Tag: Past

A Piece Of Peace

Psalm 66

How do we find peace, in a world overrun with chaos and confusion? Where do we go, to escape the trials of life, if only for a moment. One thing I’ve learned, and truly belive is, pressure bursts pipes. When air or water fills a pipe, with no way for it to be released, eventually that pipe will break, and all the air and water trapped inside will burst out in multiple directions. This would indeed be a dangerous situation to deal with, but more importantly, many people have experienced this same “explosion” taking place in their own lives.

Living today, as in times passed, we endure seasons of suffering. Whether our suffering is related to physical, mental, or even monetary issues, all men will face situations that will push them to the brink of breakdown. So, how do we find a piece of peace, when it seems so far away? Some result to habits (drinking, smoking, gambling, fishing, etc.) in order to find peace, but the peace that surpasses all human understanding only comes from God.

Rather than look for natural ways to find peace in your life, try following king David’s example in our text. Although the “man after God’s own heart” was far from perfect, he knew the only way to experience real peace was to shift his focus from his problems and past mistakes, and invest most of his time giving glory, honor, and praise to the name of his Lord. This may seem unconventional to those who are babes in biblical learning, but consider all king David experienced, and take note of how he maintained a righteous lifestyle with God, despite his shortcomings. Rather than make his problems bigger than God, He placed God above all his life’s experiences.

Oftentimes, we find ourselves worrying and complaining about our struggles, and this causes us to stress and wallow in misery. But, if we change our perspective, as David did, and make God bigger than our worries, He’ll give us peace to endure, and overcome those things that seemed to weigh us down. Be encouraged, and don’t allow your past, present, or potential future to cause you to fear. Instead, seek God, make His name glorious, then allow Him to pour out His peace into your heart, as you grow from your struggle, and move on to the next chapter on your journey.

“Once To Die…”

Hebrews 9:24-28

Every person you know, including yourself, will someday suffer a physical death. While the thought of dying in this earth oftentimes cause some to faint, we can rest assured that Christ made it possible for us to not have to endure spiritual death. Our hope and confidence rest in the fact that Jesus not only took care of our past, but our present and future are eternally secure as well. While we strive to live holy in an unholy world, we can trust in the Spirit of God to help us overcome all manner of evil and temptation. While it is appointed unto all men to die, our physical death will be the beginning of our spiritual eternity.

Be… So That God Can Do…

Various Scriptures

Oftentimes, we pray to God, seek His face, and hope for change in our lives, but we hardly see immediate results. Most of the time, all we have to do is, be who God called us to be, so that He can do what He promised to do for His people.

Love the Lord… and he will preserve you.
-Psalm 31:23

Be of good courage, and he will strengthen your heart…
-Psalm 31:24

Delight in the LORD, and will give you the desires of your heart.
-Psalm 37:4

Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, and he will exalt you to inherit the land.
-Psalm 37:34

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
-Psalm 1:1-3

Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
-Matthew 5:3-11

In your daily living, be who you were called to be, so that God can do what He promised He would do.

Altered Image

Genesis 1:26-31

In the beginning, man was made in God’s own image, after His likeness. In the beginning, God gave man dominion over the fish of the sea, fowl of the air, cattle, and all the earth, including every creeping thing upon the earth. In the beginning, God blessed man and woman, and told them to fill the earth with offspring. In the beginning, man ate only herbs, fruit, and seed. In the beginning, things were radically different from today.

Today, men have taken on the image and likeness of carnality. Rather than desire the things of God, they yearn for worldly pleasures and lusts of the flesh. Today, men are afraid of nearly every animal in the animal kingdom that has not been thoroughly domesticated, including mice and cockroaches. Today, having multiple children is shunned by the modern self-centered society. In the past, large families were deemed a blessing from the Lord, but those days seem to be long gone. Today, men will eat anything that moves (or doesn’t move). While we have been granted permission by God to consume meat (according to Genesis 9:3, and Matthew 15:11), many around the globe enjoy some very unusual delicacies.

From the beginning of time until now, the world has become nearly unrecognizable from God’s original creation. But, in a moment, all will be restored from chaos and wickedness, to unity and perpetual holiness.

Hide And Seek

1 Kings 19

There’s something about Heaven, or more specifically, the realm of the spirit, that I am unable to fathom. Throughout the Scriptures, there are many instances where a spiritual manifestation superceded natural law and order. For example, Jesus turned water into wine from grapes that never existed. How do you explain that in scientific terms? Another example took place when the angel of the Lord helped Peter escape from prison, without using a key to open the cell, nor any gadgets the Beagle Boys used in the Duck Tales cartoons. It’s evident, the spirit realm operates on an entirely different playing field than the natural, and for this reason, men should take heed to developing their understanding of God’s Word, so that they’ll be able to navigate through the earth the way God intended them to.

That brief introduction was intended to continue from where we left off on the previous lesson, as the prophet Elijah was running and hiding from queen Jezebel, who sought to take his life. For an entire day, Elijah had run as far as he could, then retired into a wilderness area, where he rested under a juniper tree. It’s apparent, Elijah was still shaken in faith from the threat of the queen, because he begin to request that God take his life, as he felt he was no better than his fathers before him. This was a very intense moment, because Elijah trusted in God, and His amazing power, but the fear of one woman turned the bold lion, into a cowardly chicken.

So, Elijah fell asleep in the wilderness, undoubtedly neglecting to care for his now weak and famished body, but God had not forgotten His servant, and sent an angel to minister unto him. The angel had prepared a meal for the prophet, then woke him up to eat. It would be super awesome to enjoy a meal prepared by an angel, don’t you agree? What’s even more amazing is, the second meal the angel prepared for Elijah gave him strength that lasted 40 days and nights. Wowzer! One angelic cuisine was packed with enough nutrients and essentials to give a man strength for over a month! I can only imagine what the benefits a full heavenly meal would provide. I tell ya, trying to understand the realm of the spirit gives me headaches sometimes, but I love it!

After his long journey, Elijah went into a cave, and lodged there, until the voice of the Lord was heard. God said, “Elijah, what are you doing in here?” (Ell’s translation). The prophet responded, “I have been very jealous for the Lord God of hosts: for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.” There’s no doubt the words Elijah spoke were truth, but God needed a moment to whip His servant back into spiritual shape. God then commanded Elijah to go and stand upon the mountain, to meet Him there. The mighty and matchless God made a grand entrance on the mountain, the likes of which Hollywood stars, athletes, or even famous wrestlers pale in comparison to. Before the Lord arrived, a great and strong wind passed through, literally tearing down the mountains, and breaking the rocks in pieces. After the winds had passed, an earthquake shook the very foundations of the land. If that wasn’t enough to get Elijah’s blood pumping, a great fire followed after the earthquake, and then the voice of the Lord began to speak. Again, God asked Elijah, “What are you doing here?”, and he delivered the same response. While Elijah ran to hide himself, God sought him out to reveal another plan he was to partake in.

In times when we are afraid to step out on faith, following a possible failure, God is always waiting to give us new strength to take on new tasks ahead. The work of the Christian is perpetual, and never ends, so rather than hide and cower over past failures, we should be mindful to take breaks, regain our strength, then step back onto the battlefield. God will always equip us with what we need to face every challenge ahead of us, despite how often we belittle ourselves.

Spirit, Soul, Body

2 Corinthians 13:11-13; 1 Thessalonians 5:23-28

Knowing that this world will soon experience a prophesied, yet abrupt end, why can’t we live and enjoy life any way we desire? If our bodies and minds will be made new in the newly renovated Heaven and earth, shouldn’t men be allowed to “do as they wilt” without judgment, until Christ returns? While men have the liberty to live according to their own wills and desires, living contrary to the holy God of Heaven comes with undesirable consequences. What the world considers fun or entertaining, God sees as vanity. Men find pleasure in self fulfillment, and accomplishing goals that have no eternal value, while God desires that we focus more on the fact that this world will soon fade away. For this reason, it’s wise to invest our time in doing things to help ourselves, and others solidify a safe and profitable forever after.

The biggest problem facing not only the world, but the church as well are, distractions. There are so many things that turn our attention away from what’s important to God. Oftentimes, we find our eyes glued to our cell phones or televisions so long, until hours pass by that could have been spent studying the Word, edifying a brother or sister, or spending time with an elderly person. Our current society is heavily centered around pride and self fulfillment, while God sees life from a different perspective.

Although we will leave these earthly bodies for new ones, we are still responsible for using them to bring glory to the name of the Lord. “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ” (Col 3:23-24). The reason many in the church are drawn away from the things of God, and use their gifts and abilities for vain purposes is, they are more concerned with pleasing the men, rather than the God who created all things. When we place a man’s expectation of us over God’s, we will no doubt find ourselves far from God’s purpose for our lives. Whether we’re subject to a boss, professor, or even a ministry, no one’s agenda takes precedence over the Lord’s.

God created mankind in His image, and after His likeness, and He expects for us to imitate the character His Son portrayed in the earth. Rather then hate, we are to love. When people come against us with false accusations and lies, we’re to show them kindness. Even in times when we’re being persecuted, we are to pray for our persecutors, and desire that they commit their hearts to God. All we do in this earth should be aligned with righteousness and soul-winning, so God deserves all of you. It’s obvious we have to work, eat, rest, and do the normal human things, but at the end of each and every day, investing in the kingdom of God is the only way to make your life meaningful and purposeful while you yet live.

Many have passed away from the sickness caused by the lingering pandemic, and others have died from tragic events, but while you still have the breath of life flowing through your body, consider your ways, and seek first the kingdom of God the rest of your days.

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

Out With The Old…

Romans 8:12-17

There are countless people today, who are haunted by the sins of their past. Many of them have made mistakes that have been long forgotten by some, yet they continue to allow them to affect their present, and future. It’s hard, at times, for some to move on and build a better future, because they feel so lost in the dumps, from unhealthy choices made in their past, but when a man accepts Christ as his Savior, and repents of his sins, God literally wipes away all his sins, then accepts him as His own child. No longer do an individual’s past sins have the power to affect their new life, once they have mortified the deeds of the body, through God’s Spirit. The “new man” owes the “old man” absolutely nothing, because all who abide in God, are considered His sons, and are treated as such, on a daily basis.

A very effective strategy satan uses to distract God’s children is, to remind them of their past errors. It’s hard enough to move on from mistakes, even with God’s help, but to be constantly reminded of them, is a different story. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7 KJV). The enemy desires to keep God’s people living in fear, and enslaved to their past, but through God, they have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby all the strength and wisdom they need to overcome evil, is readily available.

As the children of God, we are united with Christ, as joint-heirs, which grants us all the same benefits bestowed to Him. We have God’s protection, grace, everlasting mercy, godly wisdom, liberty of His Word, the guidance and comfort of His Spirit, and all the character traits it bears (fruit of the Spirit).

Believe it, or not, you are an absolutely AMAZING individual, despite what happened in your past, but in order for you to realize it, you have to let go, and let God. Release those things satan brings to your mind, that only weigh you down, and allow God’s Spirit to imbue you with confidence, that will keep you striving to make Him proud to call you His own.

Walk in love,

Ell

Heavenly vision of the ark

Revelation 11:15-19

Witnessing the presence of God, first-hand, back in Bible times, must have been breathtaking experiences. From seeing God’s glory from a perpetual burning bush, and observing it, as God literally passed in front of Moses in another instance, nothing has yet to compare to the matchless glory the presence of God brings to any environment or atmosphere. Along with experiencing God’s presence, I’m also convinced that simply hearing His voice caused many to develop goosebumps as well.

In Scripture, God was also unique, as He allowed His presence to inhabit the form of pillars of a cloud, and of fire. Imagine watching your children walk to school with a beautiful cloud surrounding and protecting them from all manner of evil. It would appear strange today, yet still extremely effective. When I first began to study God’s Word, I found it hard to believe that His powerful, and awe-inspiring presence could actually reside in a feeble human heart, but as I grew and matured in the Word, I quickly realized, we can abide in God and His very Word can abide in us. This is evident during those moments when we feel a certain way about something particular. For example, there were times when I was about to make a decision concerning something, then I would immediately feel a presence come over me, nudging me to do the opposite of what I had originally intended to do. God may not appear in clouds, burning bushes, or even dreams, as He did in the past, but I believe we today, have it much better than they did in the past, because He lives inside of us.

Even as God’s presence was housed in the ark of the covenant in the Old Testament, and the original ark was seen in a vision by John in the New Testament, God’s presence is amazing wherever it abides! It’s time that you come to the realization, God is awesome, He lives in you, which in turn, makes you awesome! The very Creator of all things loved you enough to pattern you after Himself. If you think that’s something, you have the ability to house His very presence, and change atmospheres everywhere you go, just as He did through men in the past.

As you occupy until Christ returns, take advantage of all the opportunities God has presented you, to make His name great! Whether it be in the form of encouragement, or exercising any other gift, allow God’s presence to lead and guide all your actions, and “let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” (Colossians 3:15-17)

Walk in love

Ell