Tag: Needs

Blessed In The Mess

James 5:13-16

In a world of chaos and confusion, it can be hard, at times, to find things that bring joy to one’s heart. With the recent chaotic events including the U.S. Capitol building riot, the continued worldwide pandemic, and other news, people of all over the country are weighed down with a heavy heart. Aside from disheartening global events, many deal with daily personal struggles like sickness, depression, financial instability, and other issues. But, in the midst of all the chaos and confusion in the world, there are still things to give God thanks for.

While life is indeed hard for many, God has never stopped providing for His children. Those who remain in the earth and have fully committed themselves to following after righteousness, should not let the current state of the world weigh them down, because God has been beyond good to them. Believers should always acknowledge the fact that they have the precious gift of salvation. Without Jesus being the means by which our sins were forgiven, our living would be in vain. Aside from being delivered from sin, God allows us the liberty to study and meditate on His holy Word. I’m aware of those countries that make it hard for Saints to even receive Bibles, but for those who have the freedom to read it, should always be excited for the opportunity to do so. With how the world has been lately, I wouldn’t be surprised if Bibles were eventually taken away. For this reason, we should hide God’s Word in the depths of our hearts. This way, no man can ever take His Word away from us. Along with salvation and the Bible, Saints are deeply connected to the Holy Spirit of God. This Comforter is responsible for reminding the Christian of Jesus’ teachings, as well as guiding them along the righteous path.

Let’s recap. The world is literally falling apart, but the people of God can still rejoice in the fact that they are blessed in the midst of mess. God does bless His people with natural things, but never allow hard times to take your focus off your salvation, God’s Word, and the Holy Ghost. Learn to realize how blessed you really are.

One Source

Genesis 41:53-57

Trying to prosper in this life while navigating on your own judgment and intellect, will always lead you to an unfruitful end. There’s nothing inherently good in the earth (especially these days) except for those things we have need of to remain alive. Food, clothing, shelter, and good health are most important among all things we can accumulate, and without them, living could easily become a hard thing to do.

God gives those who trust in Him, wisdom required to navigate in the earth. The Lord knows all, and sees the end from the beginning. God knows when seasons will change, whether in nature, or in our own lives. He keeps His children clothed, fed, and protected, during all seasons, and desires that they always be prepared to extend provisions to others as well. It’s hard to convince someone, the God we serve is full of grace, and can supply all our needs, when we’re broke and struggling, but God can and will provide for those who diligently seek Him, and desire to do only what’s pleasing in His sight.

As we continue delving into the story of Joseph, we find where the seven years of plenty had come to an end, and famine took precedence in all civilized lands that surrounded Egypt. Because of Joseph’s interpretation of Pharoah’s dream, God allowed Egypt the opportunity to prepare well, before the time of dearth invaded the lands. It’s uncertain whether or not the other lands got wind of the prophetic words of Joseph, but the Bible noted, “And all countries came into Egypt to Joseph to buy corn; because the famine was so sore in all lands” (vs. 57).

We may not know what tomorrow holds, but we can be certain of who holds tomorrow. God will supply all our “need”, according to His riches in glory, and He expects His people to be ready and willing to help those who are in lack. Giving is God’s modus operandi, and it should be engrained in the minds of all Saints, to operate the same. “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again” (Luke 6:38 KJV). God is the source of all good things, and we can always come to Him to receive those things we have need of.

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

Ell

What About The Children?

Luke 11:9-13

If you’re a parent, and your child asked for something to eat, would you give them a bowl of rocks? Any sound-minded father or mother would respond to that question with an absolute NO! How could any parent refuse to give their little one the things they have need of? In my most honest opinion, it’s borderline criminal for anyone to see a child in need, and refuse to help, especially if they have more than enough to supply. Children are feeble, and underdeveloped, so ensuring they are well-fed, and properly cared for should be top priority on every mom and dad’s to-do list.

Taking care of those you love should feel more like an opportunity to bless and provide, rather than a hard task or duty. When God blesses His children, He always does it out of love, and what He gives is best for their lives. God knows what His children have need of before they even ask or think it, and He’s built a reputation for giving His people what they need, more than what they ask for amiss. God is a great Father, and always provides the best for His children, and He desires that we do the same for ours. Learn to love your children the way God loves you, and always be ready and willing to give them what they need, so that they’ll be able to grow and develop healthy, in a natural and spiritual way.

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

Ell

Partners from the beginning

Genesis 2:18-24

A few lessons ago, I noted contrasting opinions between myself, and the apostle Paul, where he mentioned, “For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man has his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that” (1 Corinthians 7:7). Paul’s reasoning behind his desire that all be single, wasn’t based on selfishness, but so that men and women could focus all of their attention on God, as he did, without balancing the challenges and concerns involved with marriage as well. Marriage is a beautiful thing, but can become a distraction when the husband and wife are unable to maintain a godly focus. God instituted marriage, and it should be carried out the way He designed it, and I strongly believe that everyone should desire to experience it, but only for the right reasons.

When God took one of the ribs from Adam, and skillfully formed the woman, He made certain to take her from his side, so that she could be equal with him, from under his arm, to be protected by him, and from near his heart, so that she could be loved by him. Knowing this, the woman should never feel that she’s beneath the man, nor regard herself as inferior, but should carry herself as the “help” God created to “meet” the needs of her husband.

Establishing a solid foundation, and working together, are two key elements required to make a marriage work. One reason I’ve learned why many marriages fail is, the foundations were built on feelings and emotions, rather than planning and logical reasoning. When a man makes up in his mind that he’s prepared to marry a woman, he should first have a job. What woman in her right mind would give up all her single liberties to a man who is unable to support her? In my most humble opinion, that’s borderline insanity! It’s obvious that God should be at the forefront of a woman’s desires in a man, but having consistent income is far more attractive than biceps and a six-pack.

In the beginning of any relationship, the courting process is super important. Adam and Eve were an exception, as they were the only two humans in existence, and I’m convinced Adam was created with unlimited knowledge, based on his reference to a man leaving his father and mother. If Eve and himself were the only humans created, then how could Adam possibly have any understanding of family, except it had already been embedded in his system? That’s information for another lesson. In any case, having knowledge and reverence for God will help in choosing a wife suitable to the man. After God made Adam, He immediately put Him to work, then taught him the Word. The man seeking a wife should follow this example, by studying and meditating on the Word of God, and being in a position to financially support a wife. According to Scripture, the man is responsible for teaching the Word of God to his wife. No, I didn’t stutter. Rarely do men follow this example, as we see more women doing the teaching these days, but God’s order was designed where men are to teach the Word in their homes.

Can you see how out of order this world has become? Roles have been reversed, and families are dysfunctional, but all could be avoided if God’s order is implemented in every marriage. As you prepare your mind, heart, and social position to be a husband or wife, don’t forget to check what God expects from you as well. Marriage indeed is a beautiful institution, and I pray yours gains God’s favor from now, until eternity!

Walk in love,

Ell