Prophets For Profit

Micha 3:5-8

God cares for all men, even those living in willful sin, because everyone has the opportunity to surrender their hearts to Him. While some can be easily convinced, God is the obvious choice, others may require a bit more time for their hardened hearts to soften, so the Word of God can penetrate deep into their souls, to invoke change. For this particular reason, those who have been tasked with speaking the oracles of God to men, must be sure their lives are pure and holy before the Father, so they can always hear clear, and unadulterated prophecy.

Men and women who preach, teach, and proclaim God’s Word to others, are responsible for every word that proceeds from their lips, and what they feed into the hearts and minds of the people, they’ll be held accountable for. In our text, and even today, prophets who were blessed by God (at their initial calling) eventually gave in to idolatry at some point, and began causing innocent souls to fall short of God’s glory. Misleading people from godly platforms is a terrible thing to do, because the consequences that follow could be devastating.

The false prophets in our text, literally caused the people to err, or wander away from holiness, forcing God to step in, and execute strict discipline. God caused a darkness to come over them, so they would not be able to divine, the very sun went down upon their prophecy, causing their days to be darkened, the seers were ashamed, the diviners confounded, and God withheld speaking all messages through any of them. That’s like a bird, being made to fly, but then suddenly restrained, and forced to walk the earth.

Prophets were given authority from God, to do what most men were afraid of; be bold, as they were ordained “to root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant.” (Jeremiah 1:10b). “Prophets weren’t ordained to hype up crowds, and collect big offerings, but to pull down and destroy kingdoms of darkness, and expose the hearts of men to the love of God.” (Ell Banks).

If you’re anxious to lead, or direct people to God, be warned, you better do it according to God’s holy standard, or you’ll be reprimanded as God sees fit.

Walk in love,

Ell

Jesus, The Branch

Isaiah 11:1-5

Jesus, the Son of God, portrayed a number of virtues and qualities, many strive to live by today. While He walked the earth, He never did, nor spoke anything under His own authority or judgment, but His decisions were always based upon God’s approval. Of all the qualities found in the character of Christ, faithfulness and righteousness rest among the upper tier of them all. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, and the evidence of things not seen, but faithfulness is consistent faith in action, never wavering nor doubting. Jesus was faithful to God, from heaven to earth, and proved that the unity they share is indeed inseparable. What God commanded Christ to do, He did it willingly, and without delay. Many times we are led of the Spirit to say or do things in a certain season, yet we delay, and cause unnecessary repercussions to occur. But, Jesus was strictly concerned about doing the business of His Father, above all else.

Coupled with His faithfulness, were the righteous acts Christ wholeheartedly exhibited to the Saints, as well as to sinners. All who came to Jesus, seeking a better life, received it. Even those who weren’t willing to change, left His presence with the truth, so they’d have no excuse on judgment day.

Righteousness is simply what it says, “right-ness”. As the righteousness of God, the church is expected to live in accordance with the same character Jesus displayed as He served in the earth. Along with faithfulness and righteousness, we are to display love to our neighbors, peace to our enemies, and compassion to all who are in need. Despite the unusual occurrences taking place in the world, strive daily to live righteous, and remain faithful to God, because only in Him, do we have hope of better days ahead.

Walk in love,

Ell

Good Vs. Evil

Isaiah 5:18-24

“Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” (vs. 20). The world, as we know it, has changed dramatically, from God’s original creation. The morals and standards men once lived by, have been substituted for wicked and immoral beliefs. This news comes as no surprise, as it was prophesied by the apostle Paul, when he wrote, “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” (2 Timothy 3:1-5 KJV).

Proof of the end-times can be seen daily, as the world promotes evil, rather than good. Most television shows and movies take more pleasure in showing relationships between gays, lesbians, and transgenders, in place of the traditional man and women unit. Those things that are evil in the sight of God, are popular and publicized in the eyes of men. I always say, if something is popular to the world, it’s more than likely unpopular to God. This is true in many instances, including misplaced love, the role of man and woman, and even in music and entertainment.

I can imagine God sitting high, and looking low upon the state of this world. His longsuffering is on a level far beyond human comprehension, but I’m certain He’s awaiting the moment to rid this present world of all evil and wickedness.

Although Christians are in the world, we are not to become tainted with its influences. When men say hate, God says love. When some walk pass those hungry and destitute, believers are to stop, and lend a helping hand. Individually, it may seem a hard task to make change in this big world, but together, the church can have a major impact on this perverse society.

Walk in love,

Ell

The Frailty Of Man

Psalm 146

To many people in the world, trusting in God seems relevant, only when things become too hard to bear on human strength alone. When bills are paid, food fills the refrigerator, kids make the honor roll, and the neighbor’s dog, who constantly poops in your yard, finally keels over, we have little to no regard for God. Oftentimes, we fail to keep up healthy spiritual habits in times of plenty, while becoming accustomed to our lack of spiritual growth, but the moment the tables turn, and all the good in our lives turn to bad, God’s mainline rings off the hook!

The Bible warns against trusting in man, rather than God, and gives direct reasons why. Four reasons why depending on man’s wisdom is futile are 1) there is no sure help in any man, 2) man’s breath eventually leaves the body, and he is helpless to offer assistance, 3) man’s body goes back to the dust after death, and 4) man’s very thoughts leave the body, and cannot help anyone, as the body becomes dust.

The writer of this Psalm understood the importance of trusting God, at all times, and in all situations. We trust God because He made heaven, earth, the sea, and all that’s beneath its depths. The Lord has the power to open blind eyes, uplift those with heavy hearts, preserve strangers, relieve the fatherless and widows, give food to the hungry, and execute judgment for the oppressed. While men perish and fade away, the Lord shall reign forever, unto all generations, so why not put your trust in Him? He knows all, sees all, and created the very men we trust in, more than Himself. When we come to the realization that God really is who He says, we’ll never doubt that what He can do for us, far outweighs placing our confidence in worldly men.

Walk in love,

Ell

What Goes Around, Comes Around

Habakkuk 2:6-14

When men take advantage of others, in order to gain wealth and possessions, they automatically become eligible for a scheduled return of severe punishment. According to the “Golden Rule”, we are to treat everyone the same way we expect to be treated. Sadly, the world has become corrupt until the point that some will do all within their power (even if it hurts someone), to fulfill their selfish desires.

In nearly every country of the world, there are men who are living lavish, and have become financially stable, but at the expense of other’s suffering. The compassion once shared amongst men, has faded away, and the “dog eat dog”, or “barrel o monkeys” mentalities have overtaken men’s minds. While it appears, the men and women who have seemingly prospered using corrupt methods, are living the good life, their temporary happiness, and accumulated wealth is scheduled for an abrupt end. God sees all, and despises those who take advantage of others, or gain wealth by fraud and oppression, so He allows the wicked to wallow in their ways, until the time comes for them to reap what they had sown.

Seeds planted into the ground, represent the fruit that comes forth from the trees, so how we treat people, will determine what fruit will spring up in our lives. When we sow seeds of love, not only will man render it in return, but God will certainly bless us as well. But, when we plant seeds of evil and wickedness, in time, the same will begin to grow in our lives also.

Walk in love,

Ell

Futile Faith

Habakkuk 2:18-20

When you experience days of sadness, grief, or sorrow, do you go outside, and express your thoughts to your car? In times of distress, will seeking the counsel of your fine clothing, help to make your days better? When you need peace in the midst of a storm, how much money can you spend to find resolution? When you’re sick in your body, can you look into your television, and find healing? Of all the things men idolize today, none can offer the love, joy, healing, peace, strength, and wisdom God freely gives to those who serve Him.

Idols do nothing except distract men from the truth of God’s Word, and keep them bound to satan’s evil philosophies. Our text plainly describes idols as, dumb, clarifying that they have no breath at all, nor can they hear, or be trusted to assist men in any way. It’s rather unfortunate, how the glory that belongs to God, is given to things made by the hands of men, but such is the way this world has become.

The body of Christ needs to be mindful, not to get caught up in giving too much time to things unhealthy for their souls. Despite what the world promotes as popular, or attractive, God is the only one deserving of the glory, honor, and praise. When we are hurting in our hearts, God can give us a peace that surpasses all human understanding. When we get weak, and are about to throw in the towel, God’s perfect strength lifts us up, and prepares us to fight another round.

Push away all idols in your life, that only distract you from focusing your attention on the awesome creator of the universe, and let God be the only one you run to for all your needs.

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

Contrasting Characters

Habakkuk 2:1-5

The most iconic hero in all of comics is undoubtedly, Superman. Created by writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Shuster, Superman was introduced to be the savior, and protector of all mankind. Hailing from planet Krypton, young Kal-El was sent to earth, by his biological father, in order to survive the tragic destruction of his home planet. Fortunately, he was discovered by a married couple living in Kansas, who raised the child to be respectful, honest, and portray great work ethics throughout society.

Superman possesses extraordinary powers, with the character traditionally described as “faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive, and able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. For most of his existence, Superman’s famous arsenal of powers has included flight, super-strength, invulnerability, super-speed, vision powers, super-photographic memory, super-hearing, and super-breath, which enables him to freeze objects by blowing on them, as well as exert the propulsive force of high-speed winds.

With all the strengths and powers Superman has at his disposal, his intentions are to only use them for good, not evil. His character is set to a standard, that with power, comes responsibility, and such powers should never be used selfishly, or to take advantage of others. Unfortunately there are those who have contrasting character traits, and prefer to cause chaos and destruction to the lives of innocent people, rather than support their greater good. Superman has reigned victorious over countless villains, including Doomsday, Lex Luthor, Darkseid, and General Zod (just to name a few). Although these foes have powers beyond those of normal humans, they choose to abuse them, seeking only to gain more power and authority over all who are “beneath them”.

The contrasting characters of Superman and his foes, will keep them at never-ending odds, but as long as there’s power flowing within him, Superman will fight for justice, no matter what it takes.

As Christians, we may not have the ability to leap over tall buildings, or run faster than a train, but we do posses a power beyond anything a comic book character can ever obtain. The power that comes after receiving the Holy Ghost, allows for the Saints to perform incredible things, but with such power, also comes responsibility. We are to be the salt of the earth, and season the lands with our compassion, and good deeds. Conversely, the enemy prefers to hinder our righteous living, in favor of promoting a more wicked agenda. Men are fickle, and can be easily beguiled by satan, especially when their minds are unstable.

The children of God are to represent His character traits, while attending to the greater good of all men, but they must also be mindful not to give in to the pressures of the character of our adversary, because this works against the purpose and will of the Father.

To all who fight for justice, and seek only to fulfill the will of God, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” (1 Peter 5:8). “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).

Walk in love,

Ell

Nothing But The Truth

Ezekiel 33:1-9

Proclaiming the Word of God, is what all disciples of Christ have been commissioned to do on the earth, but preaching from a position of authority, brings a different level of responsibility, the average believer isn’t bound to. Many were called by God, to do great things in His kingdom, but few were chosen to carry out special assignments. Men who desired to be leaders in the church, were given instruction to “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine” (2 Timothy 2:4 KJV).

Those God called to lead others, are to be bold, direct, and honest when delivering His Word to the people. In the same way Ezekiel, the watchman, was commanded by God, to warn men to turn from their evil ways, leaders today are tasked with the same command. It’s never wise to withhold rebuke from those who need it, because it could ultimately save their lives, but refusing to give warning to those in sin, could cause men to die without salvation, causing their blood to forever be on your hands. This is why I don’t understand why men are so eager to become pastors, or church leaders, because such positions require much responsibility. The souls of the people are what matter to God, and if any leader teaches doctrine contrary to what’s in God’s Word, he’ll be in danger of harsh punishment. When a man truly loves God, he’ll do all within his power, to take care of God’s people.

If you’re in a position of authority in your local church, or other organization, do you give the people the whole truth of God’s Word, or do you withhold the harsh truth, in order to appease their itching ears?

Walk in love,

Ell

The Longsuffering Father

Habakkuk 1:1-4, 12-14

Patience is like time; it eventually runs out – Ell Banks. The modern-day “earthling”, including men, women, and children, have developed extremely low levels of patience. We gripe and moan at 45 second red lights, and throw fits when the drive-through lane becomes the lazy river. The people of today have been deemed, the microwave society, because they desire that all things come quickly, so they won’t have to wait long for them.

Our impatience usually causes us to suffer, at times, by way of car accidents, burning our tongues from eating hot foods, or disciplining our children too soon, without questioning their seemingly unacceptable behavior (felt the need to throw that curve ball in there for all the parents).

Patience is a virtue, and was implemented by God, for good reason. Imagine working with an impatient farmer, who randomly throws seed all over there place, instead of properly placing them accordingly, in the soil. Rather than wait for seed time and harvest to run their course, he would pluck everything up too early, causing wasted time, and resources.

Patience also keeps us safe from dangers we see, and those we don’t. There were moments when I would feel the Spirit of God, nudging me to slow down, while even driving the speed limit. Had I not listened to the Holy Ghost, I would have crashed into an elderly man, who ran a red light, and was positioned to ram directly into my car. Rather than curse, scream, and honk the horn at grandpa, I prayed a prayer of thanks to God, for keeping me safe from an accident, and sparing the life of someone’s father, brother, or friend.

God has been patient with man for a very long time, and according to Scripture, His patience will soon run out for the wicked, and those who claim His name, yet shun His righteousness. Man has been given the unadulterated Word of God, countless personal testimonies, and the best free gift anyone could claim, salvation. We have also been given ample time to receive God’s Word, taste to see how good it is, digest it, and compare it to what the world offers. Those who are truly honest with themselves know, that God is real, His Word is true, and the world can do nothing to save them, yet they still must make the choice to claim salvation, before the patience of the Lord runs out.

Walk in love,

Ell