Do Your Job

1 Thessalonians 5:12-22

Respect among the body of believers, goes a long way to ensuring unity, and effectiveness from all members working together. While striving to please God with our lives, the apostle Paul helps us understand how important it is to recognize those who have been placed in leadership positions, and the great task that comes with walking in their shoes. Many leaders don’t get the respect they deserve, because laymen tend to think life comes easy for them. On the contrary, real leaders face challenges more often than many are aware of. It’s a tough task to lead people, who all have different ideas and opinions on how the job should be done, but when a man is led by God, his steps are ordered in a way where the people will benefit naturally, and spiritually, if they follow who God placed over them.

Rather than focus on whether or not a leader is doing everything right, members of the body of Christ should be more concerned about the basics of Christianity mentioned in the text. Paul admonished the church at Thessalonica, to show love to those who are over them, as well as keep peace among themselves, warn those who tend to get a little out of hand, support the weak, and be patient toward all men. Just as our leaders have great responsibilities to maintain, we must also do our part to maintain a holy standard of living. Do you comfort those who are down in the dumps, and need a shoulder to lean on? Are you patient during stressful and uncomfortable situations? Do you keep peace with those who fight alongside you in the faith? Can you find something to be thankful for, in every circumstance you experience in life? I admonish everyone to spend more time in prayer, and ask God to strengthen your faith, fine tune your focus, and help you diligently carry out the duties Christians are to boldly exhibit on a daily basis.

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

Ell

Righteous Fruit

Romans 12:9-21

Of all the fruit I’ve had the pleasure of tasting in my lifetime, my top three are mangos, watermelon, and grapefruit. I can eat any of those, anytime, any day, and anywhere! Good ole’ yum yum, in my tum tum! God made many trees that bring forth good fruit, but each tree can only bear the fruit of the type of seed that was planted in the ground. There’s never been a time when I went to a mango tree, and found grapefruit hanging from the branches, nor have I witnessed lemons falling from grapefruit trees. Every tree produces the same fruit after the predetermined information embedded in the seed.

All members of the body of Christ, are like trees, which bring forth fruit. Those who have the seed of God’s love embedded in their hearts, will always produce good fruit. Recognizing a child of God should never be difficult, because they can consistently be found showing love and kindness to others, being sensitive to other people’s needs, always active in doing good, and forever serving the Lord. The fruit that the righteous bear, benefits all who are within the vicinity of the believer. Just as the mango tree will always produce mangos, the Christian should produce the love of God on a consistent basis.

The children of God have duties to uphold, that easily separate them from the world, and when their minds are in union with the Lord’s, they will walk in humility, live peaceably with all men, and use good fruit to overcome evil.

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

Ell

Press On!

Ezekiel 37:15-23

When God chose Israel to represent His kingdom in the earth, He had plans for them from the beginning of their establishment, until eternity. People of every nation could witness the power of God, and learn of His goodness through the very lives of the children of Israel. They were to walk in truth, and obedience, while turning away from all things contrary to His holy way. Throughout the years, the Jews have had their share of ups and downs in their doings, but God never gave up on them. When they went against the standards of godliness, to go after idols, God allowed trouble to shake them back into reality. No matter how often the people strayed, God continued to show them everlasting mercy, and grace. Even today, the Jews are scattered, and disorganized, but God will soon gather them all together, and make them one nation in the land, upon the mountain of Israel. Our text continues, “and one king shall be king to them all” (vs. 22).

If God can love a wayward people such as the children of Israel, who have disobeyed Him for thousands of years, don’t you think He cares enough to not give up on you? Stop being so hard on yourself, fix your collar, and walk in integrity. God loves you, and desires that you stand firm in His Word, and don’t allow your shortcomings to keep you from fulfilling your purpose. If God will soon bless Israel, who has been historically disobedient, God will forgive you of all your errors, and strengthen you to press toward a prosperous end.

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

Ell

Keep Your Word

Jeremiah 31:31-34

According to the law of Moses, the children of God were confined to a to-do list, which they promised to follow, but failed miserably. Their eagerness to fulfill all that God had written on the stone tablets, went too far ahead of their understanding of what God truly expected from them. Despite God being a husband to the people, and providing for them the necessities of life, they ignorantly broke His covenant, and failed to receive all the promises He had prepared.

Fast forward to the New Testament, and you’ll discover where God’s new covenant was established through His Son, Jesus. Rather than attempt to follow hundreds of laws to the letter, through the sacrifice of Jesus, God was then able to put His law in man’s inward parts, and write it in their hearts. This way, all can read and meditate on the Scriptures, and the Spirit of God can bring understanding.

When we struggle to make decisions, the Word of God in our hearts will make it easier to make the right choice. Although Christ left the scene, the Holy Spirit is here to keep us walking the righteous path. God will keep His Word with His people, but we have an obligation to be obedient to that same Word, in order to receive the full benefits of His love. All who are in God, have no excuse to error, because His Spirit will ALWAYS warn us, when we’re approaching danger, or about to fall.

The forefathers of Israel had it “made in the cool shade”, yet they showed no appreciation for the wonderful and miraculous things God did for, and through them. Don’t let the same happen to you. Love God with all your heart, and walk in obedience, because in the end, you’ll reap great rewards, if you faint not.

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

Ell

Faith With Works

Genesis 12:1-8

Everyone God created, has a purpose, and a plan to execute for their lives, but some are required to leave behind those things they hold dear, in order to fulfill special missions for God. One such person was, Abram. God selected this man, by whom to birth His chosen nation. God could have used any faithful man to carry out His purpose, but Abram was chosen to represent God’s kingdom in the earth. God knew, Abram would remain faithful and true to his calling, and willingly leave his family, so that God could establish him in another location. Sometimes, we have to also be willing to move, because God can do more from a different location, than where we are now.

God made promises to Abram, that show forth even today, but before Abram received God’s instructions, he had to first make a move. We often miss out on the things God has for us, because we get too comfortable in our ways. When serving God, there will come times when you have to be flexible, and willing to step out in faith.

Because of his obedience, God blessed Abram beyond his imagination, and God wants to do the same for us today. Are you holding on to things that have lost its value, while God is trying to replace it with something better? Take God at His word; when He tells you to move, don’t hesitate, because it could determine whether your future will be bright, or just the same old thing.

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

Ell

Hang In There

Zephaniah 3:14-20

“In that day…” Fighting the good fight of faith, has taken its toll on many faithful believers. Despite how prepared we are to face daily struggles, and fiery darts from the enemy, there’s only so much we can take, until we reach the point of breaking. We’ve been given the helmet of salvation, to guard our confession of being reunited with the Father, the breastplate of righteousness, to protect our hearts, as we boldly proclaim the Gospel, our feet are shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, so that we will always be swift to run, and not be weary, the shield of faith, to block all attacks from the enemy, and the sword of the Spirit, to slice and dice all manner of evil that confronts us.

God knew, living in a world of sin wouldn’t be a cakewalk, so He provided necessary spiritual tools, to keep us protected during our journey. The one thing I am grateful for the most is, knowing that our trouble has a deadline. There’s coming a day, when God will stand in the midst of us, and cast out all our enemies. At that time, there will be no reason for us to fear, because God will gather His people together, and give them joy, while allowing them to rest in His love. All who have suffered for the sake of righteousness, struggled while trying to maintain holiness, and contended for the faith, will soon be relieved from all their worries. In that day, God will undo all of our afflictions, whether they be sickness, pain, misery, persecution, or other attacks. The day is fast approaching, when God will turn back the captivity of the Saints, then all who proclaim God’s salvation, will see the goodness of the Lord, with their own eyes. Stay in the fight, and don’t give up, because God will soon step in to undo all that opposes His people.

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

Ell

“I’m Doing This Because I Love You…”

Zephaniah 3:1-7

Parents typically deal with the neighbor’s kids with love and respect, even in times of misunderstandings and misfortunes. This is because they prefer to maintain unity in their community, while choosing peaceful resolutions, over senseless bickering. On the other hand, parents deal with their own children according to a different standard.

The ideal situation is, where children obey their parents, in the Lord, because it’s right, but kids aren’t always that shining light they were raised to be. For this reason, chastisement is implemented, during moments when children stray too far from their home teachings. While executing harsh discipline hardly ever feels good to the parent or child, the purpose is to remind the young one of the importance of obedience, because failing to listen, and do as they are told, could lead to regrettable issues down the road.

Isn’t it amazing, how a child can be totally convinced, they know more than their parent? I saw a child once being scolded by his mother, and all he kept saying was, “I know, I know mom”. Well, if he knew, he wouldn’t have done what he did. This is the same issue God is having with His people. Those who are willingly ignorant of the truth, will receive their just reward, but the children of God who stray, will be chastised, until they turn away from those things that so easily beset them. God loves everyone, but is especially more strict with His own children. This is because, the Lord is fully aware of what’s soon to come in the earth, and He doesn’t want His people to be left in shame and misery.

Everyone has a choice to choose life, or death. After a moment of discipline, a child can choose to straighten up, and walk right, or turn back to those things that caused them to get in trouble. Children obey your parents, in the Lord, and Christians, obey the Lord, that it may be well with thee, and you will live a long prosperous life in the earth.

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

Ell

A Powerful Church

Acts 5:27-32

All aboard!!! Welcome aboard the Train of the Past, Present, and Future! As we embark upon our journey, we’ll travel back a few thousand years, to witness the powerful effects, the early church had in the earth, after Jesus ascended to His Father. Buckle up, and prepare your minds to be blown away! (Choo choo…chooka chooka…choo choo).

We are now passing through the streets of 2020, and if you look out your window, you’ll notice churches are either closing, empty, or under government control. Watered down mega churches are exploited and publicized over the small churches, that are full of the power of the Holy Ghost. Unfortunately, there’s not much power residing in the House of Prayer, as there was in times before. On your left, you’ll notice those leaders are afraid to teach the truth, for fear of losing membership, or their government assistance. The churches to our right, have even been infiltrated with worldly habits including attire, music, and false doctrines.

Well, let’s zoom past this present mess of sorts, and head to the days of the apostles, when they were bold, and brave in speaking the truth of the Gospel, despite inevitable opposition.

Wakey wakey sleepy travelers, for we have arrived at our destination. Oh my, look to your right, and you’ll see Peter, and the other apostles, gathered together in Solomon’s porch, witnessing, and healing all in attendance. One moment please…(Mr train operator, can you please move the train to a more distant location? There are so many people coming, and gathering around the apostles, until we won’t have room to leave). Ladies and gents, the Word of God is being preached so effectively, until multitudes of men and women are believing on the name of the Lord! This is amazing! No one is asking for offerings, reading announcements, or doing anything except showing forth the power of God.

Now, the atmosphere of faith is growing even greater, as sick folk are being brought and laid in the streets. Wait a minute… waaaaaiit a minute! Are you people seeing this?!?! I think I’m going crazy! Excuse me sir, did you see that woman get healed, just by being in the shadow of the apostle Peter? How is that possible? I’m seeing it with my eyes, yet I still can’t believe it’s actually happening! Forgive my excitement folks, as I am totally standing in awe of this amazing power being revealed before our eyes.

This early church was totally committed to God, and their works prove it. Oh boy, look over there… some men are coming, and they don’t look happy about the apostle’s good works. This is interesting; the high priest looks filled with indignation, as if he’s going to arrest them! Oh nooooo! They’re forcing them to the ground, and binding them in chains! (No ma’am, we can’t go out there and help, or we’ll change the future, by interfering with the past). I think they’re taking them to prison. That’s no fair. Hey driver, follow those horses!! (Choo choo…chooka chooka….choo choo).

I must say folks, that was rather unexpected. You’d think the priests would be happy to see men and women get healed, and come to God, but I guess the things we experience in 2020, took place back then also.

We’ll have to wait outside this prison, and hope the apostles get released soon. (Approx. 7 hours later). We’ll, I guess we should head back to our time, because it’s getting late, and I’m not sure it’s safe to hang around too long. I hope you guys learned a few lessons.. wait, what’s this?! There’s a man dressed in white, and he’s opening the gates of the prison… the apostles are fleeing! Oh my word, people are you seeing this miracle?! The angel of the Lord set the apostles free, so that they could continue preaching, and teaching those things the Sadducees so ignorantly reject.

Alright, that puts a more positive stamp on our trip. We’ll head back now, and soak in all we’ve witnessed today. Hopefully, each of you can return to your local churches (after this virus season passes by), and convince your fellow brothers and sisters to hold fast to the faith, regardless of inevitable circumstances and opposition. God will give you the strength and strategy you need, to be effective witnesses, in these last days. Thanks for traveling on the Train of the Past, Present, and Future, and I pray y’all have a blessed life!

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

Ell

Breath In… Breath Out… Relax

Zechariah 10:6-12

Order, is God’s way of normal operations. When He created the world, it was done in decent order as well. God also made man to follow the standard of order, as he went about doing those things that brought pleasure to the Lord. When things are done according to proper order, there’s little, to no room for chaos to have any place. Well, this world is in chaos, and it’s impossible to bring order back into it, except drastic measures be implemented.

Men are too far gone in their evil doings, and the earth has suffered severely for it. Men have also advanced so far in technology, until they can even manipulate the weather. Although these times may appear frightening, the church should remain strong, and confident that God will soon gather His people together, to give them their coveted rewards. Restoration is coming to the body of Christ, but until it does, evil will be allotted its time to roam the lands. But, when the devil’s time is up, God’s children will receive recompense, restoration, restitution, and redemption from all this craziness and mayhem.

“I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works. I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High. When mine enemies are turned back, they shall fall and perish at thy presence. For thou hast maintained my right and my cause; thou satest in the throne judging right. Thou hast rebuked the heathen, thou hast destroyed the wicked, thou hast put out their name for ever and ever. O thou enemy, destructions are come to a perpetual end: and thou hast destroyed cities; their memorial is perished with them. But the Lord shall endure for ever: he hath prepared his throne for judgment. And he shall judge the world in righteousness, he shall minister judgment to the people in uprightness. The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee. Sing praises to the Lord, which dwelleth in Zion: declare among the people his doings. When he maketh inquisition for blood, he remembereth them: he forgetteth not the cry of the humble. Have mercy upon me, O Lord; consider my trouble which I suffer of them that hate me, thou that liftest me up from the gates of death: That I may shew forth all thy praise in the gates of the daughter of Zion: I will rejoice in thy salvation. The heathen are sunk down in the pit that they made: in the net which they hid is their own foot taken. The Lord is known by the judgment which he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah. The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God. For the needy shall not always be forgotten: the expectation of the poor shall not perish for ever. Arise, O Lord; let not man prevail: let the heathen be judged in thy sight. Put them in fear, O Lord: that the nations may know themselves to be but men. Selah.” (Psalm 9 KJV).

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

Ell

Scattered And Scared

Ezekiel 34:11-16

During these recent times of fear, sorrow, and mourning, it’s only right that Christian leaders buckle down, and do their best to keep their flocks encouraged, uplifted, and well-informed of these prophetic end-times. It’s one thing to be in a leadership position to enjoy the glory of men’s praises, but it’s God’s intention that shepherds guard, cover, and protect their people at all costs.

In times of trial or testing, sheep should always be able to reach out to their shepherd, and receive the help they desperately desire, but when a leader cares more for his own will, than the needs of the flock, the sheep will inevitably scatter, and wander in places they ought not be.

Our text reveals prophecy of the time when God Himself, will search and seek out those scattered sheep, and when He gathers them together, He’ll bring them to their own land, feed them properly, and give them rest from all their worries. That’s a great time to look forward to, seeing how bad things have become today. But, to all the men and women who are leading disciples astray, or are causing them to scatter, God will also feed them, but rather than partake of the goodness of the Lord, they’ll feast on His judgment. “In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you” (Titus 2:7-8).

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

Ell