord, brought Paul great delight, so he made it his business to visit them as often as he could. Paul did so much for the kingdom of God, until he needed all the prayer available, to help keep him focused as he ministered. I’m certain there were times when he considered throwing in the towel, but he never allowed rejection, persecution, or anything else to turn him away from doing God’s will.

Doing works for the Lord will always make one a target for the enemy, and he’ll do all within his power to hinder the progress of the Saints, but we must continue doing the will of the Father, regardless of who stands in our way. Be mindful of the fact that you aren’t the only one fighting the “good fight”, and there are many who are striving to do well, so join with your brothers and sisters in the Lord, and keep one another edified and encouraged, as the day of Christ draws near.

Wanted: Christians

Acts 12:5-11

When Jesus had finally left the earth, His disciples had set their focus on carrying out His commands without hesitation. The great apostles began establishing the foundations of the first church, and made certain that the message of the Gospel was freely given to the Gentile nations as well. The church had all things in common, and when situations became a bit tense, effective prayer and communication easily resolved all issues.

The early church began to strive and thrive in the name of the Lord, but their zeal for God came at great cost. During the development of the church, not everyone was pleased to see it prosper. Certain of the synagogues were opposed to the teaching of the Gospel, for reasons centered around pride and ignorance, and the best way these men thought to hurt the church was to make an examples of its leaders. Stephen, an outstanding leader, teacher, and full of wisdom and the Holy Ghost, was the first to be martyred amongst the brethren. Soon after this tragic event, persecution against the church, which began in Jerusalem, caused the people to scatter abroad, throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria. The apostles remained in Jerusalem, and made great lamentation over Stephen’s death.

Following Saul’s conversion and acceptance of God’s will for his life, the message of the Gospel was still being preached by the apostles, but after king Herod decided to add his name to the church oppression party, the apostles were listed at the top of his wanted list. In order to please the Jews, king Herod decided to first kill James, the brother of John. The disciples were obviously aware that the days Jesus had spoken of, were now being lived, and they prepared themselves to face what was to come.

Following the death of James, the wicked king sought to kill Peter next, so they arrested him, threw him in prison, and waited to bring him before the people to be executed. The church in America today, complains that times are hard for them, but they’ve never faced persecution as the disciples did. While in prison, Peter being placed between two soldiers, fell asleep. How could one sleep, knowing they would soon be executed? The Bible mentions that prayer was made without ceasing of the church that God deliver Peter, and He did! The same night Peter was asleep, an angel appeared, released him of the chains that bound him, then led him safely away from the prison. Peter thought he was seeing a vision, and didn’t realize until after his escape, he was set free. Wow! The Bible explains it like this, “And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews.” (vs. 11). Jesus had told Peter before, how he would die, but this was not his time.

Persecution is inevitable for the children of God, and we must be prepared to stand strong when that time comes. The devil hates God, and those who follow Him because we remind him of what he once had, and lost; fellowship and unity with the Father. Bible times are long gone, and the men who left us the example to follow already fulfilled their purpose, but now we must live ours, and hope to be as bold and firm as the men of old were.

A Higher Perspective

Mark 2:1-12

Bashing the modern-day church isn’t something I take pride in, as some do today. There are many who speak their thoughts over social media outlets, in reference to the state of church, and christianity, and most of them set the church in a negative light. The definition of the church is, a unified body, consisting of many members, all with different functions, yet operating with one mind, heart, and goal.

It is indeed sad how church has changed over time, and many who seek the truth, can hardly find it from those who profess to be believers, but the biggest problem facing those who are supposed to represent Christ is, perspective. Operating on human intellect alone, gives one a certain world view that is oftentimes contrary to the will of God. Men are indeed wise, and have knowledge to accomplish great things, but worldly wisdom and understanding can take you so far, until you’ll eventually yearn for a deeper understanding of life to grasp things from God’s point of view. In addition, just because a person attends religious services, doesn’t automatically make them qualified in their understanding of the Gospel message. Without the Spirit of God, no man can function appropriately according as God desires.

Our text gives an example of the different perspectives between carnal minded men, and the mind of Jesus. After seeing the faith of four men who sincerely believed that Jesus would heal their paralyzed friend, rather than heal the man first, Jesus focused on his soul. From man’s perspective one would think natural healing should come first, but Jesus proved to the arrogant and undisciplined scribes that a man’s soul is more important than anything else. The physical body of man is temporal, but the soul is eternal, and all souls belong to the Lord. The certain scribes in the text failed to understand that God had given His Son the power and authority to forgive sin, and from His perspective, Jesus was concerned about the total man, and not just the physical.

In times when we don’t understand the plan of God, trust and believe He sees more than we can with our limited sight and judgment. Be careful not to judge the church by where some are in life, because God may be doing something to help their eternal future, and not just a temporary situation.

Be Made Whole

Mark 2:13-17

As I continue to meditate on the pages of Scripture, my fascination of the power Jesus portrayed continues to swell, even to this day. From walking on water, to casting devils out of a man and into a herd of swine, the power of God working through the Son was, and is still amazing! The power of God is limitless, and all who came to Jesus, in faith, were healed. Not one person who suffered was left in their misery after their encounter with Jesus (unless they weren’t willing to change, like the rich man). But my focus for this lesson is on Judas, the disciple.

I know Bible prophecy will always be fulfilled, but I have concerns as to how Judas could be so close to the Savior, yet not seek His mighty power, to deliver him from his struggle. Jesus mentions in our text, “They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick:” (vs.17). He continued to say that He came to call sinners to repentance. Although Judas was a disciple who closely followed Jesus and the eleven, his motives weren’t the same as theirs. During all the missions and travels of Jesus during His ministry, Judas was responsible for handling the finances, and I’m apt to believe, he was influenced by the devil, and allowed the love of money to rule his heart, more than the love of Jesus. I often say, conviction is a positive sign to Saints, because it makes them aware that they are nearing a fall, but when that conviction goes away, they’ll be open to act upon evil desires. This is what happened with Judas. He was literally with Jesus nearly every day, and was free to express his thoughts and struggles, but rather than seek help for what he battled with, he chose to remain in the sin that would eventually lead to his demise.

Even though we have God in our hearts, we can still be tempted to entertain sin. If we fall, we can come to God in sincerity and faith, knowing that He alone can forgive, and deliver us from our faults. Unlike Judas, who allowed money to rule his heart, let the peace of God rule yours, even in times of struggle, because the Father already knows what’s going on, and wants you to boldly come to Him in humility and love.

“It’s ok to not be ok sometimes, but don’t give up… help is on the way.” – Ell

Blessed In The Mess

James 5:13-16

In a world of chaos and confusion, it can be hard, at times, to find things that bring joy to one’s heart. With the recent chaotic events including the U.S. Capitol building riot, the continued worldwide pandemic, and other news, people of all over the country are weighed down with a heavy heart. Aside from disheartening global events, many deal with daily personal struggles like sickness, depression, financial instability, and other issues. But, in the midst of all the chaos and confusion in the world, there are still things to give God thanks for.

While life is indeed hard for many, God has never stopped providing for His children. Those who remain in the earth and have fully committed themselves to following after righteousness, should not let the current state of the world weigh them down, because God has been beyond good to them. Believers should always acknowledge the fact that they have the precious gift of salvation. Without Jesus being the means by which our sins were forgiven, our living would be in vain. Aside from being delivered from sin, God allows us the liberty to study and meditate on His holy Word. I’m aware of those countries that make it hard for Saints to even receive Bibles, but for those who have the freedom to read it, should always be excited for the opportunity to do so. With how the world has been lately, I wouldn’t be surprised if Bibles were eventually taken away. For this reason, we should hide God’s Word in the depths of our hearts. This way, no man can ever take His Word away from us. Along with salvation and the Bible, Saints are deeply connected to the Holy Spirit of God. This Comforter is responsible for reminding the Christian of Jesus’ teachings, as well as guiding them along the righteous path.

Let’s recap. The world is literally falling apart, but the people of God can still rejoice in the fact that they are blessed in the midst of mess. God does bless His people with natural things, but never allow hard times to take your focus off your salvation, God’s Word, and the Holy Ghost. Learn to realize how blessed you really are.

Undeserving, But Blessed

Matthew 15:21-28

During His brief, yet profound and impactful ministry in the earth, Jesus had taken on a reputation for Himself that blew up like the skies during July 4th celebrations. While it’s recorded, Jesus came not to make himself a reputation, His actions and obedience to God’s will, set Him apart from all who ever walked the face of earth. People from nations far and wide, had heard of the miraculous things that were done by the hands of the Son of God, and waited with great anticipation, for Him to cross their path.

In nearly every city He visited, there awaited Him some who were in desperate need of the power that flowed through Him, and our text mentions a woman, who was willing to go against tradition, so that healing could come to her house. When the woman came to Jesus, crying for help, His insensitive disciples told Him to send her away. I wonder, where the love was in them that Jesus spoke of consistently? Unfortunately, it is possible to become so spiritually minded, until you neglect real needs right before you. The disciples’ words could have turned the woman away, but she wasn’t leaving until her request was granted.

Not only were the disciples insensitive to the woman’s need, but it seemed as though Jesus was also when He said, “It is not meet to take the children’s bread, and cast it to dogs.” (vs. 26). Let’s be real! If Jesus called you a dog, to your face, how would you respond? To clarify, Jesus wasn’t referring to the woman as a dog, but was simply comparing how Jews considered pagan people, with His own judgment. I love this woman, because she was willing to be called a dog, if only to see her daughter healed. She didn’t argue, nor respond in offense, but accepted her position, and was called by Jesus, a woman of great faith!

The next time you make a request to God, be sure to do it in humility, because no one deserves any good thing from the Father, but because of grace and the blood of Jesus, we can come before His throne with boldness.

“He didn’t have to do it, but I’m grateful He did.” – Ell

The Only Wise God

Isaiah 57:14-21

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isa 55:8-9 KJV). The more I try to understand the intricacies and details of God the Father, the more my head hurts. I often quote Dr. Kent Hovind when he says,”if my little three pound brain could understand the Creator of all things, then He would not be worth worshiping”. Simply reading descriptions of the nature of the Creator and His dwelling place, makes me so excited to soon inhabit eternity with Him! The Lord our God is many wonderful things, including eternal, omnipotent, omniscient, in all places at all times, humble, just, righteous, consistent in love and judgment, and more! God inhabits eternity, and dwells in the high and holy place (with Christ), and His plan is to revive the spirit of those who walk in humility, and restore the hearts of those who’s were broken.

With the state in which the world is today, many, including Christians, have given up hope that God truly cares for those who suffer. But, know this; God never gives up on those He loves, those who walk in His ways, and keep His commandments. Even when we fall short, while trying to walk in the Spirit, God will pardon our iniquities, and restore us to a right place in Him. God sees our suffering and is fully aware that we need Him, but only in His perfect timing, will He step in to deliver His people.

We may not understand all that’s going on today, but focus your attention on being consistent in obeying God, because He made us, and He knows all about what we’re experiencing. In due time, the one whose name is Holy, will show Himself mighty in the lives of His children.

Steps Of A Good Man

Luke 5:1-11

Everywhere Jesus went, He was found doing something to help someone. Whether it was healing a sickness or disease, or casting out demons or raising the dead, the works of the Son of God were always centered on making men better. Aside from the miraculous healings and other blessings, Jesus made preaching the kingdom of God priority over all else. Miracles and blessings are good, but without the Gospel, all is futile.

Jesus’ words were so inspiring, until crowds of people would literally follow His every move, just to hear from Him. Even when He sought seclusion in a desert place, after doing many great works, the people sought Him diligently, and didn’t want Him to leave after they discovered His location. This is an example of how men are to cling to God, and His holy Word. The same God that worked through Christ, the Son, works through His Spirit in all who have been redeemed, even today.

Although we may not see all the miracles that took place during Jesus’ time in the earth, the exact message He preached in the synagogues, and throughout all the lands, is present with us in the Bible. It’s the will of God, that we cling to His Word, just as the people refused to let go of Jesus, and allow the message of the Gospel to penetrate deep into our souls, so that we can be changed, renewed, and prepared to share it properly with others. “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way.” (Psalms 37:23)

Inseparable

Luke 9:57-62

Following in the footsteps of Jesus may require that we give up things we hold to dearly, so as not to be distracted by them once we begin to progress in His will. When Jesus gathered His disciples, they were all commanded to give up what they loved, to follow after Him. Jesus is in no way insensitive to others, but He was fully aware that the path He walked, wouldn’t be an easy one. In addition, holding on to their past could potentially distract the disciples from fulfilling the will God had set in place, and Jesus needed men by His side, who were willing to go the distance, and not give in to their past. Even today, there are countless things that distract God’s people from staying consistent to His will. We get drawn away from godliness by investing too much time in things like television, relationships, personal goals, or even our careers. But, we shouldn’t allow anything, including family, to separate us from the love of God. God’s will is priority, and it’s of the upmost importance that we strive to do our part, to see it fulfilled. We can’t allow the opinions of others, or our own desires to distract us from doing as we were commanded by the Father. “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39).