Just A Touch 2

Matthew 14:34-36

Throughout His ministry, Jesus was constantly on the move, traveling from place to place, doing the works of His Father. His purpose was to reach and teach as many as He could, during the time He would spend on the earth.

After revealing another dimension of His power by way of walking on water, and being acknowledged a second time as the Son of God, Jesus and those who followed Him, went to a land called Gennesaret. This fertile land was north of the shore of Galilee, and was known for producing both temperate and tropical fruits. This particular area was also brimming with people who suffered sickness and disease. So, when the men of the land recognized the man among them was Jesus, they quickly spread word to all the country, to bring all who were diseased to Jesus.

The most interesting point in this story seems to relate to the woman who had the issue of blood. I’m not 100 percent certain there’s a relation with the woman and the people of Gennesaret, but all who came to Jesus, sought only to touch the hem of His garment for their healing, so word of the woman’s story may have spread to this land as well. These sick folk had enough faith to believe, only a touch of Jesus’ clothes, would bring their healing. Mercifully, their faith was in the right place, for all who touched the hem of Jesus’ garment were made perfectly whole. Jesus didn’t perform half healings, but His manifestations were total and permanent.

Jesus healed according to the faith of those who came to Him, so all who desired healing, sought total deliverance and restoration. When you come to God, do you seek partial deliverance, or do you want God to give you a total and complete manifestation of those things your heart desires? Reach out in faith, and touch Jesus, so He can make you whole again.

Live Holy

Leviticus 18:24-30

During the days of Moses, God built a reputation for Himself for consistently dealing harshly with those who defiled themselves with the customs and practices of pagan people. Many today even view God as punisher of evil, and accuse Him of being too hard on men. Why was God so severe in His judgments with those He commanded to refrain from idol worship? First of all, God operates from a standard totally opposite from the world. The God of Heaven and earth promotes peace and prosperity, but executes judgment on sin and wicked lifestyles. It’s sad to see how the present world has conformed to worldly standards, which contradict all that holiness exudes.

In our text, the children of Israel had moved from one idol-infested land to another, but were moments away from entering the land God had promised to them. God knew what the people would face in the land of Canaan, so He admonished Israel to do His judgments, keep His ordinances and statutes, and stay away from the abominations and practices the Canaanites took part in. A few of the wicked things Israel was to avoid included having sexual relations with close relatives, committing adultry, offering children as sacrifices, indulging in homosexual relations, and having sex with animals. I’m not the brightest bulb in the chandelier, but I’m almost certain, those practices are still being entertained today.

God wanted His people to remain pure and holy, so that His name could be glorified, as they represented His kingdom in the earth, so it was necessary for Israel to keep the statutes of the Lord close to their hearts, to avoid being tempted to follow after the abominable acts of the pagan nation.

While the church today may not be a direct descendant of the ancient Israelites, nor under the Mosaic covenant, we must continue to live holy, and walk after righteousness, not idolatry. In these last days, many who once professed holiness, have turned away to worship idols. Whether they were drawn away by their lust for money, fame, entitlement, or acceptance, many have made the unfortunate choice to walk in darkness, rather than light. I advise all who claim the name of Christ to keep yourselves covered under His blood, and refrain from defiling yourselves with the customs and abominations of this present world. We are all valuable to God, and have an important role to play in His divine plan, so re-commit yourselves to keeping His judgments, statutes, and ordinances. Keep God first, and don’t allow the world’s culture to hinder you from doing your best for the Lord.

Make It Rain

1 Kings 18

Many days had passed from the time God sent the prophet Elijah to confront the evil king Ahab, until He was ready to reveal His omnipotence to the nation that had turned against Him. During these times, a severe famine overtook Samaria, but the king and those he ruled were still unconvinced of the sovereignty of the true and living God. After an eventful three years of miraculous signs and provision, God spoke to the prophet Elijah, and instructed him to return to the king with another important message. The Lord said to Elijah, “Go, show thyself unto Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth.” Could you imagine not having rain for three years? Without rainfall on the earth, there would be catastrophic damage all over the world. But, God allows things to happen so others can witness for themselves, all power belongs to Him, and He alone is deserving of worship, honor, and glory. Unfortunately, men are too consumed in their own beliefs, that they totally disregard the obvious workings of the living God, in favor of their futile idolatry.

As you read further into chapter 18, you’ll discover the very unique and elaborate plan God commanded Elijah to follow, which revealed the falsehoods and foolishness of Baal worship, and brought to light the mighty power of the God of Heaven and earth. 450 prophets who worshiped Baal were left without an answer from their “god of rain and plenty”, yet they witnessed the power of the true God with their own eyes.

Nothing compares to the power of the almighty God. Men and women are drawn away daily into deception, and allow falsehoods to overtake their sensibility, but every idol worshipped by men, has no power to do anything, except distract them from the truth. Have you pledged your allegiance to serve weak and powerless idols, or are you aligned with the God who created all things?

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

Sticky Situation

Genesis 43:1-15

In most churches around the world, children are taught very early, the importance of Ephesians 6:1-3 which reads, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.” The average Christian parent willingly seeks to raise their children in the fear of the Lord, so that as they mature, they’ll gradually develop in knowledge, understanding, and reverence of who He really is. Parents want the best for their children, and desire to steer them in the right direction, so they hold a firm stance toward obedience. But, is it ever ok for a child to disobey their parent’s command?

That question may have tickled a few ears, but should children really do everything their parents tell them to, even if it could cause potential harm to them? Our text gives a great example of this precise situation. After seeing their little brother for the first time in years, and assuming he was probably long dead, Joseph’s brothers were met with a rude awakening, when Joseph thought it wise to teach them a lesson for the past error of their ways. There’s no doubt Joseph was elated to see his brethren (it’s apparent he didn’t hold a grudge, nor develop hate toward them), but he desired more so to see his father and younger brother, Benjamin with his own eyes.

After being sent back to their land, and given instructions to return with Benjamin, Joseph’s brothers told their Father Jacob, all that Joseph had told them. After hearing that “the man” commanded them to bring young Benjamin back to him, Jacob was literally heartbroken. He couldn’t afford to lose another son, especially from the wife he had worked over 14 years to marry.

As time passed, and food begin to become scarce, due to the famine, Jacob told his boys to return to Egypt, to buy more food. Judah spoke out and said (in Ell’s translation), “Dad, we already told you, that dude back in Egypt, warned us not to return without Benjamin. I know you love him as you did Joseph, but I’m gonna have to disobey you on this one pops.” Obviously, this didn’t sit well with Jacob, but he was eventually convinced to comply.

Were Judah and his brothers wrong for agreeing to disobey their father, because it could have potentially cost them their lives, or should they have gone against the words of the ruler of Egypt, and returned without Benjamin? Things that make you go, hmm.

There’s a valuable lesson in this story, that all could benefit from. When it comes to obeying God, while possibly upsetting your parents or others, choose God. Never allow anyone, including those you look up to most, to take precedence over the Word of God, because at the end of the day, only what God says really matters anyway. Also, be mindful not to be disrespectful to those in authority, but be certain when following another man’s orders, it doesn’t contradict how God commanded you to live.

We live this life for purpose and reason, but not too long, for only a season.

Ell

God Brings Balance

Leviticus 25:8-17

The Year of Jubile, was an exciting season, ordained by God, so that all Hebrews could receive a fresh start in their way of living. During this hallowed year, people were required to live off their increase, so that the land could rest, and lie untended, for a season. Not only was the land given room to breath, but the people were also commanded to rest from work. God knew the importance of balance and fairness, so He made certain that during this year, business was to get a fresh start as well. This was a time when all mortgages were canceled, servants released back to there families, all debts forgiven, and all lands were reverted to the original owners. Jubile was set aside to be holy, and a time where liberty was proclaimed throughout the lands, and unto all the people there. God also stressed, that when conducting business, men were to be fair, and not oppress one another, during this time.

How I wish America feared God in such a way, that His standards ruled the government. Some say this country was founded on godly principles, but its obvious men have long pushed those standards aside, in place of their own ideals. Rather than proclaim liberty, fairness, and respect for our fellow man, this country is divided by parties, social classes, and the color of a man’s skin. Could you imagine how incredible it would be, if a year was set aside, where the government canceled everyone’s debt, including mortgage, credit card bills, student loans, and more? Although that’s only a fairytale, it would allow an opportunity for all things to return to balance.

Well, I guess I’ll snap out of my daydream, and focus back on reality. While we try to maintain balance in this world of unjust leaders, be certain to treat your fellow brothers and sisters with godly love, and respect. Always be honest, and keep God first in all your dealings. “For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13)

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

Ell

Ornan’s land is site for temple

1 Chronicles 21:28-22:1

All around the world, you can find massive and majestic buildings, standing tall and firm. From the Sears Tower in Chicago, to the Leadenhall Building in London, what keeps such great edifices standing, are the solid foundations they rest upon. Without a firm foundation, no building would last, nor withstand severe weather. This same principle applies to our spirituality as well. The more firm and rooted we are in God, the longer we can withstand in this evil day, while continuing to build upon the kingdom of God. In our text, king David was assured that choosing to have God’s temple built on Ornan’s land would be ideal, because Ornan was a man of good character, and showed reverence for God. Can God use you to do great works in His name? Does your character, and behavior align with how Christ carried Himself on the earth? Invest more time in establishing a better relationship with God, so when He’s looking for someone to use, your name will be on the list of willing candidates.

Walk in love,

Ell

Spying out the land

Numbers 13:17-24

The basic steps involved in the process of purchasing a house include building up a suitable credit score, figuring out what you can afford, connecting to an established real estate agent, gaining favor from a lender, searching for your home of choice, making an offer, inspections, insurance, closing, then picking up your keys. Yaaaaaaay! While each step is essential in the home buying process, it’s of equal importance for those who seek to own a home to spy out the neighborhood, and the surrounding communities during different times of day. This is important in identifying the type of area you’re attempting to settle in. I’ve heard stories of people who purchased their supposed dream homes, but later discovered that where they settled were drug infested, high crime, and unsafe areas. It’s always good to schedule a couple weeks of riding through the neighborhood where you plan to live during the morning, afternoon, evening, and on weekends (especially during football season). While crime can occur almost anywhere, it’s recommended to examine certain areas, to ensure how safe and protected a community is, before planning to settle, and raise a family there.

Our text brings us to the time when the children of Israel were moments away from stepping into the land God had promised to them, but before they were allowed to enter, God commanded Moses to send out men to search the land of Canaan, to “see the land, what it is, and the people that dwelleth therein, whether they be strong or weak, few or many; And what the land is that they dwell in, whether it be good or bad; and what cities they be in, whether in tents, or in strong holds; And what the land is, whether it be fat or lean, whether it be wood therein, or not. And be ye of good courage, and bring of the fruit of the land” (vs. 18-20). God already knew the inhabitants of the land, and what it provided, but He wanted His people to see for themselves the bountiful blessings the land of Canaan offered.

God has a unique way of dealing with those He loves. He promises to give us His best, but tests our faith first, to see how we will respond. Canaan was loaded with all manner of richness, and the spies saw it with their own eyes. The blessings God promised to you will soon be manifested before your very eyes. Continue to walk in faith, as you go through your period of testing, because at the end of your test, there’s a great reward prepared for you to receive.

Walk in love,

Ell

Forgiveness and healing of the land

2 Chronicles 7:12-16

Every second that passes by, the world we live in slowly decays. Natural disasters run rampant in various countries that leave countless fatalities on a daily basis. There are hurricanes that plague the U.S., winter and frost damage in Europe, landslides and typhoons in China, and earthquakes in Mexico. The hot summers in Florida and California, give way to forest fires and possibilities of droughts that can devastate farmlands. Although these disasters are inevitable, God can still bring forth good from these lands, but it’s based on conditions.

Solomon experienced this personally when God visited him and told him that He was ready to bless the people, and the lands, but they must first adhere to His demands.

God’s people were to first humble themselves. This implies that they must have become arrogant or unruly. Second, they were to pray. Submitting requests to God without proper prayer posture can cause your prayers to be unheard. We must come to God boldly, but with the right attitude. The third condition was that in prayer, the people were to seek God, and not things. Praying to God for things is equivalent to praying amiss. If you desire things over the God who created them, then you should reconsider your request. God’s final condition for His children was that they turn from their wicked ways. Words associated with the Biblical definition of wicked include bad, disagreeable, malignant, unpleasant, evil, displeasing, hurtful, and unkind.

These people are just as we are today, but God still had plans to bless them, if they change their behavior. God told Solomon, that if the people obeyed His words, then He would hear from Heaven, forgive their sins, then heal their land.

If this world would give their hearts to God, humble themselves, pray, seek to know God more, and give up sinful living, I can say with boldness that God would heal these lands. I know that prophecies will fulfill themselves in the last days, but God never runs out of blessings. He is ready and willing to pour out His best over all His people.

Seek peace,

Ell