Dead Or Alive

Acts 4:32-5:11

When the Spirit of God can freely work through a believer, he or she will only seek to do things for the betterment of the church as a whole. For example, when a person truly loves God, their motivations are not only to care for their own needs, but to place the needs of others above their own. If God was willing to give His best to a sinful world, then believers should never hesitate to show sincere love to their fellow man.

Our text gives a wonderful example of how the early church prospered through unity, and togetherness. The texts reads, “And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and one soul: neither said any of them that any of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things in common.” (vs. 32). Can you imagine the state of the church today, if all members shared the same heart, soul, and had all things in common? I believe the church would have a more powerful impact not only amongst the religious community, but around the whole world.

God takes delight in His people, when they do things according to His will, and He blesses them accordingly, but His anger is kindled toward those who appear to do works of righteousness, but have hidden motives that are fueled by pride and selfishness. While the majority of the early church cooperated in bringing all the proceeds from selling their possessions to the apostles, so that everyone could receive distribution according to their need, there were two who decided they would go against the church’s unified efforts, and keep some of the funds for themselves. Ananias and his wife Sapphira found out the hard way, what happens when a person deliberately lies to God. No matter how good things may seem amongst a prosperous church community, there will always be some who will refuse to maintain obedience. This odd couple refused to tell the truth about the total amount they received from selling their possessions. Knowing that their needs would be accounted for, they still stuck to their unwise plan. After being given a chance to reveal the truth, Ananias chose to lie, and dropped dead at the feet of the apostle Peter. Nearly three hours later, Sapphira walked into the church, and was also given a chance to confess the truth. Unfortunately, she chose to lie as well, and fell dead also at the apostle’s feet. The two were carried out of the church, and buried next to each other, which caused great fear to come upon the entire church.

What good is it, to lie to a God who knows all things? I mean, it’s just senseless, and unnecessary. Ananias and Sapphira could have avoided untimely deaths, by simply telling the truth. Besides, all their needs were already met in the first place. Be careful how you approach God, or those He entrusted to lead you. Always be honest in your communication, because while you may be able to convince man, you can never fool God. He’ll always reveal what’s in the heart, especially if it’s intended to hurt the church. God protects His own, and will do what’s necessary to keep them safe, even if He has to cause some to die.

Huddle Up!

Acts 5:12-16

One of the hardest things to do on this planet is, get a group of people to agree on the same ideals, required to reach a unified goal. Many sports teams fail to win the coveted championship trophy, because certain members of their team aren’t in sync with the coach’s gameplan. We often see how certain individuals act out of character, when their team is on the verge of winning a game, thus causing them to suffer a loss. Even when playing a game of tug-of-war, if all members on a team aren’t working collectively as a group, they’ll easily be pulled over to the other side. Teamwork really does make the dream work, especially when all who are joined together share the same mindset, and one goal. This same concept can be applied to an individual, and their body. When the natural body is healthy, one can easily accomplish those things the mind is set to achieve. Unity is the key ingredient to any collective group, seeking to achieve success.

In our text, the apostles of Jesus were responsible for doing many signs and wonders among the people of the early church. Their miraculous manifestations would not have been made possible if confusion and ill will was among them, but their minds were set on being obedient to God, and fulfilling His command to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The body of Christ consists of many members, all who may be affiliated with different denominations, but if all have their minds and hearts set on fulfilling God’s will, then God can do great things through His people, no matter who they are affiliated with. The truth will indeed stand forever, so when the church collectively spreads the truth of the Gospel to all men, God will reveal His awesome power through all who are of one accord.

“Unity is what makes success a reality.” – Ell

Precious Oil

John 12:1-7

During one of many plots to kill Jesus, the Son of God was wise enough to avoid his pursuers, until the appropriate time of fulfillment. In our text, Jesus kept Himself concealed from His accusers, then went to visit His friends in Bethany. As His time on the earth neared its end, Jesus thought it necessary to commune with those close to Him. Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, were near to Jesus’ heart, and offered Him food and rest, during his stay in their town.

One evening, after supper was prepared, Martha began to serve Jesus and Lazarus who sat at the table, but Mary had a different gift for the Savior. Rather than bring food or items essential to supper, Mary brought to Jesus an expensive ointment, or perfume, and poured all of it over the feet of Jesus, then wiped them with her hair. While Jesus acknowledged that Mary saved this ointment for this very moment, the Bible doesn’t mention how her siblings reacted to her act. But, it vividly expressed the heart of one, Judas, who followed Jesus closely. Rather than see the significance of Mary’s blessed action, Judas revealed, through his words, the true intentions of his wicked heart. In his own words, Judas said, “Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?” (vs. 5). While his words seemed to offer genuine concern for the poor, his true heart’s intent was the total opposite. John writes that Judas cared nothing for the poor, because he was a thief, who would even steal from the money bag which belonged to the disciples. The whole time he followed Jesus, Judas was dishonest in his secret, evil doings. So, thinking he actually cared about Mary’s oil being wasted, and being used in a different way is almost laughable.

We will never understand everyone’s relationship with God. Where some can give seemingly inexpensive sacrifices, others can freely give up those things that are extremely valuable to them. Never judge how man chooses to bless God, rather focus on keeping your own heart pure, so that your sacrifices can be acceptable to God as well.

“The enemy uses our dirt to shame and manipulate us. God uses it to harden our foundation and strengthen our faith in Him.” – Ell

Be Healed!

1 Corinthians 12:4-11

Of the many gifts given by God, and the diversities thereof, one that is desired by most people is, the gift of healing. Sickness and pain, and all other unfortunate bodily ailments, invade the lives of many, but healing is desired by all, in order to enjoy the benefits of healthy living. I believe, no man in his right mind desires to suffer sickness, and make attempts to avoid things that cause it. But, God in His never-changing state, can still manifest divine healing to anyone He desires to bless.

The ways of the Lord are far beyond what my 3 pound brain can fathom, so I have limited understanding why so many good people suffer, and deal with sickness and disease, but I’m also fully aware, God takes no pleasure in seeing His children suffer either. There’s reason and purpose behind all things taking place in the earth, and God is fully aware of them all, but if I could operate in the gift of healing, I would make wise use of the gift, and bring change to many hurting individuals. Not only would I heal bodily hurts and pains, but also mental, emotional, and spiritual pains. Around the world, many suffer from inward pains, and other forms of hurt that come through the heart. Physical pain hurts, but emotional suffering can at times, hurt a lot more. While there are no medicines that can heal the pains of the heart, only through the love of God, and His grace and mercy, can healing of the heart truly begin.

Take time today, to pray for those who you know are suffering any kind of sickness, disease, hurt, pain, or shame, and ask God to manifest healing in their lives. We may not operate in the gift of healing, but our fervent prayers can provoke God to send His healing manifestation to those we love and care about, all over the world.

“He died for me… I’ll live for Him.” – Ell

“I Surrender All”

Mark 12:28-34

The first of all the commandments requires total surrender of all aspects of man, to the supremacy and sovereignty of the almighty God. When asked by a scribe, “Which is the first commandment of all?”, Jesus plainly stated, “And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength:” (vs. 30). If a man did just what Jesus mentioned, there would be little, to no room for that man to error, or turn away from God.

There are many who pour all their strength into their jobs or careers, so much until they have little energy to bathe and eat when they get home (maybe I’m included in that bunch, or maybe not…I won’t tell). There are also people who devote their minds to science and research, that takes hours upon hours of their lives away, as they barely even scratch the surface of what they aim to discover. Then, there are those who literally give their souls to a mate, and can do nothing else, except daydream about that person, night and day. The last group of individuals can be found devoting their hearts to special causes and charities, so much that they desire only to meet the needs of those things they support, while neglecting to allocate time for other important things.

Could you imagine, if the church as a whole, loved the Lord with ALL their heart, soul, mind, and strength? What would the body of Christ look like today, if all members were totally committed to kingdom business? What if all preachers preached the unadulterated proclamations of Scripture, without defiling it to please itching ears? What if teachers taught the words of Jesus, so that men could gain a better understanding of their purpose in the earth? What if gossip, lying, cheating, and all other wicked vices were non-existent among those who claim to be followers of Christ? If all God’s people truly obeyed the first of all the commandments, then I’m apt to believe many who are lost today, would surrender their lives to God, because the church would have a much greater impact in the earth, if all members were totally in love with Lord.

It’s okay to ask God for what you want, but don’t be surprised when He gives you what you need.” – Ell

Eternal Emotions

Genesis 42:35-38

What is it about the human heart, that allows for it to experience both ends of the emotional spectrum and all the roller coaster feelings in between; sometimes all within mere moments of time? Being made in the image of God the creator, and after His very own likeness, mankind was designed in a very unique, and incomparable fashion. Without trying to sound braggadocious or anything of the sort, but God made us super special, in a variety of ways! Man has the ability to think, think about what they’re thinking about, then decide which thought to act upon. We can feel hurt, pain, and shame on the inside, without any physical signs of its occurrence on the outside.

Men are physical, spiritual, and soulful beings, created to exhibit the most incredible works of the One who made all things. I’ve often wondered, why did God make us so emotional, or allow for us to feel things, some of which aren’t favorable. For example, losing something, or someone that holds a special place in your heart, brings a hurt that is unlike anything else. In the Bible, Jacob thought he had lost his “favorite” son, Joseph, which left a huge hole in his heart. This pain caused him to cling even more tightly to his youngest son, Benjamin. In the same way a physical scar heals, yet continues to reveal a scar, Jacob carried the scar of supposedly losing his son, for years (until he discovered he was actually alive).

Losing a loved one never feels good, especially if they left us with unresolved issues. For this reason, I advise all men to appreciate those who remain in your life, and love them unconditionally, because you never know when will be the last time you’ll see them. In addition, sympathize, and emphasize with those who may have lost someone dear to their hearts, because it’ll never be easy for them for the rest of their life.

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

Ell

Who Said That?

Acts 13:1-5

When God speaks, can you tell whether it’s Him, or not? How do you discern the voices in your head, whether they are from the devil, the Father, or the spirit of your mind (conscience)? The best way to recognize when God is speaking to you (through His Spirit) is, to be in a position of proper posture, then you’ll be better prepared to discern what’s true, and what’s not.

As humans, we were created with intuitive minds, that have the capability of harboring endless thoughts in our brains. From those thoughts, we can discern what actions to take, based on the current situation we may be facing. Unfortunately, there’s also the devil, who oftentimes makes attempts to fill our minds with evil and wicked thoughts and vain imaginations. He does this in various ways, including infiltrating television shows, movies, music, and all other mediums to distract our attention from the things of God.

As a person matures in godliness, it becomes fairly easy for them to distinguish the different voices they hear. If at anytime, you are led to do something contrary to God, morality, or your sanity, then this voice is NOT from God. On the other hand, if you are striving to live holy, while keeping yourself pure and humble before the Lord, you’ll often hear clear and direct instruction, and revelation during times of prayer, fasting, or moments throughout your day.

God loves to have our attention tuned to Himself, because He alone knows what’s best for us, and how we can properly serve Him daily. It’s wise to follow and obey the voice of the Lord, but it’s foolish to place our own thoughts, or entertain thoughts from the evil one, over the Father. Pray to God for discernment and wisdom, so that you can always receive clear and precise instruction, on how to live your life with purpose.

If you die today, where will you spend eternity?

Ell

The Prayer Of Faith

James 5:13-20

One of the most sound words of advice acknowledged by Luke in the New Testament says “that men ought always to pray, and not to faint.” These words were mentioned right before Jesus began to teach the parable of the “Unjust Judge”. If you’re not familiar with this story, it can be found in Luke 18:1-8. Christ understood, keeping in constant communication with the Father, was essential to maintaining the right balance of natural, and holy living. God knows all, created all, and understands all, so the more we come to Him with whatever issue, the better we’ll understand His purpose for allowing it, and how to handle it.

Our text also gives a powerful word of wise counsel, as it states, “the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much” (vs. 16b). While prayer involves communicating with God, in order for God to hear, or even acknowledge your words, a couple of things must first be dealt with. First of all, we should always approach God with a pure heart, and good intentions. If there is any sin in our hearts, we should confess our faults, and the Lord will save us. Second, when we pray, it must be done in faith. Praying without faith is, praying amiss, and God doesn’t acknowledge unfaithful requests. Many times, people come before God with doubt, fear, unbelief, or discouragement, but these things must be put aside, so that one won’t lose heart when seeking to receive an answer from the Father.

Because of Christ, we have a right to approach God, despite with the enemy says or does to convince us otherwise. Prayer is powerful and super effective, and when it becomes a customary pattern, the life of those who pray will become increasingly focused, and appealing in the eyes of God.

Why does the living man complain?

Ell

I Swear!

Matthew 5:33-37

Growing up in my neighborhood, when disputes broke out between the fellas, to convince someone that they were serious about the point they were attempting to make, they would say things like, “I swear before God”, or “I put my mother on it!” These phrases were used as a means to express the seriousness one felt, concerning their stance on the matter at hand.

Swearing wasn’t something that started in the 80’s, but was a way by which men made oaths, even during Bible days. According to biblical definitions, to swear is to affirm, promise, or threaten with an oath. Making vows, or promises are taken serious by God, and should not be done with false intentions. In our text, Matthew acknowledged Jesus’ words on how the ole’ school men of their day, would often perform oaths to the Lord, many of which they failed to keep. But, Jesus recommended that all men refrain from swearing altogether; whether it be by heaven, earth, or the holy city of Jerusalem.

God prefers that we prove what we believe about Him through our works, and not our words. Oftentimes, we speak more idle words, while doing little to back them up. To those who are in the body of Christ, keep all communication holy, acceptable to God, and to the point.

The apostle Paul taught his spiritual son Timothy, “But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness”. The more we speak words that are unprofitable for our spiritual growth and development, the more we’ll increase our chance to make mistakes. Keep yourselves aligned with the will of God, and keep your conversations pure, so that the words of Scripture can flow freely from your lips, and save those who are lost.

Why does the living man complain?

Ell

With One Accord

Acts 2:1-12

One of the most iconic moments in Bible history was, the day of Pentecost, recorded in the book of Acts. When the day of Pentecost was “fully come”, this was referencing the fiftieth day from the waving of the sheaf of the first-fruits. According to the book of Leviticus, Pentecost was one of the original eight feasts of the Lord, or holy convocations, which were to be proclaimed in their appropriate season. God appointed times for His people to gather and offer sacrifices and praises for all that He had done for them. This was important to keep the minds of the people focused on the source of their peace, prosperity, and protection.

Our text picks up a short while after the first business meeting of the church, and the election of the replacement disciple (Matthias). During this gathering of about 120 men, the Bible mentions all these men were in one place, and with one accord. In other words, none of the men gathered were lukewarm, shady, doubtful, unconcerned, nor uninterested in God’s affairs. Instead, they were all united in faith, love, and prayer. Can you pause for a moment, and imagine if this was the state of the church today. If every man and woman, who gathers together in the name of the Lord, were always sharing the same mind, will, and motivations, how do you think the earth would look today? Well, we have an absolutely amazing experience that takes place in the verses of our text.

Being of the same mind, and gathered together in unity, provoked the almighty God, to literally invade the space where the men were, and fill them with His Spirit, while unlocking the ability for them to speak a language they never spoke. This was done, so that all the nations of the earth that would also come to witness God’s power, could be ministered to in their native tongue. God knew, many would come together to join the ever-growing church, so He (in His infinite wisdom), was fully aware that those whom He called, needed to capable of reaching all who would show up. Unlike men, who think mostly in “the now”, God sees the end of a thing, and knows how to prepare His people to handle it, before it manifests.

Although the modern church seems to have lost its once renowned potency and effectiveness in the earth, the power of God is still readily available, to invade the lives of those who will gather together in one mind, one heart, and one Spirit. Never underestimate the power of unity, because doing so could prohibit you from reaching your full potential in God.

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold… don’t become one of them.

Ell