No god Like Our God

Psalm 86:1-13

Who can do what God does? Can a doctor truly understand, and explain the code of human DNA? While they may see an in-depth analysis of cell function, no one can truly understand how cells do, what they do. Can a bird sing, except God grace him with the necessary parts to do so? Birds were uniquely formed to inhabit the heavens, and show forth God’s unmatched intellect. Do you believe in gravity? I do, but can you honestly say, you understand it fully? Can you contain it in a jar, analyze it, or paint it purple? Although we know the purpose of gravity, and what it does, no one can fully make sense of it. What is light, except the illumination of dark spaces? We see the light, but how does it exist? What substance is it composed of?

God is amazing, and the things He does are sometimes beyond human comprehension. I tried once to contain God in my finite brain, then had a headache for a few hours after. God has the power to speak things into existence, heal sick bodies, raise men from the dead, inhabit praise from those who love Him, and bless men so, until curses are unable to penetrate their lives. As I write, I have millions of thoughts running through my mind, concerning how good God is, and how He does so much for everyone! I don’t understand all the ways of God, but I’ve learned how to keep His attention, from studying the Bible.

King David left great examples of how to stay in union with God, until He creates opportunities, just so He can bless. David understood that one must first cleanse the evil from their hearts, before even attempting to ask anything from the Father. A pure heart, coupled with a consistent holy lifestyle, will always keep you in a position where God CANNOT refuse to grant your prayer requests. The almighty, all-knowing, all-wise God, looks down on the earth, and desires to perform some amazing things in the lives of the people, but many don’t believe in Him, nor in His Word, so they willingly forfeit themselves from receiving blessings that can only come from God. While men find temporary satisfaction from pleasures in the world, only God can give things that offer lasting joy, and satisfaction.

Who can do what God does? No one. Think on that for a moment, and consider adjusting your life to where it always has God’s attention.

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

Ell

Be Wise In God’s Eyes

1 Kings 3:16-28

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” (Proverbs 4:7 KJV). Knowing how to rightly judge in all situations, takes more than book knowledge to accomplish. Those who have aspirations to become lawyers, or judges, are required to undergo years of extensive schooling, in order to be certified to operate in the field of law. Even with countless hours of training and experience, there will always be situations too complicated, from which to discern the truth.

With the wisdom of God, man has the ability to understand, and carefully uncover truths, not easily revealed. Our lesson gives a perfect example of how wisdom can bring truth from a confusing situation. When commanded to ask anything he desired from God, Solomon said, “Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between good and bad:” (vs. 9). Solomon knew he would need more than money and his father’s good name, to lead the people of God into glory, so asking for wisdom was the wisest decision he made in his entire life.

Before you begin a task, or are confronted with a challenging issue, do you deal with it head on, and wind up regretting your actions in the end, or do you ask God for wisdom, to make the decisions that would please Him? Never make the mistake of trusting your own wisdom, or the wisdom of men, over the wisdom that comes from above. The all-knowing Father, can guide you safely through all the difficult situations you’ll encounter in life, without causing harm to yourself, or innocent bystanders in the process.

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

Ell

Strive Until The End

Esther 10:1-3

“Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?” (Galatians 5:7 KJV). There are many who start out serving God with all their heart, whose lives exemplify the example Jesus left for the church to follow, after He left the scene. These men and women put God’s best interests at heart, and strive to love their neighbors, while doing all they can, to help those in need. They shun the spotlight, and take advantage of opportunities to bless others, without being seen. Rather than make a name for themselves, these bold believers choose to boast in the Lord, and His goodness. Although these individuals seem to be unhindered in their purpose, they are still susceptible to falling short of God’s glory. The devil tries hard to knock the children of God off track, by influencing them to cling to carnal things. If the believer entertains carnal thoughts long enough, they’ll inevitably give in to the enemy’s temptation.

Many have run well for God, and fought hard to keep His name holy, but after being elevated, and getting their heads puffed up, they gave in to the temptation that was so desperately awaiting to pull them down. Men who once preached “holiness is right” from the pulpit, have allowed their stardom to alter their message, only to please itching ears. Others have been hindered by the mighty dollar, and sought to make profit from the church, rather than speak as a prophet, to benefit the people.

It matters not how you start, but how you uphold what you begin. This was proven true in the life of Mordecai. From the beginning, Mordecai sought only to protect the people of God, while serving as an example of righteousness before them. When faced with adversity, the man of God never wavered, nor altered his stance on what was right in the eyes of God. Even when his faithfulness and trust in God, allowed him to be elevated to a high degree throughout the land, he still held true to his initial motive, to keep the people of God safe, to ensure provision for them, and to continue speaking peace to all his seed.

No matter where you are in life, strive to maintain your initial stance in godliness. Whether God allows you to abound, or be abased, don’t change your belief in Him, nor in His power to overcome all evil. If you resist the devil, he will flee from you, but if you don’t keep God’s Spirit in you, the enemy will return with backup, to try and take you down. Run well until the end, and avoid all obstacles thrown in your way.

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

Ell

No Contest

Esther 3:7-11

The war between good and evil, was determined before it even began. The all-powerful God, cannot be bested on any platform, nor by any being or entity. God reigns supreme over all beings, and all things, so why does satan continue to contest His authority, knowing he already lost? That’s a valid question, deserving of a reasonable response.

While in heaven, Lucifer was blessed by God, to hold a very unique position. From his platform, the beautifully anointed cherubim, allowed pride to settle into his heart, thus initiating his eternal demise. When he fell from heaven, the devil had all intentions of rendering evil to God, for stripping him of his prestigious position. After his stupid mistake, the devil was never permitted to reside in God’s eternal glory, ever again, so the only way to get back at the Father for seemingly humiliating him, satan finds ways to use his powerful methods of deception and manipulation, to influence men to turn against God.

After easily besting the first man and woman, satan continued to cloud the judgment of men from then, until now. How sad it is, to know you missed out on your blessing, but try hard to keep others from receiving theirs. The enemy will NEVER give up, trying to block the children of God, from making it to heaven, and he’s successfully caused many to actually miss it already. The easiest way for a man to be influenced by evil is, for them to refuse, or lack the knowledge of truth. Without the truth of God’s Word, men are easy pickings for the devil to corrupt. For this reason, it’s vital for men and women of God, to deliver the unadulterated truth, so that others can easily discern when the enemy is attempting to trick, and trap them.

Walk in love,

Ell

Bow To No Man

Esther 3:1-6

As I study the Scriptures, I try to gain greater understanding of even the most simplest verses. Just because you read something a few times, doesn’t mean that God can’t reveal more revelation from that same text. I found the same to be true, as I meditated on this lesson.

There are countless things God freely gives His people, including love, joy, peace, strength, sanity, and provision, but I learned there’s one thing God will never give to another (especially not to any graven image), and that’s His glory. All glory belongs to God, and when men attempt to take glory upon themselves, they usually end up going through a season of humility. In our society, we praise and give glory to men, as if they are celestial beings, gathered around the throne of God. We stand, applaud, cheer, and treat mortal men and women, better than we honor God. That’s insane! A man can do no more for you, than what his heart will allow Him to, and most men these days are so full of themselves, until they thrive off the glory you bestow upon them.

Men with titles in churches, politicians, and even athletes, are viewed as high priority, while laymen and fans are to acknowledge their high esteem. Well, I show respect to those who deserve it, but I’ll never kiss a man’s behind, no matter who He is. Only God deserves my glory, and all my praise goes up to Him. It matters not if you’re a military general, doctor, or the president of the United States of America, I’ll never give a man the reverence that’s due to the God of all creation.

In our text, Mordecai experienced an uncomfortable situation, when he was frowned upon for not bowing to a newly appointed leader of the princes of king Ahasuerus. Haman hated the Jews, and his hatred grew more intense when he discovered that Mordecai refused to bow to him. Men who harbor burning desires to be exalted over others, are usually met with an unpleasant end. Haman was full of wrath, until he plotted to not only kill the man of God, but he sought to destroy all the Jews that were throughout the whole kingdom of Ahasuerus.

Pride and haughtiness has caused men to conjure the most brutal and horrific plots, since the beginning of time, and Haman allowed his “bigheadedness” to push his thoughts beyond the realm of morality. If you were in Mordecai’s position, would you bow to a man who sought only to swell his head from your praise? Would you risk your life, and the lives of those you love, to go against what you believe? Although it’s scary, at times, to stand for God, if you remain bold, God will ALWAYS show up, and rescue you, before the enemy has a chance to wipe you out.

Walk in love,

Ell

Faith Makes The Difference

Hebrews 11:29-35

What keeps you holding yourself together, when storms invade your life? How do you maintain composure, when everything around you seems to fall apart? How do you continue pushing forward, when tests, trials, and trouble press hard against you? What motivates you to get out of bed, in spite of global terror, and pursue peace in the midst of it? Why do you smile in the face of danger? Why haven’t you given up on your hopes and dreams, when they seem unreachable? Why aren’t you phased by the corruption in our governments? Who, or what keeps you standing?

Throughout history, men and women of God, have achieved the unachievable, attained the unattainable, and accomplished things that seemed to be impossible, all by faith. By faith, the children of God can do ANYTHING! The Bible has numerous examples of men who were heavily underestimated by the world, yet did great things through faith, in the power of God. The text mentions the faith Rahab had, in God’s deliverance, Gideon in miraculous victory, Barak in triumph, Samson in supernatural strength, Jephthah in boldness, David in God’s reliability, and Samuel in God’s integrity.

God has ALL power, and He loves to express His unmatched authority through His people. This is one reason why we were created in His very own image, and after His likeness, so that we can also experience the glory of His awesome power for ourselves.

Now, is not a time for panic, even though the media amplifies fear. Instead, we should have faith in the power of God to first, keep His people safe, so that we can be used by Him, to do great things during these troubled times. Now, is also a great time, for the Saints of God to shine bright, and reveal to the world, the power of our everlasting Father! Have faith in God, and never give in to the pressures of this world.

Walk in love,

Ell

The Perfect Sacrifice

Leviticus 22:17-25

Rendering offerings to God, was a major part of the ancient Israelite culture. The sacrificial system between God and His chosen people, was set in place as a means of restoring unity, or amending their relationship. When the perfect God required offerings from His imperfect people, He only accepted perfect sacrifices. Some may be led to believe, nothing in life is perfect, so how could God expect something from Israel, that was impossible to accomplish. Well, God’s definition of perfect differs from man’s. According to the text, perfect is defined as, without blemish. Blemishes are small flaws that spoil the appearance of a thing, so God expected the people to thoroughly inspect their offerings, before presenting them to Him. I can picture in my head, Moses and the people inspecting every little detail of a sheep or goat, ensuring that there are no flaws, which could cause God to reject their offering. L

Animal sacrifices have been replaced by the perfect sacrifice, Jesus Christ, but that doesn’t let us off the hook. God still demands a perfect sacrifice from our very own lives. While we may not appear perfect in the eyes of men, we have the power of God’s Spirit working within us, to keep us spotless, and free from all blemishes.

Walk in love,

Ell

Check Yourself, Before You Wreck Yourself!

Habakkuk 2:15-17

When was the last time you had a physical examination (I exclude myself from that question, because of…ummm..well, reasons lol)? Anyhoo, as we age, our bodies lose the strength and vigor they had during our “glory years”, so it’s essential for us to monitor, and evaluate the state of our physical well-being, on a regular basis. These borrowed bodies that house our soul and spirit, have a shelf life, and will someday expire, so while we have them, it’s essential that we do all we can, to make certain they remain strong and durable to withstand the changing times, and seasons. This sound piece of advice was stirred up in me, from a recent back injury I incurred at work. When we misuse, and abuse our bodies, we’ll experience harsh realities, when we suffer major or minor injuries.

Physical examinations are vital to our long-term health, but more important are spiritual examinations. Going through life, we often become stagnant, and hardly ever do we check our walk with God, to make sure it’s tight like glue. For this reason, disciples of Christ are to always, and I stress, ALWAYS, check themselves daily, to ensure that they are living in accordance to the Word of God. In those moments, when we think we have things all together, is when we can slip, and falter. But, when we live everyday, as if it were our last, we would be mindful of our thoughts and actions toward others. Staying in good spiritual shape isn’t a hard task; it’s as simple as obeying the commands written in the Scriptures. The apostle Paul left us a great spiritual workout plan in the book of Romans:

*Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
*Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;
*Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
*Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
*Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
*Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
*Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
*Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
*Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
*If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
*Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
*Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
*Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

This is only a snippet of all the wonderful spiritual exercises to glean from in the Word of God. Take care of yourselves, physically and spiritually, and allow God to get the most out of you, while you yet live.

Walk in love,

Ell

The Big Breakup!

Amos 5:18-24

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another exciting episode of, “The Big Breakup”! Starring, The Disgruntled Wife, and The Unjust Husband! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the juicy details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

Disgruntled Wife: (Screaming) Ahhhhh! I can’t take this anymore.

Unjust Husband: You can’t take what? All you do is whine, moan, and complain. Why can’t you be like your sister, and do what her husband tells her, without giving him lip?

Disgruntled Wife: Are you serious?! You don’t deserve anything good from me anymore. Since we got married, I’ve done EVERYTHING for you…EVERY BLEEP BLEEP THING!!! And, I never complained. You showed me kindness, and acted like you cared in the beginning, but you’ve finally revealed who you really are.

Unjust Husband: You know I care, and will always loooove you. Go look in your closet, and count all the beautiful dresses I just bought for you. Or, look at all the fine jewelry I got you for our ten year anniversary. I take you out to eat at least twice a week, so you don’t have to always cook, and I pay ALL the bills. You live in this big house, with no worries. So, what are you still complaining about?

Disgruntled Wife: SMH… you know what? You’re an interesting character. You say you do all these things because “you loooove me”, but answer these questions for me please. Number one, where do you go after work? Number two, what’s the name of the woman you meet up with? Number three, do you buy me things to keep me distracted? Number four, when you say you love me, is it according to the same love God gives? Number five, why do you seek other women for pleasure, when I give you all you need? Number six, why did you marry me, knowing you wouldn’t remain faithful? Number seven, why…

Unjust Husband: Alright alright alright! I don’t want to hear this.

Disgruntled Wife: It’s the truth. I work, cook, clean, do all these things for you consistently, yet you feel the need to go outside of our union to find pleasure. Am I not enough?

Unjust Husband: ….

Disgruntled Wife: See, you can’t even say nothing. You know what, I’m leaving! I’ve given you way too many chances to change, but you’re comfortable in your unfaithful ways.

Unjust Husband: Yeah right, you ain’t going nowhere. Besides, you are a Christian, you don’t believe in divorce. So, take all that somewhere else.

Disgruntled Wife: Because I love God, you don’t think I can leave your sorry bleep bleep? Listen, did you know, Christ is married to the church, and one day He’ll come to take His bride (the church)? But, if He comes and finds your lamp not lit, you’ll be left behind forever.

Unjust Husband: There you go with all that Bible talk. I don’t care about all those make-believe stories some ancient writers wrote. I’m not afraid of God, nor am I afraid of you. So go sit down somewhere.

Disgruntled Wife: See, that’s where you’re wrong. The same way God can separate Himself from an unjust people, is what I’ll give to you. I love you, and always will, but I must leave you forever.

Unjust Husband: Bla bla bla….bla bla…….oh wait, and BLAAAAA!

Disgruntled Wife: I wash my hands of this, and leave you to your judgment. Goodbye!

This concludes another episode of, “The Big Breakup”! Thanks for tuning in.

This lesson was intended to portray the message in our text. There are some who were in God’s hands of protection, but willingly left it for worldly pleasures. They held traditional feasts, assemblies, gave burnt offerings, and sang songs, but God would not accept any of their sacrifices, while sin ruled their hearts. God provided all their needs, but they constantly went after other things. Knowing they’d never return to the Father, judgment was set for all who permanently sided with evil, rather than cling to the light of God’s goodness. Woe unto everyone, who refuses God’s free gift of salvation!

Walk in love,

Ell

A New Home

Acts 1:6-11

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another exciting episode of, “A New Home”! Starring, Papa, and little Johnny! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

Papa: Okay family, I called you all here to tell you that I’ll be going away for a while, on business, but I won’t be gone too long, so I expect everyone to be on their best behavior.

Children: Ohhh no pappa, where are you going, and how long will you be away, and why are you leaving?

Momma: It’s okay kids, papa’s going away to work a new job, and guess what? He’s building a new house for us as well!

Papa: Ahh honey, you spoiled the surprise!

Children: Yaaaaaaay! We’re getting a new house! We’re getting a new house! We’re getting a new house!

Little Johnny: Papa

Papa: Yes Johnny

Little Johnny: Umm… while you’re away, who will take care of momma and this house?

Papa: Johnny, I leave you in charge.

Little Johnny: Really papa?!

Papa: Yes. And, I expect you to always listen to momma, do your chores and homework consistently, and without complaining, protect your sister’s from those pesky Johnson boys across the street, and never forget, although I’m away, I’m always watching you.

Little Johnny: Okay papa! I promise I’ll do my best to protect our home while you’re away, and I’ll be nice to Cindy and Rachel (most of the time), and ummm I’ll beat up the Johnson boys if they mess with them, and I will always do my chores and homework, and listen to mommy everyday, and…

Papa: Okay okay little Johnny. I believe you’ll do great while I’m gone, but remember, I’ll be back soon to see whether you kept your word, or not. So, I leave you in charge of keeping things right while I’m away. You represent me, little man, so I expect you to behave the same, as if I’m still here.

Little Johnny: Scout’s honor papa. I will do my best!

This concludes another episode of, “A New Home”! Thanks for tuning in.

This story conveys a similar message Jesus left to His disciples before He ascended into the clouds. They were to carry on, where He left off; witnessing of His purpose to all the world. Knowing the journey wouldn’t be easy, Christ was also sure to leave them with a comforter, to assist them on their endeavors.

The power that ignites believers to boldly proclaim the message of the Gospel comes by way of the Holy Ghost, and absolutely NO OTHER SOURCE. In order to effectively preach God’s message, one must have God’s Spirit within them. When Christ returns, He’ll do as Papa did in our story, and check to see whether we obeyed His commands, or not, so live today, as if Jesus was still here, and allow His Spirit to empower you to be great until He returns.

Walk in love,

Ell