No Doubt

Matthew 11:2-15

Have you ever doubted God? Facing life challenges in the earth are handled differently between the Saint, and sinner. When a Saint prays, it’s not his words that move God, but the faith behind what was spoken is what gets the Father’s attention. God’s Word is indeed truth, and His promises are sure, but there will be moments in the life of the believer, when they will struggle with the human emotion called, doubt.

Doubting isn’t inherently sinful, but wallowing in it for extended periods of time can cause one to lose faith in God, and turn to unreliable sources for assurance. From the babe in Christ, to the very elect, Christians on all spiritual levels must grow their faith, to avoid doubting, and eventually losing their faith in God. One man in Scripture, who was deemed by Jesus Himself, as the greatest prophet who ever lived, had a moment of doubt. While behind prison bars, John the Baptist heard more news about the great works his cousin Jesus had been performing, yet such great events weren’t well received by the prophet.

I’m not sure how John was able to give orders to his disciples from behind bars, but he sent two of his disciples to make certain, Jesus was indeed the Savior he prepared men to receive. Whether John was suffering from the effects of prison isolation, or some other thing, Jesus was sure to ease his doubts. When the disciples arrived and delivered the message from John, Jesus kindly told the men, “Go and show John those things which ye do hear and see” (vs. 4b). Now John had already baptized Jesus a few chapters prior, and had heard of the great miracles He was performing, so I struggle with understanding his reason for doubt. Jesus had healed blind eyes, made the lame walk, cleansed lepers, opened deaf ears, raised the dead, and preached the gospel to the poor. Not only did John’s disciples hear of such great things, but they also saw the power of Jesus manifest before their very eyes.

During these times, the words of scripture were still being written, so men took seriously miraculous events, as signs of God’s amazing power. Today, God still performs miracles in people’s lives, but the greatest miracle, besides salvation, is having access and liberty to study His preserved and inspired book. When we have doubts, and many of us most certainly will, open God’s Word, and read how faith in Him, moves His hand to act on our behalf. Jesus didn’t judge John the Baptist in a negative way (nor did He judge doubting Thomas) for having doubts, instead He eased John’s doubt, by reminding him of the goodness and everlasting mercy that comes from the God of all creation.

Tis’ The Season

Matthew 2:19-23

Christmas time is a wonderful season, despite its pagan roots and undertones. The true reason Christians acknowledge the season of “Christmas” is, to commemorate the birth, and celebration of Jesus into the earth. Jesus is the reason for this season, but modern society views this special day from a different perspective. From the eyes of the unbeliever (and many Christians, surprisingly), the icon of the Christmas holiday is Santa Claus, and gift giving is the real purpose for gathering together. Sharing gifts amongst family, friends, coworkers, and strangers isn’t inherently bad, but it has the tendency of drawing the focus away from the purpose of Christ coming to the earth.

For God so loved the world, He gave His only Son, so men could be saved from the consequences of sin. The worldly gift giving theme presents many problems, because while some families are blessed with the ability to purchase and exchange presents with many, there are countless others who can barely afford to eat, and keep their lights on, let alone buy their children gifts for Christmas.

The Christmas season is the prime time when depression and suicide rates skyrocket, and many have difficulty finding things to be grateful for, but if the church would take the time to express the true meaning of God’s gift to adults and children alike, rather than promise them loads of gifts (which they’ll probably forget about in a few weeks), the Christmas holiday would more than likely be embraced from a more meaningful perspective.

Family gathering is good, giving to the poor is righteous, showing kindness to strangers is divine, but celebrating what the birth of Jesus truly means, is more important than anything else.

“During this season, share with others the love of God, and the knowledge of His Word. That’s the best gift anyone can receive.” – Ell

Undefiled

Daniel 1:8-17

Throughout life, we often feel as though God doesn’t notice our suffering, and we wonder whether or not He actually hears our prayers. As believers, we face continual persecution for our faith, men slander and defile our good reputations, and the world mocks us for what we believe. Some even go so far as to inflict physical pain on those who claim the name of Christ. But, in those moments when we feel as though God has forgotten about us, we should stop and read about the struggles men of God dealt with in Scripture.

One example of men who suffered for righteousness sake, can be found in our text. Because of their continual disobedience, God allowed Israel to be taken into captivity by Babylon. While being held captive, the king of Babylon called for children from Israel, who were without blemish, well favored, skilled in all wisdom, cunning in knowledge and understanding, and were able to learn their language. Those who were selected included Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. The king even decided to change the names of the young men, as a sign of placing them under subjection. It’s one thing to be abducted against your will, and it’s even worse when you are given another name, then forced to learn pagan customs.

To make a long story short, Daniel and his brethren went against the kings commands, in order to obey the commands of God, and his three friends were forced to face the death penalty. God delivered the young men from the fiery furnace, and proved that no matter what comes against the children of God, if they remain faithful, He will deliver them with a mighty hand.

It matters not what you’re going through in life, because if you stay true to God, and obey His words over man’s, He’ll always come through for you, and your haters will have front row seats to witness it.

“Trust God through the good, the bad, and the in-between.” – Ell

“I Know I Can”

Exodus 1:15-22

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to an exciting episode of, “I Know I Can!” Starring, Little Saint, and Life! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

(Little Saint begins his day with prayer, and asks God for wisdom and strength to get through the day)

Little Saint: Alright. Here we go. Another day to make Him Proud.

(Little Saint begins his walk through life’s journey.)

Little Saint: This is the day, that the Lord has made…

Life: HEADACHE!

Little Saint: Ohhh my head, but I know I can make it. I’ll keep walking by faith.

(Little Saint continues his journey, despite a terrible headache.)

Little Saint: The Lord is good, and His mercy endures forever…

Life: HEARTACHE!

Little Saint: Oh my wee heart, aches so bad, but I know I can make it. I’ll keep walking by faith.

(Little Saint continues his journey, despite a terrible headache, and heartache.)

Little Saint: Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name…

Life: DEATH OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS!

Little Saint: My God, My God, I feel nothing but pain and sorrow from losing my family and friends, but I know I can make it. I’ll keep walking by faith.

(Little Saint continues his journey, despite a terrible headache, heartache, and loss of family and friends.)

Little Saint: The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear?…

Life: JOB TERMINATION!

Little Saint: NOOOO, I needed that job to consistently make ends meet, and to support the ministry, but I know I can make it. I’ll keep walking by faith.

(Little Saint continues his journey, despite a terrible headache, heartache, loss of family and friends, and loss of employment.)

(Little Saint begins to feel the weight of the world bearing on his shoulders.)

Life: PERSECUTION!

Little Saint: O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt…but I know I can make it. I’ll keep walking by faith.

(Little Saint continues his journey, despite a terrible headache, heartache, loss of family and friends, loss of employment, and persecution.)

*Life is indeed hard, not only for the Saints, but for unbelievers also. The difference is, those who suffer for the sake of righteousness, will receive eternal rewards from the Father, while those who suffer while in sin, can only receive the second death. God wishes that all men come to repentance, and desires for no one to die in their sins. The best way the Saints can prove their profession to godliness is, to walk by faith, despite all obstacles that come to block their path. It’s unfortunate that believers will suffer in this life, but our suffering is only for a season. In His perfect timing, God will restore the joy of His salvation to all Saints, and He will give them strength to endure, and continue fighting the good fight.

This concludes the exciting episode of, “I Know I Can”! Thanks for tuning in.

Special Delivery

Luke 1:26-38

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to an exciting episode of, “Special Delivery!” Starring, Mary, and Gabriel the Messenger! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

(Mary walks from the kitchen to the living room while cleaning, then suddenly sees the angel Gabriel appear before her)

Mary: (Screams frantically!!!) Who are you? What are you doing here? How did you get in my house? What is happening right now?

Gabriel: Calm down Mary, everything is fine. I am Gabriel. I was sent by God to give you some very exciting news!

Mary: I’m extremely sorry I screamed in your face. Allow me a moment to sit, and catch my breath.

(Mary sits on the couch, and looks puzzled at Gabriel’s presence)

Gabriel: Oh Mary, you are highly favored, and the Lord is with you. You are truly blessed among women.

Mary: I don’t understand your words sir. What do you mean? What is this about?

Gabriel: Fear not, Mary. You have found favor with God. I’ve come to tell you, you will conceive in your womb, and bring forth a son, and will call his name JESUS.

(Mary’s puzzling look grows more intense)

Gabriel: The child you birth will be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David.

Mary: I…..but…..

Gabriel: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there shall be no end.

Mary: Forgive me kind sir for my puzzled gaze, but how shall this be, seeing I know not a man.

Gabriel: The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

Mary: All this seems unreal, and hard to fathom.

Gabriel: I understand how you must feel right now, but if it makes you feel any better, your cousin Elisabeth, the one who was called barren, she’s already six months pregnant, even in her old age.

Mary: How did you know that?

Gabriel: Mary, with God, nothing shall be impossible.

Mary: Well sir, be it unto me, according to thy word.

(Gabriel departs, and Mary sits for hours, pondering over the message she had received from the angel)

*Every word spoken of Jesus before His birth, was fulfilled. He, along with his cousin John, would be great, but Jesus would be even more greater, because He was indeed, the Son of God. God saw something in Mary, to trust her with birthing the Savior of the world, and her humility and submission to Gabriel’s message, proved that she was well able to carry out God’s plan for her life. What has God called you to do? Have you submitted yourself to carrying out His plan for your life? Or, are you too busy concerning yourself with the business of others? Focus your time and efforts on doing what God has called you to do, then watch Him bless you, as you walk in obedience to His commands.

This concludes the exciting episode of, “Special Delivery”! Thanks for tuning in.

The Mission

Isaiah 42:1-9

Was God surprised to see Adam fall to sin? Was He caught off guard, and unprepared to rectify the influence satan caused on God’s precious created beings? Did Heaven go into panic, after the authority over the earth was willingly handed over to the evil one? God the Father and creator of all things, was fully aware, man would fall to the temptation of satan, and He already had a plan in place, to bring things back into its proper place.

Verse six of our text helps us understand that God had already prepared a plan for redemption, through His son, Jesus. The text reads, “I the LORD have called thee (Jesus) in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles. To open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house” (vs. 6-7). Jesus came to the earth, to not only redeem men back to the Father, but to restore unto them their spiritual sight, and position in the family of God. Many have been broken and defeated by the enemy, to the point they have lost sight of their place in God, but Jesus came to deliver men from darkness, and direct them to the light, and knowledge of God’s Word.

Only in the Word of God, can men discover the truth of their existence, and the purpose they were created to fulfill. Jesus’ mission was to come to the earth, conquer death, hell, and the grave, and allow for mankind to be reunited with the Father, as well as offer acceptable sacrifices to Him. All the glory, honor, and praise, belong to God, so give Him all of you, and maintain a righteous standard, as you live to imitate Christ.

“Christ fulfilled His mission, but will you fulfill yours?” – Ell

Scepter Of Righteousness

Hebrews 1:6-9

Jesus:
– Appointed heir of all things
– Made the worlds
– Brightness of God’s glory
– Express image of God’s person
– Upholds all things by the word of His power
– By Himself, purged all sins
– Sits on the right hand of the Majesty on high
– Made so much better than the angels
– Obtained a more excellent name than angels
– Only begotten Son of God
– His throne is for ever and ever
– His kingdom is righteousness
– Loves righteousness, and hates iniquity
– Anointed by God, with the oil of gladness

Of all the things we are grateful for, which of them compare to the Savior of mankind? Jesus is the best thing, that anyone could ever dream or hope for. In a world, where religion is tainted, and men strive to find true meaning in life, God provided the only thing, whereby men can grow in knowledge and understanding of what life is all about. Jesus has existed from the beginning, and will reign supreme for eternity, and His love for man is what gives us hope for a bright, and secure future. In those moments when you feel like your faith isn’t strong, and your living is in vain, review the list of the characteristics of Jesus, then the joy of His salvation will be restored unto you.

“What’s better than living your best life now? Living with the best for eternity.” – Ell

Friends

Matthew 1:6-15

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to an exciting episode of, “Friends.” Starring, Curious Neighbor, and Young Jesus! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

(Knock! Knock! Knock! Knock! Knock!)

Mary: (Yells from behind the door) Who is it?

Curious Neighbor: It’s me!!! Can Jesus come out to play for a few minutes?

(Door opens, and young Jesus steps out)

Young Jesus: Hello friend, how are you today?

Curious Neighbor: I’m hungry, but let’s go skip rocks over the river!

Young Jesus: Okay. Mom I’ll be back soon.

(Curious Neighbor and young Jesus chat, while walking to the river)

Curious Neighbor: So, how have you been?

Young Jesus: I’ve been well, learning and growing daily. How have you been?

Curious Neighbor: I’ve been learning how to work and fix things like my dad. You know, the same things your dad has been teaching you.

Young Jesus: Yeah, it’s a lot of hard work, but we’ll need to learn as much as we can, so that one day we’ll be able to earn a good living when we’re older.

Curious Neighbor: I never thought of that. Why are you so smart?

Young Jesus: …

Curious Neighbor: Everytime I have a problem, or can’t figure something out, you always find a solution. I like you Jesus. You’re a good friend.

Young Jesus: I like you too!

(They arrive at the river)

Curious Neighbor: Alright, let’s see who can get the most skips. I’ll go first….Yaaaaaay, I got five on the first try. Okay, it’s your turn.

Young Jesus: I got five also!

Curious Neighbor: Okay. This is boring now. Let’s do something else. What would you like to do?

Young Jesus: Well, what I want to do, I’m not allowed to yet.

Curious Neighbor: Why not? I’ll help you, if it’s hard.

Young Jesus: No, it’s not that. I was told by my Father I must wait, until He tells me to move.

Curious Neighbor: I don’t understand. Mr. Joseph seems like a really nice man, why would he make you move?

Young Jesus: Lol. It’s okay. Don’t worry about it. Let’s go climb some trees before we have to go back home.

Curious Neighbor: Okay then. Let’s go!

*Can you imagine what it would have been like, to be friends with Jesus, during His adolescence years? I can only imagine the wisdom and understanding He had, even at such a young age. While his young friend may not have understood His connection with the Father, I’m certain He never made Himself more than what he was supposed to be to Curious Neighbor.

This concludes the exciting episode of, “Friends.” Thanks for tuning in.

Lawbreakers

Matthew 12:1-8

In most societies, laws were established to keep order, and control over all who inhabit governed lands. There are laws against driving too fast on the highways, as well as regulations in financial markets. Following the rules will usually keep a person free from unnecessary punishment or judgment, but is there ever a time when laws can be broken, without a person being judged for doing so? Is it lawful for an ambulance carrying an injured passenger to the hospital, to go over the speed limit, so that the wounded person can receive immediate treatment? Or, is it wrong for an anxious husband to run a few red lights and stops signs, so that he can hurriedly get his expecting wife to the hospital? While laws are intended to serve their purpose, there are times when the rules can be bent for the purpose of an individual’s wellbeing.

In our text, Jesus and His disciples were criticized for plucking ears of corn on the Sabbath. I’m almost certain, Jesus knew the annoying Pharisees were spying on Him, and He purposely led the hungry disciples through the corn fields. Sometimes, God will allow things to happen in your life, to prove what’s in the hearts of your haters. The Pharisees told Jesus, “Aren’t you aware of your disciples breaking the law?” In all His wisdom, Jesus reminded the wicked Pharisees of two instances in Scripture where men violated the sabbath, for necessary purposes. David’s need for sustenance was more important than the legal technicalities of the law, and even the priests of the past had once profane the Sabbath, when doing work by performing sacrifices and conducting services for worship.

The Pharisees in our text were so concerned about religious rituals, they missed the whole purpose, which is to bring people to God. Jesus is greater than rituals, and more people can be brought to God through Him, than following laws. The Pharisees had lost the spirit of the law, and only desired that men obey their interpretation of it. Be watchful and prayerful as you dedicate yourself to a ministry. While the doctrine of Christ is enough on its own, men have selfishly implemented their own laws and doctrines, that have caused many to error. Measure your obedience by the Word of God, and not by the flawed doctrines of men.

“The Word of God is enough on its own, there’s no need to add anything else to it.” – Ell

Against All Odds, Be Bold!

Acts 4:23-31

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to an exciting episode of, “Against All Odds, Be Bold!” Starring, Peter, John, the Crippled Beggar, and the Priests and Sadduces. I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

(Crippled Beggar sits outside the gate called Beautiful, asking for alms)

Crippled Beggar: Pardon me madam, but can you spare a little change… excuse me sir, I am in need, can you… sigh…

(Men pass by the crippled beggar, ignoring his cries for help, but Peter and John now approach)

Crippled Beggar: Excuse me kind sirs, but please, can you help me with a little something… to get food. I don’t ask for much, but please…I am in desperate need.

Peter: Look at us.

(The crippled beggar fastening his eyes on them, expecting to finally receive alms)

Peter: Unfortunately, I don’t have any change to spare, but what I do have, I’ll give to you without hesitation.

(The crippled beggar looks with a gaze of confusion)

Peter: “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.”

(Peter reaches to grab the man’s hand, and pulls him up. Immediately, his feet and ankle bones received strength. He jumps up and follows them into the temple, praising God.)

*This miraculous act caught the attention of nearly 5,000 men, many of which knew the man had been lame since birth. Peter wisely took advantage of the opportunity, to preach the Gospel.

Peter: Why do you men look so amazed, as if we did this of our own power? This man was healed by faith in the name of Jesus, who you all delivered up to Pilate, when he was determined to let Him go. But, your ignorance was all a part of God’s divine plan for man’s redemption.

(While he continued to preach, the priests, captain of the temple, and Sadducees came in to see what was going on.)

Priests and Sadducees: Alright, enough of this, bind these men, and take them in hold! It’s already late, so keep them there until tomorrow.

(The Sadducees didn’t believe in the resurrection, so they were no doubt more disturbed of all those who weren’t in favor of the disciples’ message.)

*No matter how hard the enemy tries to hinder the Gospel, it is still powerful enough to change lives. Many of the 5,000 men who heard Peter’s words, believed in them. All your labor in the works of the Lord, are not in vain. When men attempt to silence you for doing good, keep going… don’t stop… don’t give up.

High Priest Committee: “By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?”

Peter: (being filled with the Holy Ghost) “…by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom he crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.”

*Sometimes, a Christian can be intimidated when evil men come together against them, but despite the number of those opposed to your beliefs, trust that God alone is powerful enough to outnumber, and overcome any group of wicked men who desire to hurt or harm your bold faith in God.

(“And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.”)

High Priest Committee: Give us a moment to talk things over. (Whispering among themselves) What should we do to these men? It’s obvious that a miracle has taken place, and everyone has witnessed it, and we cannot deny it. Let’s threaten them to stop speaking in the name of Jesus, so the people won’t be convinced to believe in Him.

High Priest Committee: Hey, you men come over here. Listen, it’s cool what you guys did for the lame man and all, but we command you not to speak at all, or teach in the name of Jesus.

Peter and John: Whether you think our action was right or wrong, that’s on you guys, but we can only speak the things which we have seen and heard.

*Peter and John would not bend, no matter how much pressure was applied to them by the high priests.

(“So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done.”)

(After being released, Peter and John returned to their own company of believers, and shared their experience. They then prayed so intense, that the place they inhabited was shaken, and all were filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the Word of God with boldness.)

*There will be moments in our lives when we be afraid to share our faith in God, because people will make us uncomfortable and try to stop us. But like Peter and John, we must maintain our zeal for the Lord, and boldly confess Jesus before men, and He will confess us before the Father.

This concludes the exciting episode of, “Against All Odds, Be Bold”! Thanks for tuning in.